As you shop the end of winter sales, be on the lookout for deals on the following products:

• Winter equestrian riding apparel. From turtleneck tops and fleece-lined breeches to insulated boots and weatherproof gloves, you can score fantastic deals on all the gear you need to stay warm and toasty on winter rides.
• Turnout blankets and stable sheets. Medium- and heavyweight turnout blankets and stable sheets usually go on sale at this time of year, so if your current ones are worn out, this is your chance to replace them.
• General horse equipment. Although not specifically related to winter riding, you might find saddles, bridles, halters, leads, grooming supplies, and similar products included in storewide sales. If you need any of these items and come across an irresistible bargain, be sure to snap it up.

Winter sales are your reward for having to suffer through months of bleak days and subzero temperatures. Whether you want to purchase new equestrian riding apparel for the last few outings of the season or if you simply want to stock up for next year, now is the time to do so. Visit TheEquestrianCorner.com today to view our selection and save big on winter horse equipment, gear, and accessories.

The best way to bring your horse tack out of winter hibernation is to prepare a checklist beforehand so you don’t overlook anything when you get to the barn. As you compose your list, you can also make a note of the tools and cleaning supplies you might need to perform the various duties that lie ahead.

To help get you started, here’s our own checklist of what needs to be done to equestrian equipment before spring arrives:

• Treat and inspect leather. If your leather horse tack hasn’t been used in a while, then it must be treated and inspected. Using a good leather conditioner can get your items soft, supple, and shiny again. While doing this, be sure to inspect the material for excessive cracks or tears, and check that all hardware is securely attached and free of rust.
• Verify horse tack fit. You should take this opportunity to verify that the saddle, bridle, bit, and harness still fit properly. Changes in your animal’s weight or in the size or shape of the horse tack material could mean that adjustments—or even new equestrian equipment—are now required.
• Examine other equestrian equipment. Grooming supplies such as combs, brushes, scrapers, and curries should be examined and cleaned or replaced. Shampoos, conditioners, and hoof ointments should be restocked if necessary, and feed buckets should be scrubbed and disinfected.
• Store winter turnout blankets. If the weather in your area is starting to warm up, then you can wash and store winter turnout blankets until next year.
• Inspect summer gear. Check that your fly sheets, masks, and ear nets don’t have any rips, tears, or holes in them. Stock up on fly spray or insect repellent.

If you notice that any of your equestrian equipment is not in usable condition, then this is the perfect time to buy. Many online horse tack supply stores are offering closeout deals on winter gear, along with early bird specials on the newest spring and summer apparel, helmets, riding boots, and other equestrian equipment. This means you can save a lot of money by shopping now instead of waiting until riding season gets into full swing.

After taking significant time off from training in the winter, you can’t just show up at the barn on the next beautiful spring day and expect to ride. You first have to clean and inspect your equestrian equipment to confirm that it’s safe to use. Follow the above checklist so you don’t leave anything out, and be sure to order any necessary replacements as soon as possible.

Although having the right horse tack, such as protective boots that provide extra support, can help stave off mobility problems, joint supplements are also a must. Just as the best horse equipment helps horses perform various functions more efficiently, the best supplements help their bodies deal with pain and work more effectively to stop deterioration.

But there are so many equine joint supplements available that you might have trouble deciding which one is most suitable for your animal and its current condition. If you notice the animal is in serious pain the next time you reach for the horse tack to get ready for a ride, be sure to call in a qualified veterinarian for an exam. It’s important to treat the underlying causes rather than just the pain, which is why a vet’s input can be helpful.

In the meantime, over-the-counter joint supplements can also be effective as long as they contain ingredients that build and strengthen problem areas. Here’s what to look for when you shop:

• Glucosamine sulfate. Glucosamine is necessary for joint and cartilage lubrication, as well as for the formation of new joint tissue. As horses age, they might not be able to produce as much glucosamine as their bodies require, which is why this supplement is popular.
• Chondroitin. Like saddles and saddle pads or other horse equipment that was meant to work in pairs, chondroitin is the perfect complement to glucosamine sulfate. Chondroitin provides structure to cartilage, helps retain water and nutrients, and enhances the beneficial effects of glucosamine.
• Shark cartilage. This all-natural extract is valued because of the chondroitin it contains. When taken regularly, it can help form new cartilage and deliver some of the same benefits as chondroitin.
• MSM. This natural sulfur helps synthesize amino acids and nutrients, which in turn facilitates joint lubrication and mobility. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, so keep a container near the rest of your horse tack and mix it in with your arthritic animal’s feed once or twice a day.

When horses suffer from joint or mobility problems, they need immediate treatment and plenty of rest. Remember to consult with a veterinarian for specific recommendations when possible, and to look for supplements that offer more than just pain relief. You wouldn’t settle for subpar horse tack or horse equipment, so don’t accept inferior equine joint supplements, either.

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.

This is actually a good thing because when horses were used for work, they often had to endure dreadful conditions and rough treatment. From ill-fitting horse equipment to worn out horse tack, uncaring owners, and insufficient food, many of these magnificent animals lived in a perpetual state of frailty and sickness.

History of Christmas for Horses

In the 1860s, George T. Angell of Boston decided to do something about the condition of the city’s workhorses. He was the founder of the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and felt it was his duty to educate people on how to care for and treat horses. He wanted to teach them about the importance of good horse equipment, as well as raise awareness regarding abuse and neglect. His idea was to have a Christmas Eve celebration for horses in Boston, where the animals would receive an abundance of oats, apples, carrots, corn and even new horse tack in some cases.

Angell died before his dream became a reality, and the idea languished for several decades before finally being revived. Anna Harris Smith, founder of the Animal Rescue League of Boston, is now commonly credited with initiating the first Christmas for Horses in 1912. Smith and other ARL volunteers saw to it that Boston’s horses were pampered and well-fed—just as Angell had envisioned—at least for one day out of the year. Their efforts were believed to have had a positive impact, so Christmas for Horses became an annual event.

Modern Celebration

The tradition continues in a modified form to this day, featuring activities such as:

• A parade of police horses and other working horses
• Santa and his elves distributing edible treats and new horse tack to the city’s horses
• Demonstrations on how to ride and use horse equipment
• Music and singing
• A chance for people to help feed the horses
• Free refreshments for all

If a city near you doesn’t have a Christmas for Horses event, you can still include your equine companion in whatever holiday celebration you have with your family. This is a wonderful opportunity for you to extend the legacies of George Angell and Anna Smith by examining old horse tack for damage, purchasing new horse equipment if necessary, and generally treating your animal to some extra goodies and TLC.

If you’re stuck for inspiration, we recommend browsing around the site for a bit. You’ll see all kinds of equestrian riding apparel, horse equipment, and novelty items at prices to fit every budget. Some specific Christmas gift ideas for equine enthusiasts include:

• Equestrian riding apparel. New equestrian riding apparel is always appreciated—as long as it’s in the right size. To make sure you only buy stuff that fits, try to discover your rider’s size without letting him or her know what you’re up to.
• DVDs, books, and toys. For younger equine enthusiasts, we have books and DVDs from the popular Bella Sara series, as well as a number of Safari Toob toys and plush horses that would make fabulous stocking stuffers.
• Home décor. What could be cuter than housewares that look like various kinds of horse equipment? From leather bit and stirrup napkin rings to horseshoe paperweights, stirrup ornaments, and decorative coasters, we have lots of fun ways to dress up your rider’s home.
• Belts and wallets. When not wearing equestrian riding apparel, your equine enthusiast can still promote the sport by using accessories with horse-related themes or motifs. Many of our Equine Couture belts feature such designs, while our LILO leather wallets will call to mind the finest grade horse equipment around.
• Purses, handbags, totes, and travel bags. Give your rider a way to pack and carry her equestrian riding apparel in style. She’ll love one of the travel bags from the Horseware Newmarket collection or a scarf handbag from the LILO collection. We also have many bag and purse selections for young riders.
• Jewelry and accessories. Designs incorporating stirrups, bits, and horseshoes make for excellent jewelry pieces, too. We sell a variety of rings, earring, pendants, necklaces, bracelets, hair clips, and key rings that feature horses or horse equipment.
• Gift cards. If you’re having trouble deciding which of our fine products your loved one will like best, you can simply purchase a gift card and let the recipient make the final choice. We offer TheEquestrianCorner.com gift cards in numerous denominations, ranging from $25 all the way up to $1,000.

We carry a lot more than just equestrian riding apparel and horse equipment at TheEquestrianCorner.com, so be sure to shop our site for Christmas gifts this year. Time’s running out, but if you place your order soon it will still arrive in time for the big day!

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.