A horse is heavy, and all that weight comes down to four feet; small in proportion to the rest of the animal. When a race horse rungs, that weight is compounded but these new horseshoes are designed to cushion the blow. They are called Yasha Shoes, and they were invented in Morpeth by a family run business called Tender Hoof Solutions. It has been referred to as an orthotic treatment for horses.
The specifically formulated polyurethane cushions which attach to the shoes are the secret. Developed to both rehabilitate horses with injured feet and to prevent injuries, Scott McKinley of Tender Hoof Solutions says Yasha Shoes have exceeded everyone's expectations. They were used to rehabilitate this weekends Kentucky Derbys favourite, Big Brown. John Bell says all eyes will be on Big Browns feet during the race because the horse will be wearing Yasha Shoes.
John Bell of Tender Horse Solutions states, "If Big Brown wins at the derby, it's gonna mean a whole lot to us...a testimonial...it will push into markets that much more." Other attempts have been made to develop cushioned horseshoes but nothing has been able to withstand the punishment a horse dishes out while running...until now. Two years of intensive development lead to the creation of Yasha Shoes which can be nailed or glued into place.
McKinlay explains, "The whole premise is to reduce concussion in the heel area. If you go to the website, tenderhoof.com, you'll see a demonstration of a glue application." If Big Brown wins it would mean instant worldwide fame for Yasha Shoes. But, win or lose, these new horseshoes will enter production at a plant in Ridgetown.
