Abstract: Equine footwear according to the invention comprises a split ring of a configuration corresponding to the peripheral outline of a hoof of an ungulate animal with the split disposed at the rear or heel portion thereof. The ring in cross section constitutes an acute angle with a lower flange disposed at a slight angle to the horizontal for fitting beneath the generally concave bottom of the hoof, and an upwardly extending flange for surrounding the outer wall of the hoof so that the device constitutes the equivalent of a slipper. The footwear is made of a material having some pliancy or flexibility such as a soft metal but preferably of a plastics material so that it can conform to the particular hoof to which it is applied and permit expansion and contraction of the hoof during movement of the animal. The opposed ends of the ring may be adjustably and releasably secured together to accommodate adjustment and replacement.