Pastern

The sloping segment between fetlock and hoof that works like a spring.

What is it?

The angle of the pastern decides how soft or hard the horse feels to ride: too upright gives hard jolts, too long and sloping strains the tendons. The ideal angle is roughly forty to fifty degrees.

Where is it?
Foreleg

Discover more

Sources: Merck Veterinary Manual · Wikipedia · The Open Sanctuary Project.