Multifunctional Hybrid Horseshoes With a Steel Edge at the Toe
For Rocky Terrain, Gait Optimization, and as a Shock-Absorbing Alternative Spavin Horseshoe
The Arizona is a versatile hybrid horseshoe. It’s called hybrid because – like our other composite horseshoes – it combines a stable metal core with a shock-absorbing plastic outer layer. It is multifunctional because the Arizona can do more than you might expect at first glance – with several practical functions that are often underestimated.
The Benefits of Composite Horseshoes
The Arizona combines a stable metal core in the area of the bony hoof structures with a flexible, shock-absorbing plastic outer layer. An integrated frog support with a plastic bridge can promote hoof circulation, and thanks to the open sole area, the hoof sole and frog can breathe well. The debris guard typical of our hybrid horseshoes also helps prevent snow and mud from balling up .
The Steel Edge – the Arizona’s Special Strength
Thanks to the steel edge, the Arizona offers an extended range of functions and therefore a targeted added benefit compared to our other models. The integrated steel edge at the toe serves two key functions.
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Protection of the Plastic Outer Layer at the Toe
The steel edge protects the plastic outer layer at the toe from tearing out prematurely – especially with regular use on rocky, rough trails. This model takes its name from the US state of Arizona, where the horseshoes were developed together with the Miller Ranch.
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Toe-Weight Effect for Targeted Gait Optimization
The slightly increased weight at the toe makes the steel edge work similarly to a toe-weight steel shoe. When applied correctly by a professional, the Arizona can be used specifically for gait optimization – especially for gaited horses.
In addition, it has also proven itself as a shock-absorbing, alternative spavin shoe. Another possible application is for issues involving the digital extensor tendon.
The idea of also viewing the Arizona as an alternative spavin shoe (i.e., spavin horseshoes) came from professional discussions with Janis Neurand (NBvH) at the Equi Meeting in France, who reported positive practical experiences that we would like to share with you here. You can find further details about the use of the Arizona for gait optimization in gaited horses, as well as for spavin, in the detailed product description.
Want to learn more about the Arizona hybrid horseshoes and its use as nailed hoof protection? Then it’s best to read the detailed product description.
Whether you are a farrier or a horse owner: to prevent injuries to people and horses, we strongly recommend that you read and follow our safety instructions before using our products. Even though we aim to support you and your horse as well as possible with our products, you must still adapt your speed to ground conditions and the weather to prevent accidents as far as possible. You can also use Spikes to further improve grip .
Additional Application Notes for the Arizona Hybrid Horseshoes
Because the steel border around the toe is only covered by a very thin layer of plastic, the steel edge of these hybrid horseshoes will become visible relatively soon. This is therefore not a sign of excessive wear if the metal core becomes visible at the toe of these hybrid horseshoes. You can find more details about durability in the detailed product description.
Not a Glue-On Horseshoe
The Arizona cannot be used as a glue-on shoe. The thin plastic layer over the steel edge does not provide enough material for a reliable weld seam. For the same reason, it is also not possible to widen the Arizona using Extensions in the area of the steel edge.
Debris Guard on Extra Models and Tread-Pattern Variants
Depending on which horseshoes size you order, you may still receive remaining stock without debris guard. And until all horseshoes sizes have been updated, you may receive horseshoes with different tread-pattern variants. Please contact us if you would like to know more.
Product features
| General data and delivery information | |
|---|---|
| Model | Horseshoes with quarter clips, tread profile, and a steel border around the toe |
| Additional name | Arizona |
| Brand | Duplo |
| Made in | Germany |
| Item number | 160, 161, 450, 451 |
| Packaging unit | sold individually |
| Delivery information | We strive to keep the most important horseshoe models from the extensive Duplo product range in stock here in Canada for you. If a product is currently unavailable, please feel free to contact us. Together, we will find a suitable alternative or take care of ordering the item from Germany for you. |
| Special features of these horseshoes | |
|---|---|
| Your benefit | The Arizona hybrid horseshoes combine a stable metal core with a shock-absorbing plastic outer layer, providing reliable hoof protection with added comfort. Thanks to the integrated steel edge, these alternative horseshoes expand the possible applications – for rocky terrain, targeted gait optimization in gaited horses, and also as an alternative shock-absorbing spavin shoe. |
| Features |
For more information about this alternative hoof protection, take a look at the detailed product description. |
| Therapeutic horseshoes | This model is also suitable for supportive use in orthopaedic and therapeutic applications. For example, there have been good experiences with horses affected by spavin. We explicitly note that our products do not diagnose or cure diseases, and for any use with a therapeutic or orthopaedic purpose, we recommend working closely with your farrier or veterinarian on site. |
| Horseshoes for gait optimization |
Due to the slightly increased toe weight, this model can be used for gait optimization. As a
general rule: all adjustments should always be made carefully and in small steps. Subtle changes
are often more effective than major interventions and contribute to a harmonious, horse-friendly
movement pattern. Developing and improving gaits is still primarily based on correct riding and
targeted training. The horseshoes can support this process, but it does not replace sound
training. At this point, we would also like to quote Janis Neurand again: "With every modification, the ability of horse and rider must be assessed! The horse must not be harmed or overchallenged by the modifications! The modifications may only serve the purpose of natural gait improvement! |
| Safety instructions | |
|---|---|
| Safety instructions online | Our safety instructions can be found under FAQ → Safety instructions. |
| Safety instructions as PDF download | PDF Download |
| Risk of injury | The risk of injury in the herd is closer to that of a steel shoe than to the risk of pure plastic or a regular composite horseshoes without steel border around the toe. Please also observe our safety instructions. The quarter clips must also be monitored. |
Manufacturer in accordance with the Regulation (EU) 2023/988 on General Product Safety (GPSR)
Manufacturer in accordance with the Regulation (EU) 2023/988 on General Product Safety (GPSR)
Name: H. Frank Kunststofftechnik GmbHElectronic Address: www.duplo-frank.de
Physical Address: Vorderfreundorfer Straße 20
ZIP Code: DE-94143
City: Grainet
Country: Deutschland
Phone: +49 (0)8585/96926-0