Turfcord (by ContiTech) (Germany)
About: ContiTech and turfcord have innovated to produce New Rubber-Based Hoof Protection to offer the elasticity needed to suit a horse’s hoof, enhance comfort levels and promote a natural steady gait on all surfaces that relieves strain on joints. Hoof protection from turfcord Hoof protection is designed to guard against excessive strain without the drawbacks of a horseshoe. Unlike other elastomer-based hoof protectors, turfcord remains affixed to the hoof for up to eight weeks rather than being just a temporary solution. It is also different from standard horseshoes, which have been protecting horses’ hooves against excessive strain for more than 1,000 years. Due to the heavy material used, the conventional metal horseshoe changes the animal’s gait, and the rigid protection means that the hoof can no longer perform its cushioning function. At the same time, a horseshoe decreases stride length by roughly ten percent. Another disadvantage is that the metal is pinned directly to the hoof with special nails. That is not only a laborious procedure for the farrier, but also pure stress for the horse. The Continental training workshop in Korbach has spent years assisting turfcord in development. The innovative hoof protection is manufactured by ContiTech at its location in the Stöcken area of Hanover. Hoof protection from turfcord is available in two designs for front and rear hooves, each in twelve sizes. Farriers can apply it to hooves, using a special adhesive, during regular hoof-trimming sessions. While carrying out normal trimming work, they can remove it painlessly with pincers and a rasp and then replace it. The exhausting work of nailing on shoes, which is quite an ordeal, especially for sensitive animals, can be dispensed with entirely. The protection can be worn for six to eight weeks and will even expand with the hoof during this time. Because the material is lightweight and absorbs shocks, it relieves strain on the horse’s joints.   Video.