Self Adjusting Palmar Angle Shoe with Ronald Aalders

HoofFlix Webinar Report: A Fireside Conversation with Ronald Aalders

In this latest HoofFlix webinar, we sat down with renowned Dutch farrier Ronald Aalders for an in-depth fireside chat exploring a career defined by curiosity, challenge, and clinical innovation. Drawing on decades of experience, Aalders reflected on his background in farriery, the influences that shaped his thinking, and the moments that led him to question traditional horseshoeing models in favour of more dynamic, biomechanically driven solutions.

Central to the discussion was Aalders’ development and advocacy of the roller motion shoe — often colloquially referred to as the “banana shoe,” but more accurately described as a self-adjusting palmar angle shoeing protocol. He unpacked the mechanical principles behind the design, explaining how controlled sagittal plane motion can influence palmar angle, load sharing, and timing of breakover. Particular attention was given to the implications for key anatomical structures, including the deep digital flexor tendon, the navicular apparatus, and the distal interphalangeal joint.

The conversation explored Aalders’ reported success using this approach in complex clinical cases, notably podotrochular lameness and laminitis. He discussed case selection, expected adaptations over time, and how biomechanical changes may alter prognosis in horses traditionally considered difficult or poor candidates for long-term soundness. Importantly, the session did not shy away from critical reflection, with Aalders addressing potential unintended consequences, compensatory stresses, and the importance of careful monitoring.

Further insight was offered into his collaborative work within veterinary referral centres, contrasted with the realities of follow-up and refinement in the field. The discussion highlighted the importance of communication, diagnostics, and adaptability when managing chronic and performance-limiting pathologies.

The webinar concluded with thoughtful advice for younger farriers, emphasising the need for a strong foundation in functional anatomy, biomechanics, observation, and critical thinking. Aalders stressed that tools and shoes are secondary to understanding movement, force, and cause-and-effect — a message that resonated strongly throughout the session.

This webinar offered not just a look at an alternative shoeing method, but a deeper examination of how questioning convention, supported by anatomy and biomechanics, can open new possibilities in modern farriery.

The recording is now available to ent, buy or watch as part of your subscription – follow the link to the trailer

https://hoofflix.com/media/videos/myth-busters/the-self-adjusting-palmar-angle-shoe-ronald-aalders/