Why Copper Alloy Horseshoes Are Changing Hoof Care
For decades, steel shoes have been the go-to choice for horse owners and farriers. While they provide mechanical protection, they don't combat the bacterial and fungal threats that weaken hooves over time.
Conditions like thrush, white line disease, and seedy toe thrive in damp environments, often leading to lameness and costly treatments. Copper has long been recognized as an antibacterial agent, used both historically and in modern medicine to prevent bacterial growth.
More horse owners are now discovering the advantages of copper alloy horseshoes, which go beyond mechanical support by actively promoting healthier hooves. Copper's antibacterial qualities help inhibit bacterial growth within the hoof, reducing the risk of infection and supporting overall hoof health.
Kawell USA’s Copper Alloy Horseshoes represent one of the most effective ways to keep horses sound, comfortable, and performing at their best. Copper's use in hoof care has recently gained mainstream support due to scientific validation of its antimicrobial effects.
What Makes Copper Alloy Horseshoes Unique
Steel shoes protect hooves from wear but allow bacteria and fungi to flourish. Copper alloy shoes solve this problem by incorporating continuous antimicrobial action into every step your horse takes. Copper ions released from the alloy penetrate and destroy the bacterial cell wall, leading to bacterial death.
Crafted from a patented copper alloy (UNS Alloy No. C6915, EPA Registration #82012-3), Kawell USA’s Copper Alloy Horseshoes kill 99% of bacteria and fungi on contact. The antimicrobial effect is due to copper ions acting on bacterial cell walls. Their antimicrobial properties don’t wash away, wear off, or diminish with tarnishing, meaning they remain effective throughout the life of the shoe.
The Key Advantages of Copper Alloy Horseshoes
Switching to copper alloy horseshoes offers benefits that impact hoof health, performance, and long-term maintenance.
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Antimicrobial Protection: Copper salts produced by the alloy inhibit microbial growth, reducing the risk of thrush, white line disease, and seedy toe.
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Healthier Hoof Structure: By limiting microbial damage, hooves remain stronger, more resilient, and less prone to cracking or deterioration.
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Shock Absorption: These shoes absorb 8.53% of impact energy with each step, protecting joints, ligaments, and soft tissues during work.
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Sustainable and Durable: Copper alloy is recyclable, eco-friendly, and retains its performance benefits throughout its lifespan.
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Cost Savings Over Time: By preventing infections and minimizing hoof-related treatments, owners save on vet bills, topical treatments, and lost training days.
Copper sulfate has traditionally been used as a topical treatment for hoof wall disease, but copper alloy horseshoes offer a more integrated solution.
For performance horses in particular, these advantages translate to better consistency, and less downtime.
Pairing Copper Alloy Shoes with Hoof Care Products
To maximize the benefits of copper alloy horseshoes, pair them with other Kawell USA products that enhance hoof strength and resilience.
Natural Horse Hoof Paste
Our Natural Horse Hoof Paste nourishes and protects the hoof. It maintains proper moisture balance and strengthens the horn while discouraging microbial growth, complementing the shoes’ antimicrobial properties.
Copper Alloy Frog Inserts
For horses prone to deep frog infections or with chronic thrush, Kawell USA’s Copper Alloy Frog Inserts deliver focused protection where bacteria thrive most. Developed by farrier Esco Buff, PhD, APF-I, CF, these patented inserts work with copper alloy shoes to ensure 360-degree microbial defense.
Why Copper Alloy Horseshoes Are Cost-Effective
While copper alloy shoes have a higher upfront cost than steel, their long-term value outweighs the initial expense. By preventing infections and reducing the need for emergency farrier work, medicated soaks, and veterinary treatments, they save significant time and money over the course of a horse’s career.
They also contribute to fewer missed training sessions or competitions due to hoof issues, which is crucial for performance horses whose schedules are demanding and time-sensitive.
Maintaining Copper Alloy Horseshoes for Optimal Results
To get the most from copper alloy shoes, follow a simple but consistent care routine.
Pick and inspect hooves daily, removing debris and checking for any signs of thrush or cracks. Apply Natural Horse Hoof Paste several times per week to keep the hoof flexible and strong. Use the Kawell USA Copper Curry Horse Brush during grooming to reduce bacteria on the coat and prevent debris from reaching the hooves.
Schedule farrier visits regularly to maintain balance and reset shoes as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do copper alloy horseshoes compare to steel in weight?
Kawell USA’s copper alloy shoes are comparable in weight to steel shoes, so they won’t affect performance or movement. Their shock absorption actually makes them gentler on the horse’s body during work.
Do copper alloy shoes eliminate thrush entirely?
They can’t eliminate thrush entirely, but they kill the bacteria and fungi that cause it. When combined with frog inserts and regular cleaning, they dramatically reduce the likelihood of infection.
Will copper tarnish affect their performance?
No. Tarnishing actually enhances copper’s antimicrobial function by generating copper salts, which continue to neutralize bacteria and fungi.
Are these shoes suitable for all disciplines?
Yes. Copper alloy shoes benefit performance horses, trail horses, and those kept in damp conditions alike. Their antimicrobial and shock-absorbing features are valuable across all uses.
How often do copper alloy shoes need to be replaced?
Like steel shoes, copper alloy shoes are typically reset or replaced every four to six weeks. Their antimicrobial properties remain active throughout their lifespan.
Conclusion
The advantages of copper alloy horseshoes go far beyond basic hoof protection. By combining antimicrobial action, shock absorption, and durability, Kawell USA’s Copper Alloy Horseshoes help horses perform at their peak while also helping avoiding infections.
Paired with Natural Horse Hoof Paste and Copper Alloy Frog Inserts, these shoes create a comprehensive hoof care system that keeps hooves strong, reduces long-term costs, and improves comfort for horses of all disciplines. For owners and riders committed to long-term hoof health and performance, copper alloy is a clear choice.
