“CONTINUOUS INNOVATION IS PART OF OUR DNA. IT’S WHAT BROUGHT US TO WHERE WE ARE TODAY”
ROY PARIDAEN, (R&D MANAGER ROYAL KERCKHAERT HORSESHOE FACTORY)
NEW ARRIVALS AND PRODUCT INNOVATIONS
THE FARRIERY INNOVATION AWARD 2025
SHOEING RACE HORSES TO VICTORY BEHIND THE SCENES OF OUR R&D DEPARTMENT
This year, we proudly celebrate our 120th anniversary with Game Changers who are ready to continue forging the future. We also present a range of new products and innovations while taking you along behind the walls of our R&D department where shoes come to life and machines are custom build. Discover the advantages of the Alu Kings Plates that take horses to victory, and find the many benefits and useful tips and tricks for good hoofcare en use of hoof pads.
farrier products. Find exactly what you need, to do your job to the highest standard, all in one shop. Because only the best is good enough.
The Farriery Innovation Award honours the innovators driving the next evolution in hoof care while celebrating bold ideas that are changing hoof care, shoeing techniques, and farrier tools. The award recognises the solutions that combine sustainability, smart engineering, and a lasting impact on the profession.
FARRIERY INNOVATION AWARD 2025 LIBERTY HARDTOP TECHNOLOGY
This unique and innovative application in the production process of a horseshoe nail ensures that the head of the nail specifically hardens without compromising the overall strength of the nail. By adding carbon very locally using new and advanced laser technology, Liberty is able to harden the head of the nail. Through consistent heat treatment and a hardening depth that can be set with an accuracy of up to 0.15 mm, this innovative HardTop Technology guarantees optimum nail strength and quality across the entire nail, with an unrivalled traditional, wear-resistant hardened nail head.
More about HardTop Technology kerckhaert.com/hardtop
BEHIND THE SCENES
OF THE KERCKHAERT R&D TEAM: IN-HOUSE ENGINEERING & PRODUCTION
It began with the dream of Honoré Kerckhaert and his machine that made it possible to produce horseshoes with the same precision as he made them as a master farrier. What started as a vision now represents 120 years of continuous innovation.
What goes on behind the scenes at Kerckhaert’s dedicated R&D department? Meet Roy Paridaen, R&D Manager at the Royal Kerckhaert Horseshoe Factory.
“Continuous innovation is in our DNA and has shaped Kerckhaert’s success for more than four generations. Our entire team shares this passion and drive, creating an environment where we are encouraged to think ahead, experiment and push boundaries. Michiel and Martin Kerckhaert know better than anyone that innovation needs space to develop and keeps us ahead in the market. For an R&D team, precisely this trust and freedom is everything.” , shares Roy.
CHALLENGE & NEED
The Kerckhaert Formula for creating a machine that pushes limits. A new machine or application usually starts with a real challenge: a new product, an improvement, more process efficiency, a supplier failing to deliver … These situations require creative thinking and a search for possibilities. “We never choose the easy road” , chuckles Roy. “When we design and build a machine, compromise simply isn’t part of the vocabulary. That challenge is what makes the work meaningful — pushing limits, finding solutions, refusing to settle.” His saying “Not going isn’t an option” has become more than a motto; it’s how Kerckhaert thinks and creates. Custom-built machinery isn’t a luxury — it’s essential. By designing and constructing every machine in-house, there is complete control over every detail exactly as intended. No shortcuts. No concessions. Just superior standards.
The secret of success!
The specializations of each team member naturally reinforce each other. They all share that real passion for technology, and when you bring that energy together, you can create something special. “I am extremely proud of how our team has set up our successful plastics department for Hoofjack and Bovi-Bond claw blocks in such a short time. These are milestones and proof of what a team can achieve when everyone shares the same drive and conviction” , shares Roy. “Winning the Innovation Award with our HardTop technology is a really nice recognition of the strength of our teamwork. That tech didn’t
just happen overnight because it’s so detailed and involved in the whole process.”
Are there still possibilities in innovation?
Innovation never stops. Roy believes there’s always room for progress, for example in refining machine settings. “One machine can craft over 800 horseshoes; each with adjusted left-right creases, specific nail hole placement, and details tailored to the horse’s needs. That means each shoe demands its specific production protocol
and with that specific adjustment that require precision and expertise. Our machine operators, the true craftsmen in this process, have mastered this intricate art to an incredible degree. However, with further innovation, we can empower them even more by creating tools and systems that elevate their skill and ensure the unique asymmetry we’re known for. For us excellence means no compromise in materials and production processes. That makes our dedication to excellence endless and yet unrivaled.” , explains Roy.
From left to right; Roy, Jan, Marco, Kasper, Raimy
It was written in the stars... 2026 is not only the Year of the Horse, it is also the year we celebrate our 120th anniversary! That’s all the reason we need to celebrate, and we invite you to join us!
120 years of excellence, growth and innovation.
We proudly mark 120 years of shaping the industry through Game-Changing solutions that pushed boundaries and unlocked new levels of performance for farriers and horses worldwide. We don’t measure success by how far we’ve come, but by how far we can still go... together. United by passion and driven by innovation, we continue to forge a difference in every horse’s hoof health and performance worldwide. DISCOVER THE GAME CHANGERS AND BE PART OF WHAT’S NEXT!
More Game Changers at Kerckhaert.com/game-changers
HIGHLIGHTS
HOOFJACK BLUE ANNIVERSARY EDITION
The original design – now in a fresh blue color – is known for its superior durability and ergonomic design. Hoofjack reduces strain on the back and knees, ensures long-lasting working comfort and keeps the horse relaxed and comfortable during every hoof treatment.
Get your new edition Hoofjack 120 Years in the unique royal blue version ánd specially for our anniversary: includes the Hoofjack Pastern Cradle.
• Blue circular floor-level base
• Post, Cradle and Pastern Cradle included
• Secure, height-adjustable system for front and hind hooves
• Magnets for easy tool storage
• Made with rotational molding for superior quality
• Designed for ergonomic support
• 4 year warranty
733-0001-036
FREE PASTERN CRADLE INCLUDED
GAME CHANGER!
For decades, Hoofjack has been the trusted choice of farriers, veterinarians, barefoot trimmers and horse owners around the world.
THE ONE with the smart(est) design
• Circular base for more stability
• No corners = no weak points
• Secure, height-adjustable system
• Lightweight, durable materials
• Ergonomic and practical design
• Textured, not matted surface for more grip
HIGHLIGHTS
SAFE EDGE HOOK & LOOP SHARPENER KIT
A sharp hook and loop on a hoof knife makes the job so much easier. The new Safe Edge Hook & Loop Sharpener Kit is pure gold in your toolbox to keep that sharpness at 100% every day.
This kit consists of a practical handle and three files included. It is a lightweight for ease in work and hold in different angles. The new slightly larger handle has a practical guiding head that assists sharpening under the correct angles. In addition, the teeth design around the file ensures a very smooth result without any grooves.
• Deburring and sharpening of curves and hooks
• Handle with guiding angle head
• Prevents creating unwanted grooves
• Smooth result
• 3 replacement files included
727-0004-040
BE AN EXPERT AT SHARPENING YOUR KNIVES! SOME TIPS & TRICKS:
• Follow the bevel at the inside of the knife
• Use the angle indicator on the handle to get the precise hold
• The burr on the back of the knife is easy to remove with a felt wheel, giving you a very nice sharp edge.
More handy “did you knows” about knives and sharpening?
www.kerckhaert.com/diamond-hoof-knives
HIGHLIGHTS
VETTEC SINGLE DISPENSER
The Vettec Single Dispenser is designed for intensive use with a robust steel housing in which standard tubes from 280 to 310 ml can be easily processed. The comfortable and ergonomic handle ensures that you can operate the dispenser with little effort. In addition, the handy direct-stop function ensures that the powerful push system stops immediately. This allows the professional to work in a measured, controlled and neater manner, with minimal material loss. With the handy needle attached to the dispenser, you can quickly pierce dried mass. The Vettec dispenser is equipped with a hook for convenient and safe storage of the tool.
• Suitable for 280-310ml single cartridges
• Holds cartridges perfectly in place
• Easy, clean operation and distribution of material
• Direct-stop function
• Ergonomic handle for comfortable use
• Robust metal housing
• Needle for piercing dried material
• Hook for easy storage
748-0002-072
The Vettec Horse Silicone a hoof padding material for extra support. It contains an anti-bacterial and anti-fungal agent that helps to avoid rot underneath the hoof caused by moisture. The silicone does not stick to the hoof.
Good to know! This silicone has a longer set time.
• 1 component silicone
• Fungi preventing properties
• Vinegar based, longer setting time
• Non toxic
• 300 ml - 10 oz 748-0001-001
VETTEC HORSE SILICONE
SHOEING RACE HORSES
“Shoeing a racehorse to victory is addictive.”
Matthew Martin has only one goal in mind: to help horses achieve their full potential, especially when it comes to high-profile races. “It’s not just about shoeing the horses, but also about solving problems that help them win important races,” he says. “Good shoeing means balance; a well-balanced dressed-up hoof, a perfect fit is essential. I’m always happy when we get through an effective shoeing - preparation - with no soundness issues.”
Matthew’s passion for horses and their feet started when he was a kid. He grew up around harness horses and racehorses and ended up training to be a farrier. After 22 years of experience, he’s an expert at shoeing racehorses. Matthew’s helped a lot of horses get to the top and still enjoys the wins. “Knowing the horse is essential; what is its history. Understanding if there are racing or soundness issues allows you to shoe accordingly, which is crucial for the horse. I especially like working with the Kerckhaert Alu Kings Fast Break ES plate. It provides the horse with excellent breakover and good heel support.”
UNDEFEATED!
The legendary and unbeaten Group 1 racer Black Caviar competed 25 times for 25 wins. An undefeated record! Matthew was her farrier for each race, ensuring she had the best possible performance. He used the Kerckhaert Alu Triumph front and the Kerckhaert Alu Kings Plate Extra Sound hinds.
“She never lost a shoe!” , Matthew Martin
KERCKHAERT ALU TRIUMPH
Designed for the modern sport horse
• Optimum front shape
• Lightweight with superior support
• Wide toe with rolling
• V-crease with well-placed nail holes
• High grade aluminum providing good wear and strength
KERCKHAERT ALU KINGS PLATE EXTRA SOUND
The ultimate and most used race plate worldwide
• Well placed nail holes with extra nail pitch
• Drop on natural perfect fit with smart finish
• Specially designed Kerckhaert left and right pattern
• More comfort & suppport = Extra Sound
• Slightly longer and wider outside branch
• Tapered inside branch for close fitting to avoid brushing
More of Matthew’s favorites:
• The Kerckhaert Alu Kings Plate Extra Sound for everyday plates
• The Kerckhaert Alu Triumph for larger hooves and low heels
• The Kerckhaert Century Support for hind issues
• The Liberty Carrera Secure Medium Nails
Safety at the anvil and the forge:
PROTECTIVE WEAR THAT WORKS
Farrier work is tough… your gear should be tougher. A strong apron or farrier’s chaps, practical gloves, and comfortable shoes aren’t extras; they’re essentials for working safely, confidently, and professionally every day.
MATERIAL - The material used to make the apron is often a personal choice. An apron made entirely of leather is slightly more expensive but also more durable. It offers excellent protection and, once worn in, fits like a glove. A nylon apron is slightly cheaper and also lighter in weight. It also offers good protection and is extremely comfortable from the very first minute. And then there is the combination of the two materials. This allows you to enjoy the benefits of both.
LEG STRAPS - A good strap allows you to adjust the leg section to fit. In addition, it must also offer the safety of quick removal in case of an emergency.
WAIST STRAP - A handy adjustable strap ensures a perfect fit and keeps the apron in place while you work. It is important that the strap can be quickly released in an emergency.
KNIFE POCKETS - They provide a safe place to store knives during trimming, while keeping them close at hand for efficiency.
THE FARRIER TOO, NEEDS A GOOD SHOE!
If you are on your feet all day doing heavy work, good footwear is a basic requirement. Choose not only a sturdy sole, but also complete foot support and extra protection where necessary. Men’s feet require slightly different footwear than women’s. The Ariat safety shoes have all options to get the exact shoe you need:
Ariat Treadfast Chelsea - An all-season, all-purpose work boot solidly built to match your work ethic.
Ariat Treadfast 6” - A steel-toe, waterproof boot built to perform all kinds of work from farm to ranch to warehouse. Available in men and women model.
Ariat Heritage IV Women – Ideal for female farrier, rider or yard worker who needs extra protection when putting in long hours and doing some heavy lifting.
Ariat Keswick Women - Lasting comfort and protection with a touch of country style. Perfect for the female farrier looking for durable safety foot wear.
Ariat, workwear that won’t quit.
Ariat Treadfast Chelsea Ariat Treadfast 6” Ariat Heritage IV
Ariat Keswick Women
HIGHLIGHTS
KERCKHAERT TÖLT
NEW SIZES!
This top seller has achieved enormous popularity in record time. To celebrate this, we developed an extra size for the front and hind horseshoes. The Tölt horseshoe is specially designed for the Icelandic horse. This asymmetric shoe perfectly fits the hoof shape of the Icelandic horse, requiring minimal adjustments during shoeing. It offers optimal support and is available in both front and hind shoes. All sizes meet the requirements of FEIF of competition with Icelandic Horses.
• Front and hind shoe developed for Icelandic horses
• Radius toe clip front, Radius side clips hind
• Heightened, solid Radius clip for extra height when using pads
• Crease with clean nail holes and accurate pitch
• Basic shoe for more support
• Front shoe with sole relief - hind shoe without sole relief
• Meet the requirements of FEIF of competition with Icelandic Horses
054-0228-008 - TÖLT 22X8 2/L 0 HIND
054-0228-011 - TÖLT 22X8 1/L 1 FRONT
HIGHLIGHTS
The Diamond Max Glide is a coarse rasp designed to rasp and file the hoof with precision and little effort. The working surface is more than 10% wider than the standard Diamond rasp. The file side with chip breaker ensures a fine finishing.
• + 10% wider work space
• Rasp pattern with rows of 9 hardened and sharp teeth
• Unique production process guarantees longterm sharpness
• File side with chip breaker for constant file quality
• Perfect fit with the diamond rasp handle
EFFICIENCY IN WORK
725-0001-064
DIAMOND MAX GLIDE DIAMOND EXCEED
The Diamond Exceed rasp is a more aggressive rasp that allows you to easily remove more material. The file side excels in fine finishing. Wider working surface than the standard Diamond rasp.
• More aggressive rasp side
• High quality material
• File side for optimum fine finish
• Durable sharpness
• Length 14”
• 10% wider
THE MORE AGRESSIVE RASP WITH PERFECT FINISH FILE
725-0001-065
Daily hoof care isn’t just a good habit; it’s the foundation of a sound, happy horse. Whether your horse is a top competitor or enjoying a relaxed retirement in the pasture, their hooves need daily attention to stay strong, healthy, and pain-free. By caring for your horse’s hooves every day between farrier or trimmer visits, you can prevent many common hoof problems before they start.
THE CHECKLIST FOR YOUR DAY-TO-DAY HOOF CARE
• Pick out the hooves: Always pick hooves before and after riding, or whenever your horse comes in from the field. Remove all dirt, manure, and debris with the quality Diamond Hoof Pick.
• Inspect the hooves carefully: Inspect carefully and look out for anything unusual such as cracking, bruising or a strong, foul smell. Make sure that all shoes are still in the correct place, aren’t loose or overly worn, and that the clenches haven’t risen. Feel the frog with your fingers, making sure it’s firm but supple (not overly soft or hard) and look at the coronet band for swelling, injury or uneven growth.
• Apply a hoof dressing: Protect and nourish the horn and apply hoof dressing to avoid cracks and flakes. Ask your farrier for advice about what sort of hoof ointment will suit your horse best.
• Good nutrition and balanced diet: Good hooves start from the inside out! Ensure your horse gets a diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Consider adding a hoof supplement with biotin if your horse has limited access to grass or if your farrier recommends it.
Hoof care is not just a matter of grooming, it is a crucial part of the horse’s overall well-being. It is about prevention, ensuring that small problems do not become big problems. It is about the TRUST, knowing that your horse is supported and taken care of every step of the way.
HIGHLIGHTS
DIAMOND HOOF DEFENDER SPRAY
This easy-to-use spray deeply cleanses, protects, and stimulates healthy hoof growth. Its improved formula with tell-tale blue dye ensures precise application, preventing waste while combating common hoof diseases.
• Convenient spray design: Easy to apply, even on wrapped or hard-to-reach hooves.
• Visible application: Blue dye ensures precise placement and reduces waste.
• Deep cleansing formula: Targets bacteria and fungi causing white line disease.
