The skeletal system is the most important component of conformation to be evaluated. Unfortunately, some horse owners prefer pretty heads or large, bulky muscling to conformationally correct feet and legs. Horses as athletes cannot perform properly if they aren't sound. Certain conformational defects predispose horses to unsoundness. For example, horses with contracted heels are more likely to have navicular problems.
Different performances have different conformational standards too.
A trail riding pleasure horse may provide years of satisfactory performance with conformational defects such as slightly sickled hocks or being a little pigeon-toed. As level or intensity of performance increases, the necessity for conformational correctness becomes more important. Horses racing in the Kentucky Derby are under greater performance stress than those running in a cheap claiming race. Olympic level competitors need sounder conformation than horses performing the same events in a local weekend show. In selecting or evaluating horses, place your greatest emphasis on the front legs, rear legs, then body structures, such as the shoulder, back and hip.