The Institute of Applied Equine Podiatry with KC La PierrePerfect Hoof Wear and Other Great Hoof Care InformationPerfect Hoof Club for information and discussion on hoof health
 

Energetics Brand Product
All Natural Hoof Antiseptic

HPT Method™
not just another trim!




Perfect Hoof Wear ~ an exciting product from Energetics™ Brand

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Applied Equine Podiatry
 
 
 
Frequently Asked Questions
About the Perfect Hoof Wear System ~ The Non-Cast Alternative!

If It's Not Broken ~ Don't Cast It!

Click a Question Below to Learn More

  • How long does the footwear last?
  • Can I use the PHWS in place of a horse shoe?
  • Can I jump my horse in the PHWS?
  • Can I show my horse in the PHWS?
  • How does the PHWS hold up to tarmac?
  • How well does the PHWS hold up to a wet muddy environment?
  • What if my horse has thrush, can the footwear be used over the infected frog?
  • Can I use just two of the PHWS wraps, and use the other two at another time?
  • Does the PHWS material come in just one size?
  • Hasn't casting been around for a long time?
  • What's the difference between PHWS and other hoof casting materials?
  • What makes this a system?


  • How long does the footwear last?
  • Currently the Perfect Hoof Wear System designated the St or Standard Kit is designed to last for three to four weeks. Though the product may show evidence of wear at the toe, the PHWS will continue to provide needed stability, and stimulus. We will be introducing a Pro Kit in the very near future that will meet the needs of even the most demanding disciplines.

  • Can I use the PHWS in place of a horse shoe?
  • Yes! The PHWS is ideally suited to replace horseshoes on most horses.

  • Can I jump my horse in the PHWS?
  • Currently the Standard kit available for purchase is not designed for the jumper. Though many of our customers are using the ST for endurance and trail riding, it is not suited to jumping. The Pro Kit will meet the needs of those wishing to jump their horses.

  • Can I show my horse in the PHWS?
  • Yes. In the United States, a review of the 2008 USEF rule book, general rules section showed, no restrictions that would disqualify use of the PHWS. We do, however, recommend that you refer to the specific section pertaining to your particular discipline/breed.

  • How does the PHWS hold up to tarmac?
  • The "ST" is not designed to hold up to tarmac or concrete, the Pro Kit, with additional components, will be made available to increase traction and longevity; this in the near future.

  • How well does the PHWS hold up to a wet muddy environment?
  • PHW holds up exceptionally well to the muddy environment. The footwear can be hosed for cleaning, and its breathability helps to regulate moisture exchange, eliminating the rapid drying that can occur when a horse is stabled on kiln dried shavings. Rapid drying, following exposure to excessive moisture has been shown to break down keratin bonds (hoof wall).

  • What if my horse has thrush, can the footwear be used over the infected frog? Yes. The PHW can be used. We recommend using Silvetrasol spray or similar topical treatment. Wetting the affected area with Silvetrasol prior to application of the footwear and following application can speed recovery from infections of the frog. When the footwear is applied correctly, Silvetrasol can be sprayed into the central sulcus of the frog and its collateral grooves. The foot may be hosed clean prior to re-application of Silvetrasol spray. Silvetrasol is available through our eStore. This protocol has proven to be remarkable in the treatment of hoof infections.

    Back to Top of FAQs

  • Can I use just two of the PHWS wraps, and use the other two at another time? Yes. The adhesive and remaining wraps will keep. Just leave a used mixing tip on the adhesive cartridge when done. Be sure to check the two openings in the adhesive next time you go to apply the remaining wraps.

  • Does the PHWS material come in just one size?
  • Yes. The PHW material comes in 2 inches x 4 yards. We have found that this size works well on horses with feet from size 000 to size 4. Wider material tends to bunch up just forward of the bars, causing undesirable pressure points. For minis and small ponies you may use only a portion of the material, or you may choose to cut the material in half prior to application. For draft horses we recommend you use two wraps, applied immediately one after the other, this eliminates the need for additional adhesive.

  • Hasn't casting been around for a long time?
  • Yes, hoof casting has been around for the better part of two decades. Veterinarians, farriers, and specialty companies have been promoting casting for the treatment of hoof problems. There are several common types of casting materials; fiberglass, fiberglass composites, moldable plastics, and metal plates have all been used.

    The PHW, even though it is applied as a wrap, it is not a cast. Utilizing a very minimal amount of adhesive, resins that cures flexible, fabrics that remain flexible and breathable for the duration of its serviceability, PHW allows for distortion, and proper foot function. Casting is done to make rigid, Perfect Hoof Wear is not.


  • What's the difference between PHWS and other hoof casting materials?
  • There are several casting products comprised of a fabric and resin, but the similarities end there. Unlike casting materials that use fiberglass or fiberglass blended fabrics, the PHW wrap material contains no fiberglass. We have also found that the resin in some other casting materials is often simply applied to the fabrics surface, likely applied by a resin bath. PHW material is impregnated with a water activated resin.Impregnating the resin produces a cleaner material that virtually eliminates pooling of the resin during the curing process, thus the weave remains more open, promoting breathability and flexibility. This makes for a much cleaner, simpler application. When the intention is to cast the foot for stability, any rigid (fiberglass/fiberglass blend) type casting material will likely work. We agree that casting is a better alternative to glue-on shoes, acrylic/urethane hoof repairs, or metal plates, but the PHWS is still a better choice, and it is not a cast.

  • What makes this a system?
  • Use of the PHW material only, may or may not produce the desired outcome. The PHWS is not intended for casting, and the wrap material is only one part of this system. The system further utilizes a closed cell foam pad to mold and treat the wrap material during the curing process. Breathability, and functionality of the footwear is further enhanced when the pad is removed, following curing. It is the combination of the trim, wrap material, and impression material, used correctly that constitutes a system. Consistent, repeatable, positive results are what define this system. The system subscribes to a method that supports the science of Applied Equine Podiatry, and the proper function of the Internal Arch Apparatus. Visit: The Institute of Applied Equine Podiatry for further information on the science of Applied Equine Podiatry and the HPT Method™ of trimming.


    Purchase Energetics Brand Perfect Hoof Wear Products TODAY!


    To learn more about the Institute, Applied Equine Podiatry, and the HPT Method please visit www.appliedequinepodiatry.org. With our theories and methods, you will learn that we are going "beyond barefoot" when it comes to the Science of Whole Horse Hoof Care, Barefoot Trimming, Natural Trimming, and Natural Hoof Care. Please join us in this journey!

    Check out Perfect Hoof Wear, Silvetrasol and other Natural Hoof Care Products or join the FREE Perfect Hoof Club Forum to discuss common hoof issues including navicular, laminitis, founder, white line, thrush, thin soles and so much more with our hoof care experts and other horse owners!

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