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Heart bar Shoes

ACR 700
ACR 700
CO-CG Colleoni
CO-CG Colleoni
ACR 800
ACR 800

Heart Bar Shoe – Special Horseshoe with Targeted Support

What is a Heart Bar Shoe?

A heart bar shoe is a special type of horseshoe that, unlike a regular open horseshoe, features an additional support surface in the central area of the hoof – the so-called frog. This heart-shaped insert gives the shoe its name. It is designed to provide targeted support to the hoof mechanism or, in some cases, to relieve pressure. Heart bar shoes are usually custom-fitted to the horse's hoof and are considered an orthopedic horseshoe.

When is a Heart Bar Shoe Used?

Heart bar shoes are primarily used when a horse needs orthopedic or biomechanical support in the frog area. Typical applications include:

  •  Rotation of the Coffin Bone (e.g. in laminitis)
    In cases of laminitis, the coffin bone may rotate or sink. The frog support provided by the heart bar shoe can help stabilize the hoof and distribute the load more evenly.

  • Sinking of the Coffin Bone
    Even in general cases of coffin bone sinking (not only in laminitis), the heart bar shoe can offer supportive effects through its frog contact surface.

  • Unstable Hoof Mechanism
    If the natural hoof mechanism is impaired or overly mobile, a heart bar shoe can help improve stability – especially in the rear part of the hoof. 

  • Frog Support After Injury
    In cases of thrush or other structural issues in the frog, the heart bar shoe can relieve the affected area and promote healing. 

  • Relief of the Hoof Wall
    In some cases, it is beneficial to reduce load on the hoof wall and partially shift it to the frog – for example, in cases of cracks or damage to the hoof wall. 

Advantages of a Heart Bar Shoe

  • Targeted load distribution between hoof wall and frog
  • Stabilization of the rear hoof section
  • Orthopedic support in coffin bone changes
  • Pain relief through pressure redistribution
  • Customizable depending on hoof condition

What Should Be Considered?

A heart bar shoe should only be applied by an experienced farrier or veterinarian. The fit must be precisely adapted to the specific hoof and the horse's condition. Incorrect application can cause pressure points or further damage.

It is also important that the frog is healthy enough to bear weight – a heart bar shoe is not suitable in cases of severe thrush or open wounds.

The heart bar shoe is a highly effective tool in hoof orthopedics and can be used in many hoof-related conditions. Whether for stabilization, support in laminitis, or pressure relief – heart bar shoeing offers versatile solutions. Accurate diagnosis and careful fitting are essential to provide lasting help to the horse.