Learning how to ride horses is an exciting endeavor, but one that requires careful consideration when it comes to selecting the appropriate tack and equipment. The bond between a rider and their horse is a unique and profound connection, and choosing the right gear plays a vital role in ensuring both the rider's comfort and the horse's well-being. In this comprehensive equestrian gear guide, we'll dive into the essential factors to consider when selecting tack and equipment, helping you make informed choices that contribute to a successful riding experience.

The Foundation: Understanding Tack

Tack is defined as the collection of equipment used for riding and handling horses, forming the foundation of a rider's connection with their equine partner. The right tack ensures clear communication and minimizes discomfort for both horse and rider. Let's explore the key components of equestrian tack:

1. Bridle and Bit- The bridle is a critical piece of tack, consisting of the headstall, bit, and reins. The bit is placed in the horse's mouth and is essential for controlling and communicating with the horse. Different bits have varying levels of severity and pressure, so it's crucial to choose one that suits your horse's temperament and riding style.

2. Saddle-The saddle is perhaps the most significant piece of equestrian equipment. It provides support and balance for the rider while distributing their weight evenly on the horse's back. Consider factors such as saddle size, type, and fit to ensure both rider and horse comfort. When a rider chooses the wrong saddle for their horse it can cause the horse discomfort in their back which can potentially lead to injuries.

3. Girth- The girth, or cinch, secures the saddle to the horse's belly and ensures stability while riding. Proper girth fit is essential to prevent discomfort and allow for natural movement.

4. Stirrups and Stirrup Leathers- Stirrups provide a stable platform for the rider's feet and assist in balance and control. Stirrup leathers are adjustable straps that hold the stirrups in place, and their length affects rider leg position.

5. Martingales and Breastplates- Martingales and breastplates are optional pieces of tack that aid in rider control and horse comfort. They help prevent the horse from raising its head too high or ensure the saddle stays in place.

Selecting the Right Equipment

Choosing the right equestrian gear goes beyond basic tack. Various accessories and equipment enhance both the rider's safety and the horse's well-being. Here are some crucial items to consider:

1. Riding Helmet- Safety should always be a top priority. A well-fitting riding helmet is essential to protect the rider's head in case of falls or accidents. Look for helmets that meet safety standards and provide a comfortable fit.

2. Riding Apparel-Comfortable and appropriate clothing is key to an enjoyable riding experience. Opt for riding breeches or jodhpurs, a well-fitted riding shirt, and proper riding boots with a low heel to prevent slipping.

3. Protective Gear- For added protection, consider wearing gloves to improve grip on the reins and reduce friction. Riding gloves can also prevent blisters and calluses. Additionally, a riding vest or body protector can provide extra safety, especially for beginners or when riding young or spirited horses.

4. Horse Boots and Wraps- To protect your horse's legs from injuries and strains, invest in quality boots or wraps. Depending on your horse's needs, you can choose between various types, such as splint boots, bell boots, or tendon boots.

5. Saddle Pads- Saddle pads offer cushioning and protection for the horse's back while preventing friction. Choose a saddle pad that fits well under your saddle and suits the type of riding you do.

Making Informed Choices

When it comes to selecting equestrian gear, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Each horse and rider partnership is unique, and individual preferences, riding styles, and horse temperaments must be considered. To ensure you're making the best choices for you and your equine companion, keep the following tips in mind:

1. Professional Guidance- Seek advice from experienced equestrians, trainers, or tack experts. Their insights can provide invaluable guidance in selecting gear that suits your needs.

2. Fit Matters- Proper fit is crucial for both rider and horse. Ill-fitting tack can lead to discomfort, pain, and even injury. Take the time to measure and try on different options to ensure a comfortable fit for both you and your horse.

3. Quality Over Quantity- Invest in high-quality gear that will stand the test of time. Well-crafted tack and equipment may come at a higher initial cost, but they offer better performance, durability, and safety in the long run.

4. Regular Maintenance- Proper maintenance and care of your tack and equipment extend their lifespan and ensure safe and effective use. Clean and condition leather regularly, inspect for wear and tear, and replace worn-out items promptly.

Selecting the right equestrian tack and equipment is a significant step in creating a positive and enjoyable riding experience for both horse and rider. With a thorough understanding of the essential components of tack and the various equipment options available, you can make informed choices that contribute to the safety, comfort, and well-being of you and your equine partner. Remember, equestrian gear is an investment in your riding journey, fostering a strong bond and successful partnership between rider and horse.

 If you have any questions about the tack, equipment needed or any other questions about riding, send us an email on our contact form and we will help you out

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    These five tips are super simple and easy to learn. If you are in this sport you will always want to be bigger and better than the others around you. This is just our human competitive nature. Some riders will progress faster than others but if you can master these five things you may become better in some aspects than others. 

1. Be a good listener- This is by far the most important thing about the equestrian sport. If you are taking lessons you are paying someone for their time and knowledge so it is supper important to be a good listener. If we do not listen to our trainers and superiors you may not get better. This world is always changing and evolving so things can change over time. It is important to get different training techniques and practice to see which one works best for you. Being a good listener also means being an attentive listener to your horse. Though our horses do not speak english they will speak to us in other ways we just have to listen. 

2. Have a work ethic- Equestrian sports are not easy nor cheap so you better have a good work ethic. Almost everyone I know in this industry has been a working student. It is important to work alongside farm staff or trainers so you can appreciate all the things that are done to make this all happen smoothly. It is also important to be self driven and motivated to get better. If you are having a lesson and only using 50% of your physical/mental ability you will have a hard time advancing in the long run. Now you will have good rides and bad rides but it is important to get on and plan to do the best you can. My biggest pet peeve is when someone is complaining the entire time we are having a lesson. Work  hard and see the end results

3. Be responsible-This sport taught me responsibility at a very young age. There are alot of moving parts in this industry so it is important to know what is going on with you and around you. This also taught me how to own up to my mistakes. If you have done something wrong that could potentially put others in harm it is important to own up to your mistakes and ask how you can fix it. Horses are not cheap so if you are lucky enough to ride other people's horses it is of the most importance to be responsible with other people's personal property. Treat things as if they were your own. 

4. Be nice to other- The horse world we are in today has been cruel and rude. It is important to be kind and generous to others. We all may not be able to afford the nicest things so it is important to keep others personal lives in mind. Every barn will have drama. It is just something we can not get around but it is very important to be the bigger person and not get involved no matter how much we would like to. I do not know a single person that wants to go to a barn where there is tension. Be nice to your fellow barn mates, riding instructors, staff and fellow competitors. We all have personal things going on that you may not know of. 

    If you can successfully master all of these techniques you may see a change in the person you are and the rider you will become. Remember to always be kind and offer a helping hand when you can. These will take you a very long way!

If you have any questions about these tip to becoming a successful rider or any other questions about riding, send us an email on our contact form and we will help you out

    If you are new to the horse community there are some things you will need to learn before going to the barn. Horses are animals so they think, feel, and behave all on their own terms. It is important to know how to act around these animals to ensure your safety. Horses are flight animals which means when they are scared or frightened they are quick to turn around and run in the opposite direction. It is important for us as humans to keep this in mind and act calm around them to make them feel safe.

1. Use a friendly tone of voice- When we are around horses they pick up on our body language and our tone of voice just like small children or dogs do. Horses may not speak our language but they definitely understand us. When we use an aggressive tone of voice the horse might be weary of our actions and start to get nervous. Talk in a calm tone of voice to or around horses. 

2. Pay attention to the horses body language- In my intro I mentioned that horses are flight animals so if you noticed that a horse is getting nervous quickly but calmly grab a more experienced person to help calm the horse. You can tell if a horse is nervous or frightened when they start talking (neighing), moving their feet around (dancing), if they are swaying their head back and forth or they are sweating profusely. If you see any of these signs do not approach the horse because it might lead to the horse acting out in fear

3. Create a calm and positive atmosphere- When we are in a rush we tend to run around. Running around horses can make them nervous because in the wild if part of their herd is running they start to join in and run in the same direction. They are smart and quick to flee the scene. This is why It is important to walk calmly when near them. 

4. Be strong and confident-When we are confident around horses it makes them feel safe and unfearful. Horses are herd animals and we turned them into pets and companions. We became part of their herd so they see you as an equal. If we are fearful or frightened over something the horse may sense your fear and act out. Be confident when you are around them and it will rub off on them. 

5. Always let the horse know where you are- Horses do not have the best line of vision and this is because their eyes are placed on the side of their heads. Horses can not see what is behind them unless they turn their head. When walking up to a horse it is important to use your voice so they can hear where you are coming from. Sneaking up on a horse can be very dangerous and can lead to serious injuries. If you are close up, guide your hand all the way around the horse so they can sense where you are at. If you are new to a horse, never walk directly behind them; their first instinct is to kick with both their back legs.

Before you go to a barn or get near horses make sure you do research on how they communicate and think. It is important to be safe around these animals at all times because they are bigger than us and injure or kill us within seconds. 

If you have any questions about how to be safe around horses or any other questions about riding, send us an email on our contact form and we will help you out

     Have you ever thought about owning your own horse but not quite sure how much it cost? I will start off brutally honest with saying; it is NOT cheap!! In today's blog I will give you a run down of all the things you need to own a horse and a rough estimate of how much they cost. Prices will depend on your area, where you choose to board your horse and what kind of horse you get. Today the numbers will reflect on a full grown horse; not a pony. 

     Board is where you will keep the horse. You can keep them on your property if you have a barn or a big enough pasture or you can choose to keep them on someone else’s farm for a fee. There are different kinds of board: full board, field board and self care board full board will cost anywhere around $400-$1200 a month. Field board will cost you around $200-$500 a month and self care will cost you around $100-$250 a month. It is important to do research on the farm you would like to keep your horse at so you can ensure your horse is getting proper care. 

     All animals have to eat just like us. Horses eat about 20 pounds and drink about 8 gallons of water In one day. If your horse is on field board they might need a round bale that will cost about $40-$120 a bale. If your horse is in a stall they will need square bales with flakes; those will cost about $3-$20 a bale depending on what kind of hay you get. Your horse might also need grain or normal feed. A 50lb bag will cost you $15-$60 a bag depending on the feed. If your horse needs supplements you might be spending $15-$300 a month on supplements. 

 Horses' hooves grow just like our fingernails do but unfortunately you can not trim horses feet with nail clippers; you will need to call a farrier. Horses need to see the farrier every 4-8 weeks. A normal trim will cost you $30-$50 and shoes will be around $80-$250 depending on what kind of shoes and how many they need. The farrier will tell you if your horse needs shoes or not.

     Every year we are supposed to go to the doctor for a yearly check up, horses need the same kind of care. If you plan on taking your horse off property you will need to do a yearly coggins test and vaccination. Vaccinations will cost you $65-$100 and they are supposed to be done twice a year. A coggins test will cost you $20-$100 and that must be done once a year. Routine maintenance without emergencies will be around $350-$600 depending on if your horse needs special treatments such as injections. Everytime the vet comes out to your property you have to cover a call fee that will be about $35-$75 depending on how far you live away from the vet. 

     If you bought a horse so you can ride and potentially show it you might be looking for lessons. There are three kinds of lessons you can do; group, semi group or private lessons are offered but almost every trainer. Group lessons will cost $40-$70 an hour. Semi groups will cost $50-$80 an hour and private lessons will cost you $65-$120 an hour depending on each trainer. It is typical to take lessons twice a week but you and your trainer can discuss this and see what works best for you. 

 These are just a few things that horses need in order to be happy and healthy. Make sure you do research in your area to see what works for you and your budget. Remember horses are family and we want them to be as comfortable and healthy as possible. 

If you have any questions about what it costs to own your own horse or any other questions about riding, send us an email on our contact form and we will help you out.

    Whether it's you own a horse or you just ride you probably have accumulated some items and want to keep them at the barn. A tack trunk or box is the easiest way to keep all of your items safe and organized. In today's blog I will go offer the items you will need to keep in your trunk/box. I will split it into two categories; Horse and rider.

For yourself the rider you will need quite a lot of items. You do not have to have all of these items but get what you can.

For The rider:

• Water bottle in case you forget to bring one.

• Hair brush for before and after you ride.

• Gloves (if you use them)

• Mirror so you can catch all your fly aways.

• White board in case you need to keep track of exercises or horses.

• Extra hairnets

• Boot polish and brushes

• Helmet 

• Boots

• Sunscreen in the summertime 

• Medication (advil/allergy)

• Tampons and pads

    These are just a few items you can have in your tack trunk/box. If you have any more suggestions please shoot me an email, I would love to hear them!

Now for your horse you may need even more items! If you own a horse you may need all these items but if you do not you only need the first 11 items but you can get all even though you might own the horses because it’s always nice to be prepared. Some barns will only allow you to use their stuff so it's important to ask before you run out and buy these items.

For The Horse:

• Saddle (if needed)

• Bridle (if needed) 

• Grooming kit 

• Horse treats

• Halter

• Boots and polos

• Spurs/crop

• Half pad 

• Square pad

• Cleaning supplies (tack, horse and all purpose)

• Martingale (if needed)

• Fly sheet and mask

• Horse blankets/scrims

• Horse medication 

    Some of the items are crucial to have and some are not. Make a list of what you might need so you can have a gameplan before you run to the store. Another item that will help you stay organized would be bins and a label maker in case you have more than one horse or you are sharing a space. If you have any suggestions please send me an email so i can add it to my tack trunk!!

If you have any questions about what to have in your tack trunk/box or any other questions about riding, send us an email on our contact form and we will help you out.

    Searching for a new farm to train at or to board your horse can be very scary for some. You might ask yourself; What exactly am I looking for, What should I look for in the facility, What do I need as a ride or what does my child need to succeed in this career. There are four important things to look for that will help you get started in your search.

    The first and most important thing is safety. Does this barn feel like a safe environment? This means the horses are well behaved in and outside of their stalls or paddocks. Are there dangerous items lying around where my child or I might get hurt. Now with that last statement keep in mind that it is a running farm it is not 110% childproof. Are the trainers and staff keeping an eye on things while doing other tasks?

Safety is always top priority in every barn so make sure the barn owns up to their word.

    Quality training is also very important especially if you have a small child or you need one on one training. When in a training season the trainer should have full attention on her students. The trainer should not be on her phone or chatting with parents; these tasks can be done after the lesson is over. 

    A quality facility is also important. I'm not saying they need to have white glove walls or a covered/indoor arena. They do in fact need to have clean stalls, clean water buckets, clean tack up area, and well fed horses. The trainer or owner should have pride in their facility and lesson program. 

    Cost is also very important. This sport is NOT cheap so please keep this in mind in your search. In some areas you will pay top dollar for quality care but this is because keeping a top facility open is not cheap. You get what you pay for. If you have a horse that is low maintenance look for a facility that has field board. If you have a high maintenance horse look for a full care facility. You want to be able not to worry about your family members if you are not able to come out everyday. Lesson cost will also vary by facility and level of the trainer. If you have a highly experienced trainer you will pay top dollar. Do some research and ask around to see if the barn or trainer is going to be the right fit for you. Take your time and do not rush into things. You may need to visit the barn several times before making a decision. 

If you have any questions about what to look for in a new barn or any other questions about riding, send us an email on our contact form and we will help you out.

There are some things you need to know before jumping in the car and racing to the barn to your first lesson. In today's blog we will talk about what to expect, how to be safe and what proper clothing and footwear you need to wear.

    Starting out with what you should expect on your first day, there are lots of things that will happen in just an hour. When you arrive at the barn it is smart to meet the horse you will be riding and start to form a bond with them before you even get on. You can do this by petting them and talking to them. Now they might not understand English but they will definitely understand your tone of voice. Once you and the horse have met you will now begin the grooming process, you may need to read up on the proper ways to groom in my previous post, grooming will also help you bond with the horse. When the horse is all clean you may ask the trainer to show you the proper tack. Once you have gathered your saddle pads, saddle, girth and bridal you may ask the trainer to show you how to properly tack up the horse. After the horse is all tacked up you must now put on a helmet that is snug but not too tight and make sure the strap is adjusted appropriately. Once you are on the horse the trainer will now step you through the basic steps.

    Horses can be very dangerous animals so it is important to understand what makes them angry, upset or nervous and what signs they show to portray their emotions. The most common one comes from their ears, if their ears are pinned back they are showing aggression. It is important to reassure them and calm them back down with a calming voice and slow movements. The second sign is biting, if the horse is biting make sure to take a few steps back so they don't get a taste test. The third sign is kicking, if the horse kicks out (usually with their back feet) make sure you are in a safe space and away from the hind end. These are just a few signs to tell if the horse is becoming dangerous. Now if the trainer or owner of the horses says that he is a kicker make sure you don't walk behind them and if you do it is a safe distance from their back end. Now this all may seem scary and unsettling but barns first responsibility is their clients safety, so no need to be scared or hesitate about going to your first lesson.

    Now on to my favorite part, what should you wear. When riding we normally wear special clothes to help us with our riding. Now we don't expect you to run out and get all these clothes on the first ride but there are some items that you might have in your closet. You will need jeans that don't have any holes in them, any kind of shirt that isn't super loose (like a T-shirt), and last but definitely not least boots with about a one inch heel. Your shoes are very important, the heel will help you keep your foot in the stirrup. Once you have completed your first ride and you would like to stick with it you can then go and purchase a pair of breeches. My personal favorite are the ones located on Bvequine.com. You will also need a pair of paddock boots (leather ankle zip up boots) with half chaps. Full chaps are almost like full chaps that you see on western movies but half chaps just go around your calf. Now there is another option for footwear which would be tall boots, but it can get pricey so I would wait awhile before you go out and purchase them. Another item you can purchase would be gloves they really tie in your whole look.

If you have any questions about what to bring to your first lesson or any other questions about riding, send us an email on our contact form and we will help you out.