Also, more hoof wall is left on to ensure that the wall is higher than the sole, so that as the horse walks, no weight-bearing is placed on the sole. The hoof wall should be rasped at an angle from the ground surface, starting just outside the white line. The rasp is then used to remove the sharp edge around the perimeter of the hoof that was created by rasping the foot at an angle. This will create a rounded surface to the edge of the hoof, helping prevent cracks and chips. The horse should be trimmed regularly while his shoes are off, with the emphasis on keeping the edge of the hoof sufficiently rounded.
Hooves tend to grow more slowly in the winter months.
It is thought that some of the circulation is diverted from growth to warmth. This does not mean that hooves don't need attention. The ground surface of the foot as well as the hoof wall should be painted. A little extra care and regular attention during the winter when your horse is unshod will result in a stronger, healthier foot the rest of the year. The conformation, quality of the hoof and terrain dictate whether all four shoes or just the hind ones are pulled.