The history of farrier supplies can be traced back to ancient times when horses were first domesticated and used for transportation, agriculture, and warfare. These horses required regular care and maintenance, including shoeing to protect their hooves from damage and to improve their performance. This led to the development of farriery, the craft of shoeing horses, and the creation of farrier supplies.
Farriery has a rich history that spans thousands of years, from the ancient Egyptians, who used metal horseshoes to protect their horses’ hooves from the hot sand of the desert to the Greeks and Romans, who developed farriery as an art form and created intricate horseshoes for their horses. Farriery also played a significant role in medieval Europe, where horses were used in battle and for transportation. The blacksmiths of the time, who were skilled in metalworking, became the first farriers, creating horseshoes and other supplies to meet the demands of their communities.During the 19th and 20th centuries, farrier supplies evolved to meet the changing needs of horses and their owners. As horses became more specialized, farriers had to create different types of horseshoes to meet the demands of each breed and discipline. They also developed new tools and techniques to make the job of shoeing horses easier and more efficient.
In the late 19th century, the invention of the motor vehicle led to a decline in the use of horses, but farriery continued to thrive, as many people continued to use horses for work and recreation.Farrier supplies today are much more sophisticated than they were in the past. Modern farriers use a range of tools, including hammers, pliers, nippers, rasps, and more, to create horseshoes that are designed for specific breeds and disciplines. They also use specialized tools to make the job of shoeing horses easier, such as pneumatic hammers, electric farrier tools, and horse-shoeing jigs.
One of the biggest innovations in farrier supplies has been the development of synthetic materials for horseshoes. In the past, horseshoes were made from iron or steel, which was heavy and prone to rust and corrosion. Today, farriers use synthetic materials such as aluminium, titanium, and even plastic to create lighter, more durable horseshoes that are better suited to different types of terrain and conditions. These materials have also allowed farriers to create shoes that are customized for each horse, providing better fit and support.
Another important development in farrier supplies is the use of computer technology. Farriers can now use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create custom-fit horseshoes, which can be manufactured using 3D printing technology. This has made it possible for farriers to create horseshoes that are perfectly suited to each horse, providing the ultimate comfort and support.Farrier supplies are now widely available from a range of suppliers, including speciality farrier supply stores and online retailers. These suppliers offer a wide range of products, from basic horseshoes to more advanced farrier tools, allowing farriers to find exactly what they need to get the job done.
