I say if you it rides right and you love the relationship, then why not buy a mule. Everywhere I go people keep telling me that the donkey and mules feet are so much different than a horses and that is the reason that they do not need shoes. When comparing the two the composition of the hoof apprears the same, only the shape of the hoof is different. From what I've read about mules, it appears that their conformation and hoof structure is just stronger and more consistent than horses. So many breeds of horse have been bred for speed, agility, looks, motion, but maintaining soundness is often overlooked and passed down to the next generation.
Some mules do require shoes, depending on their terrain.
Hello, I have a coming yearling mule gelding for sale if anyone is looking for a naturally gaited mule. He is black with 4 full stockings and a spot on top of his tail. Should mature to 15-15.2 hands. Is out of a big jack and a 15.2 hand SSH mare. A very gentle pretty guy.