Horse anatomy
Pastern
The area between the fetlock and the hoof. Helps absorb shock and support movement.
A closer look
The pastern is the short section of the leg between the fetlock and the top of the hoof, which is called the coronet band. It contains two bones, the long and short pastern bones, which angle down into the hoof. Ideally, the slope of the pastern lines up with the slope of the front of the hoof.
Why it matters
The pastern's angle helps absorb shock. Very upright pasterns can make the ride bumpier and send more jarring up the leg, while very long, sloping ones can put extra strain on tendons, so farriers watch the hoof-pastern angle closely.
Care tip
In wet, muddy weather, check the back of the pasterns for scabs, cracks, or crusty skin, a condition often called scratches or mud fever. Keep the area clean and dry, and tell an adult if you find sores.
Common mistake
Crouching or kneeling beside a leg with your face close to it is risky if the horse moves. Bend at the waist with your feet out of the way, so you can step back quickly.
Fun fact
The two pastern bones are the same kind of bones as the first two sections of your finger.