horseshoe

Curved metal band nailed under the wall of the hoof to protect it against wear, to absorb shocks and to provide better traction on the ground.

inner edge

Inner contour of the horseshoe.

outer edge

Outer contour of the horseshoe.

side wall

Part of the horseshoe under the side wall of the hoof.

nail

Pointy metal pin; its head lodges in the nail hole to attach the horseshoe to the hoof.

quarter

Part of the horseshoe under the quarter of the hoof.

toe

Part of the horseshoe under the toe of the hoof.

branch

Each of the two parts of the horseshoe starting at the toe and ending at the heel.

nail hole

Rectangular opening made in the iron to hold the head of a nail; there are usually six to eight nail holes.

heel

Terminal end of each branch of a horseshoe; it is rounded and beveled to prevent injury.