When you’re choosing for the best hoof oil, conditioner or other topical hoof dressing for your horse, it’s important to consider your motivations for doing so. If you’re trying to improve the condition of soft or brittle hooves, it’s wise to consult your farrier as some applications may be more of a hindrance than help, and certainly no replacement for good feeding and management.
Your horse might also benefit from a hoof supplement. However, when the hooves’ natural wet/dry cycle is interrupted by typical British weather, a hoof oil or conditioner can be of great help. If your horse develops any hoof problems, you should first consult your vet or farrier.
You should also consider the method of application that is required — if your horse tends to fidget, it’ll be worth investing in a product that is quick- and easy-to-apply while cleaning horses’ hooves to avoid hassle and waste. Some come with a brush included, while for others you’ll need to source your own hoof oil brush – ideally with a cap.
Some hoof dressings are formulated to maintain good hoof quality, while others are purely for aesthetic. If your main reason for dressing his hooves is to look good when going to a show, choose one that provides a smart finish and is the right colour.
Best hoof oils, conditioners and other dressings
Carr & Day & Martin Cornucrescine Tea Tree Hoof Oil
Sizes: 500ml
RRP: £15.95
H&H Rating: 9/10, H&H Approved
Described as a modern alternative to traditional oils, this rich, translucent oil from Carr & Day & Martin is suitable for all hoof colours and leaves a long-lasting shine. Contains tea tree oil for its traditional topical supportive effects. Internal brush included.
I tested this hoof oil and it has a lovely scent. It was really easy to apply as the brush is small, so quite neat, and it dries with a really natural-looking shine. Read the full Cornucrescine Tea Tree hoof oil review.
Equine America Hoof Balm
Sizes: 500ml
RRP: £13.50
H&H Rating: 9/10, H&H Approved
A super-concentrated blend of natural oils that shine, moisturise and nourish the hoof, while still letting it breathe. The oils enable the delivery of moisture and nutrients deep into the hoof while providing bacterial and anti-fungal support.
I tested this hoof balm and loved that it is totally natural. It’s also really great value – read the full Equine America Hoof Balm review.
Absorbine Hooflex Original Liquid Conditioner
Sizes: 450ml
RRP: £20.17
H&H Rating: 8/10
This concentrated formula from Absorbine contains a blend of ingredients that create a breathable moisture barrier to help maintain a long-lasting moisture balance. Regular use of this brush-on formula will help to maintain healthy hooves, with a shine that lasts two–three days. Brush included.
I tested this hoof dressing and would recommend it for someone who wants to look after their horse’s hooves but wants a product that doesn’t need to be applied daily. Read the full Absorbine Hooflex Original review.
NAF Profeet Farrier Solution
Sizes: 500ml, 2l
RRP: £16.99 for 500ml
H&H Rating: 8/10
This drip-free hoof application from NAF comes in a handy container with a natural brush included for convenience and cleanliness. It can help prevent cracking and drying, and helps to defend the hoof from bacteria.
I tested this hoof dressing and found it to be a great choice. It’s green, which was a surprise – but don’t let that put you off as it dries clear, and was easy to apply as the brush is quite firm. Read the full NAF Profeet Farrier Solution review.
Leovet Hoof Lab Elastic Cream
Sizes: 200ml
RRP: £15.50
H&H Rating: 8/10
This hoof cream from Leovet supports the moisture balance and helps to keep the hooves smooth and shiny. Easy-to-use applicator included.
When testing this hoof dressing I found it to be really effective and nourishing – a great option if you’re looking to maintain and improve hoof condition. The bristles get dirty and bent when you apply the cream, but it leaves a nice shine – read the full Leovet Hoof Lab Elastic Cream review.
Supreme Products Hoof Gloss
Colours: Clear or black
Sizes: 450ml
RRP: £12.95
This easy-to-apply hoof gloss creates shiny hooves and provides condition with beeswax and tea tree oil, which help hydrate hooves. It’s recommended for year-round use but particularly effective during dry weather to moisturise hooves.
Lincoln Solid Hoof Oil
Sizes: 400g
RRP: £10.99
This convenient non-spill formula from Lincoln is easy and more economical to apply with no mess or wastage. Antibacterial and anti-fungal, it helps to maintain healthy hooves and encourage horn growth.
Cavalor PodoGuard
Sizes: 500ml, 2l
RRP: £22 for 500ml
This mix of nourishing essential oils penetrate deep into the hoof for optimum conditioning. This supports the ideal moisture balance and promotes improved hoof growth, development, and quality.
Silverfeet Hoof Balm
Colours: Natural, black, pink or blue
Sizes: 400ml, 2.5l, 5l
RRP: £11.50 for 400ml
This blend of mineral oil, beeswax, eucalyptus oil is the only balm available that includes Biomaster antimicrobial technology, which inhibits the growth of bacteria, and so minimises odour. It creates an effective barrier against the environment while conditioning and leaving a lasting shine. The pink and blue colours dry clear but are designed to encourage children to care for the hooves.
WildWash Equine Wonder Balm
Sizes: 100ml
RRP: £19.95
This multipurpose soothing and moisturising balm is full of natural ingredients and 100% pure essential oils. It contains shea butter, sea buckthorn oil and kanuka oil, but no parabens, phthalates, phosphates, petrochemicals, sulphates, palm oils or PEGs.
Hy Equestrian Magic Glaze Hoof Paint
Colours: Black or clear
Sizes: 250ml
RRP: £13.50
This quick-drying formula from Hy is easy to apply and leaves a smart, shiny finish. It is water based, which prevents the hooves becoming dry, and doesn’t require chemical removal. Its primary purpose is to look smart rather than nourish the hoof. It’s quite runny so you need to take care when applying, but if you don’t rush you’ll get a smart look.
Fouganza Hoof Care Grease Ointment
Colours: Black or blond
Sizes: 750ml, 2.5l
RRP: £10.99 for 750ml
This ointment nourishes the hoof to preserve its flexibility and natural durability. It forms a protective and nourishing film and gives the hooves an intense black or natural colour.
Nettex Traditional Hoof Oil
Sizes: 400ml
RRP: £11.20
This Nettex hoof oil provides long-lasting shine and contains added antibacterial agents to help maintain healthy hooves. This formula will not dry or discolour hooves and is suitable for all hoof colours.
Shires Ezi-Groom Hoof Oil
Colours: Black or natural
Sizes: 500ml
RRP: £9.50
This Shires formula is an all-natural, gentle blend of oils, including vegetable pine oil that prevents splitting with regular use. Available in black or natural, and a handy applicator brush is included.
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