Podded cleat horseshoe

Abstract

A shock absorbing and protective form of a horseshoe comprises a base that conforms to the shape of the perimeter of the horse's hoof, and from which protrudes a series of podded cleats that are strategically aligned and positioned below the horn of the hoof providing the prerequisite support for the horse. Each podded cleat has an internal air chamber, that when combined with the complying shape of the external wall allows partial or full collapse or deflation of this structural element effecting a most significant degree of cushioning, thus allowing a relatively high durometer elastomer for composition that would not otherwise provide sufficient compressibility, but having physical properties that surmount the factors of abrasion and wear and where such hard materials are identifiable as having a low frictional resistance in comparison to highly compressible, soft elastomers. The invention, wherein the action of the podded cleat is the inward, upward mechanical collapse, is enhanced with the memory retention of given elastomeric compounds thus allowing the podded cleat to recover upon release of load and reattain its original shape and dimensional form.