Footwear

The main footwear for a horse is the shoe; shoes may be plain or orthopedic. Traction may be improved for specific purposes, such as galloping cross country or performing on grass, with caulks.

Caulks are pointed metal studs of various shapes that screw into holes in the shoe.

Bell boots, made of plastic, rubber, or other material, are sturdy, flexible, protective devices that cover the horse's hoof from just above the coronet to the lower part of the hoof. These boots prevent a horse from hitting the bulb of his front heels with his hind feet if he overreaches.