Hoof wall cracks are one of the most commonly encountered yet frequently misunderstood conditions in equine hoof care. In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, Marc Jerram takes an in-depth look at hoof wall cracks, breaking down the different types, why they occur, how they affect soundness, and how farriers and veterinarians can work together to manage them effectively.

From superficial cosmetic defects to painful, performance-limiting cracks, this episode explains how hoof anatomy, biomechanics, trimming, shoeing, environment, and nutrition all play a role. Listeners will gain a clearer understanding of how to assess cracks both statically and dynamically, when veterinary diagnostics are required, and what realistic long-term outcomes look like.

Whether you’re a farrier, veterinary professional, student, or an owner wanting a deeper understanding of hoof health, this episode provides practical, evidence-based insight grounded in real-world hoof care.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

In this episode, we discuss:

• What hoof wall cracks are and why they develop
• The anatomy and biomechanics of the hoof wall
• Vertical versus horizontal hoof wall cracks
• Complete and incomplete cracks explained
• Sensitive and non-sensitive cracks and their clinical relevance
• Toe cracks and quarter cracks: why location matters
• Common mechanical, environmental, nutritional, and pathological causes
• Recognising clinical signs and indicators of pain
• Static visual assessment of hoof wall cracks
• Dynamic assessment and how movement influences crack progression
• When and why veterinary diagnostics are required
• Trimming principles for managing cracked hooves
• Shoeing strategies to stabilise and unload the hoof capsule
• Long-term management strategies and realistic prognosis

Who This Episode Is For

This episode is particularly relevant for:

• Registered and apprentice farriers
• Equine veterinarians and vet nurses
• Farriery and equine science students
• Hoof care professionals
• Owners managing horses with recurring hoof wall issues

Key Takeaway

Hoof wall cracks are rarely a simple surface problem. Effective management depends on understanding hoof biomechanics, identifying the underlying causes, and applying consistent, long-term farriery and management strategies rather than short-term cosmetic fixes.

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To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit:

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For an eBook version visit here:

The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books