Why More Owners Are Choosing Copper Alloy Horseshoes for Their Horses
In recent years, there’s been growing interest in horses with copper alloy horseshoes—and for good reason. Traditional steel shoes provide mechanical protection, but they do little to combat the bacterial and fungal threats that compromise hoof health. For horses living in wet or soiled conditions, infections like thrush, white line disease, and seedy toe can quickly develop, leading to discomfort, lameness, and costly treatments.
Copper, often referred to as man's oldest metal, has a long history of use and is renowned for its proven antimicrobial properties.
Copper alloy horseshoes, particularly Kawell USA’s patented Copper Alloy Horseshoes, offer a new standard in hoof care by combining structural support with continuous antimicrobial protection.
The therapeutic uses of copper alloy horseshoes are especially valuable for managing hoof and bacterial issues in horses.
Types and Materials of Copper Alloy Horseshoes
Copper alloy horseshoes are crafted from a variety of advanced copper alloys, each selected for its unique combination of strength, durability, and antimicrobial properties. The most common copper alloys used in horseshoes include copper-zinc, copper-tin, and copper-silver blends.
These copper alloy horseshoes are designed to withstand the rigors of daily wear while providing continuous protection against bacterial and fungal diseases that threaten hoof health.
The antimicrobial properties of these copper alloy shoes are not just a surface feature—they are inherent to the metal itself, allowing the shoes to kill 99.9% of bacteria and fungi on contact. This makes copper alloy horseshoes a powerful tool in the treatment and prevention of white line disease, thrush, and other common hoof ailments.
The effectiveness of these materials has been demonstrated in both laboratory testing and real-world use, making copper alloy horseshoes an increasingly important option for proactive hoof care.
The Benefits for Horses with Copper Alloy Horseshoes
Switching to copper alloy horseshoes offers a wide range of advantages for your horse’s health and comfort.
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Continuous Antimicrobial Action: Copper salts generated by the alloy inhibit bacteria and fungi that cause thrush and white line disease, leading to a significant reduction in white line infections.
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Stronger, Healthier Hooves: By reducing microbial damage, hooves stay more resilient and less prone to cracks.
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Shock Absorption: Kawell USA’s copper alloy shoes reduce impact by 8.53% with every step, helping to protect joints and ligaments.
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Cost Efficiency: While they cost more upfront than steel, they save money over time by reducing vet bills and treatment costs for infection-related hoof issues.
Tests and data from university studies and EPA registration processes demonstrate that copper alloy horseshoes are effective in reducing white line infections and maintaining hoof health. Copper alloy shoes continue to provide antimicrobial benefits and maintain their durability.
For performance horses, trail horses, or those in humid climates, these benefits translate to fewer disruptions and a healthier foundation.
Enhancing Results with Frog Inserts and Hoof Paste
For horses that have struggled with recurrent thrush or deep collateral sulci, Kawell USA’s Copper Alloy Frog Inserts provide additional targeted protection. These patented inserts fit into heart bar shoes to kill bacteria and fungi right at the frog, where infections often start.
Pairing copper alloy shoes with Kawell USA’s Natural Horse Hoof Paste creates a complete care system. The paste nourishes the hoof, maintains ideal moisture balance, and further discourages microbial growth. Used together, these products offer excellent support for hoof integrity.
How Copper Alloy Shoes Save Time and Money
Though copper alloy shoes cost more initially, their long-term value quickly becomes clear. By preventing common infections, they reduce veterinary expenses, farrier visits for corrective treatments, and time lost from training or competition.
However, professional farrier services remain essential for proper shoeing and ongoing maintenance, ensuring the full benefits of copper alloy shoes are realized.
When to Consider Copper Alloy Horseshoes for Your Horse
Copper alloy shoes are ideal for a variety of horses, including:
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Horses prone to thrush, white line disease, or seedy toe
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Horses in humid or wet climates where bacterial and fungal growth thrive
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Performance horses needing shock absorption for joint protection
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Horses on wood shavings or straw bedding, which can harbor microbes
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Horses with recurring frog infections that need proactive care
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Horses that benefit from copper alloy shoes supporting the horse's hoof by preventing infections and maintaining hoof integrity
Horses are shod with copper alloy shoes to protect the horse's foot from microbial threats and improve the individual horse's overall hoof health.
Whether you’re managing a high-performance athlete or a pleasure horse, copper alloy shoes can enhance hoof health and reduce long-term complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are copper alloy horseshoes safe for all horses?
Yes. Kawell USA’s Copper Alloy Horseshoes are EPA-approved and safe for all breeds, sizes, and disciplines. They’re especially beneficial for horses with a history of hoof infections or those living in damp environments.
Do copper alloy horseshoes tarnish or lose effectiveness?
Copper naturally tarnishes, but this doesn’t reduce its antimicrobial performance. In fact, tarnish helps produce copper salts that continue to kill bacteria and fungi.
How often do copper alloy horseshoes need to be reset?
Like steel shoes, copper alloy horseshoes typically need to be reset every four to six weeks. Their antimicrobial properties last throughout the shoe’s entire lifespan.
Can copper alloy horseshoes replace topical thrush treatments?
While they significantly reduce the need for topical treatments, regular cleaning and conditioning—especially with products like Natural Horse Hoof Paste—remain important for complete hoof health.
Are copper alloy horseshoes suitable for performance disciplines?
Absolutely. Their shock absorption helps protect joints during work, while their antimicrobial action keeps hooves healthy under the stress of training and competition.
Conclusion
For horse owners seeking a better way to maintain hoof health, horses with copper alloy horseshoes represent a major advancement in care.
By neutralizing harmful microbes, reducing impact stress, and working seamlessly with other natural products like Kawell USA’s Frog Inserts and Natural Horse Hoof Paste, these shoes provide a comprehensive solution to common hoof problems.
Whether your horse is in a wet environment, competing regularly, or recovering from past hoof issues, copper alloy shoes help ensure stronger, healthier hooves, fewer infections, and a more comfortable ride year-round.
