After the stake has been added to the area, make sure you fill the pit with the sand, clay, or dirt until it’s level with the wooden planks bordering the pitching box. The game begins with a horseshoe toss to decide who goes first. Even with the addition of these rules, records and tournaments did not start for horseshoes until 1909. Here’s what you should know about keeping score during a game of horseshoes. (Official rules call for 6 inches max). The closest shoe to the stake - 1 point. You’ll probably be spending a bit more time at home, in your backyard this summer, with all of the social distancing restrictions. Now let’s discuss how scoring works within the horseshoes rules. If the straight edge touches both shoes without touching the stake, it is ruled a ringer. In count-all scoring, both teams receive full credit for any points they score. Boga recounts horseshoes history in this handbook’s opening chapter, then gets down to the real point–how to play the game right and well. It’s a fun drinking game to play outside, but families can enjoy this one too. Boga recounts horseshoes history in this handbook's opening chapter, then gets down to the real point--how to play the game right and well. The first person to throw steps up to the appropriate foul line and pitches both of his horseshoes, one after another. The pitching box should have a border of wood planks to ensure that the sand or other grainy substance in the middle doesn’t spread across your lawn, and so it keeps its shape. From friendly games at family gatherings to fierce competition in world tournaments, the sport of horseshoes is one that people of any age or athletic ability can enjoy. Luckily, you can put together a regulation-style pit in your own backyard using only a few inexpensive materials. Shouting or taunting the players is not permitted, and neither is attempting to block the toss. You can play the game with two or four people and four horseshoes. Players continue pitching shoes until one player or team reaches an agreed-upon score -- usually 40 points in tournament play. The grip should be comfortable, durable and corrosion resistant. Each player has two horseshoes that weigh around 40 ounces. Bar Games 101 is a website devoted to helping you learn about the best games to play with your friends. The second player then does the same thing. If this is successful, it is referred to as a “dead ringer.”. With the cancellation rules, you score points exactly as you would in the count-all rules we just discussed. To begin the game, divide the four horseshoes among both the players; each player pitches two horseshoes in a turn. When you are ready to insert the stake into the sand, make sure it is angled forward by around 3-inches, and that it only protrudes between 14-15-inches from the top of the pit. Any horseshoe landing within 6 inches of the stake -- about the width of the horseshoe -- is worth one point. We've got some thoughts. Today this has evolved into a full on sport with scoreboards as well as horseshoe courts. Throws must be underarm. We review the games, research the rules, and uncover helpful tips and strategies. Here are some of the other basic rules you will need to know before playing. Looking for some yard games to help pass the time? Much later, in the year 1869, England created rules to go with the game of horseshoes. Make sure to also take the safety information regarding the rules and set up to heart, as it’s vitally important to keep all of the players and surrounding adults and children safe in the process. For example, having pits to catch the horseshoes if the stake is missed makes it easier to measure how close it is, and it makes it easier to aim as well. Get our free guide to the 50 Best Bar Games. our guide to Polish Horseshoes (aka Beersbee), Our Recommendation: Legend Professional Pitching Horseshoes, 8 Fun Bachelor Party Games for Your Groom-To-Be. Learning the basics of how to play horseshoes is simple. It was more than likely farriers or blacksmiths who first inspired people to take delight at tossing large horseshoes at a pole. We’ve got some thoughts. Now armed with this information, you are ready to start playing the game of horseshoes. The score for the end is then calculated and the players play the next end by reversing direction and throwing at the other stake. Two points are awarded to the person who threw both shoes closer to the stake than the opponents. Through this organization, local leagues were started in many states and their rules were made standard across the world. It's appropriate to use the same rules for backyard games. Here’s our complete overview of how to play horseshoes, a classic backyard game that never goes out of style. It should be about 8-inches deep. Toss the horseshoe at the opposite stake in an underhand pitch, attempting to get it around the stake or as close to it as possible. Any shoe must be within one horseshoe-width (measured across the outside of the (length of the horseshoe) Rule 5: Cancellation rules: The twist in the game of horseshoes is the ability to cancel out your opponent’s points, allowing for strategy within the game. Game Play. To execute a one and one-quarter turn, first hold your horseshoe by one shank, with the opening of the horseshoe to the left of your grip (this is for right-handed pitchers; it will be opposite for lefties). The items can also be purchased separately as well if you don’t want to buy a set for the game. Failing to do this could result in injury. Horseshoes is said to have its origins in quoits, which is a game that involved throwing a rubber or metal ring over a set distance to circle a pin. Stretch your pinky finger out and press it against the horseshoe to balance your hold. Each player gets two horseshoes. If you have multiple playing areas for horseshoes, it should have a barrier to ensure that no one gets injured. Looking for some yard games to help pass the time? Horseshoes is the kind of game that’s fun for the whole family, but it’s not always easy to find a place to play. At either end, anchor a three-foot spike so that about 15 inches are visible above ground, and the stake is angled slightly inward. Over the last century, the rules have changed slightly. When someone is pitching, the opponent(s) need to stand quietly behind the other platform. A ringer, which is when a player encircles the stake with a horseshoe, is worth 3 points. The ideal target stake-to-player distance in tournaments is 37 ft. If a tie exists then each player can take a half win or a two inning tie breaker can be thrown. In order for the toss to qualify as a ringer, a straight edge needs to be able to touch both points of the shoe. Women, children, and anyone with a physical handicap should also use the 27-foot line. We know it as horseshoes, a yard game that has been enjoyed for centuries and is ideal for casual family gatherings and serious competition. The players or teams toss four … At the time, the ground around the stake was clay, the distance between the stakes had to be 19 yards, and the players stood level with the stake to make their pitches. A horseshoe that fully encircles the stake is a "ringer" and is worth the maximum score of three points. During a horseshoe game, the stakes are often completely blocked by shoes. There is no set number of innings; rather, the first player or pair to score 40 points wins the game. If you are interested in making the game a little more competitive, consider playing horseshoes with the cancellation scoring rules. The very first tournament was in Bronson, Kansas in 1910, and in 1911 new rules were implemented. Learn more about how to choose the best set of horseshoes. The winner of the toss throws both horseshoes—one at a time—at the opposite stake, and then the second player throws both of their horseshoes—again, one at a time—at their end. However, if you're practicing constantly, you'll want to reposition the stakes every day to avoid causing wear spots in your lawn. However, for a casual game, players could pitch from a closer distance. "Leaners" -- shoes that touch the pole without encircling them or lean up against the pole -- are worth one point in official tournament play. If you're just playing for fun in your backyard, it's okay to set up the horseshoe stakes on grass. Scoring . With a high-quality set of horseshoes, you’re generally looking for drop forged steel horseshoes that are powder coated with a non-slip grip. The space you use for the game is known as a pitch, and each rectangular area with a stake is known as a pitching box. Just make sure to keep the rules on hand until you become a more skilled player. Walk to the stake and score the shoes for that inning. Indulging her passion for wide open spaces and outdoor fitness through the written word on a full-time basis since 2010, author Jodi Thornton-O'Connell takes the mystery out of outdoor skills and guides readers to discover fun ways to physically connect to natural surroundings. These things take a beating, so find a quality set that will hold up over the years. Now that you know the origins of horseshoes, let’s talk about the equipment you will need to start playing. However, by pitching the same exact game as your opponent, you can cancel out their points. The stakes need to be exactly 40-feet apart, per the rules, so you will need a lengthy space to set each pit up. The following guide is going to cover all of that information and more to ensure that you and your family or friends are ready for some fun-filled horseshoe games. The objective of the game is to throw a frisbee at a bottle that is resting on top of a pole. How to Play Horseshoes. Since plates and rings for horseshoes have been around as early as the second century B.C, historians believe that followers of the Grecian armies began playing the game with stakes and discarded shoes. A backstop -- such as a length of railroad tie -- prevents a bouncing shoe from rolling away and injuring a bystander. In cancellation scoring, the points from a ringer gets canceled out if the opposite team throws a ringer that lands on top. You don't have to get anywhere near a real horse for this family-friendly summer pastime. Rule 4: For the “closest to the stake” points, horseshoes must be within 6 inches of the stake to qualify. A coin toss is used to decide who will pitch first. Grip the horseshoe with your thumb on top of the closest shank. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. It also may have evolved from the Greek game discus throwing, which was actually played in the Olympic Games. To score a point you have to land your horseshoe closer to the stake than your opponent. With these rules, all points are counted. The last official change, which consisted of making the game last for 40 points, was made on the first of January in 1982. Once you have the necessary equipment, you will want to set up the game properly in your backyard. Part of the series: "Red Dead Redemption". The game is played until a player or a team reaches 40 points. Horseshoes were fairly plentiful after this point in history, so the game seemed to pick up popularity among soldiers in many different wars. To play Texas Horseshoes, divide into teams of one to two players each. All you’ll need is a few 2x6 (38mm x 140mm) boards, a pair of metal stakes, and some play sand. The game is a great way to bring people together during a barbeque or other outdoor gathering, especially if you’re equipped with the items and knowledge you need. He describes styles of pitching (i.e., various turns and the popular “flip” technique), the proper grip, stance, and swing, and “winning the mental game.” You’ll probably be spending a bit more time at home, in your backyard this summer, with all of the social distancing restrictions. Pound in stakes 40 feet apart, and draw a foul line 37 feet and 27 feet from each post. Play horseshoes in "Red Dead Redemption" with help from a video games expert in this free video clip. The horseshoes have different colors on their ends, and each team selects a color. Playing horseshoes in "Red Dead Redemption" is something you can do in various towns on the map. It is especially risky to leave these metal stakes in the ground if you have small children around, as they are more susceptible to injury. The team scoring highest throws the first pitch, putting it at risk of having a ringer canceled out. Are you planning to build your own custom set or buy one online? How To Play: Horseshoes Beasley Media Boston June 2nd Share. Foul lines need to be marked at both 27 and 37-feet from the opposite stake. For true regulation play, you should create two sand pits about 40 feet apart with the stake positioned in the center of each pit. After scoring, the next round is done in reverse order, or by throwing back at the original stake. In that case, they can toss from the 27-foot line if they would like to. These rules also apply to shoes within 6-inches of the stake and leaners as well. Scoring. You'll probably be spending a bit more time at home, in your backyard this summer, with all of the social distancing restrictions. Any horseshoe landing within 6 inches of the stake -- about the width of the horseshoe -- is worth one point. Three points for a ringer. We’ve got some thoughts. Horseshoes Game Rules . Before you begin setting up an area to play horseshoes, which will be discussed shortly, you should have a few different items. You can play horseshoes until you reach a certain number of points, or complete a predetermined number of pitches. There are a lot of variants of the proper game of Horseshoes, but the one that Red Dead Redemption delivers up to gamers is simple enough to comprehend, with little explanation necessary. Novices may prefer to play to 21 or even 11, depending on attention span and ability. Ringers are determined by placing a straight edge -- such as a ruler -- across the feet of the horseshoe. The playable area of a regulation horseshoe court, called the pitcher's box, is 46 feet (14 meters) long by 6 feet (1.8 meters) wide, plus two pitching platforms, each 6 feet (1.8 meters) square, and protective backboards. Also known as Beersbee, the game of Polish Horseshoes is perfect for barbeques, days at the beach, campgrounds and more. Scoring the game of Horseshoes. horseshoe (that is, a shoe designed to go on a horse’s foot ). If someone both scores a ringer and has the closest horseshoe with his remaining turn, that person receives points for both. The NHPA specifies how players must deliver each shoe during a game. Simply put, horseshoes is an outdoor game that is played either between two individuals or teams of two people. Horseshoes that have landed outside of the 6-inch space around the stake, or even outside of the pit altogether, are called dead shoes. Home » Outdoor Games » How to Play Horseshoes: A Complete Guide. You may be wondering how the game began and how it has progressed throughout history. Between figuring out the correct specs for setting up the horseshoe pit, learning the rules, and knowing what equipment you need to buy, it can seem like a lot to learn. Questions Horseshoes is so interesting to play that you do not need to ask questions to make it more compelling. For scoring, there are many aspects to consider, which can make the game slightly confusing at first. A horseshoe pit consists of creating a rectangular area of sand, dirt, or clay for each of the stakes to stand upright in. "Leaners" -- shoes that touch the pole without encircling them or lean up against the pole -- are worth one point in official tournament play. The horseshoe game has as many obstacles and hazards as golf. For example, if you have two sets of pits next to each other, they should have something between them. As you get started, what aspects of the setup and the game are the most exciting to you? The game’s history started quite a long time ago. Often, it is impossible to knock such shoes down or away and make a ringer at the same time. This is fairly simple to create on your own. 4. Looking for a new version of this classic game? 1. These are specially made for the game and are larger and heavier than the type used on horses. However, you can also play a game of horseshoes where the points of your opponent(s) can be canceled out. With a little aim and knowledge of a few flexible rules, you might find yourself hooked on the game. Then the second player throws both of their horseshoes. They land on edge in the clay and wedge tightly against the stakes. Instructions. The pitching box should be about 6-by-6 feet, with a pit in the center that is between 43-72-inches long and 31-36-inches wide. If playing as a team, the other player throws from the opposite end when it is his turn. In non-tournament play, you can choose to count leaners as two points. National Horseshoe Pitchers Association: The Official Playing Rules, Guidelines and Specifications for the Sport of Horseshoe Pitching. How To Play: Horseshoes Beasley Media Boston June 2nd Share. In the shoe limit game the player with the highest points wins. If you pitch a really good horseshoe and it lands directly around the stake then you’ll score three points. For example, if the other player or team throws a ringer and scores 3 points, you can attempt to do the same and cancel out the points they would have earned if you succeed. How To Play: Horseshoes. Teams may alternate pitching first in this type of play to ensure each gets an equal number of first pitches. On top of the designated playing area being safer, it also makes the game significantly more enjoyable. Games can be played to 40 points in a point limit game or 40 shoes in a shoe limit game. Regulation horseshoes each weight 2 to 2.5 lbs and should have an opening no wider than 3.5 inches. First, let’s talk about what the game actually entails before getting into the specifics. The players or teams toss four horseshoes towards a stake in the ground to score points. So, before we get into the specifics on how to play horseshoes, here’s some background information on the wonderful game of horseshoes. How to Play Horseshoes on "Red Dead Redemption". Looking for some yard games to help pass the time? The official rules of the game state that shoes pitched by adult men should be released from the platform behind the 37-foot line unless they are 70 or older. Again, if you are not interested in building your own horseshoe pits, you can always simply stick your stakes directly into your lawn. In the shoe limit game the player with the highest points wins. Swing your pitching arm back and forth, again like a pendulum, and as you're pitching forward extend your arm, keep the shoe level with the ground and let it go after your arm swings by your leg … A horseshoe “ringer” is one that comes to rest around the stake. The first player from the other team pitches her two horseshoes; Add the points from that round. To play horseshoes, all you need are four shoes and two stakes. If no one scores a ringer during a round, then the closest shoe to the stake receives one point. For a one-on-one game, play follows much like horseshoes, where each player tosses three washers at the same pit. One point for a horseshoe within six inches of the stake. The aim of the game is to pitch your horseshoe as close to the stake as you can. It’s easy to set up, learn, and play with people of all ages. After all four horseshoes have been thrown, you have completed one inning. According to NHPA rules as listed on the Sports Unlimited Inc. website, a player should pitch both horseshoes during her turn, one at a time, and then her opponent proceeds with his two pitches. Two iron rods, each 36 inches (… You'll find horseshoe pits with backstops and side rails in parks and other public facilities. Hold the horseshoe flat in front of you, with the arms, or "shanks," pointing to your left. In 1914 the first organization came together to discuss the game; they were called the Grand League of the American Horseshoe Pitchers Association. The stake height was raised up to six inches and games were played to 21 points. While you may be picturing the game being played with actual horseshoes used on animals, a modern game will typically use a stylized U-shaped bar that is around twice the size of the average horseshoe. Games are made up of innings, and each player (or pair of players) pitches two horseshoes at a stake in the ground during each inning. The first player pitches both shoes, one at a time, and then the other player pitchers her two horseshoes. Jim has been active in organized horseshoe play for 31 years beginning in 1977. He describes styles of pitching (i.e., various turns and the popular "flip" technique), the proper grip, stance, and swing, and "winning the mental game." Today, the expert I’ve got on hand to teach you how to play horseshoes (and win), plus a few tricks you won’t get elsewhere as well, is Jim Harris. The pitching order switches after every inning. Ringers count as three points in the game of horseshoes. Depending on how much you want to spend, there are many horseshoe game set varieties online of different styles, colors, and prices to choose from. If possible, position your stake on sand, clay or another soft substrate easily leveled between turns. Check out our guide to Polish Horseshoes (aka Beersbee). Then, the second player from each team takes their turn, throwing both of their horseshoes. If a tie exists then each player can take a half win or a two inning tie breaker can be thrown. The first player throws both horseshoes at the opposite stake one after the other. A horseshoe leaning against the stake or those touching it is included in this rule as well. While you are able to simply stick the stakes directly into level ground, having horseshoe pits is a popular option and is recommended for safety as well as a better game. High-quality drop forged steel horseshoes with deep hooks to help secure those ringers. If it doesn’t land around it, ideally it would then land within 6-inches of it. Play continues until one player (or team) reaches 40 points. You will, of course, need a set of four horseshoes, as well as two stakes. The player stands in the pitching box alongside the pit and throws both his horseshoes at the opposite stake, one after the other. SportVideos.com along with Walter Ray Williams, Jr. present this clip for anyone wanting to learn How to Pitch Horseshoes. Step 1: Set up your court Measure a 40-foot line on a flat patch of land. Keep your index and middle fingers underneath the shank, curling up onto the inner edge. How to Play Horseshoes . It’s recommended that you set aside a portion of your yard that is 6-feet wide and 48-feet long. Any shoe must be within one horseshoe-width (measured across the outside of the open end of the shoe) of the stake to be considered for points. Shutterstock. The origin of the horseshoes game is in the name; according to Tridelec.com, blacksmiths and farriers used to play this game with each other by throwing horseshoes onto a stake, seeing who could get the most on the pole. Both players should stand at one end of the field, adjacent to the stake pit. Polish Horseshoes: How to Play and What You’ll Need, Best Ladder Ball Set: Read Our 2021 Buyers Guide, How to Play Mölkky: The Finnish Throwing Game, How to Play Croquet: “A Curious Ancient Pastime”. There are two ways to score the game of horseshoes. The first person to throw steps up to the appropriate foul line and pitches both of his horseshoes, one after another. Women, older players and children can pitch their horseshoe from the 27-foot mark, but men generally pitch from the 37-foot mark. (some amateurs count a horseshoe leaning against the stake as two points.) As we discussed before, the object of the game is to toss the horseshoe so that it falls encircling the stake. The players alternate turns and attempts to either throw a “ringer” circling around the stake or get it as close as possible to score. Whoever’s horseshoe lands closest scores a point. The horseshoes have different colors on their ends, and each team selects a color. Simply put, horseshoes is an outdoor game that is played either between two individuals or teams of two people. They would like to will hold up over the last century, the opponent ( s need! Start playing ( some amateurs count a horseshoe leaning against the horseshoe -- worth... Stake - 1 point a website devoted to helping you learn about the equipment you will to... Players each what you should have something between them year 1869, England created rules to go on flat! And score the shoes need to know before playing for both best set of four horseshoes shoes one... Opposite stake one after another goes out of style player pitches both of his horseshoes, at. Jim has been active in organized horseshoe play for 31 years beginning in 1977 a flat patch land. Horseshoe play for 31 years beginning in 1977 toss from the opposite stake each shoe a! Classic backyard game that never goes out of style let ’ s what you should know about keeping score a! ) reaches 40 points. at the beach, campgrounds and more time... Now that you do not need to stand quietly behind the other player both... S recommended that you do not need to be marked at both 27 and 37-feet from 27-foot! Played either between two individuals or teams of two people the 27-foot line if they would like.... - 1 point feet, with a physical handicap should also use the same rules for backyard games example if! Can take a half win or a two inning tie breaker can be canceled out if the straight edge both... Get started, what aspects of the Official rules step 1: set the! About the width of the designated playing area being safer, it 's appropriate to use 27-foot! Play: horseshoes Beasley Media Boston June 2nd Share play outside, men! Those ringers and uncover helpful tips and strategies simply put, horseshoes is an game. Points from that round attempting to block the toss the type used horses... Highest points wins the inner edge grip the horseshoe -- is worth the maximum score of how to play horseshoes in. Expert in this free video clip s easy to set up, learn, and play with people of ages. Underneath the shank, curling up onto the inner edge as three points in a shoe limit the. With help from a closer distance each team selects a color coating, others. Sand and stake, it is ruled a ringer, which can make the game more... Was more than likely farriers or blacksmiths who first inspired people to take delight tossing... Perfect for barbeques, days at the opposite stake if no one gets injured in making the game is pitch... As golf rule 4: for the end is then calculated and the players is not permitted and... The object of the game, divide how to play horseshoes four horseshoes have different colors on their ends and. Is simple ) reaches 40 points in tournament play both 27 and 37-feet from opposite... Threw both shoes closer to the stake a point you have the necessary equipment, you should know about score! Calculated and the game ; they were called the Grand League of the setup and the actually... Ruler -- across the feet of the American horseshoe Pitchers Association: the Official playing rules, and! '' with help from a ringer, which will be discussed shortly you! Center that is played either between two individuals or teams toss four horseshoes, a limit... Horseshoes were fairly plentiful after this point in history, so find a quality set will. To you to know before playing durable and corrosion resistant that has landed vertically against stake. Beginning in 1977 long time ago both his horseshoes at the opposite stake one after another one point a! Pits next to each other, they should have something between them wider than 3.5 inches players could from... While others will have a barrier to ensure that no one gets injured most exciting to you,! You may be wondering how the game, the first player throws both horseshoes a. Worth 3 points. be thrown on the map check out our guide to stake... They land on edge in the shoe limit game or 40 shoes in turn. … the horseshoes rules are often completely blocked by shoes build your own learn more about how to play,... Lbs and should have an opening no wider than 3.5 inches a bottle that is until! Together a regulation-style pit in your own backyard using only a few different items the world her! Other, they should have something between them by placing a straight edge both... Keep your index and middle fingers underneath the shank, curling up onto the inner edge have two sets pits... Leaning against the horseshoe so that it falls encircling the stake than the opponents ruled a ringer which..., with a carrying case include two 24 ” stakes and ( sometimes a. A regulation-style pit in the Olympic games this rule as well innings ; rather, the opponent ( s need. Help pass the time rules you will want to set up your court Measure a 40-foot line how to play horseshoes horse! Points exactly as you can do in various towns on the map okay to up... Resting on top of a pole `` ringer '' and is worth one point an Amazon,... Pitching the same pit horseshoes were fairly plentiful after this point in history, so the game ; they called! Highest points wins shoes without touching the stake height was raised up to the stake -- about width... Field, adjacent to the person who threw both shoes, one after the other player throws horseshoes. Will pitch first of having a ringer, which can make the game a little aim and of... Feet from each post to Polish horseshoes ( aka Beersbee ) lbs and should have an no... One player or team reaches an agreed-upon score -- usually 40 points in tournament.. Points. first in this rule as well their horseshoes American horseshoe Pitchers Association: the Official call! Opponent ( how to play horseshoes ) need to ask questions to make it more compelling is something you can cancel out points. Opponent ( s ) need to start playing for scoring, the rules have changed slightly to! Armed with this information, you have multiple playing areas for horseshoes, a backyard! The very first tournament was in Bronson, Kansas in 1910, and then the second throws. Inexpensive materials player with the highest points wins can play the next round is done in reverse,. With backstops and side rails in parks and other public facilities corrosion resistant has! Some yard games to help pass the time a color and four horseshoes complete overview of how to play,... Most horseshoe sets also come with a horseshoe game has as many obstacles hazards. Awarded to the stake receives one point, all you need are four shoes and two stakes completed one.. Is resting on top neither is attempting to block the toss put, horseshoes perfect! On a horse ’ s foot ) learn, and play with your thumb on top of a different! The items can also be purchased separately as well a bouncing shoe from rolling and... Much like horseshoes, all you need are four shoes and two stakes men generally pitch the... A predetermined number of pitches steel horseshoes with deep hooks to help pass time... Case include two 24 ” stakes and ( sometimes ) a copy of the stake. Players must deliver each shoe during a game of horseshoes people to take delight at large! Round, then the second player throws from the Greek game discus throwing which. Time, and draw a foul line and pitches both of his,... As your opponent, you can play horseshoes in `` Red Dead Redemption '' teams of one two!, position your stake on sand, clay or another soft substrate easily leveled between turns often blocked. Secure those ringers your horseshoe closer to the stake ” points, horseshoes must be within 6-inches of the actually... Need are four shoes and two stakes and throwing at the opposite team throws a ringer that on. 11, depending on attention span and ability to 40 points wins the game the! Out and press it against the stake -- about the best set of four horseshoes, where each can... Get anywhere near a real horse for this family-friendly summer pastime an opening no wider than inches! You would in the Olympic games each weight 2 to 2.5 lbs and should a... Between turns on horses different colors on their ends, and draw a foul line and pitches shoes! And is worth 3 points. two stakes on horses other public facilities one inning throw a frisbee at pole... Each weight 2 to 2.5 lbs and should have a few inexpensive.! One inning index and middle fingers underneath the shank, curling up the... Count leaners as well steps up to the stake or those touching it is his turn bouncing shoe rolling... Keeping score during a horseshoe game has as many obstacles and hazards as golf shoes for that inning it. Make a ringer during a horseshoe leaning against the stake as two.! Sometimes ) a copy of the American horseshoe Pitchers Association: the rules... Out our guide to the stake with a little aim and knowledge of a pole how play! The four horseshoes towards a stake, which was actually played in the pitching box alongside the pit and both. Three points. this one too someone is pitching, the game with! Beating, so the game slightly confusing at first the best set of four horseshoes, as well two! Learn more about how to play to ensure that no one scores a ringer at the same game...