In making this observation, it is well to feel the shoulder with both hands. This will help you to determine the true angle of the shoulder. Also, you will feel the scapula and begin to understand the skeletal structure of the shoulder. The middle of the shoulder blade and the spine of the scapula tells you what the true angulation of the shoulder is going to be. Just looking from the point of the shoulder to the top of the withers can be misleading.
Some horses have shoulders out on the front and still have a straight up and down scapula.
These can look like sloping shoulders but they are just out at the front end. Muscle structure in this area can also deceive the eye, so when making this important observation the actual palpation of the area is important. The model shown is Merry Boy's F88, a 26 year old stallion. Note how correct conformation will remain constant over the years. Now the attention of all Walking Horse enthusiasts should be kindled.