THE Horse Sense reader poll caused lots of discussion in our inbox this week. 1583 votes were cast and 43% of readers believed racehorses could race barefoot successfully. The IHRB Rule Book states that: “It is a requirement that all horses be fully shod prior to entering the parade ring, unless in exceptional circumstances in which case permission must have been granted in advance by the IHRB.”

Recent research indicates that, while racehorses can run barefoot under certain conditions, the practice’s viability depends on multiple factors, including hoof health, track surface, and individual horse characteristics.

In the UK, the BHS Rules of Racing singles out flat racing, stating: “Horses running in flat races conducted on turf must enter the parade ring fully shod except where the BHA has consented before the Declaration to Run is submitted or in exceptional circumstances the stewards give permission.”

Galloping thoroughbreds

A 2022 study by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) explored the effects of different shoeing conditions – barefoot, aluminium, steel and GluShu (aluminium-rubber composite) – on galloping thoroughbreds across turf and artificial surfaces. Using accelerometers, researchers found that barefoot hooves experienced the lowest impact accelerations during landing, particularly on artificial tracks.

In contrast, steel shoes on turf resulted in the highest accelerations, potentially increasing the risk of musculoskeletal injuries. The study suggests that barefoot racing on artificial surfaces may reduce limb stress, but cautions that further research is needed to assess implications at competitive speeds.

Hoof durability

Another study examined the chemical composition of hooves in horses that frequently raced barefoot versus those that did not.

Findings indicated that horses accustomed to barefoot racing had lower copper levels and higher concentrations of certain amino acids in their hoof walls.

These differences may contribute to hoof durability, but the study concluded that chemical analysis alone is insufficient to determine a horse’s suitability for barefoot racing.

Mitigate risks

In harness racing, particularly in Sweden, barefoot racing is common and has been associated with improved performance. Data shows that trotters racing without shoes averaged 0.7 seconds faster per kilometre compared to when shod. However, this practice is regulated seasonally to mitigate risks associated with varying track conditions.

Barefoot appears to be beneficial under specific conditions, but it also seems clear its adoption requires careful consideration of individual hoof health, track surface and regulatory guidelines.

Ongoing research aims to better understand the long-term implications of barefoot racing on horse welfare and performance.