Equestrian Equipment | Equestrian Apparel Blog

Rambo Horseware Horse Blankets Trade-In Opportunity

TheEquestrianCorner.com has brought back our Rambo Trade-in program. Just in time for the fall/winter season! The offer is simple: trade-in ANY brand of turnout for a new Rambo Turnout. Your gently used turnout will help support local equine charities.

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.

Equestrian Equipment & English Riding History

If you’re in a particularly philosophical mood when you tack up your horse for a ride, you may begin to wonder how modern equestrian equipment came into being. For instance, looking at the shape of your English saddle, you might question why it has such a shallow, relatively flat seat compared to Western saddles. Or, glancing down at your fitted shirt, equestrian breeches, and tall boots, you might ponder their advantages over regular clothes when it comes to English riding. Let’s take a quick look at the origins of the sport we all love and see if we can get some answers.

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!

Essential Equestrian Equipment: Horse Clothing & Horse Blankets

One of your duties as a responsible horse owner is to use the right clothing to protect your animal from the elements all year round. This means providing a flysheet to guard against pesky insects in the summer; bundling up with a cozy horse blanket in the winter months; and using appropriate waterproof equestrian equipment when it’s wet and damp outside.

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.

Equestrian Vacations: A Look at Horse Riding Equipment to Pack and Other Tips

Themed vacations are all the rage these days, which is good news for equestrian enthusiasts. Now it’s easier than ever to plan a getaway that centers heavily on horseback riding activities. Whether you want to take long trail rides through exotic scenery, receive intensive instruction in dressage events, or spend a week driving cattle on a dude ranch, you can find an affordable package that fits your budget.

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.

Summer Horse Riding Tips for Proper Hydration, Equestrian Apparel and Horse Tack

Summertime and horseback riding go hand in hand. The sunny days and dry conditions are made for long trail rides or extensive prep work for show events, so you should take every opportunity to go out with your animal when the weather permits.

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!

Pairing Up A Horse With Your Riding Style

When you mount a horse that is not suited to your riding style or ability level, then you’re putting yourself at risk of a serious injury. Not even the best horse equipment and top-quality equestrian riding apparel can help you overcome the difficulties associated with riding an animal that is beyond your ability to control. Before you buy a horse, take the above points into consideration and be sure to consult with a qualified professional to help you make your selection.

A Look At Fly Sheets And Other Ways To Protect Horses From Pests

The last thing you want to see as you approach your beloved animal is a host of flies, gnats, and mosquitos buzzing around. These pests are not merely a nuisance; they can also cause infection or serious illness due to parasites, bacteria, and diseases transmitted through bites. Moreover, injuries are a major concern as well, since horses often stomp or buck in an effort to escape the constant irritation.

Tips For Riders: How To Get Ready For The Rolex Kentucky

Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, which begins next week (April 28) at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, was just named as one of the top 10 festivals and events for Spring 2011 by the Kentucky Tourism Council. It will offer both a four-star CCI and U.S. selection trial featuring the Olympic cross-country format.

This one event has three very different disciplines, all testing the limits and abilities between a horse and their rider. Before you put on your riding helmets, take a look below at some important things to know about ‘Eventing’ at the Rolex Kentucky:

DRESSAGE: Held in the outdoor stadium at the Kentucky Horse Park, this event tests the gaits, agility and compliance of the horse through a series of assigned movements. While judging the on the first day is based on detailed criteria by experienced judges and riders, it’s basically explained as an evaluation of beauty of movement and obedience. Anyone can judge these characteristics and the spectator’s opinion often agrees with the judges. The number of competitors may require that Dressage be held over two days but it remains the first competition day.Keeping score: The judges keep score by four sets of collective marks. These marks are awarded from 0 to 10 by three judges. 0 is the worst (not executed) whereas 10 is the best (excellent). The good marks are added together for each judge, deducting any error of course of test. The test has to be completed from memory. Errors or a wrong sequence, whether corrected or not, are penalized. The first error will cost the rider 2 points, second error 4, and 3^rd error means elimination.

CROSS-COUNTRY: With this event, thousands will gather to watch horses and riders hurtle over four miles of the difficult terrain, at speeds up to 25 mph, while navigating through obstacles, water hazards, banks and ditches.Keeping Score: Faults at an obstacle are penalized if in the official is concerned they are attempted or connected with one of the numbered or lettered obstacles on that course. A rider can also exceed time limits and will be penalized for that as well. “Optimum Time” is achieved by dividing the distance by the required speed.

JUMPING: This is the final phase of the Rolex Kentucky and always seems to bring energy and accuracy to the outdoor stadium. The event is over a course which is 500 – 600 meters in long and has over 11-13 obstacles with 16 maximum jumping endeavors at 375 meters per minute.Keeping Score: Some penalizations include knocking down an obstacle or fist disobedience which constitutes 4 penalties. Other faults include falling off of the horse, jumping an obstacle in the wrong order, and/or error of the course not rectified which all eliminate the competitor.

Now that you’ve taken a look at the main 3 events at The Rolex Kentucky and how they keep score, it’s time to put on your equestrian boots and get ready to go!

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Equestrian Apparel By Manufacturers You Know And Trust

Are you an equestrian fashionista? Do you love wearing apparel that is both comfortable and stylish while riding? Then I want to introduce you to one of my favorite online retailers for equestrian apparel. You should check out www.theequestriancorner.com. They have ladies, men’s and young rider clothing, equipment and accessories by manufacturers you already know and trust.