Before they take their first wobbly steps, newborn foals are born wearing delicate coverings that horse lovers call “fairy fingers” or “golden slippers.” The scientific term is eponychium—a soft, rubbery layer that cushions each tiny hoof before birth. This natural design has an important purpose. Inside the womb, these “slippers” prevent the foal’s hooves from injuring the mare’s uterus. During birth, they protect the birth canal from being scratched or torn. Soon after birth, the eponychium dr