EDSS, Inc. ~ Performance Products

This page contains pictures and descriptions of all the products offered by EDSS, Inc. All of these products can be ordered online through a secure server. At any time you can go to the EDSS shopping page by clicking on the icon anywhere on this page.

The Natural Balance Shoe™

The Natural Balance Shoe™ (NBS) addresses the biomechanical needs of the equine foot for support and protection in a domestic environment. This shoe offers the horse the most natural foundation for optimal performance with minimal stress. The patented NBS design*, along with a few suggested hoof preparation guidelines, will help to properly orient the shoe to the coffin bone as well as prevent hoof capsule distortion. Displacement of P-3 within the hoof capsule will not occur when the hoof preparation and shoe placement directions are followed and those feet that are previously distorted usually regain their natural shape.

ALUMINUM

STEEL

Special Design Features

The Aluminum Natural Balance Shoe™ is a wide-web, rolled toe shoe which offers maximum support to the hoof. The toe area on the foot side is seated out to eliminate sole contact beneath the tip of P-3. The toe portion of the shoe is reinforced and offers greater mass which means more material for wear. There is no wear plate in the shoe, therefore the toe can wear back as the foot grows in length. This allows the foot to stay in “Natural Balance” for a longer period of time until the reset. This sets the aluminum NBS aside from any steel shoe. The steep shoulders of the shoe between the heels help to hold ground material in this region to provide caudal support to the frog and digital cushion.

This shoe is made of a forged aluminum alloy that is heat treated for added hardness. This combination offers a light, yet durable shoe for optimal performance.

The Steel Natural Balance Shoe™ is a wide-web, rolled toe shoe which offers maximum support to the hoof. The toe area on the foot side is seated out to eliminate sole contact beneath the tip of P-3. The toe portion also has greater mass which means more material for wear. The rim-shoe design helps to improve traction and will still allow the toe to wear back some as the foot grows longer. This will help maintain optimal P-3 and hoof wall orientation through a longer shoeing period.

The primary and secondary nail holes offer more options when nailing to poor quality feet. By having multiple nail hole choices, farriers can individualize left and right nailing patterns.

The forged steel, rim-shoe design helps to minimize the weight, yet offers durability for long lasting wear and better performance.

Possible Uses

The Aluminum and Steel NBS are used for a wide variety of disciplines. Hunters, jumpers, dressage and eventing horses are among the largest group of users. An overwhelming number of Natural Balance Shoes™ are being used by reining and cutting horse riders and trainers. People participating in gaming and speed events report faster times, improved performance and little-to-no stumbling. Increasing numbers of NBS are used on the race track, again with great results. Endurance riders have been happy with the fact that their horses are not as fatigued, do not interfere and do not stumble. Now with the steel NBS, we are seeing that the improved shoe wear is helpful in this discipline as well. Lastly, when used in conjunction with a pad, frog insert and sole support impression material, minor chronic lameness problems can be treated.

The most popular uses of the NBS are:

Reining Horses	Cutting Horses	English Pleasure
Roping Horses	Eventing Horses	Western Pleasure
Hunters	Jumpers	Dressage

Natural Balance Shoes™ are available in front pattern only, in 6 sizes:

NBS Prices
Aluminum
(00 - 3) 1 to 14 Pair = $15.50/pr.
(00 - 3) 15 Pair or More = $14.50/pr.
(4) 1 to 14 Pair = $15.75/pr.
(4) 15 Pair or More = $14.75/pr.

Steel
(00 - 2) = $6.65/pr.
(00 - 2) Box of 10 Pair (all same size) = $61.50
(3 - 5) = $6.90/pr.
(3 - 5) Box of 10 Pair (all same size) = $64.00

NBS Sizes
(Width & Length are Equal)

Shoe Size	Shoe Width
00	4.50"
0	4.75"
1	5.00"
2	5.25"
3	5.50"
4	5.75"
5*	6.00"

*These horseshoes have been patented by Gene Ovnicek in U.S. Patent No. 5,727,633 and by David M. Duckett in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,165,481 and 5,368,104.

NEW!! - Steel Natural Balance® Lite Sport Shoes

Like the standard style of Natural Balance® Shoes, the NB Lite Sport (NBLS) also addresses the biomechanical needs of the equine foot for support and protection in a domestic environment. This shoe offers the horse the most natural foundation for optimal performance with minimal stress. The patented NBS design*, along with a few suggested hoof preparation guidelines, will help to properly orient the shoe to the coffin bone as well as prevent hoof capsule distortion. Displacement of P-3 within the hoof capsule will not occur when the hoof preparation and shoe placement directions are followed and those feet that are previously distorted usually regain their natural shape.

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Introduction

To meet the needs and wants of the marketplace, we are introducing the Natural Balance® Lite Sport. As you will notice from the picture, the NBLS is made of a lighter stock and has other weight-saving features like an extended crease and a convex radius inner rim. The NBLS also has a slightly different shape than the popular Steel NBS fronts which makes it a unique addition to the market.

Possible Uses

The most popular uses of the NBS Lite SP are:

Reining Horses	Cutting Horses	English Pleasure
Roping Horses	Eventing Horses	Western Pleasure
Barrel Racing	Jumpers	Endurance

Natural Balance® Lite SP Shoes™ are available in front pattern only, in 5 sizes:

NBS Prices

Steel NB Lite SP
(0000 - 1) = $6.15/pr.
(0000 - 1)Box of 10 Pair (all same size) = $56.50

NBS Lite SP Sizes
(Width & Length Slightly Different Than NB Standard Shoel)

Shoe Size	Shoe Width	Shoe Length
0000	4.25"	4.00"
000	4.50"	4.25"
00	4.75"	4.50"
0	5.00"	4.75"
1	5.25"	5.00"

*These horseshoes have been patented by Gene Ovnicek in U.S. Patent No. 5,727,633 and by David M. Duckett in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,165,481 and 5,368,104.

PolySteel® Plastic

Natural Balance® Shoes

For more Details Click Here

Click HERE for .pdf version of the PolySteel Plastic Natural Balance Shoe Instruction Guide!

By EDSS, Inc.

The TK Sliders are a new high quality sliding plate designed by Troy Kerr, farrier of worlds champion reining horses, and Equine Digit Support System, Inc.. The general shape of the shoe has a bold toe with an arched bevel to allow better breakover and better stabilization during the slide. The Inside web of the shoe is made as straight as possible on the Regular and Super Slider models, to minimize friction over the ground surface of the foot during slides. At the same time, the outside perimeter of the shoe closely follows the radius of the foot to make for a close fit (meaning less chance of pulling shoes), yet does not hinder slide length. (Click here for a Full TK Slider Application Article [.pdf 730 KB])

An innovative concept for the enhancement & maintenance of the performance horse.

What type of horses might benefit from TK Sliders?

Horses required to use themselves athletically.
Horses with elongated hind toes.
Horses with a short, choppy stride in the hind end.
Horses with a history of lameness in the hind legs, hips or back.

Four Different Styles of TK Sliders

MPS (Multi-Purpose Sliders) are approximately 3/4" to 7/8" wide and are a good choice for: Reiners, Cowhorses, Cutters, Calf & Team Roping Horses, Barrel Horses, & Horsemanship Horses.
RS (Regular Sliders) are approximately 1" wide and are a good choice for: Reiners, Cowhorses, & Show Roping Horses
MAX are approximately 1" wide and are a good choice for: Reiners, Cowhorses, Rodeo & Show Roping Horses
SS (Super Sliders) are approximately 1.25" wide and are a good choice for Reining Horses.

(Click here for a Full TK Slider Application Article [.pdf 730 KB])

Specific Design & Features of the TK Sliders

The TK Slider was developed to offer extensive benefits regarding function, soundness, hoof health, and ease & correctness of application. Below are a few of the unique features of these sliding plates.

Bold Toe with Radiused Bevel:

Breakover - The TK Slider's bold toe allows for an efficient breakover, thus eliminating one of the greatest causes of stress in the hind leg mechanism - a too long hind toe. An efficient breakover results in longer stride length and relieved pressure on rear tendons, joints and muscles. This makes for a deeper driving and smoother moving horse with a reduced chance of stumbling or stubbing a hind toe. The deeper driving and freer moving horses, the more balance he will be in all athletic maneuvers, especially stops, fast circles and hard turns.
Stability - While allowing the hind toe to be better orientated to the coffin bone, the TK Slider provides optimum support directly beneath the central structure of the hind foot. This stability promotes greater confidence for the horse and critical physical support during difficult maneuvers such as sliding stops. The horse can feel where his foot is and push against the ground with his toe and central foot, knowing he has support where he needs it most.
Closer Fitting Toe - The ability to fit the TK Slider full on the hoof but close at the toe results in decreased incidence of over-reaching. A truer hind foot flight path makes for improved overall balance of the horse, and the bold toe is less likely to snag a front foot if over-reaching does occur, avoiding dangerous injury to horse and rider. The full fit to the rest of the hoof promotes solid support and protection, resulting in a sounder and more athletic horse.

Straight Inside Edge:

Stimulation - The inside branches of the TK Sliders are designed to avoid interfering with the ground contact that the hoof needs for good circulation. Opening the sole up to the ground surface allows the frog to make close contact with the ground, thus supplying good circulation. Following the Natural Balance hoof preparation guidelines will result in better overall hoof health and less instances of contracted heels and other problems due to poor circulation and support.

Sliding - The straight inside branches of the TK Slider allow even the deepest soils to transfer across the bottom of the foot and through the heels without interference. Reduced drag means longer, deeper stops and much less stress on the horse.

Outside Edge Follows Natural Radius of the Foot:

Support - The TK Slider is meant to provide a full fit to the hoof, yet is designed to stay under the horse. The shape of the shoe offers optimal protection with minimal interference.

Here's what a high level performance horse trainer had to say about the TK Sliders

"For years, I was pretty skeptical of the concept of drawing back or broadening the rear toes of reining horses. Like most reiners, I felt horses needed a certain amount of toe to help them stop, and the broader the toe the more friction there would be in the stop. But I agreed to try the TK Sliders on 2 horses with movement and stopping issue, and 2 horses with no issues. On every horse, I immediately noticed an increase in rear stride length, a total end to tripping and stubbing, and a much greater commitment in the stop. My two-year-old who was a tentative stopper began going to the ground with confidence. My shorter-strided horse with lead issues in fast circles now runs more freely with greater balance and never comes close to falling out of lead. Even the two non-problematic horses display a greater conviction in their reining maneuvers that can only be attributed to a feeling of comfort and security with where their balance point is. I plan to put the entire barn in these shoes right away.

I have seen first-hand that the concept of the TK Slider is a sound and valuable one, and is easily measured by the increase comfort and ability of each horse, regardless of conformation, movement or level of training. Horses can't talk, but their performance speaks volumes. I don't think anyone would disagree that comfortable, secure, and happy horses are what we strive for. What's good for them is good for us."

~ Connie S.

Sizing Chart for TK MPS, RS & SS

Shoe Size	Width	Length
000	4.00"	5.25"
00	4.25"	5.50"
0	4.50"	5.75"
1	4.75"	6.00"

Sizing Chart for TK MAX & Multi-MAX

Shoe Size	Width	Length
000	4.25"	5.00"
00	4.50"	5.25"
0	4.75"	5.50"
1	5.00"	5.75"

Shoe Style	1-9 Pair	10+ Pair
MPS	$9.25/Pr.	$8.75/Pr.
MMAX	$9.25/Pr.	$8.75/Pr.
RS	$9.70/Pr.	$9.20/Pr.
MAX	$9.70/Pr.	$9.20/Pr.
SS	$10.25/Pr.	$9.75/Pr.

(Click here for a Full TK Slider Application Article [.pdf 730 KB])

The ELITE Hind Shoe
For Natural Balance Application

The Elite Hind Shoe address the unique functions of the hind foot... It has all the support benefits of a wide-web shoe, with the traction advantages of a narrow rim shoe.

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Available Sizes

Width (A) x Length (B)
#000 = 4.25" x 4.375"
#00 = 4.50" x 4.625"
#0 = 4.75" x 4.875"
#1 = 5.00" x 5.125"
#2 = 5.25" x 5.375"
#3 = 5.50" x 5.625"
#4 = 5.75" x 5.875"

Prices (Without Clips)
000 - 2 = $6.15/pr.
Box of 10 Pair (all same size) = $56.50
3 - 4 = $6.40
Box of 10 Pair (all same size) = $59.00

Prices (Clipped)
000 - 2 = $6.65/pr.
Box of 10 Pair (all same size) = $61.50
3 - 4 = $6.90
Box of 10 Pair (all same size) = $64.00

Is Used Both as a Performance Product and Lameness Treatment Product

NBP Prices
Regular Flat or Wedge
1 - 9 Pair = $10.55/pr.
10 Pair or More = $9.60/pr.

Large Flat or Wedge
1 - 9 Pair = $13.55/pr.
10 Pair or More = $12.60/pr.

The Natural Balance Pad aids in the biomechanicas of the foot by; supporting the frog buttress, stimulating proprioceptors, dissipating energy, promoting a heel-first landing, aligning the distal phalanges, improving circulation and promoting heel expansion. The durable, opaque Urethane material has been formulated to provide the optimal equalibrium between flex and rigidity. There is a "crystal clear" window just ahead of the frog piece so that the shoe/pad unit can be more accurately place on the foot relative to the solar structures. There are specially located cutouts or voids in the frog piece that replicate the central sulcus and (less dense) midsection of the frog. These features allow the pad to flex and transfer support in a way that mimics the natural biomechanical function of the frog. The heel portion of the frog piece is relieved so that the heels of the shoe can be brought in for cases of contracted heels. The wall of the frog piece in the heel region is upright so that dirt can pack between the frog piece and the shoe to offer full caudal support. At the same time, as the frog piece goes forward, there is a gradual taper to allow the dirt to clean in the anterior part of the foot. The Natural Balance Pad can be used with or without Impression Material, depending on the quality of the frog and required application. The NBP is available in two sizes (Regular = 00-1 & Large = 2 - 6) and in both a FLAT and WEDGED version of each size. (U.S. Patent No. 6,672,395)

*Indicators for Use of the NBP ™*
Contracted Heels	Weak, Narrow Frog
Poor Quality Frog	Toe-First Landing
Navicular-Like Problems	Minor Lameness Problems
Negative P3 Angle	Caudal Heel Pain

Click Here for a .pdf version of the NBP Flyer

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NB Perforated Pads Are Used Both as a Performance Product and Lameness Treatment Product

The NB Perforated Pads are proving to be a useful and versatile product. The original idea was to develop a pad that can act like a rim pad (wedged or flat) but not completely leave the frog unsupported. The Perf Pad also offers a good alternative to a screen pad when the use of impression material or injectable urethane is required. However, in the 6 months since these pads have been available, the range of uses has far exceeded our expectations. For example, for horses with a negative coffin bone angle and a severe prolapsed frog, you can turn the wedge pad over so that the flat screen section is towards the ground, and it will act as a sling for the oversized frog while the wedge helps to improve the alignment of the DIP joint. The flat version of the Perf Pad is helpful in offering a little support and the protection of a pad that is sometimes necessary, yet still allows air to pass through. All-in-all, we are very excited about the NB Perforated Pad and we will continue to update you on more uses as time goes on. The Natural Balance Pad can be used with or without Impression Material, depending on the quality of the frog and required application. The NBP is available in two sizes (Regular = 00-1 & Large = 2 - 6) and in both a FLAT and WEDGED version of each size.

*Indicators for Use of the NB Perforated Pads ™*
Contracted Heels	Weak, Narrow Frog
Poor Quality Frog	Toe-First Landing
Severely Prolapsed Frog	Minor Lameness Problems
Negative P3 Angle	Temporary Relief of Sole Pain

NB Perf Pad Prices
Regular
Flat: $2.95/pr. - 10+ Pair - $2.75/pr.
Wedge: $3.45/pr. - 10+ Pair - $3.25/pr.

Large
Flat: $3.50/pr. - 10+ Pair - $3.30/pr.
Wedge: $3.95/pr. - 10+ Pair - $3.75/pr.

Although the EDSS Sole Support Impression Material is primarily used in the treatment of lameness, it does have certain benefits for those horses with poor quality frogs. The use of Impression Material for 1 or 2 shoeings can be very helpful to rejuvinate the back of the foot, stimulate some frog growth and increase the overall circulation.

Impression Material Prices
2 lb. Unit (1 lb. White + 1 lb. Color) = $44.00
4 lb. Unit (2 lbs. White + 2 lbs. Color) = $84.00
6 lb. Unit (3 lbs. White + 3 lbs. Color) = $120.00

The Impression Material is an extension of the Styrofoam treatment. This 2-part material, when blended together, will cure to a rubber-like consistency. The blended Impression Material is placed in the bottom of the foot with an Impression Pad taped over it. A mold is made when the horse stands on the impression pad. After the material has cured, it can be trimmed away from sensitive areas and placed back in the foot under the EDSS Pad & Shoe. The material then is used to transfer support from the EDSS Pad to the frog, bars and sole. (THIS MATERIAL IS MOLDED THE SAME WAY WHEN USED UNDER CONVENTIONAL PADS.) The 2-part material is sold in quantities of 2, 4 & 6 pounds (12 small containers=1.25 lbs. available in complete EDSS system) [Available in Soft (blue) or Regular (pink)]

Impression Pad Prices
1 - 2 Pair = $10.25/pr.
3 Pair or More = $7.50/pr.

The Impression Pads are a very hard, flat, plastic pad used to mold the Impression Material in the sole of the foot while it sets up. The pads have a tapered edge so that one side or the other will more properly fit the foot being worked on. Although this particular item is very necessary, it is one that can be used over and over again. Sizes range from Small to Large (‘00’ to ‘3’).

WRP Prices
$15/set of 4 shoes
(4 Fronts, 4 Hinds, or 2 Front + 2 Hinds)

The World Race Plate was designed with a shape to mimic that of the a wild horse’s foot. It was originally intended for race horses that had hock and other soreness problems. The natural, biomechanically sound design offers a lightweight alternative for training and even running in to minimize the stresses and strains incurred on the athlete’s legs. Because of the weight and design, use on barrel horses has been extremely favorable as well. The shoes are available in both front and hind patterns. Available (race plate) Sizes: 4, 5, 6, 7, & 8

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$9.95 (See the "Natural Balance Introduction Package" for Special Offer)

The “New Hope for Soundness” book supplies horse owners, veterinarians and farriers with background and instruction material to the principles of Natural Balance™. Contents include: The Wild Horse Study, Recognizing Hoof Deformity, The Natural Trim, Natural Balance Shoeing, and The Equine Digit Support System. There are suggestions for hoof preparation and shoe placement throughout the book, along with many drawings to help make Natural Balance™ principles understandable and user-friendly. The majority of information is concise and to the point. “New Hope for Soundness” is an excellent tool for anyone who is interested in helping and maintaining their horses feet. Click here for a "New Hope For Soundness" order form that you can print out and mail or fax to us.

You may request a Free EDSS Information Brochure and a Catalog which will introduce you to the Equine Digit Support System and the other hoof care products we offer. To receive your brochure and catalog please send us a request by E-mail. Be sure to include your name and complete address in your request.

We are always on the look-out for new dealers and distributors for the EDSS Performance products. If you are currently a dealer of farrier products and have a regular supply business, please contact us by E-mail and we will send you details.

Thank you for your interest in EDSS products. If you have any questions that are not answered on this page, please feel free to contact us by E-mail, phone: (719) 372-SHOE {7463}, fax: (719) 372-7272, or write us at: Equine Digit Support System, Inc., 506 Hwy 115, Penrose, Colorado 81240, USA.


This page was last update on 4/22/08. Copyright © 1998 Wild Horse Publishing & Equine Digit Support System, Inc.. All rights reserved. Terms of Use