Yes they are nailed on just like normal shoes. Unlike regular steel shoes, these can absorb concussion and allow for some hoof expansion when working. This was very important to me because I did so much road driving on pavement. When not shod, I use Epic/Easyboots. Jeanine -----Original Message----- From: drivingpairs-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx [mailto:drivingpairs-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx]On Behalf Of Helen G. Roeder Sent: Sunday, January 08, 2006 5:02 PM To: drivingpairs@xxxxxxxxxxxxx Subject: [drivingpairs] Re: Ground Control Horseshoes " Here is a picture of Elska with a GroundControl shoe on. " Jeanine, these shoes look as if they are nailed to the hoof. Are they? Helen