Hoof (ponie):
The term hoof describes the keratin covered ending of the limbs.
We distinguish between front- and backhooves, according to the leg they're attached to.

Fronthooves:
The fronthooves are considered the secondary manipulators after the mouth. Unlike dragons or griffons, ponies don't have opposable digits, instead the fronthoof is split into two "toes". While those toes lack the dexterity of claws, they can still be used to grab smaller objects. The flexibility of those toes changes from ponie to ponie, but normally the tip of the hooves can't be spread at all, while the backside may be spread to up to 1.5 times the hoof's diameter.

Backhooves:
The backhooves are usually sturdier than the fronthooves, and are considered the "standing" hooves. The keratin cover over the backhooves is thicker than on the fronthooves and isn't split into two. This has lead to the backhooves being used whenever huge amounts of force are needed (see Applebucking and Hoof-to-Hoof-combat). Seldomly a pony is born with Split backhooves, with varying degrees of flexibility; this is a caused by a slight genetic defect and is harmless.


Hoofshakes and other contact of the hooves is generally considered a sign of trust, since it forces you to stand in the unstable position on three legs.
In some secluded unicorn societies however the hoof is considered dirty and it's frowned upon to use them instead of using levitation.