Do You Know Where You Are In The Hoof?

Farrier Seth Noble asks a fundamental question of farriers in the first video of a new series from Noble Farriery on YouTube: Do you know where you are in the hoof? That is, can you accurately estimate the condition and orientation of internal structures based on exterior cues and know how to make a plan to trim accordingly?

In this first episode, Seth works on a horse in Duvall, Washington as he explains the spatial orientation within the hoof capsule. This starts with recognizing both vertical depth and horizontal growth, and how their relationship affects hoof balance and biomechanics. Noble also demonstrates how heel height and hoof angle jointly influence functional balance, with the emphasis that these are interdependent, not isolated dimensions.

Noble starts with proportional assessment (horizontal growth, angles) and trimming horizontal growth before refining any vertical adjustments. He prioritizes avoiding over-trimming and aligning with the hoof's natural architecture rather than forcing a predetermined shape. Noble's approach aims to support concussion absorption, hemodynamics, and tendon mechanics by preserving interior volume and concavity. He illustrates how the hoof, when trimmed proportionally, better accommodates internal anatomies—like the deep digital flexor tendon and the navicular apparatus—leading to improved performance and comfort.

A key reminder also addressed: using the hairline as a reference for establishing and preserving the coffin bone's orientation. Because the hairline is a relatively undistortable landmark, trimming to mirror it helps maintain a balanced hoof capsule.

Get the full perspective and additional insights straight from the video.