A wedge is an object that is thick at one end and narrows to a sharp edge on the other end. The application of a wedge when shoeing can influence the angle of the hoof as well as the balance and movement of the hoof both in the latero-medial and in the dorso-palmar/plantar direction. There are a multitude of different types of wedges, some only lie between the web of the branch and the bearing edge, others are complete sole covering inserts or pads. They are made from plastic, leather or a combination of both. Alternatives to wedges are thickened wedge shaped branches in which extra material has been welded on.