Understanding Summer Foot Soreness
Prolonged periods of hot, dry weather can make some horses noticeably more footsore. Understanding why this happens allows owners to recognise normal seasonal changes while remaining alert to more serious conditions that require prompt attention.
Understanding Summer Foot Soreness
Every summer, after several weeks of prolonged dry weather, farriers begin receiving many of the same telephone calls.
Owners report horses becoming reluctant to walk on hard ground, shortening their stride, or appearing generally uncomfortable despite having shown no obvious problems only a few weeks earlier.
While there are many possible causes of lameness, prolonged dry weather produces a very recognisable seasonal pattern. After more than thirty years in practice, it is something I see every year.
Which Horses Are Most Commonly Affected?
In my experience, the horses most commonly affected include:
• Horses with navicular disease
• Older horses
• Horses with naturally poor-quality feet
• Horses with arthritis
• Horses regularly exercised on hard or stony ground
Not every horse within these groups will become footsore, but they often have less reserve when environmental conditions become challenging.
Why Does Dry Weather Matter?
The hoof is designed to deform slightly under load. As the horse lands, the hoof capsule, frog and internal structures work together to absorb concussion before returning to their original shape.
Warm weather inevitably causes moisture to evaporate from the hoof. This process cannot be prevented completely, regardless of which hoof care product is used. The aim is not to stop moisture loss but to slow the rate at which it occurs.
As the hoof becomes progressively drier, it becomes less capable of absorbing concussion efficiently. Although owners often notice visible problems such as cracks, raised clenches or lost shoes, the more important changes are frequently those occurring inside the hoof, where increased concussion places additional stress on sensitive structures.
Recognising the Signs
Many affected horses begin to show:
• General foot soreness
• Reluctance to walk on hard ground
• Shortened stride length
• Mild lameness that improves on softer surfaces
These changes often develop gradually over several weeks rather than appearing suddenly.
What Can Horse Owners Do?
There is no single product capable of preventing the effects of prolonged hot weather.
The most effective approach remains a simple, consistent hoof care routine. Different hoof care products may all contribute to slowing moisture loss, but consistency is usually far more important than frequently changing between products. Even clean water has an important role when used appropriately.
For more detailed guidance on seasonal hoof care, see HKH004 – Understanding Hoof Moisture.
When Should I Be Concerned?
Fortunately, in most cases, mild seasonal foot soreness improves once rainfall returns and ground conditions soften.
However, prolonged dry weather can also coincide with more serious conditions including hoof abscesses, puncture wounds, laminitis and fractures. These conditions require prompt assessment and should never be assumed to be 'just the hard ground'.
When Should I Contact My Farrier?
If you are unsure whether your horse's discomfort is simply the result of prolonged dry conditions, speak to your farrier.
Because we see these seasonal patterns every year, we can often advise whether the horse is following a typical seasonal pattern or whether further investigation is needed.
When Should I Contact My Vet?
Seek veterinary attention promptly if your horse:
• Is acutely lame
• Is reluctant or unwilling to bear weight
• Has a strong digital pulse
• Has excessive heat within the foot
• Appears significantly more uncomfortable than expected
Early assessment is always preferable to hoping a potentially serious condition resolves without treatment.
Summary
• Summer foot soreness follows a recognisable seasonal pattern.
• Some horses are more susceptible than others.
• Dry hooves absorb concussion less efficiently.
• Consistent hoof care is more important than constantly changing products.
• Progressive or severe lameness should always be investigated promptly.
A Final Thought
The British weather is one of the few things none of us can control.
The way we prepare our horses for it is entirely within our control.
About the HØØF Knowledge Hub
The HØØF Knowledge Hub exists to provide horse owners with clear, practical and evidence-based information on hoof health, lower limb conditions and farriery.
Every horse is an individual, and no online article can replace professional assessment. If you have any concerns about your horse's health or soundness, always seek advice from your veterinary surgeon or registered farrier.
Article Information
Author: Paul Conroy BSc (Hons) AWCF
Organisation: HØØF Equine Hoof Care
Category: Hoof Health
Document Reference: HKH005
First Published: July 2026
Last Reviewed: July 2026
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