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Traction

The use of traction is a delicate and important issue on a properly shod horse.  There are a number of different ways to fine tune the use of traction to balance necessity and overuse.  The trick is to use only enough traction to get the job done so there is not an excessive amount of stress on the legs.

I use these permanent studs for road traction.  They work really well on hard surfaces but since they don't stick out far, they aren't much use on soft surfaces.

	This is a stallion ready for the cross country part of the 100 Day Stallion Test finals.  He is drilled & tapped for the single event and since we don't know what the conditions will be, the rider can decide and put the studs in then.  They just screw in like a bolt.  Notice the lateral extension.  I would call this a trailer and helps add a little more traction on the hind hooves which aids in impulsion and launch.  We decided after watching him move that this is the appropriate modification because he is a little close behind.  After this shoeing he travels a little better.
	This is the hind hoof traction package I use at Diana Rich's barn which includes a lateral trailer, drive ins for the road and they are also drilled & tapped for cross country.
	This Equithane pour in pad reduces traction significantly. Always beware using them on jumpers or serious trail horses unless at least one of the above methods are used.