What Are Copper Alloy Horseshoes?
Copper alloy horseshoes are an innovative advancement in equine hoof care, combining the durability of traditional horseshoes with the natural antimicrobial power of copper. Designed to address persistent hoof health issues such as thrush, white line disease, and seedy toe, these horseshoes help farriers, veterinarians, and horse owners provide a higher level of protection for equine companions.
Unlike copper-coated shoes, Kawell USA’s Copper Alloy Horseshoes are made entirely from a patented copper alloy that eliminates 99% of bacteria and fungi on contact.
Used widely in barns, showgrounds, and therapeutic settings, these shoes provide a proactive defense that goes far beyond the mechanical function of regular horseshoes. They do more than just support movement—they actively improve the health of the hoof environment with every step.
Why Copper? The Science Behind Antimicrobial Action
Copper has long been recognized for its antimicrobial effects. The ions released by copper alloys are toxic to many bacteria and fungi, disrupting their cell walls and preventing reproduction. The antimicrobial action of copper alloys is activated through direct contact with bacteria and fungi—when copper physically touches microbes commonly found in wet, soiled environments like those in horse stalls, it actively neutralizes them.
Kawell USA’s Copper Alloy Horseshoes are not just reactive; they are preventative. By eliminating bacteria and fungi before they can colonize the hoof, they drastically reduce the chance of infections and hoof degradation.
These antimicrobial properties do not degrade with time or exposure. Even under repeated stress, mud, and moisture, the copper alloy retains its effectiveness. This makes it an ideal long-term solution for horses prone to hoof disease or those frequently exposed to wet or contaminated environments.
Key Features of Kawell USA’s Copper Alloy Horseshoes
1. Patented, 100% Copper Alloy Construction
Unlike other horseshoes that are merely copper-coated, Kawell’s horseshoes are made from a patented alloy registered with the Copper Development Association (UNS Alloy No. C6915). This ensures consistent antimicrobial action throughout the product’s lifecycle. They’re also EPA-approved (Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)) under registration #82012-3, affirming both their safety and effectiveness.
Laboratory testing has proven the antimicrobial effectiveness of these shoes, demonstrating that they kill greater than 99.9% of bacteria within 2 hours and provide ongoing, validated protection for hoof health.
2. Kills 99% of Bacteria and Fungus
These horseshoes actively kill bacteria and help prevent fungal infections by eliminating pathogens such as those responsible for white line disease, seedy toe, and thrush—three of the most common and difficult-to-manage hoof ailments in horses.
3. Reduces Long-Term Hoof Damage
By preventing infection and supporting natural hoof integrity, copper alloy shoes reduce the need for repeat veterinary treatments and farrier interventions. Over time, this can lower costs associated with chronic hoof problems. Additionally, the therapeutic uses of copper alloy horseshoes include their ability to prevent and treat hoof infections due to their antimicrobial properties, making them a valuable option for improving overall hoof health.
4. High Shock Absorption
Kawell USA’s Copper Alloy Horseshoes absorb up to 8.53% of impact energy with every step, reducing the reaction force transmitted to the horse's limb, decreasing shock, and resulting in less force on joints and tendons. This reduces microtrauma in joints and ligaments, especially important for horses engaged in intense physical activity or those with previous injuries.
5. Eco-Friendly and Recyclable
Made from 100% recyclable material, these horseshoes offer an environmentally responsible solution without compromising performance or safety.
Health Benefits for Your Horse
Horses that wear copper alloy shoes benefit in several critical ways. The shoes help improve hoof health and contribute to the overall quality of the horse's hoof by creating a healthier hoof environment, decreasing the likelihood of lameness caused by microbial infections. They also help prevent the accumulation of waste and rot-inducing organisms in bedding, especially when horses are housed in moist conditions like straw or damp wood shavings.
Copper salts naturally produced by the shoes as they interact with the environment offer additional protection. These salts have strong fungicidal and bactericidal properties and make the hoof environment inhospitable for bacteria and fungi, acting like a continuous treatment built into the shoe itself.
When combined with other natural hoof care products from Kawell USA—such as the Natural Horse Hoof Paste and Copper Alloy Frog Inserts—the result is a complete hoof health system that enhances both performance and comfort.
How to Use Copper Alloy Horseshoes in Your Hoof Care Routine
Incorporating copper alloy shoes into your regular hoof care protocol is simple. They can be used in place of traditional steel shoes and installed by any qualified farrier. When paired with Kawell USA’s Natural Hoof Paste and Copper Alloy Frog Inserts, these shoes become part of a comprehensive, natural hoof management plan.
The durability of these shoes allows for multiple sets to be used over several shoeing cycles without compromising quality.
Recommended Routine:
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Clean and inspect hooves regularly to monitor for infection or injury.
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Apply Natural Hoof Paste daily to maintain moisture and support healing.
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Use Copper Alloy Horseshoes for long-term antimicrobial defense.
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Install Frog Inserts if your horse is prone to thrush or has deep frog sulci.
Long-Term Savings and Sustainability
While copper alloy shoes may cost slightly more upfront than traditional horseshoes, they offer substantial long-term value. By reducing the frequency of infections, veterinary calls, and corrective farrier work, these shoes help protect both your horse and your wallet.
Additionally, their 100% recyclability and EPA registration make them one of the most eco-conscious choices available in modern hoof care. You can support your horse’s health while supporting environmental responsibility at the same time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What conditions do copper alloy horseshoes help prevent?
Kawell’s Copper Alloy Horseshoes are highly effective against white line disease, thrush, seedy toe, and white line infections—common hoof ailments caused by bacteria and fungi in damp environments. Their antimicrobial action eliminates 99% of these microbes on contact.
Are these horseshoes suitable for all types of horses?
Yes. Copper alloy horseshoes are suitable for all breeds and disciplines, from trail horses to performance athletes. They are especially beneficial for horses prone to hoof infections or those housed in moist bedding.
Do copper alloy horseshoes need special installation?
No. They can be installed by any experienced farrier using standard shoeing techniques. Kawell USA provides multiple size options for both front and hind feet to ensure a proper fit.
How long do copper alloy horseshoes last?
Their lifespan is comparable to traditional steel shoes. The antimicrobial properties do not wear out with time or exposure, maintaining their effectiveness throughout their use.
Can copper alloy shoes be used with other Kawell hoof products?
Absolutely. For best results, use alongside Natural Horse Hoof Paste and Copper Alloy Frog Inserts. This combination enhances hoof health from multiple angles—surface protection, internal nourishment, and microbial control.
Copper Alloy HorseshoesConclusion
Copper alloy horseshoes represent the next generation of hoof care—offering far more than structural support. Backed by science, crafted from a patented antimicrobial alloy, and endorsed by veterinarians and farriers, Kawell USA’s Copper Alloy Horseshoes are redefining how we care for our horses’ hooves.
Their natural antimicrobial action, durability, and impact-reducing qualities make them an essential investment for horse owners who prioritize long-term hoof health.
Combined with Kawell’s other hoof care solutions, these horseshoes deliver a comprehensive, natural approach to preventing disease, promoting healing, and elevating performance—step by step.
