There are several key factors that distinguish the natural trim from the traditional pasture trim that is being given to our horses. These very key factors can make or break the horse! We have to leave the hoof alone for the most part to function as it was intended and not interfere with un-natural shoeing and trimming practices. This section highlights the main pros and cons of the natural trim vs. the traditional trim.

It is important to note that every farrier/trimmer is an individual and not everyone trims to these exact methods, some of these methods may be used while others are omitted.

Results of a Traditional Trim   Results of a Natural Trim Heels often left too high, usually to help relieve soreness, frog rendered passive to the ground and not being stimulated. Digital cushion not being strengthened. Heels are at risk of becoming underslung and crushed.High heels can result in misalignment of the coffin bone. Heels brought down to ideal height and balanced accordingly, to prevent high or underslung heels and aid in proper coffin bone alignment and proper stimulation of the frog and digital cushion. This also aids the foot in de-contracting from years of shoeing if applicable.     Soles often carved out, protective sole callous cut off to take sole pressure off the ground. Soles left alone, to build up natural thickness and protection via sole callous and natural concavity     Frogs pared away to relieve ground pressure, results in weak, thin frogs which removes natural hoof traction and limits expanding and contracting of hoof capsule. Also limits stimulation of growth of fibrocartilage in the digital cushion resulting in soreness in the heel region and toe first landing. Frogs left alone, encouraged to take part in weight bearing; stimulates fibro-cartilage growth in the underlying digital cushion. Results in stronger heel region via heel first landing.     Bars trimmed to or flush with sole level again to keep pressure off, results in weakening of entire hoof weight bearing structure. Removes natural hoof traction. Bars generally left untouched unless overgrown or laid over. Trimmed to just below the wall level to encourage straightness, results in overall hoof strength and integrity as well as necessary traction.     Toes trimmed too short underneath, or not enough from top resulting in flares which cause undue soreness on hard terrain and gravel. Toes are backed up from the top to natural toe angle, Nothing is taken from underneath the toe, resulting in better protection of the coffin bone and a comfortable horse.     Flares are frequently not addressed properly due to the lack of a mustang roll or necessary simulated wear via rasping to the outer wall. Results in discomfort on hard or rocky terrain. Flares lead to wall separation from the coffin bone and tearing of laminae Flares are addressed around the entire hoof wall around the bottom 1/3 of the hoof, directly relieves pain from ground pressure.