podková

Podková is the Czech term commonly used to refer to a horseshoe, a curved metal plate that is nailed to a horse’s hoof to protect the hoof and improve traction. In standard Czech, the object is typically called podkova; podková may appear as a variant spelling or in particular inflected forms, but podkova is the conventional form used in dictionaries and technical writing.

Modern podkovy are usually made of steel, though aluminum and composite materials are used for lighter equipment, for therapeutic purposes, or in performance disciplines. The shoe is shaped to fit the contour of the hoof and generally includes several nail holes along its sides. It is attached with nails driven through the hoof wall and then clinched to hold it securely. Beyond the traditional nailed shoe, there are glue-on designs, clips, and specialized configurations such as bar shoes for tendon support or corrective purposes.

Fitting and maintenance are performed by a trained farrier. The process begins with trimming and balancing the hoof, selecting an appropriately sized shoe, and shaping it to match the hoof’s curvature. The shoe is then fastened with nails; excess nail material is clinched, and the hoof is rasped to ensure smooth contact. Regular maintenance is needed as hooves grow and wear varies with the horse’s workload, terrain, and gait. Ill-fitting podkovy can cause discomfort, uneven wear, or lameness, so professional assessment is essential.

In folklore and culture, the horseshoe is commonly seen as a symbol of luck and protection. Traditions vary, but many cultures place a horseshoe over doorways with the ends pointing upward to contain good fortune.

Note: podkova is the standard Czech noun for the object; podková appears in certain texts as a variant.