By Julie Preble, Assistant Editor

Have you ever had one of those moments where something really surprises you–even though it’s something you should probably already know?

I had one while walking through the stalls at the 2012 Rocky Mountain Reining Horse Association’s Summer Slide.

While cruising the aisles, I came across farrier Scott Bottoms of Loveland, Colorado, working on a horse.

We had a nice chat about horseshoeing, the industry, the show, and mutual friends–all while he was working away. The horse was having its front shoes and back sliders all replaced.

And here comes that “duh” moment. Scott pulled one of the old sliders off, held it up next to a new one, and showed me the difference.

Whoa! I was honestly flabbergasted. I know shoes have to be regularly replaced, but it didn’t really occur to me why.

Horseshoes are so strong, sturdy, and made of metal. To see one worn down so much was just surprising.

Again, I feel like it’s one of those things that should’ve been obvious, but it still caught me off guard. Have you ever had one of those moments in your horse life?