Most Popular Hoof Hardeners at Corro
Some hoof care products just rise to the top because riders and farriers reach for them again and again. Below are the ones earning the most praise and purchases at Corro:
- Keratex Hoof Hardener – Strengthens weak or brittle hooves and helps stop cracking. Simple weekly application with visible results. Trusted by farriers for improving hoof condition. A reliable fix to toughen hooves and keep them from chipping.
- Hawthorne Venice Turpentine – Toughens thin soles and supports hoof health. Recommended by farriers for added protection. Offers great value and dependable performance. A farrier-recommended staple to harden and protect horse soles.
What Causes Weak Hooves in Horses?
Weak, brittle, or cracked hooves often come from poor hoof structure, moisture imbalance in the environment, or nutritional gaps. Hoof hardeners step in to give external support while good care and diet work on the inside.
Corro Team Rider Hunter Holloway (Show Jumper) shares that repeated impact on landing stresses the hoof wall, so keeping her horses’ hooves strong is critical.
Nick Haness (Hunter/Jumper) points out that hoof strength directly affects soundness, especially during long show circuits on mixed footing.
How Hoof Hardeners Can Help
Research in the Journal of Experimental Biology (1987) found that hoof-wall keratin becomes dramatically stiffer as moisture decreases, underscoring how hydration control drives hardness and wear resistance.
Authoritative farrier guidance from American Farriers Journal explains that the right topicals can support the wall and sole when used correctly, while over-softening ingredients can work against hoof integrity. So choosing hardeners designed to reinforce without sealing or over-softening matters.
Used with smart trimming and moisture management, hoof hardeners help the wall resist chips, give thin soles extra backup, and keep horses comfortable in work.
By reinforcing the hoof wall, hardeners complement farrier care and help prevent cracks. For horses that need extra protection against rocky ground or repeated concussion, hoof boots can add another layer of defense to keep hooves strong and sound.
Choosing the Right Hoof Hardener
Hoof hardeners work best when matched to your horse’s age, workload, and environment. Performance horses may need extra sole protection, while brittle-hooved horses benefit from wall-strengthening formulas. Seasonal moisture changes can also play a big role.
Choose based on what your horse needs most:
- Performance horses → stronger sole protection
- Senior horses → wall-strengthening for brittle hooves
- Everyday/maintenance horses → balanced, easy-apply formulas
Rider Tips
Hunter Holloway (Show Jumper): “For my jumpers, I pick a hoof hardener that prevents cracks from high-impact landings and long weeks of showing.”
Nick Haness (Hunter/Jumper): “I choose products that keep hooves tough enough to handle shifting surfaces, from grass rings to synthetic footing.”
FAQ
What is a hoof hardener used for?
A hoof hardener reinforces weak or brittle hooves, reducing cracks and chipping for better durability.
How often should I apply hoof hardener?
Most products recommend weekly application, but frequency can vary by brand and hoof condition.
Can hoof hardeners help thin soles?
Yes, certain formulas are made to toughen thin soles and protect against bruising.
Are hoof hardeners safe for all horses?
Yes, when used as directed, they’re safe for performance, senior, and everyday horses.
Do farriers recommend hoof hardeners?
Many farriers suggest them to support trimming schedules and reduce breakage between visits.
How do I choose the right hoof hardener?
Pick based on your horse’s needs; thin soles, brittle walls, or general upkeep. Always follow label directions.
