Backing up, not what I want!

Yeah, I haven't been pulling back, I have tried to squeeze my legs to make him go forward and full on kicking him but that didn't work he just keeps backing. No I don't think there is ice underneath that snow. No he is barefoot. I know its weird he doesn't want to go towards the barn. I haven't had him that long to know if he has had a bad experience. I know the his old owner doesn't ride very much in the winter time though. He is blind in one so something might be looking weird going up the hill.

Palomine: He has had the saddle and everything since I got him. I do know I need a thicker pad and I'm actually ordering one. But we have been up and down REALLY steep hills this past summer/fall. He could be unsure of the footing, I think he might be thinking its much deeper than it is and he has trouble with deep snow. I cleaned out his sheath about a month and a half ago or so.

Ihave the exact same problem with a mare that I am riding. She freezes and then quickly backs up the hill that she refuses to go down. I have already got used to steering her backwards turning her around and backing her down the hill. It gets us past, but doesnt stop her doing exactly the same thing every time at that exact point. How can I break the habit and simply ride her down the hill without having to go through the whole scene every time? Any tips anyone?