All farriers are trained to look at the feet and balance them before placing a shoe on the foot. For centuries this is what has happened. But nowadays we know there is much more to hoof balance and soundness than just fitting a shoe.

The hoof is under constant pressure when accomplishing its multiple functions as a shock absorber, protector of the internal architecture of the hoof and supporter of the weight of the horse. This pressure is amplified once the horse is at work with a rider.