We are commonly asked if our glue-on shoes can withstand mud, humidity, and wet environments. The answer is yes – if the hoof is properly prepped before glue.
To ensure a successful glue-on application, the hoof must be clean and dry before gluing. If you follow these simple steps, your glue-on shoes will comfortably stay on for a full trim cycle. We recommend following these steps in all seasons and environments.
Before you begin, we encourage you to send us your horse’s hoof measurements so our team of experts can recommend the best size for your horse. A good fit is also crucial for a successful application! Utilize our Fitting Assistant here.
How to Prep the Hoof for Glue
You will need the following tools:
-Gloves to protect the hoof from oils on your skin.
–Rasp or Hoof Buffy (you can use either one).
-Butane torch.
-Moisture meter (optional, but helpful to check your prep when you are first learning).
Step 1) Trim the hooves as you normally would.
Step 2) Use a Rasp or Hoof Buffy to remove dirt from the surface of the hoof wall and rough up the surface.
Option 1: Rasp. Take the edge of your rasp and rough up the hoof wall by moving the edge of rasp up and down along the hoof wall. This creates peaks and valleys for the glue to adhere to, and also removes dirt from the surface of the hoof wall.
Option 2: Hoof Buffy with 60 grit paper. Take your Hoof Buffy starting below the coronet band and move down the hoof wall, pulling material away from the hoof wall. Just like the rasp, this removes dirt from the surface of the hoof wall.
Not sure which tool to use? Both techniques are effective, and it might depend on which tools you already have on hand. A Hoof Buffy requires less elbow grease and is a little quicker, making it a popular choice.
Step 3) Use a Wire Hoof Brush to remove dust from the hoof wall.
Step 4) Use a butane torch to lightly go over the hoof wall to remove any outside moisture.
Step 5) Repeat Wire Hoof Brush & butane torch a total of 3 times.
You will most likely still see some dust fall off the hoof wall with the second repetition of the wire hoof brush. By the 3rd repetition, you should see very minimal dust falling off the hoof.
Step 6) Optional: Take a moisture meter and touch it to different spots on the hoof wall to check your prep.
If you have thoroughly prepped the hoof wall, you should see 0 on your moisture meter.
Follow these steps for a successful application. Happy gluing!
