Ever wondered what it would be like to get about on hooves?
Thanks to leg extensions developed by Seattle-based artist Kim Graham, anyone can get around on a pair of lookalike equine legs.
The spring-loaded cloven hooves are an optional extra for Graham's "Digitigrade" leg extensions.
The extensions are proving popular, with the waiting list now stretching beyond two months.
Graham told Horsetalk she is seeking the help of a fabrication workshop to speed up production.
The custom-fitted, hand-made units cost $US750 to $US780, with the hooves adding a further $US200.
For added equine realism, you can even add some hair to your overall ensemble.
"We have a wonderful costumer who can made the additional fur costume to order," says Graham.
The leg extensions come in three sizes, with medium fitting about 80 per cent of people.
She says it takes 10 to 15 minutes to learn to walk comfortably in them. "If you snowboard, it takes about 15 seconds!" Graham explains.
"Level surfaces are easy. Sharp inclines are difficult and stairs are downright touchy.
"A brisk walk is best, running is very hard."
Graham says she can wear them about five hours, but a planned improvement should allow eight hours of comfortable wear.
"A whole different set of muscles are used when walking in these. The muscle across the front of the shin fatigues first, as does the top of the foot."
The extensions, made from steel, steel cable, foam, and rigid plastic, weigh about three kilograms each, with the hooves adding about half a kilogram to each leg.
Wearers will stand about 35cm (14 inches) taller than normal.
Graham says it takes about 60 seconds to get in and out of them. "It's best to do this at bar-stool height because you are so much taller."
"If you want a fur costume built around your leg extension, we might need to modify the design somewhat. With our fur it takes an additional three minutes to get into and out of the set."
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