More and more horse owners are choosing alternative hoof protection systems – especially glue-on shoes. They are lightweight, flexible, shock-absorbing, and completely nail-free.
But especially in rural areas, many riders face a real problem:
Hardly anyone offers professional glue-on application.
Many farriers refuse to work with glue-on shoes or have long waiting lists, and hoof trimmers are often overbooked or limited to specific regions.
So what can you do if your horse urgently needs hoof protection – but there's no one to apply it?
The good news: You can do it yourself. And with the RUNA from Hoofstar, it’s surprisingly easy.
Why do it yourself?
Applying a glue-on shoe yourself might sound challenging at first. But this is exactly where the Hoofstar RUNA stands out from many other systems:
RUNA vs. other glue-on systems
With many well-known brands (e.g. Goodsmith, Duplo or rb Carbon), the glue-on shoe consists of multiple parts that first need to be cut to size, customized and heat-welded:
🔧 Cut base plate to size
🔥 Attach glue-on tabs with heat gun
🕒 Plan for several hours of work
All this requires not only special tools like an angle grinder or heat gun, but also experience, patience, and plenty of time.
👉 With RUNA from Hoofstar, none of that is necessary.
You get a pre-fabricated, adjustable glue-on hoof shoe that works without welding or cutting. The glue-on tabs are already integrated, the size can be adjusted with a simple click-and-screw system – and the whole process takes just a few minutes.
What you need for gluing
The RUNA was specifically designed to be applied by horse owners themselves. Everything you need is included in the starter set:
- RUNA Starter Set (includes glue-on shoes, superglue, alcohol wipes and instructions)
- Hoof rasp (to roughen the hoof wall – essential for durability)
Important: The hoof should be as smooth as possible and must always be degreased.
👉 Check out the RUNA Starter Set here.
Step-by-step to hoof protection – how RUNA works
🟢 1. Determine hoof size
Measure the widest part of the hoof after trimming. RUNA can then be adjusted precisely to fit.
🟢 2. Adjust & fix the RUNA
The size is set using a click system and fixed with screws – no complicated tools needed.
🟢 3. Prepare the hoof
Use the fine side of the hoof rasp to roughen the walls and remove dirt and patina. Then degrease the gluing surfaces.
🟢 4. Apply glue
The tabs are coated with superglue and pressed on – done!
🎥 Watch the assembly tutorial on YouTube: Glue RUNA in 3 minutes
Which type of horse keeping is RUNA suitable for?
RUNA is suitable for nearly all types of horse management:
- Paddock paradise / open stabling – breathable open sole, no heat build-up
- Active stables – no risk of injury within the herd
- Box stalls – flexible and shock-absorbing, also suitable for laminitic horses
Conclusion: Do it yourself? With RUNA, it's super easy!
If you’ve been hesitant about glue-on shoes – now is the time to start!
With the RUNA glue-on system by Hoofstar, you get a clever, easy-to-apply solution that requires no special tools. Perfect for anyone who:
✅ can’t find a local hoof trimmer or farrier who glues
✅ is looking for an affordable alternative
✅ wants to stay independent and flexible
Important note:
As simple as RUNA is to apply, we always recommend having glue-on shoes applied by an experienced hoof trimmer or farrier. If you apply them yourself, make sure to have the fit checked by a professional. This ensures correct placement, soundness, and optimal performance.
We work closely with many hoof care professionals and highly value their expertise – this article is mainly for horse owners who currently have no one available locally.
Need help or have questions?
Our team is here for you – via WhatsApp, email or phone. We’re happy to support you as you explore the world of glue-on hoof protection!
#DIYGlueOnShoes #HorseCare #RUNA #Hoofstar #HoofProtection #BarefootHorse #DIYPferd #HorseHealth
