Horseshoe Throwing Tips

According to the National Horseshoe Pitchers Association, the very first horseshoe pitching tournament was held in the United States in 1910. Whether you play in the back yard or at a competitive tournament, you can play a better game of horseshoes with a mixture of practice and knowledge of throwing tips.

  1. A Strong Grip

    • For a successful throw, practice holding your horseshoe with a strong, firm grip. For the basic flip grip, place your thumb on the flat top of the horseshoe and your index finger to the right of the ringer breaker in the middle of the "U." Your middle and ring fingers should be on the other side. You can also put the ringer breaker between your middle and ring finger, letting your index finger add more support by running it along the underside of the horseshoe blade.

    The Right Horseshoe Weight

    • When throwing horseshoes, weight matters. Pick the right weight of horseshoe for your body and skill set. Try switching weights if you're having difficulty throwing. For instance, a lighter horseshoe will be easier to pitch for young or petite people. Light horseshoes flip easier than heavier ones, but they're also more likely to feel wind resistance. On the other hand, a heavy horseshoe is slower to turn, but has more stability in the wind due to its weight. More advanced horseshoe throwers often prefer heavier horseshoes.

    Swinging Tips

    • When swinging the horseshoe, aim for a smooth and straight swing. When back swinging the horseshoe, keep your shoulders square and take the horseshoe straight back. Letting the horseshoe drift away too far from your body at the top of the swing will make it difficult to achieve a straight, fluid throw. Practice your swing with consistency. Find a swing style that works for you and continue until it feels natural.

    The Stance

    • When throwing horseshoes, keep your body straight and strong, but relaxed. Avoid tension, as this can make your throw less fluid and smooth. Place the right foot about 6 to 8 inches behind the other for proper balance. Find a stance that seems natural to you. When balancing for throwing, keep your feet and knees aligned correctly. Your left foot should be slightly forward. If you are left-handed, the right should should lead. This makes for a smooth throw. Your knees should be bent naturally. Avoid crouching, which can cause too much tension in your body.