Hi there everybody.  This is my first time posting.  I have a horse that is 3 years old and we are doing light reining/western riding as well as trail riding.  He has become foot sore on the fronts, the terrain around here is very rocky.  He is doing fine but the vet recommends he have shoes.  I have decided to put sliders on his rears so that we can start doing some longer slides.  He is able and very willing. 

My dilemma is this.  The woman who runs the barn says they will make his hind feed too slick and we will no longer be able to trail ride and negotiate hills.  We would miss that very much. 

My question is, is there a boot or traction plug or some sort of traction device that could go on his back feet during trail riding that would increase his footing?  We so much enjoy our trail rides, we also very much enjoy our reining and arena work.  I don't feel a standard Mac or easy boot will work because as you know, the sliding shoes extend beyond the end of his foot about half an inch, unlike a regular shoe.  I don't think the fit would be proper.  Any help is appreciated.

Thanks everyone, Sincerely, Sharon