Types of Throwing Horseshoes

Steel Horseshoes

• Steel horseshoes are the most common type of shoes used on horses and have been for centuries. Since they are the most common for horses, they are most often used to play the game. Most horseshoe throwers are accustomed to the weight and feel of a steel shoe and may take issue with another sort being used. Steel shoes provide the signature clang sound when a player accurately tosses a shoe onto the stake.

Other Metals

• Aluminum is the second most common metal used on horses for shoes. Most often you'll find aluminum used in horse racing because it is a lighter material that allows the horse to run faster. Players may find the aluminum horseshoe easier to toss, but people used to heavier steel or even brass versions could have difficulty tossing the lighter ones in the same manner. Aluminum is less weather resistant and less durable but often cheaper to use.

Rubber, Plastic and Other Synthetics

• In rare cases, horseshoes made of rubber or plastic may be used on a horse and for gaming. Rubber horseshoes will not ring the stake in the same way metal would, which might alter the scoring of the game a bit. Modern plastics can be made to mimic the appearance and feel of regular horseshoes, but purists might contend that the steel variety is superior.

Specialized Gaming Horseshoe

• Since at least the mid-20th century, manufacturers have created alternate horseshoes made specifically for throwing. Typically these horseshoes are much larger and may look somewhat stylized or strange in comparison. The shape and size has been altered to facilitate hitting the stake in many cases. U-shaped, steel shoes that are about twice the size of the average horseshoe are now common if you purchase gaming horseshoes. They also may come equipped with large hooks around the end of each shoe.