Frequently Asked Questions about the RUNA Glue-on Shoe:
🔗 How long does the RUNA glue-on shoe last?
🔗 How do I find the right size?
🔗 Is the RUNA glue safe for the hoof?
🔗 How does RUNA perform in wet conditions?
How is the RUNA glue-on shoe applied?
RUNA makes it easy: No welding, no cutting of base plates required!
The shoe comes ready to use and can be individually adjusted to your horse’s hoof size with just a few simple steps – straightforward, time-saving and efficient.
In this video, Vladi shows you step by step in 3.5 minutes how to apply the RUNA:
📌 Chapters:
00:00 Measuring hoof width
00:14 Adjusting the glue-on shoe size
00:51 Fixing the size
01:54 Gluing on RUNA
02:28 Shortening the length
How long does the RUNA glue-on shoe last?
The RUNA glue-on shoe usually lasts 5 to 7 weeks – depending on how much strain your horse is under.
Durability is influenced by factors such as:
the ground surface (e.g. asphalt, gravel, sand),
daily use,
and the care of the hoof as well as the shoe.
Even with regular use on different types of ground, RUNA stays securely in place on the hoof.
We still recommend a regular check-up to make sure everything fits perfectly.
If a flap should come loose prematurely, you can easily reattach it – because RUNA is reusable.
👉 To do this, simply remove the old glue carefully with a mini rasp from the hoof and clean the area with an alcohol wipe to remove dirt and grease residues. Afterwards, the flap can be reattached without any problem.
How do I find the right RUNA size?
For the RUNA glue-on shoe to fit the hoof perfectly, it is essential to choose the correct size. The right size is determined by the hoof width and the maximum hoof length. Our size chart will help you make the best choice.
👉 Important: Always measure on a freshly trimmed hoof – only then will you get accurate measurements. The RUNA should fit snugly and securely to ensure reliable hold.
How do I measure the hoof correctly?
To find the ideal size, please measure:
The widest part of the hoof
The length from the toe to the buttress line
Size Chart
| Size | Hoof Width | Max. Hoof Length |
|---|---|---|
| 14 | 13.8 – 14.7 cm | 14.5 cm |
| 13 | 12.7 – 13.9 cm | 14 cm |
| 12 | 11.6 – 12.8 cm | 13 cm |
| 11 | 10.9 – 11.9 cm | 12 cm |
| 10 | 9.7 – 10.9 cm | 10.9 – 11.1 cm |
What if your horse is between two sizes?
Then take a look at the hoof shape:
- If the hoof gets wider towards the heels (more triangular) → choose the smaller size and adjust it looser.
- If the hoof has a round shape → usually the larger size fits better, adjusted as tightly as possible.
Tip: If you’re unsure, try two sizes – often the fine adjustment makes the difference for the perfect fit.
Conclusion
The choice of the right RUNA size depends on accurate measuring and the hoof shape. With a bit of practice – or support from your hoof trimmer – you’ll quickly find the ideal size for your horse. Whether for front or hind hooves – the RUNA can be flexibly adjusted.
Need help choosing? Feel free to contact us (preferably via WhatsApp) – we’ll be happy to advise you personally!
Can the RUNA glue-on shoe be reused?
Yes, the RUNA glue-on shoe is reusable – under certain conditions.
After removing the shoe, you can carefully detach the flaps with a pull-off tool or a pair of nippers. To do this, grip each flap at the top and pull it downward.
In many cases, after removal there is still enough lining (the black layer inside) left so that you can reuse RUNA directly (i.e. glue it on again). However, the lining must be smooth. If necessary, smooth it with the cleaning brush.
If the lining is uneven or heavily worn, you should replace it. RUNA requires a smooth, even inner surface to hold well.
How to replace the lining:
Smooth the inside of the shoe with the cleaning brush
Renew the lining (Repair Kit) – glue it back in with super glue
Glue each flap individually and press it down for about 5 seconds
Is RUNA also suitable for the hind hooves?
Yes, RUNA can also be used on the hind hooves without any problem.
Thanks to the overlapping sizes, the glue-on shoe can be flexibly adjusted: if you choose a smaller size and set it to the maximum width, RUNA adapts particularly well to the typical, more triangular shape of many hind hooves.
With this adjustment, the shoe sits securely and anatomically correct – providing reliable protection and grip even on the hind hooves.
Is the RUNA glue harmful to the hoof?
No – the super glue used is non-toxic and was specially developed for use on horse hooves.
The glue is made of skin-friendly ingredients and contains no harmful substances. It only acts on the surface and does not penetrate the hoof. This keeps the natural hoof structure intact – even for sensitive horses.
💡 The RUNA glue is therefore safe to use and causes no irritation to the hoof or skin.
Still, always wear gloves when working with glue to prevent it from sticking to your skin.
Can I use spikes with RUNA?
The RUNA glue-on shoe has no metal core. For this reason, screw studs or regular spikes cannot be used. They would press through the shoe into the hoof.
Instead, special Widia studs can be used. These special tungsten carbide spikes are highly wear-resistant and are screwed into the glue-on shoe using a bit in a cordless drill. The Widia studs are reusable. How to screw them in is shown in this video.
How does the Hoofstar RUNA shoe stay secure on the hoof even under tough conditions?
The Hoofstar RUNA glue-on shoe is built for heavy use – whether on endurance rides, water crossings or sand. To ensure it sits perfectly and doesn’t come off, three things are crucial:
The shoe must not extend beyond the heel
Make sure the RUNA shoe protrudes no more than 3–4 mm beyond the hoof edge – ideally flush. The less material sticks out, the lower the suction effect (for example in water). It also reduces the risk of stepping into the shoe.Seal the top of the flaps with a glue bead
Apply an extra bead of glue along the upper edge of the flaps to minimize the penetration of water and dirt. This not only improves the hold but also extends the wear time.Smooth hoof wall for a perfect bonding surface
The outer walls of the hoof must be as smooth as possible. After rasping, small grooves often remain, which can impair the glue’s hold. Super glue requires the smoothest possible, even surface. Always use the fine side of the rasp, held at an angle, to create the best bonding surface.
If you follow these three points, the RUNA glue-on shoe will stay firmly in place even under the toughest conditions.
Can I use the RUNA glue-on shoe on club feet?
Yes, that’s possible – under one important condition:
Club feet are often very long, which must be taken into account when choosing the right glue-on shoe. If the maximum hoof length fits within the RUNA size chart, you can use RUNA. Here you can check the size: RUNA Size Finder
Important: Please measure the hoof length after hoof trimming, as the toe is often shortened.
RUNA gives you flexibility in adjustment:
You can position the shoe slightly further forward to leave enough space for the heels at the back.
You can also shorten the side glue flaps if necessary, in case very long or steep hooves leave too little surface for gluing.
Make sure that the heels are fully seated inside the shoe – then nothing stands in the way of successful use, even on club feet!
Is RUNA suitable for horses with laminitis?
Yes – RUNA is an excellent option for horses at risk of or suffering from laminitis.
Laminitis horses need special support – especially in the toe area, to relieve the hoof and reduce pain.
RUNA has been specifically designed to:
be glued on the ground without lifting the hoof (ideal in case of pain)
have an open sole for optimal ventilation and monitoring
allow precise, millimeter-accurate adjustment
fit softly and flexibly to the hoof without hard edges or pressure points
Many horse owners report that their laminitis horse immediately walks much better with RUNA – and finally enjoys moving again. That moment when your horse can stand and walk pain-free again is priceless.
What should you do if you want to use RUNA as a laminitis shoe?
- Measure your horse’s hooves after trimming
- Get advice from us or your hoof trimmer – together we’ll find the right size and application
With RUNA, your horse receives a soft, flexible hoof protection that gently supports, protects and relieves – especially in laminitis cases – without the risk of pressure or rubbing points.
Fancy a discount?
Join the free Hoofstar Members Club and get 15% off instantly as a welcome gift. You’ll receive exclusive offers and news straight to your inbox – no obligations, cancellable at any time.
