Toughening feet versus hoof boots

[redredruby]

I was just wondering whether it was best to use hoof boots on a horse that is footy or not in an attempt to harden them?

My pony has never worn shoes but went for the first 5 years without a trim either (completely un handled) his feet had really splayed and he could barely walk on any surface.

Now, after regular trimming he is marching out on smooth or soft surfaces but still footy on rough / stoney surfaces. The Farrier is happy with his feet saying they are getting more concaved but when hacking I don't know whether it is best to use boots, or if he actually needs to walk on the rough ground to toughen them.

Any thoughts?

 

[amandap]

He needs to walk landing heel first and confidently as much as possible to build and strengthen the back of the hoof and body. Mincing/pottering along wont achieve this, so I would say stick to roads, grass etc. barefoot and use boots for any stony areas unless you can avoid them as much as possible. Be sure there is no thrush.

 

[redredruby]

Thank you for your reply - he definitely doesn't have thrush, his frogs are the nicest I have seen! My Farrier isn't concerned about the pottering but I just want to make sure I am doing the best in the long run so will stick to boots.