At EQUNIQUE, we are driven by a clear passion: to improve horse health and welfare with natural, supportive solutions—both internally and externally. One of our key focus areas is Hoof Care, and recently we took a big (and very fun) step forward in the development of a new hoof product.
We are incredibly grateful to have held a productive workshop together with Jenny from Friskahästen, where we applied EQUNIQUE’s new prototype Glue-On-Barefoot Pad.
Why a glued barefoot pad?
Several horses are transisting to barefoot, and for many it works very well for most of the year. At the same time, there are periods where even a well-functioning barefoot hoof may need a little extra support. Our prototype is designed to provide barefoot horses with more advanced support—without compromising the hoof’s natural function.
The pad’s three main functions are:
- Comfort
- Protection
- Grip – with the option to integrate ice studs
The goal is to create a solution that helps the horse move comfortably and confidently, whether the challenge is hard ground, sensitive soles, changing weather conditions, or slippery surfaces.
Focus on technical precision – application is crucial
During the workshop, our focus was on technical precision in the application. For a glued pad to perform optimally, it must be placed correctly—otherwise you risk losing effectiveness, durability, and comfort.
Positioning is absolutely critical for the pad to:
- support where it should support
- protect where it should protect
- and, above all, work in harmony with the hoof mechanism
We look forward to seeing how the pad functions in harmony with the hoof’s natural expansion and contraction—providing “that little extra” when needed, without interfering with the hoof’s movement pattern.
Now we move into the evaluation phase
After last weeks application, we are now moving into an evaluation phase …
Follow our journey here at EQUNIQUE – we share ongoing updates as we continue to develop innovative solutions for hoof health and well-being.
