We horse owners are well aware of the expression “no hoof, no horse”. The hoof is the foundation for the horse’s health and well-being. Maintaining a healthy and strong hoof is crucial to prevent discomfort. In this post, we explore our latest product which we have named “Sole Protect”, it integrates with the natural hoof structure based on material science and practical experience.
Understanding the Horse’s Hoof
The horse’s sole is a sensitive area primarily composed of keratin, a tough and flexible protein. Scientific data indicates that keratin’s density varies from about 1.13 to 1.32 g/cm³, depending on hydration and structure. This density allows the hoof to absorb shocks while providing support. However, external factors such as environment, feed, and water can negatively affect the hoof and sole, which can lead to soreness or imbalances.
Materials that mimic the sole’s natural density to avoid disrupting the hoof’s biomechanics, with a density profile around 1.07 to 1.20 g/cm³, became the answer.
A Closer Look at Polycaprolactone
The material that met our long list of requirements was polycaprolactone (PCL), a thermoplastic with a melting point around 60°C. The density closely matches that of hoof keratin, allowing it to function as a reinforcement, shock absorption, and contribute to better comfort while protecting the hoof during the year’s different seasons.
Sole Protect consists of at least 99 % polycaprolactone (PCL) with no added colourants, and the material is not classified as hazardous. All details are in the safety data sheet on the product page.
Practical Application for Optimal Results
Applying Sole Protect is a simple process that allows for individualized protection tailored to each horse’s unique hoof shape. Start by thoroughly cleaning the hoof with a hoof pick and, if possible, a steel brush. For the best prep, we have developed a pH-minus spray to create an optimal environment for the sole.
Sole Protect comes in pellet form. Heat the pellets in water at about 60°C until they soften and become a moldable mass. Use a spoon to lift the material, shape it by hand directly against the sole and next to the frog. Avoid making the layer thicker than the iron shoe if the horse is traditionally shod to prevent sole pressure – a thickness of 7-10 mm can work but is significantly harder to remove, while thinner applications are simpler.
Once the sole is shaped, allow the material to harden, either naturally in the stable aisle or with cooling spray. For winter conditions, patterns or best grip ice studs can be applied.
Removal: Use a stable hoof pick to work around the edges until the sole comes off. Sole Protect is reusable – heat it again in boiling water for a few minutes to restore its moldable state, note that it takes longer for Sole Protect to soften when it has already been softened once as the mass becomes more compact than at delivery when the mass is in pellet form.
Benefits for Hoof Health and Performance
Sole Protect offers several benefits rooted in biomechanics and material properties. By matching the hoof’s nature, we can offer extended protection when needed without negative impact.
Reusable
Sole Protect can be removed and clicked back in place several times. When the hoof changes, or at the next trim, warm the sole in water and shape it again.
