Hoof Expansion and Compression:

• Natural Hoof Function: In a barefoot state, the horse's hoof expands as it bears weight, particularly at the heel. This expansion is crucial for proper blood circulation and shock absorption.
• Design Mimicry: The wide, polymer pad of the horseshoe allows for this
  natural expansion. By being 20% taller, it can compress upon impact,
  similar to how the soft tissues of a barefoot horse would slightly compress, aiding in energy dissipation.

Impact Absorption:

• Barefoot Shock Absorption: When a horse is barefoot, the hoof wall, sole, and frog all work to absorb the concussion from landing. The frog, in particular, acts like a shock absorber.
• Polymer Pad and Cleat: The pad's cleat at the heel mimics the heel's natural function by absorbing the initial impact. The polymer material's ability to compress under load helps in reducing the force transmitted to the horse's joints, much like the natural cushioning of the frog and digital cushion.

Heel Support and Stability:

• Natural Stability: Barefoot, the heel bulbs provide lateral stability and support.  The pads load over the heel buttresses similarly providing lateral stability and support.
• Heel Bridge: The "bridge" across the frog in the horseshoe design replicates this support by connecting the heels, offering stability during the heel strike and throughout the stride. It also ensures that the force is evenly distributed, minimizing unnatural torque or twisting on the hoof.

Stride Phase Dynamics:

• Landing and Push Off: In natural movement, the heel lands first, followed by the frog, and then the toe pushes off. The pad supports this sequence by cushioning the heel strike, allowing for a gradual transfer of weight to the frog, and then to the toe, facilitating a natural push-off without the rigidity of traditional metal shoes.
• Recoil and Elasticity: Bare hooves benefit from an elastic recoil that helps in propulsion. The polymer pad, by compressing and then returning to shape, provides a similar elastic response, aiding in forward movement with less energy expenditure.

Biomechanical Efficiency:

• Reduced Stress on Joints: By absorbing and dispersing impact over a broader area, this design reduces peak forces on the limbs, potentially lowering the risk of joint and tendon injuries, much like how a barefoot horse would naturally distribute and absorb forces.
• Enhanced Hoof Health: The design supports the natural movement of the hoof, promoting better blood flow, which can lead to healthier hooves with less need for corrective rimming or shoeing to compensate for unnatural wear patterns.

By replicating these aspects of barefoot biomechanics, the horseshoe pad allows for a more natural, less restrictive movement, potentially leading to improved horse performance, comfort, and hoof health.