Horse Tack Buying Guide

Spring is the best time to get out and enjoy the great outdoors with your horse. Whether you’re hitting the trails, participating in a rodeo, or just doing some pleasure riding, it is important to ensure your horse is properly outfitted with the right tack. Tack refers to all the equipment your horse needs to perform tasks, such as riding or driving. From saddles to bits, there are many options available for horse owners. In this horse tack buying guide, we’ll go over the basics to help you get started on picking the perfect equipment for your horse.

Saddles

A good saddle is essential for a comfortable and successful ride. When looking for a saddle, you want to ensure it fits both you and your horse correctly. The type of riding you’ll be doing will also determine the style of saddle you need.

• English Saddles: Commonly used for jumping, dressage, and pleasure riding. They feature a flat seat and forward knee rolls, which allow for better balance while jumping.
• Western Saddles: Designed for activities such as roping, cutting, and trail riding. These saddles have a higher cantle and pommel, which provide security for the rider and allow for attaching gear, such as saddle bags.
• Endurance Saddles: Ideal for long-distance rides. They have a lightweight design and lack the higher cantle and pommel found on Western saddles.

Bridles and Bits

A bridle consists of a headstall, reins, and a bit, and is used to control the horse while riding. The bit, which is inserted into the horse’s mouth, plays a significant role in how the horse responds to the rider.

• Snaffle bit: The most common type of bit that features a simple design and can be used for various styles of riding. It consists of a single jointed mouthpiece, which applies pressure to the mouth and can help the horse understand commands.
• Curb bit: Used in Western riding, the curb bit has shanks that add leverage, making it a more severe bit. Riders use a lighter hand when using a curb bit, as it has more potential to cause discomfort to the horse.
• Bitless bridles: Ideal for horses who don’t respond well to bits or sensitive-mouthed horses.

Saddle Pads

Saddle pads prevent rubbing, provide support, and absorb sweat. They also protect the saddle from dirt, sweat, and damage from the horse’s back. It is important to choose a pad that fits your saddle correctly and provides the necessary support for your horse’s back.

• English saddle pads: Made of cotton or synthetic materials and often come in a shaped design to fit under the saddle better.
• Western saddle pads: Made of wool or fleece and are often thicker to provide better shock absorption, as Western riding is generally more physically intense than English riding.

Breast Collars and Breastplates

Breast collars and breastplates help keep the saddle from sliding backward or tipping forward. They sit across the horse’s chest and often attach to the saddle’s front rings or dee-rings. Western riders often use breast collars, while English riders prefer breastplates.

• Breast collars come in different styles made from leather, nylon, or neoprene, and typically feature either a straight or V-shaped design.
• Breastplates consist of leather strapping that runs over the horse’s withers and attaches to the girth under the horse’s belly.

Horse Boots and Wraps

Horse boots and wraps protect a horse’s legs during riding, turnout, or training. They can be used for various reasons such as protection from injuries, tendon and ligament support, and helping to prevent skin irritations.

• Boots: Generally made from neoprene and feature Velcro straps to hold them in place. They come in various styles, including splint boots, bell boots, and sports medicine boots.
• Wraps: Designed to provide tendon and ligament support, wraps come in different materials like polar fleece or polo wraps, which can be rolled around a horse’s leg and secured with Velcro straps.

Saddle Bags

Saddle bags are great for carrying snacks, water, and other essentials while on the trail. They attach to the saddle and come in different styles such as horn bags, cantle bags, and pommel bags.

Conclusion

Getting the right tack for your horse is crucial for a comfortable and successful ride. The equipment discussed in this horse tack buying guide is by no means exhaustive, but it does provide a good starting point for horse owners looking to outfit their horse with the best equipment. Remember to consider your riding style, horse’s needs, and budget when purchasing your horse’s tack.