The DePlano Fusion Frog Support pads were developed as a collaboration between Jonathan Nunn FWCF and Luigi DePlano. We wanted to create a shock absorbing and flexible breathable pad with frog support incorporated too. The solution was this fusion combination of leather and rubber manufactured by DePlano which gives great support and protection and is able to breathe and not distort or get heavier in wet conditions like a full leather pad. The leather and rubber strongly fused together does not sweat like standard fully synthetic pads thus allowing the hoof and sole to remain healthy underneath promoting good sole growth and a frog which is protected but not affected by moisture or wet and also function well in dry conditions. The external synthetic frog shape mirrors the internal frog and gives the hoof function a normal weight bearing frog. This can be easily shaped according to requirements with a grinder or power tool. The material can be easily cut with pad shears or strong scissors but it is remarkably tough and durable often allowing many resets of the same pad with minimal distortion or material separation. When used together with DePlano dental impression material a very effective support platform is created giving great comfort for the horse promoting healing and restoring hoof function. The wedge fusion frog support 2° or 3° are an ideal way of graduating the hoof angle without crushing the heel. When used on a broken back hoof angle or negative P3 angle the pads help restore and normalise angles and promotes normal hoof growth. For me the DePlano fusion frog support pad function like no other giving effective support and protection where needed and absorb and reduce shock making them an excellent solution to reducing lameness and discomfort.

Dr. Steve O’GradyI first met Luigi in Wellington, FL when I joined Palm Beach Equine Clinic in 2016. He would join me to see farriery cases, and we would discuss the foot problem and the farriery options that would be beneficial. It was apparent from the onset that Luigi was a knowledgeable and skilled farrier. At the time, he was producing leather pads that were superior to any I had used previously. His 2° leather pad would go from one reset to the next without the foot making an indent in the leather at the heel. That said, a competent farrier will produce quality products that are practical and ‘user friendly. Due to some unforeseen injuries that have prevented him from practicing as a farrier, Luigi has turned his attention to producing a line of farrier products through a company called DePlano®. These products include a continuation of his well-known leather pads, a variety of synthetic pads, wooden shoes, and impression material. He will also custom-build items such as toolboxes, farrier carts, and related items for the farrier truck…all well thought out, making the farrier’s job easier and more efficient. Recently, he has started making wooden shoes based on my design. The precise detail of the wooden shoes simplifies their application. Following the appropriate foot trim, the proper size shoe is selected, break-over is created in the toe section of the shoe, and then the veterinarian or farrier can accurately apply the shoe. The package even includes suitable size screws. It has always been my policy not to advertise products that prevent objectivity; however, I use Deplano® farrier products in my referral practice and recommend them to farriers that work with me. One never goes wrong with quality!

Italian farrier since 1988 I constantly use leather pads by De Plano. Why do I use them? Here’s my motivation: Due to the particular Italian climate, especially in my region (Lombardy), in summer it’s very hot with high humidity. The horses get washed down frequently and the hooves loose consistency, with De Plano leather I manage to keep them at their best because leather is slightly compactable and creates an impress along the edge. This peculiarity helps me keep the wall stable and healthy. There are many different kinds of leather, but De Plano ensures constant quality. Furthermore it works well with the foot’s Physiology, hide on hide. Where there is none it helps me to give depth to the sole, it enhances stability and softens the impact. I use it year-round on the horses I care for. Great Product, great Quality. When I need an even softer impact, I use between hoof and shoe the De Plano polyurethane pads, either flat or wedge. It’s a high quality polyurethane, being an inert material, it always bounces back to its original shape and it’s a great ground vibration absorbing material. This is important in hooves with delicate heels or with bone issuesThat said, a competent farrier will produce quality products that are practical and ‘user friendly. Due to some unforeseen injuries that have prevented him from practicing as a farrier, Luigi has turned his attention to producing a line of farrier products through a company called DePlano®. These products include a continuation of his well-known leather pads, a variety of synthetic pads, wooden shoes, and impression material. He will also custom-build items such as toolboxes, farrier carts, and related items for the farrier truck…all well thought out, making the farrier’s job easier and more efficient. Recently, he has started making wooden shoes based on my design. The precise detail of the wooden shoes simplifies their application. Following the appropriate foot trim, the proper size shoe is selected, break-over is created in the toe section of the shoe, and then the veterinarian or farrier can accurately apply the shoe. The package even includes suitable size screws. It has always been my policy not to advertise products that prevent objectivity; however, I use Deplano® farrier products in my referral practice and recommend them to farriers that work with me. One never goes wrong with quality!

I was the first to believe in Deplano pads, I use them because it is a great material and my horses feel comfortable. I love to share new ideas based on my experience for the welfare of horses.