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Which horseshoe nail fits which hoof horseshoe?

The choice of nail depends on the size and purpose of the horseshoe. Different types of nails can be used depending on the specific needs of the horse and the type of work. 

Some things to consider when choosing a horseshoe nail:

Horseshoe nail size

Horseshoe nails are available in different sizes, which are measured in millimeters. The size of the nail should match the thickness of the horse's hoof wall. A nail that is too short will not be driven sufficiently into the horn, which can result in poor attachment of the horseshoe. A nail that is too long can cause pain or damage to the internal structure of the hoof.

Nail material:

Horseshoe nails are usually made of steel and may have various coatings to improve their durability and resistance to wear. The steel used should be of high quality to avoid corrosion and provide adequate strength. 

Nail Shape: 

Horseshoe nails are available in different shapes, such as flat head nails, rectangular and square head nails, or grip and ice nails. The shape of the nail head determines its ability to securely fasten the horseshoe. Some types of nails may better fit certain horseshoe shapes or specific hoof conditions. Generally, the horseshoe manufacturer will recommend a nail that fits.

Horse Activity: 

The horse's intended use can also influence nail selection. For example, special nails such as road nails may be used to provide better grip and traction on various surfaces.

Which size of nails to use for a normal riding shoe?

The rule should be as less and as light a nail as possible, depending on the shoe size, the horse’s work to do, the type of soil, type of shoeing (with or without pads) and the field he spends time in. 

Here are some examples recommended by horseshoe manufacturers:

The following table serves as a guide.

Size shoe

Dressage

Jumper

Eventer

Carriage

3x0

E-Slim 1

E-Slim 2

E 2

E 3

2x0

E-Slim 2

E-Slim 3

E 3

E 4

0

E-Slim 3

E-Slim 4

E 4

E 5

1

E-Slim 4

E-Slim 5

E 5

E 6

2

E-Slim 5

E-Slim 6

E 6

E 7

Size shoe: Kerckhaert DF, Mustad Libero, Werkman Warrior

The MUSTAD Nails


MUSTAD E Nail

The E nail is a classic Mustad nail that is consistent in its task every single step of the way. This nail is a mainstay of the range and can be used for many different types of horse and horseshoe styles whether used for leisure or for top competition. The E nail fits in all V-crease and plain punched horseshoes and is available in sizes to suit every application.

MUSTAD EXL Nail

Mustad EXL is a high-quality nail suitable for high nailing with minimum displacement of the hoof wall. The reinforced neck gives the nail an optimised, strong fit into the shoe. The shank of the EXL is even longer and thinner than that of the E-slim. A combination of design features turns the EXL into a top-quality horseshoe nails, which ensures an excellent fit in all V-fullered horseshoes, especially in the Mustad LiBero and Mustad Equi-Librium horseshoe.

MUSTAD E-SLIM Nail

The Mustad E-slim nail is manufactured with a longer thinner shank than the E-nail so that it can be driven simply, precisely and high into the hoof wall. The E-Slim is ideal for horses with a thin hoof wall, such as many warmbloods, as it causes even less disruption to the hoof wall than the slightly thicker E-nails. All Mustad nails are highly polished allowing them to glide precisely through hoof horn without deviation from the intended path.

MUSTAD ESL-PITCH Nail

The successful, unbeatable Mustad nail pitch feature; now also on your Mustad E-slim!Combining unique and innovative features with the reliability of our E-slim nail allowed us to develop a superior nail fit.The new ESL PITCH™ respects the natural horseshoe nails angle and ensures a brilliant drive. This brings your favourite E-slim nail to a new level.

MUSTAD CONCAVE Nail

The Mustad Concave nail has a special head shape that prevents the nail from twisting in the fuller and nail hole. This nail fits very well in concave shoes as well as in Mustad Equi-Librium and St. Croix Eventer shoes. The concept of PITCH offers a small angle between nail head and the shank of the nail which supports nailing on with a correct angle which reduces possible pressure on the hoof wall. The longer slim and strong shank gives the option to nail higher when this is preferred or necessary.

MUSTAD MX Nail

The Mustad MX nail has an even slimmer shank than the E-Slim and has been developed to reduce horn displacement. This nail has been specially developed for horses with very sensitive, thin hoof walls.

MUSTAD LIBERO ARC Nail

The Mustad LiBero ARC nail has an innovative curved and angled head shape for a controlled drive without the nail twisting in the fuller. It is specifically designed for Mustad LiBero shoes, but fit also fits very well in Mustad Equi-Librium and St. Croix Eventer. 

Features :

  • dome shaped head for a controlled drive and to minimize the impact of nailing
  • predictable consistent driving
  • also a great nail to use during refits. The domed head allows for a great positioning within the nail hole

Remark: curved head requires practise when driving

The LIBERTY Nails


LIBERTY CU E-SLIM Nail

Liberty Cu nails are copper coated. This is expected to provide greater protection than conventional Horseshoe nails, as they should eliminate all bacteria that enter the hoof wall through the nail holes. In this way, infections should not develop in the white line and hooves will remain strong, firm and healthy. The antimicrobial effect lasts and reduces the number of bacteria entering the horse's hooves throughout the shoeing cycle.

Key features:

  • Keeps hooves stronger and healthier
  • No rust or wear inside the hoof
  • Durable steel core, lasts 8-10 weeks with ease
  • Less damage to the hoof wall
  • Works during the entire shoeing cycle

When Liberty Cu horseshoe nails are used on a daily basis, most farriers will notice that - unlike with traditional horseshoe nails – horses hooves stay in great condition. The horn material at the white line will be elastic and healthy, with less staining around the nail holes and the hoof wall keeps its strength. And because the copper shield is very smooth and the points of the nails are very sharp, there is less chipping on the outside of the hoof and less damage from within. After several shoeings with Liberty Cu these benefits become even more obvious.

 

LIBERTY HYBRID Nail

Liberty HYBRID™ Horseshoe nails are easy to use offering the farrier 1 suitable nail for many shoeing styles. The design combines the best features of the different nail styles on offer.

Key features:

  • Strong & durable
  • Long
  • Pitch
  • Optimal in combination with pads & packing
  • Sharp & smooth

 

LIBERTY CU HYBRID Nail

Liberty HYBRID™ Horseshoe nails are easy to use offering the farrier 1 suitable nail for many shoeing styles. The design combines the best features of the different nail styles on offer.

Key features:

  • Strong & durable
  • Long
  • Pitch
  • Optimal in combination with pads & packing
  • Sharp & smooth
  • No rust or wear inside the hoof
  • Durable steel core, lasts 8-10 weeks with ease
  • Less damage to the hoof wall
  • Protects the horn during the entire shoeing cycle

Below is an overview of the older nail types that could be replaced with a hybrid nail :