Can I Use Hoof Grease or Hoof Oil with Goodsmith Glue-on horseshoes?
Updated on 10/13/2026
In short
Yes, care products are allowed, but not in the gluing area and not immediately before gluing. Stop using hoof grease or hoof oil in the gluing area a few days beforehand, and after gluing it is usually unproblematic after 1–2 days.
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Yes, you can generally work with hoof grease or hoof oil – but there are a few important points to keep in mind so the bond holds securely.
Basic rule: no grease or oil in the gluing area
For a reliable bond, the entire gluing area must be completely free of grease.
Important:
- No hoof grease or hoof oil on the hoof wall in the area where gluing takes place.
- Grease and oil are true “bond killers” and can severely reduce adhesion.
Before gluing: avoid care products
To make sure the hoof is really free of grease, you should:
- stop using hoof grease or hoof oil in the gluing area a few days before gluing
- prepare, roughen, and degrease the hoof as usual
This allows the glue to bond optimally with the hoof surface.
After gluing: when are care products allowed again?
Once the glue has fully cured, you can use care products again:
- 1–2 days after gluing, using hoof grease or hoof oil is usually not a problem
- still try to keep the direct gluing area as free of grease and oil as possible
Do hoof grease and hoof oil actually do anything?
Whether hoof grease or hoof oil have a real conditioning effect on the hoof horn is a matter of professional debate. Many experts assume:
- An effect is mainly to be expected when the coronary band (periople) is oiled or greased.
- Anything brushed onto the hoof wall below that looks nice but usually leads to no significant changes in the hoof horn.
👉 In short: care products are allowed – but not in the gluing area and not right before gluing. This keeps the bond secure and the shoe reliable.
Thank you for your feedback.
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