Rocking Shoes

Rocker Horseshoes – Easier Breakover for Healthy Movement

What is a Rocker Horseshoe?

A rocker horseshoe is a specially shaped horseshoe with a convex curve on the ground-facing inner side. It alters the geometry of the sole in such a way that the hoof transitions more easily and earlier into the breakover phase. This design reduces leverage on joints and tendons and particularly relieves stress on structures in the front part of the hoof. The method was significantly developed by American veterinarian Dr. Rick Redden, a pioneer in therapeutic hoof care. His technique became well-known among professionals worldwide and is often referred to today as a “banana shoe” or “rocker shoe” – a nod to the curved sole shape that resembles a banana’s profile.

Variants: Toe-Heel Rocker and Full Rocker

In a toe-heel rocker horseshoe, the entire surface of the shoe features a geometrically curved line – similar to a sickle – rather than a flat bearing surface. This form enables the horse’s hoof to: •

• roll over smoothly and continuously from heel to toe,
• move naturally without jarring or blockage, and
• save energy by minimizing unnecessary lower limb motion

Compared to a rolled toe modification, this version shifts the breakover point much further back. This significantly reduces strain on the entire hoof mechanism and related structures.

Another variation is the Full Rocker: this shoe has a fully convex ground surface (curved in all directions) and is designed to provide the hoof with a self-adjusting palmar angle (PA). This means the hoof dynamically adapts to the load with every step, which is particularly helpful in chronic or unstable conditions.

When is it useful?

Rocker horseshoes are primarily used when horses experience pain or limitations during breakover, for example in cases of:

• Navicular disease (podotrochlosis)
• Coffin joint arthritis
• Tendon or ligament injuries
• Painful toe loading or toe wall issues
• Compensatory lameness or limb misalignment
• Post-operative or chronic inflammation rehabilitation

By facilitating breakover, pull on the deep digital flexor tendon, coffin joint, and navicular apparatus is significantly reduced. Horses with long toes and low heels, in particular, can benefit greatly from this type of shoeing.

Commercial or Custom Made

Rocker shoes can be:

• purchased commercially (with built-in rocker shape),
• individually welded as rocker rails,
• fully hand-forged to target the specific hoof and pathology.

The choice of type depends on the individual case, the horse’s health condition, and the biomechanical effects desired.

What to Consider

• A thorough gait and stance analysis (ideally including radiographs) is essential.
• Application should always be done by a specialized farrier in consultation with a veterinarian.
• Excessive leverage shift or incorrectly placed rocker lines can be counterproductive.
• The shoeing must be regularly checked and adjusted as needed.

Rocker horseshoes – especially in the toe-heel rocker or full rocker designs – are highly effective tools in orthopedic hoof care. Thanks to the insights of Dr. Rick Redden, they offer a biomechanically thoughtful correction of the breakover movement. The change in sole geometry – from flat to crescent-shaped – leads to more relaxed, energy-efficient movement, relieving joints, tendons, and the entire limb. When used purposefully, they can ease chronic pain, harmonize motion, and sustainably improve a horse’s well-being.