Farrier News & Hoof Care Guides

A technical guide for farriers on outfitting your rig with Werkman Hoofcare products. Explore Warrior shoes, Hero hinds, E-Slim nails, Ortho-Kits, and pads at Source For Horse.

Discover how to choose the ideal farrier knife for your application with this latest guide from the farrier equipment experts at Source for Horse. 

Whether you are a seasoned farrier, an apprentice building your first toolkit, or a horse owner who performs routine hoof maintenance, having dependable farrier tools makes every job safer, more efficient, and more precise. Quality equipment not only helps achieve better trimming and shoeing results but also reduces fatigue and minimizes downtime caused by worn or unreliable tools. At Source for Horse, we carry a wide selection of professional farrier equipment designed for daily use. From hoof nippers and rasps to clinchers, driving hammers, anvils, hoof stands, and tool storage solutions, investing in the right equipment helps you work with confidence while providing the best care for every horse. This guide explains what to look for when choosing farrier tools, compares common tool categories, and highlights the equipment that every farrier should consider adding to their collection. Why Quality Farrier Tools Matter Farrier work demands precision, durability, and consistency. Inferior tools often lose their edge, wear quickly, or require additional effort that can increase fatigue over the course of a busy day. Professional-grade farrier equipment offers several advantages: Longer service life More consistent performance Better ergonomics Improved efficiency Greater reliability in demanding environments Choosing quality tools also means spending less time replacing equipment and more time focusing on proper hoof care. Essential Farrier Tools Every Professional Should Own While every farrier develops personal preferences, several tools form the foundation of nearly every trimming and shoeing setup. Tool Primary Purpose Best For Hoof Knives Cleaning the sole and trimming the frog  Initial hoof preparation  Hoof Nippers Removing excess hoof wall Routine hoof trimming Hoof Rasp Leveling and finishing the hoof Creating a balanced hoof surface Driving Hammer Driving horseshoe nails Shoe installation Clinchers Securing nail clinches Finishing shoe placement Pull-Offs Removing horseshoes Shoe replacement Hoof Stand Supporting the hoof during work Reducing strain and improving stability Anvil Shaping horseshoes Forging and shoe modification Each tool plays a specific role, and together they create an efficient workflow from shoe removal through final finishing. Comparing Entry-Level and Professional Farrier Equipment Choosing between entry-level and professional tools depends on how frequently the equipment will be used. Feature Entry-Level Equipment Professional Equipment Frequency of Use Occasional Daily or full-time Materials Standard steel Premium forged alloys Durability Moderate High Precision Good Excellent Ergonomics Basic Designed for extended use Long-Term Value Lower upfront investment Better lifetime value Professionals who trim or shoe multiple horses each day typically benefit from higher-quality equipment that withstands repeated use while maintaining consistent performance. Features to Consider When Choosing Farrier Equipment Not every tool is built the same. When comparing equipment, consider the following factors. Durability Look for tools manufactured from high-quality forged steel or other durable materials that can withstand repeated professional use. Ergonomic Design Comfortable handles and balanced construction help reduce fatigue during long workdays while improving control and accuracy. Reliability Professional farrier work depends on equipment that performs consistently from one horse to the next. Ease of Maintenance Many tools perform better and last longer when kept clean, dry, and properly maintained after each use. Compatibility with Your Workflow Some farriers specialize in trimming while others focus on corrective shoeing or competition horses. Choose equipment that supports the type of work you perform most often. Beyond the Basics: Specifying Your Nippers and Rasps While every farrier knows the fundamental purpose of nippers and rasps, choosing the exact specifications for your daily workflow requires a closer look. Because these are the two most frequently used tools in your box, tailoring them to your clientele and physical preferences is critical. Choosing the Right Hoof Nippers  The efficiency of a nipper comes down to leverage, blade alignment, and handle length. When selecting a new pair, consider the type of horses you work with most often: 12-Inch to 14-Inch Nippers The 14-inch nipper is the industry standard, offering an ideal balance of control and leverage for average saddle horses. The 12-inch size is excellent for ponies, foals, or farriers with smaller hands. 15-Inch Nippers If you frequently work on draft horses or horses in dry, arid climates with rock-hard hooves, a 15-inch pair provides maximum leverage, saving your wrists and shoulders from excessive strain. Half-Round Nippers  Essential for specific therapeutic work, these are designed for cutting out white line disease, abscesses, or performing detailed resections. Selecting the Optimal Hoof Rasp  The tooth geometry and width you choose should align with the environment you work in and your specific finishing style. Weather-Specific Teeth  If you work in wet, muddy environments, look for rasps with a more open tooth pattern that resists clogging. Conversely, fine-toothed rasps are better suited for dry, hard hooves. Width and Weight Plater’s rasps or wider varieties cover more surface area with each stroke, making it easier to level a large foot quickly, while standard widths offer more precision for detailed work. File Side vs. Rasp Side Pay attention to the quality of the file (smooth) side. A premium file side will leave a glass-like finish on the hoof wall, which is essential for a professional look and a tight clinch. Our farrier’s guide to rasps can also help you in finalizing your tool choice.  Shop Professional Farrier Tools at Source for Horse Source for Horse understands the needs of today's farriers by offering equipment from respected manufacturers with dependable customer service and competitive pricing. Customers appreciate: Our broad selection of professional farrier equipment Quality products built for demanding use Equipment suitable for both experienced farriers and apprentices Convenient online shopping New products and trusted industry brands added regularly Whether you are replacing a single tool or upgrading your entire setup, having access to dependable equipment helps you work more efficiently while providing excellent hoof care. Browse our latest collection of hoof care products, trimming tools, hammers, rasps, clinchers, hoof stands, anvils, and accessories to find dependable products for every stage of your farrier work.  Shop the latest farrier tools from Source for Horse today and equip yourself with quality you can count on. Answers to Your Farrier Tools Questions What is the best way to maintain moving tools like nippers and clinchers?  Wipe them clean of dirt and moisture after every horse. Weekly, apply a few drops of penetrating oil or dry lubricant directly to the rivet to maintain a smooth action and prevent rust. Additionally, never store your rasps touching your other metal tools, as the friction will prematurely dull the teeth. What size anvil is appropriate for a mobile farrier rig?  For daily mobile work, an anvil weighing between 70 and 100 pounds is ideal. This weight is heavy enough to absorb the shock of shaping cold or hot steel without bouncing, yet manageable enough to safely lift in and out of your truck or trailer. When should I use a loop hoof knife instead of a standard straight or drop-blade knife?  A loop knife is ideal for precision work in the frog, cleaning out the collateral grooves, and safely paring out abscesses. The continuous dual-edge blade allows for clean, scooping cuts in tight spaces without requiring you to constantly reposition your wrist. What is the exact difference between a driving hammer and a rounding hammer? A driving hammer is lightweight (usually 10–14 oz) with a flat face and forged claws, designed exclusively for driving horseshoe nails and wringing off the points. A rounding hammer is heavier (1.5–2.5 lbs) with one flat and one convex (rounded) face, used strictly at the anvil for drawing out clips, shaping steel, and forging shoes. How can I tell if my hoof nippers need to be rebuilt or replaced?  Hold the closed nippers up to a light source. If you can see light between the cutting edges, they are dull or sprung. Additionally, if the rivet feels loose, binds during opening, or causes the blades to overlap rather than meeting perfectly flush, they require professional rebuilding or replacement. Should I choose gooseneck clinchers over standard flat-jaw clinchers?  Gooseneck (or curved-jaw) clinchers are designed to easily reach over the hoof wall to fold higher nails without digging into the hoof face. They are highly recommended for horses with steep hoof angles or large draft feet, whereas standard flat jaws provide excellent, straightforward leverage for standard nail placements.

For farriers evaluating a new supplier and apprentices setting up their first rig, Source for Horse has become a leading source for the industry’s leading equipment and first-class service.  This guide to our farrier equipment highlights the brands, product depth, and service model that set Source For Horse apart in the Canadian farrier market. Key Takeaways Source For Horse's Farrier Tools & Supplies collection includes 70 products spanning hammers, tongs, nippers, rasps, knives, and forges. We stock both a house-brand line (Source For Horse Concave shoes, leather pads, composite rod, hoof cast) and premium name brands such as GE Forge, Flatland Forge, Werkman Hoofcare, Mustad, Bassoli, and Heller. Orders over $199 ship free within Canada, with no cross-border tariffs to worry about,  a real cost difference for farriers who used to order from U.S. suppliers. Coverage spans the full job: horseshoes, nails, pads, striking and cutting tools, hoof adhesives, and race supplies, all in one catalog. The Case for a Canadian-First Farrier Supplier For years, many Canadian farriers defaulted to U.S. suppliers simply because the tool selection was broader. That math has changed. Cross-border shipping delays, exchange rate swings, and tariffs on imported steel and forged tools have made it more expensive and less predictable to order equipment from south of the border. Source For Horse built our catalogue to close that gap. We stock the same caliber of tools and shoes that working farriers expect, shipped from within Canada, without the tariff markup. Source For Horse has become a go-to name in the Canadian farrier supply market because we understand farrier economics and solve the logistics challenge while meeting product needs. Depth of Inventory: One Supplier, Full Rig A supplier can’t call itself "farrier-focused" without actually carrying what a working farrier needs day-to-day. Source For Horse's catalogue is built around the full workflow, from the initial trim to the final finish.  We equip your entire rig with precision hand tools, including rasps and sharp nippers, alongside a comprehensive selection of steel and aluminum shoes. We also carry the exact nails, therapeutic pads, modern adhesives, and heavy-duty essentials such as portable forges you rely on.  By consolidating these critical supplies into one place, you can confidently tackle any equine challenge without ever chasing inventory across multiple vendors.  Horseshoes for Every Job We carry horseshoes across three distinct categories: Steel horseshoes for durability and traction on working and pleasure horses Aluminum horseshoes for lighter weight on racing and sport horses Glue-on horseshoes from EasyCare, for horses that can't or shouldn't be nailed Our house-brand Source For Horse Concave shoe is made by farriers for farriers and starts at $11.95 — a price point that competes directly with imported steel shoes, without the shipping premium. On the performance side, Werkman Warrior steel horseshoes (from $14.95) feature in our top-sellers list. Nails, Pads, and Protection Shoes are only half the equation. Our industry-leading horseshoe nails and hoof pads collections include Werkman leather pads (4mm, sold in pairs at $18.95 ) and the Source For Horse house-brand leather pad, plus DIM Hoof Packing in 2.2 lb and 4.4 lb sizes for horses working on hard or uneven ground. A Tool Kit Built by Farriers, for Farriers This is where Source For Horse separates itself from general tack retailers. The 70-item Farrier Tools & Supplies collection covers every stage of the farrier workflow: Category Examples Price Range Striking tools Flatland Forge, Beane, Derek Gardner, Mustad GDM hammers $249–$399 Pulling & cutting SFH proprietary nippers, GE Forge nail pullers, and nail cutters $139–$299 Tongs & clinchers GE Forge clinchers and tongs $99–$299 Hoof knives SFH precision hoof knives, Bassoli Ricky, Lucifero $49.95–$97.95 Shoes & Pads SFH Concave shoe line, SFH premium leather, and pour-in pads $11.95+ Adhesives & Packing SFH Hoof Bond glues, SFH DIM hoof packing, Sole Pack Varies Farrier Aprons SFH "The Darkhorse" and "The Hunter" premium aprons Varies Rasps Heller Excel Legend, Werkman 14" wide rasp $67.95+ Forges & anvils Fletcher double-burner forge, farrier anvils Varies We carry the brands working farriers trust, including Beane and Flatland Forge hand-forged hammers alongside GE Forge tongs and nippers.  Hoof Repair and Adhesives: Beyond the Nailed Shoe A supplier that only sells shoes and nails is a supplier for half the job. Farriers regularly deal with cracked walls, laminitic cases, and horses that can't take a nailed shoe at all.  Source For Horse's hoof adhesives lineup includes Hoof Bond Black adhesive (from $37.95), rod flux, pre-fluxed composite rod ($27.95), and hoof cast ($10.95) for stabilizing damaged hooves during recovery. Having repair materials in the same cart as shoes and nails means a farrier handling a tough case doesn't need to place a second order with a specialty supplier and wait on a second shipment. Tools for Racing Horses Source For Horse also carries a dedicated race supplies section, along with truck accessories, storage drawers, tool boxes and carts, and a hoof grinder collection for finishing work.  Our farrier equipment range reflects a catalogue built around how your working rig actually operates, not just the tools used stall-side, but the equipment used to organize and transport them. Our Brand Roster at a Glance Brand Known For Source For Horse SFH Concave shoes, DIM packing, precision knives, glues, pads, and premium aprons  EasyCare Glue-on shoes and hoof boots Werkman Hoofcare Hammers, pads, steel horseshoes GE Forge Nippers, clinchers, nail cutters Flatland Forge Hand-forged hammers Beane Hand-forged driving and rounding hammers Heller Farrier rasps Bassoli Hoof knives Mustad Forging hammers, nails Stocking this many established manufacturers under one roof requires supplier relationships, warehouse space, and the order volume to justify carrying slower-moving specialty items like left-handed hoof knives or 2 lb rounding hammers.  Our depth is a large part of why farriers keep coming back rather than piecing together orders from three or four different sites. Saving Farriers Money on Shipping and Product Costs: The Practical Advantage The free-shipping threshold ($199 within Canada, oversized items excluded) is meaningful for farriers who order in bulk.  Combined with no import tariffs on domestically stocked inventory, the total cost of restocking through Source For Horse is lower on a per-item basis for Canadian farriers comparing supply options with U.S. companies, once cross-border shipping and duties are factored in. Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Our Farrier Products Does Source For Horse carry professional-grade tools or mostly starter equipment? Both. Our range includes premium hand-forged tools from Beane and Flatland Forge alongside more accessible options, so it serves apprentices building a first kit and established farriers replacing worn tools. How do you help me save money on my everyday supplies?  We operate on a strictly "Warehouse-Direct" model. By cutting out the middleman, we pass those savings directly to you, helping you keep more of your hard-earned money each year. Plus, as a Canadian farrier shopping with us, you never have to worry about surprise tariffs, hidden charges, or extra border fees. Do you offer your own specialized line of tools?  Yes, we do! We’ve developed our exclusive "Source For Horse" branded collection, engineered directly from our extensive experience in the industry. This includes our premium farrier aprons (such as  "The Darkhorse" and "The Hunter"), precision hoof knives, hoof testers, and nippers. Because these are our proprietary designs, we can offer you uncompromising professional quality at an exceptional value. How reliable and fast is your shipping?  We are proud to be market leaders in fast, affordable shipping. We deliver warehouse-direct across Canada, ensuring that you can restock quickly without incurring exorbitant freight costs. Are you truly a "one-stop shop" for my farrier rig?  Yes! We are Canada's largest supplier of farrier products. Our inventory is designed to cover every category you could need: horseshoes, nails, pads, hoof boots, rasps, anvils, forges, hoof stands, and even specialized truck accessories and race supplies. Are your products designed with actual horseshoeing experience in mind?  Yes. We lean heavily on our motto: "Made by Farriers for Farriers." Our proprietary products, such as our Source for Horse Concave shoes and custom hand tools, were developed specifically to withstand the rigorous daily use of a modern farrier practice. We know what works because we know the job. Do you carry modern hoof repair adhesives and pour-in pads?  We do. We stock a massive selection of modern podiatry materials. Alongside top brand names, we offer our own proprietary SFH Hoof Bond adhesives, SFH Soft/Medium Hoof Pad Pour-In urethanes, DIM hoof packing, and hoof casting materials. Can I purchase hoof care and medical supplies alongside my hardware?  Definitely. We know you often need topical treatments and first aid items while out on a call. In our "Horse Health & Care" section, you can conveniently order thrush treatments and hoof packing (like Sole Pack). What level of customer support can I expect from your team?  We pride ourselves on providing industry-leading customer service. We understand the demanding nature of the horseshoeing profession, and our dedicated staff is always ready to ensure you have exactly what you need to keep your business running smoothly. Does Source For Horse offer free shipping on farrier orders? Yes, orders over $199 ship free within Canada, excluding oversized items like anvils and forges. Shop Canada’s Best Farrier Products Collection Source For Horse earns our position as a leading Canadian farrier supplier through product breadth, quality, and equipment manufactured using our boots-on-the-ground farrier experience. Our market-leading collection is sourced from brands farriers already trust, shipped without cross-border friction.  If you’re restocking a rig this season, visit our farrier supplies selection page to explore our latest options or contact us today for your product questions. 

Discover the Source for Horse Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Farrier Rasps

Learn how to select the best apron for your farrier applications with the equipment experts here at Source for Horse. 

Discover the types of horseshoe nails and how to choose the best nail for your horses with this latest guide from Source for Horse, North America's leading farrier supplies company. 

Prepare your horses for the spring season with the Source for Horse hoof care guide. 

Unlock Optimal Performance with The Ultimate Guide to Concave Horse ShoesAre you a farrier or equestrian seeking to enhance your horse's performance while ensuring their safety in diverse Canadian terrains? Look no further than The Ultimate Guide to Concave Horse Shoes: Traction, Performance, and the New Source for Horse Line. This blog will elevate your shoeing knowledge by detailing the numerous advantages of concave shoes, particularly for eventing, hunting, and turf riding.By understanding the unique features of concave shoes, you can significantly improve your horse’s traction and reduce the risk of injuries. From enhanced grip on slippery surfaces to self-cleaning properties that keep hooves free of mud, this guide covers it all.Key Highlights: Discover the mechanical benefits of concave shoes versus traditional flat shoes. Learn about the various applications perfect for performance horses. Understand why Source for Horse's new line is a game-changer for Canadian farriers. Gain insights into the ideal dimensions and nail fittings for superior performance. Ready to take your horse's performance to the next level? Dive into our comprehensive guide today, and equip your horse with footwear that truly makes a difference. Explore the benefits and elevate your shoeing practices with the Source for Horse Concave Shoes.

Discover the benefits of the Yeti LoadOut Bucket, now available at Source for Horse! Visit Source for Horse for best in class Yeti products at affordable pricing! 

Unlock Incredible Savings at the Source for Horse Black Friday EventThis year, the Source for Horse Black Friday Event is your golden opportunity to stock up on top-notch farrier and equine products. With 20% off premium brands that are trusted by professionals in the industry, you can elevate your horse care game without breaking the bank.Imagine a seamless experience for you and your horse, whether you're shoeing, grooming, or supplementing. Our carefully curated selection of high-quality products enhances your horse's performance and well-being, ensuring you offer them the best care possible. Enjoy 20% off on handpicked equine products until December 15! Shop trusted brands like Kevin Bacon’s, Kerckhaert, and Absorbine among others! Explore our extensive Black Friday collection to find everything from hoof care essentials to recovery aids. Use code BLACKFRIDAY20 at checkout for your discount. Don’t miss out on this chance to invest in your horse's health. With expert advice and top-quality service, we’re dedicated to supporting you and your equine needs. Treat your horse to the care they deserve, and take advantage of our Black Friday Collection today!

The Horse Owner’s Guide to Choosing the Right Horseshoe: Elevate Your Horse’s Hoof CareAre you looking to improve your horse's performance and health? Our blog, The Horse Owner’s Guide to Choosing the Right Horseshoe, is here to simplify the process of selecting the perfect horseshoe for your equine friend. Whether you're new to horse care or a seasoned equestrian, understanding the different types and benefits of horseshoes can dramatically enhance your horse's wellbeing and performance on various terrains.This comprehensive guide walks you through the essentials of horseshoeing, helping you make informed decisions that can lead to: Improved hoof health and reduced risk of injury Enhanced performance in disciplines requiring agility or speed Greater comfort and support for horses recovering from hoof issues A better understanding of what your horse truly needs In this blog, you’ll explore the vital role of horseshoes, the importance of working with a skilled farrier, and the latest footwear innovations in equine care. From understanding different shoe types like keg, bar, and racing plates to recognizing your horse's unique requirements, we've got you covered.Your horse deserves the best. Dive into our guide to make informed choices that promote healthy, happy hooves. Don’t wait; your horse’s comfort and performance depend on it!

Transform Your Horse's Winter with Our Comprehensive Winter Horseshoeing GuideAre you ready to ensure your horse's hooves are well-cared for this winter? Our winter horseshoeing guide provides you with everything you need to know about maintaining hoof health in the most challenging conditions. As temperatures drop and ground conditions shift, proper horseshoeing becomes vital to keeping your equine partner safe and performing optimally.This guide delves deep into crucial aspects of winter hoof care, including: Understanding winter hoof health and the factors that impact it. Seasonal trimming schedules to maintain balance. Choosing the right traction options for icy conditions. Essential tips for preventing snow from packing into hooves. With in-depth insights on selecting the right shoes—like full pads with ice studs or rim shoes—and vital maintenance tips, you’ll be equipped to make informed decisions that benefit your horse. Plus, learn how to enhance hoof nutrition to support growth during the winter months.Don't let winter conditions compromise your horse's hoof health. Explore our guide today to keep your horse happy and healthy all season long!

Master the EASY CARE MEASURING GUIDE for your Horse's Hoof! Have you ever tried to jog in shoes that were just a bit too tight? Now imagine how your horse feels wearing poorly fitting horseshoes! Our EASY CARE MEASURING GUIDE ensures your horse's comfort and performance while reducing the risk of injury. When it comes to your horse’s well-being, proper hoof measurement cannot be overstated. This guide not only helps you achieve the perfect fit for EasyCare Glue-On Horseshoes but also makes your shoeing process more manageable, providing lasting comfort and support for your equine partner. Here’s what you’ll discover: Step-by-step instructions for measuring hoof width and length after a fresh trim. How to interpret size charts tailored to various EasyCare styles. Tips for selecting the right size when length and width differ. Advice for alternative boot styles if current measurements don't align. With our EASY CARE MEASURING GUIDE, you'll ensure that your horse can move freely and confidently. Don't wait until discomfort arises—measure correctly today. Proper hoof care leads to better performance on the trail, in the arena, and beyond. Your horse deserves the best!

Source for horse is pleased to have a young rising star like Calder join our team and he will be one to watch in the years to come.

Russell lives and runs his farriery practice out of Prince George, BC. He graduated from the Old's Farrier Program in 2003. Over the past several years Russell has pursued farrier competitions and certifications...

Source For Horse is pleased to announce that we will be the official National sponsor of North 49. North 49 is a not-for-profit organization that puts on farrier contests and clinics across Canada with an emphasis on education.

Whether you prefer to use steel or aluminum horseshoes, high-quality horseshoes can help protect your horse’s hooves and avoid problems that can result in lameness, poor balance, and a decrease in speed.

Hoof cracks in horses can often be cosmetic but, unfortunately, they can also be a sign of serious problems. Learn about the causes and types of hoof cracks as well as possible treatments and preventative measures.

Bone health is important for all horses but it is especially important for young growing horses and equine athletes. Fortunately, with proper nutrition, exercise, and management strategies, we can help our horses maintain optimal bone health.

Source For Horse would like to share with you some basic information and tips to properly care for your horse's hooves in order to keep them healthy and problem-free. 

At Source For Horse, we want to help you ensure that your horse’s diet is formulated based on the most scientific and up-to-date information available instead of equine nutrition myths.

Without healthy hooves, your horse will not be able to behave and perform as it should and you’ll have no horse to ride or drive. Remember the old expression, “No hoof, no horse.” Therefore, proper hoof care is vital but what’s also important is understanding the pathologies of your horse’s hoof

Unlocking the Secrets of Successful Hoof Care at Source For Horse Farrier Supply Welcome to Source For Horse Farrier Supply, your ultimate destination for enhancing your equine care game! Our blog serves as a comprehensive resource dedicated to horse lovers and owners, making your journey in the equestrian world less daunting and more rewarding. As a passionate horse owner, staying updated with expert advice and best practices is vital. That’s where we come in. Our blog is packed with rich insights, practical tips, and the latest innovations in farrier supplies, empowering you to provide the best possible care for your horses. Expert advice on horse care and management. Updates on the latest farrier supplies and innovations. In-depth reviews of essential horse gear. Articles focused on health and wellness for your equine companions. Community stories that amplify the voices of fellow horse enthusiasts. Embark on an enriching adventure in horse care together with us. Don't forget to bookmark our blog and check back frequently to absorb valuable tips and tricks! Start your quest for excellence in horse management now with Source For Horse Farrier Supply, and let’s ride into a brighter future for our equine friends!