Thin Soles

Thin Soles in Horses

Thin soles can make horses extremely sensitive to hard or rocky ground, limiting their ability to work comfortably. This condition is common in certain breeds and can be exacerbated by environmental factors.

What Causes Thin Soles?

  • Genetic predisposition
  • Excessive trimming
  • Poor nutrition
  • Wet or muddy conditions
  • Laminitis or founder

Signs Your Horse Has Thin Soles

  • Sensitivity on gravel or hard ground
  • Shortened stride
  • Reluctance to move forward
  • Bruising easily
  • Visible sole flex when picked up

How We Can Help

Horses with thin soles often struggle with tenderness and discomfort, especially on harder ground. The Black Pads are designed to give them the protection and cushioning they need — while helping prevent further damage or soreness.

If your horse is just a little tender and you’re looking to be proactive, the original Black Pads are an excellent choice. They gently get the foot up off the ground with a layer of advanced polyurethane, the highest-rated material on the market for impact and concussion absorption.

The cleat portion of all our pads replaces the hard, rigid heel area with a wide-webbed, impact-absorbing design, adding comfort exactly where horses need it most — in their heels.

For horses needing extra help, our Black Pads PLUS take things a step further. Each pair includes three rare-earth neodymium magnets and copper in the heel to boost circulation, improve blood flow, and reduce inflammation — giving that extra “plus” effect for healing and comfort.

For even easier, everyday support, our Magnet Bell Boots feature eight integrated rare-earth magnets to further promote circulation and help your horse stay comfortable, no matter the footing.

At Doc Foal’s, we believe comfort and protection go hand in hand — and with the right support, even thin-soled horses can move with confidence and ease.