While it’s true that wild horses manage to survive in nature without the benefit of modern equestrian equipment, that’s hardly an adequate benchmark to refer to when talking about the care of domesticated horses. Whenever horses come to rely on humans for basic needs such as food and shelter, they obviously lose some of their hardiness and survival skills in the process—including, in some cases, the ability to withstand subzero temperatures without discomfort.

If you’re still on the fence when it comes to horse blankets, at least consider their use for the following:

• Clipped horses. Horses that are kept clipped throughout the winter for shows, competitions, or grooming convenience no longer derive warmth from natural insulation and must therefore get it from equestrian equipment such as a turnout blanket or turnout sheet.
• Old, sick, or frail horses. If your animal falls into one of these categories, it will not be able to defend itself against the cold as well one that is young and healthy. Old, sick, or frail horses should be outfitted with horse blankets to help make up for their physical deficiencies.
• Relocated horses. Horses that have spent a lot of time in milder climates may have trouble adjusting to colder temperatures after relocation. As a result, they may need the help of equestrian equipment to stay comfortable until they get acclimated to harsh winter weather.

Even if you don’t want to use a blanket on a daily basis, you should keep a couple in the barn for snowy or rainy days. When a horse’s winter coat gets wet, it is unable to trap body heat as efficiently, which then leads to discomfort. Water-resistant equestrian equipment makes a big difference in keeping horses warm and dry, and can allow your animal to go out even on wet days.

Although there’s no definitive answer to the blanket debate, there are clearly many instances where using horse blankets can be beneficial to the health, comfort, and overall well-being of your animal. Responsible owners should take these factors into consideration and make the right choice for their horses.

Determining whether or not you should purchase this kind of equestrian equipment for your animal largely comes down to the type of riding you most often engage in. For example, if you participate in barrel racing or another kind of sport where horses could benefit from extra leg support or are at risk of high-speed impacts, then boots are a necessity. Similarly, if you routinely ride along trails with thick, dense underbrush, then having boots and other appropriate horse tack can save your animal from nicks, scrapes, and cuts.

Let’s take a look at some of the most common types of protective boots so you can decide if it would be in your horse’s best interest to buy this equestrian equipment.

• Bell boots. These boots cover the ankle only and are most often used to protect the coronet band and heel bulb against overreach, cross-over interference, and similar gait problems.
• Splint boots. Splint boots are used to protect the splint, fetlock, and tendon areas from impact and debris. These are often used for trail riding and other applications where protection is needed, but extra support is not.
• Skid boots. These boots protect the fetlock against potential injury due to the sudden stops prevalent in barrel racing, calf roping, reining, and similar sports. If you intend to participate in these activities, then consider skid boots an essential element of your horse tack.
• Sport boots. Sport boots are all-purpose boots that provide ligament and tendon support and protection for a variety of riding activities. They are most appropriate for shows, cross country events, and rides that will take you and your animal over uneven, slippery, or rocky terrain.
• Shipping boots. If you frequently transport your horses, you’ll want to invest in good shipping boots. This kind of equestrian equipment protects the knees, fetlocks, coronary bands, and pasterns against possible impact and injury during travel.

Making sure you have all the necessary horse tack to protect your animal and enhance performance is part of the responsibility that comes with being a good owner. If you engage in any kind of riding that leaves your horse’s legs particularly vulnerable to injury, then you should look into buying a couple of good pairs of protective boots and remember to use them regularly.

The main thing you have to realize is that not all blankets and sheets serve the same purpose, so they cannot be treated interchangeably. Therefore, prior to spending any money on this type of equestrian equipment, it’s important to understand what each product is designed to do so you can decide whether or not it will help your animal. Read on to learn a few basic facts about coolers, quarter sheets, and other popular blanket styles.

• Coolers. Horses that have worked up a good sweat in winter need help cooling down at a slow, steady rate so as not to end up with stiff or sore muscles. Coolers, which are typically made of wool or other moisture-wicking fabric, are designed for this purpose. They are usually worn during the cool-down walk after other horse tack has been removed.
• Quarter sheets. These products are meant to be used with horse tack and provide coverage from the animal’s shoulders to the hip to keep muscles warm. They are worn under or hooked to the saddle, and are commonly used on horses that have to stand still for long periods of time in cold weather or that are awaiting their turn in competition.
• Turnout blankets. Horses that are clipped for shows no longer have the benefit of natural insulation against the cold and must therefore wear thick turnout blankets when the mercury drops. Turnout blankets are made of durable, heavy-duty materials to provide extra warmth and water-resistance.
• Turnout sheets. These are similar to turnout blankets, but are of lighter weight so they can be used when a full blanket would be too hot.
• Stable sheets. Stable sheets are most often used to keep horses clean in the barn after bathing and grooming. Some owners also use them for a bit of extra protection while transporting their horses.
• Fly sheets. A fly sheet, which is an essential piece of equestrian equipment in the summertime, protects your animal from biting flies and other pests. Some models are even treated with insect repellent so you don’t have to buy additional sprays.

Although all the pieces of equestrian equipment highlighted here perform different functions, each product was designed with your animal’s health and well-being in mind. The next time you shop for horse tack, pick up the blanket or sheet that best suits your current seasonal needs.

To make winter riding more bearable, you need special equestrian apparel that is designed to protect you from harsh elements. When you’re warm and comfortable, you’ll be better able to focus on more important things, such as your form, technique, and ability to handle equestrian equipment properly.

When building your wardrobe of winter equestrian apparel, we suggest picking out your favorite products from these categories:

Inners

Inners are meant to be worn under your regular breeches and riding shirt. They are typically made from lightweight materials with moisture-wicking properties to keep your skin dry even as you sweat. Our TuffRider CoolMax inner shirt and matching breeches deliver this kind of performance, and are therefore an excellent choice for winter.

Riding shirts

Riding shirts can be worn with or without an inner, depending on how much protection you need your equestrian apparel to provide. If you use an inner, then you can get away with a relatively lightweight riding shirt; if not, then you’ll probably want to choose a shirt that’s a bit more substantial. Turtlenecks are particularly well-suited to winter riding because of the way they block the wind and provide extra warmth around your neck. We have several TuffRider winter turtlenecks that would be perfect for the colder months.

Winter breeches

The key to good winter breeches is a fleece lining that is capable of trapping body heat without being so bulky as to inhibit motion or prevent you from feeling your equestrian equipment when mounted. The Sit Tight N Warm product line from Kerrits is popular with many of our customers not only because of the soft and comfortable lining, but also because each pair features an exterior made of Polartec Wind  Pro to keep you toasty even on the most blustery days.

Another terrific option is the TuffRider Active Soft Shell Full Seat Breeches. These four-way stretch breeches maintain breathability even as they protect you from wind, water, and cold.

Outerwear

Additional equestrian apparel such as a jacket, gloves, and lined boots will complete your winter riding habit and prepare you to face the cold. Our TuffRider Unifleece vest is a great way to top off a turtleneck and inner, while our thermally insulated TuffRider winter riding gloves will keep your fingers warm without sacrificing your ability to handle horse equipment.

We also sell several models of fully lined and insulated tall riding boots, as well as many different waterproof winter paddock boots to ensure that your feet receive proper protection too. Our TuffRider Snow Rider Lace Up Paddock Boot is a top seller because of its DuPont insulation, PU waterproof membrane, and boa fleece, all of which combine to keep you warm and dry even in the worst weather conditions.

Instead of letting your equestrian equipment collect dust this winter, commit to getting as much saddle time as possible. As long as you gear up with the right collection of cold-weather equestrian apparel, you should be able to continue riding as usual.

The smartest owners understand that an ounce of prevention is indeed worth a pound of cure, so they take the extra time required to make sure their horse tack fits properly and is kept in good condition. They also carefully check their horse’s hooves, eyes, ears, and coat for any anomalies and perform basic grooming tasks before leaving the barn for a ride. Doing these things on a regular basis can help you discover and address minor problems before they turn into major issues.

Here are some tips on how to inspect and care for your horse tack and animal to keep both in great shape.

Horse Tack

Basic equestrian equipment includes a saddle, saddle pad, halter, lead, bridle, reins, stirrup leathers, and stirrup irons, as well as turnout blankets and flysheets. Of primary importance is ensuring that everything fits well—meaning neither too tightly, which can obviously cause discomfort and chafing, nor too loosely, which can lead to rubbing, slipping, and even spills or falls for the rider.

Leather products should be cleaned and oiled regularly to prevent cracking and scuffing due to excess friction. In addition, all horse tack should be inspected for wear and tear, particularly at stress points and wherever buckles are located. Turnout blankets and flysheets should be washed and dried periodically to help ensure cleanliness and comfort.

If you notice any deterioration or defects while inspecting your equestrian equipment, it is imperative that you replace the item immediately instead of trying to get more use out of it.

Grooming

Grooming supplies should be as standard a part of your equestrian equipment as your saddle, bridle, and reins. Ideally, you should groom your horse daily; but if you don’t visit the barn that often, you should at least check and clean the animal’s hooves before and after each ride. This process consists of a visual inspection along with the removal of debris with a hoof pick and the application of hoof care products if necessary.

Using a curry comb on your horse’s coat will help make it shiny and healthy, and also loosen any dirt, mud, manure, or hay that may be present. You can then run a stiff bristle brush over the coat to further remove debris. A clean coat not only looks good, but also reduces the chances of chafing, scratching, or gouging due to a foreign object getting lodged under the saddle.

A shedding blade can come in handy when removing loose hair in the warmer spring and summer months, and occasional baths complete with coat, mane, and tail shampoo and conditioner will help your animal look its best for shows or events.

Caring for a horse is a big responsibility that must be taken seriously in order to ensure a wonderful riding experience each time out. The best way to protect your equestrian equipment and increase the health, well-being, and longevity of your animal is to devote the time and energy required for basic horse tack maintenance and essential grooming tasks.

Below are a few options to consider when participating in our Trade-in opportunity.

• Rambo “Original.” Medium Weight Turnout Blanket. This is a very popular turnout blanket has a durable 1,000 denier ballistic nylon shell and an antibacterial nylon lining, plus the fabric is waterproof and breathable to provide the right amount of protection for fall.
• Rambo Supreme Lite Weight Turnout Blanket. Waterproof and breathable, this light turnout blanket offers a 1000 Denier Ballistic Nylon Outer Shell, nylon lined and has a lifetime quaranteel on the stanless steel hardware. It also is part of the Horseware liner system.
• Rambo Optimo Turnout Blanket. If you appreciate innovative design, you will appreciate this turnout blanket. The Articulated Pivotal Dart System and Patented ‘V’ Front Closure System provides greater freedom and comfort for your horse and more convenience for you. The removable neck cover is included.
• Rambo “Original” Heavy Weight Turnout Blanket. This classic original has a straight front closure and comes in the standard red/green Rambo colors. For the chillier months, this heavy weight turnout blanket is a ‘must have’ for horse owners.

We hope that many equestrian enthusiasts participate in our trade-in program. To find out more information about the above blankets or participate in the Rambo Trade-in Program to receive $50 off the purchase of our many Rambo turnouts, please visit us at http://www.theequestriancorner.com/rambo_turnout_blanket_tradein_program.

English Riding History

Although mankind has interacted with horses for thousands of years, English riding most likely dates from the 18th and 19th centuries. This was when riders stopped using the wide saddles with high pommels that were preferred by fully armored medieval knights and started using equestrian equipment that was more conducive to trotting, foxhunting, polo, and similar activities. Modern English riding as we know it developed from there, eventually spreading around the world.

English Saddles

To better accommodate this new riding style, different saddles had to be created. English saddles are instantly recognizable because of their minimalist look compared to Western saddles. They are lightweight, have a low cantle and pommel, and feature shorter stirrups to facilitate a forward riding position. There is also a noticeable lack of padding on English saddles, which is why some riders might prefer wearing padded jodhpurs instead of equestrian breeches.

There are many types of English saddles, including dressage, jumping, cross country, and all-purpose, each boasting advantageous properties suited to the intended use.

Other Modern English Equestrian Equipment

In addition to a saddle that matches a particular riding style or event, English riders also need the following equestrian equipment: a saddle pad, halter, lead, bridle, girth, stirrups, irons, and reins. Items such as Crops, whips, bats, martingales, and breastplates are wholly optional for pleasure riding and practice, but may be required for certain show events.

Fitted Shirts, Equestrian Breeches and Other Apparel

English riding habits are often formal and refined, reflecting the overall elegance of the sport. Each piece of apparel should be well fitted, giving the rider an almost tailored look. Riding shirts typically feature sleeves that are a bit longer than everyday shirts, which allows for the freedom of movement required for various jumps and other maneuvers. Equestrian breeches should fit snugly to enable the rider to grip the horse better than loose-fitting attire would, and to enable him or her to give necessary commands with the legs. Tall boots that fit over equestrian breeches and an approved riding helmet are other essential components of the English habit, but rat-catchers, jackets, and gloves are optional outside the show ring.

Now that you’ve learned something about the history of English riding and the purpose of English equestrian equipment, you might come to appreciate the sport a bit more. At the very least, you’ll no longer have to wonder about saddle shapes and riding habits as you prep your animal!

Choosing proper blankets and accessories to use during turnout mostly comes down to the temperature and weather in your area. For instance, if you live in a warm, dry climate, then you likely won’t have to worry about a horse blanket with a fleece lining and waterproof shell. But if the temperature has a tendency to dip dangerously low, then a warm lining becomes critical.

Here are the three major features to look at when picking out suitable horse clothing for your mount.

Outer shell
The outer shell of a horse blanket should be made of a very strong material such as 1000 or 1200 denier ballistic nylon. Lesser fabrics are not as durable and are more prone to ripping and tearing, so avoid the cheap stuff if possible.

You should also check to see if the outer shell is labeled “water resistant” or “waterproof.” These two terms, though similar, are not the same. If an item is water resistant, it will repel water, but there will probably be a significant amount of seepage after prolonged exposure to rain. On the other hand, waterproof equestrian equipment will completely block out water and keep your animal nice and dry despite the stormy conditions.

Lining
The lining is the part of the horse blanket that rests against the animal’s body. It is usually made of fleece or other breathable material to wick moisture away and keep your mount dry during turnout. This is particularly important in the winter. Horses sweat even when it’s cold out, and if that moisture is kept near their bodies in the frigid air, they will be more prone to illness.

Many types of linings are sold as separate pieces that you can then layer with various shells as the temperature or weather conditions warrant. This would be the way to go if you want greater versatility and flexibility from your equestrian equipment.

Insulation
On one-piece blankets, the insulation is sewn between the outer shell and the lining and is largely responsible for determining the degree of warmth that will be provided. Generally speaking, the more grams of “fill” one of these blankets has, the warmer it is. For example, heavyweight blankets might have anywhere from 350 to 400 grams of fill, and would be suitable for cold weather. Conversely, medium and lightweight blankets might have 200 grams of fill or less, making them perfect for cool spring or autumn days.

Accessories
For optimum protection, you should consider pairing a hood with your horse blanket. The hood fits over your mount’s head and neck to keep those sensitive areas warm and dry. Flysheets, fly masks, and ear nets are also recommended equestrian equipment for pest-free exercise in the summer.

When shopping for blankets and related equestrian equipment, be sure to consider specific product features as well as typical weather conditions in your area before you buy. This will help you choose items that will be just right for keeping your beloved companion as comfortable as possible.

Before departing on your unforgettable journey, it’s important to make sure you are well prepared for the adventures that lie ahead. This means bringing season-appropriate equestrian riding apparel for your scheduled activities, as well as any horse equipment that might be required. Let’s take a closer look at what is involved in packing right for your vacation.

Horse equipment
If your vacation involves any kind of training or instruction, then you will likely have to bring your own horse. This means you’ll have to pack basic horse equipment such as a halter, lead line, saddle, saddle pad, and bridle. Some horse equipment, such as stable blankets or turnout sheets, might be provided for you, so be sure to check with the barn prior to departure. When staying on a ranch or traveling overseas, you can obviously leave your horse equipment at home since you’ll be mounted on a loaner.

Equestrian riding apparel
The kind of equestrian riding apparel you should bring depends on the activities you’ll be participating in. For example, you’ll want to pack traditional English equestrian riding apparel—shirts, breeches, gloves, boots, and a helmet—for dressage instruction or similar types of lessons. Conversely, you can stick to casual equestrian riding apparel if a dude ranch is your destination, since jeans and flannel shirts are entirely acceptable in that setting.

Be sure to pack for the season and anticipated weather at your destination. Breathable fabrics with moisture wicking properties are great for keeping you cool in summer, while jackets, down vests, or parkas are preferred in colder climes. In addition, a waterproof jacket or raincoat will help ensure that a little rain doesn’t spoil your fun.

Everyday clothing, toiletries, and miscellaneous items
You won’t be on horseback 24/7 during your vacation, so you’ll also have to fit regular clothes into your suitcase as well as toiletries and miscellaneous items such as sunscreen, sunglasses, a digital camera, and a laptop or tablet if you need to stay connected while away.

One key to enjoying your vacation is to pack as lightly as possible so you won’t be overwhelmed with heavy luggage. This can be a bit difficult to accomplish when you have to include equestrian riding apparel and horse equipment in the mix, but it is certainly doable if you plan ahead.

However, since the extreme heat and humidity pose serious health risks for both rider and horse, there are a number of precautions you should take before each riding session. For example, using proper equestrian apparel and lightweight horse equipment can go a long way toward staving off potential problems associated with sunburn or overheating. In addition, maintaining energy levels via adequate nutrition and hydration is vital for preventing heatstroke and other ailments.

Here are some more summer riding tips for proper hydration, nutrition, equestrian apparel and horse equipment.

Proper Hydration and Nutrition

• Keep a water bottle or canteen on hand and try to take frequent sips while riding. If this is not possible, be sure to take a break at least once every hour to rehydrate.
• Give your horse plenty of opportunities to stop at the water bucket or trough during the workout, and be sure to provide lots of fresh water back at the barn once your session is finished.
• Low blood sugar levels can lead to slower reaction times and questionable judgment while riding. If you don’t feel like eating a full meal prior to riding, energy gels or power bars can help restore blood sugar levels very quickly.

Summer Equestrian Apparel

• If you burn easily, then you should wear equestrian apparel that covers up exposed skin. We recommend long-sleeved jerseys and tops made from ultra-breathable fabric that wicks moisture away to keep you cool while protecting your arms from the sun.
• When sunburn is not a concern, you can choose from a wide selection of short-sleeved or sleeveless tops, including polos, rugbys, jerseys, and tanks.
• Breeches, paddock boots, and an ASTM/SEI certified helmet should always be worn, regardless of the season.
• Summer equestrian apparel that consists of light colors will help keep you cool, as lighter tones reflect rather than absorb sunlight.

Horse Equipment for Summer

• Try to use lightweight tack whenever possible. This reduces the load on your animal, which in turn helps minimize strain and prevents overexertion.
• Consider using thinner saddle pads in the summer, as these dry quickly to keep your horse comfortable. Of course, if chafing becomes an issue, you should revert to thicker pads that provide better protection.
• Guard against flies and other summer pests by using lightweight flysheets made of breathable, open-weave fabrics.
• In addition to the right horse equipment, proper grooming and care can help your animal stay healthy. For example, a quick bath with cold water can be very refreshing after a riding session, while frequent brushing and hoof inspections can prevent other problems from developing.

Riding in the summer can be a pleasurable experience for you and your animal as long as you take some reasonable precautions related to proper hydration, breathable equestrian apparel, and appropriate horse equipment. Sensible choices regarding riding times, such as going out in the early morning or evening hours when the sun is less intense, can also help you stay safe.

We hope you keep our tips in mind the next time you head out for a practice session!