Horse Tack and Tacking Up

Horse tack and tacking up, has come a long way since the “ancient times” when rope bridles and cloth saddles without stirrups were used.

Now when the novice rider walks into a modern day equestrian shop, the choices of sophisticated equipment, can be mind boggling.

This page is for the novice to first of all, understand the terminology and learn the basics of...“whats the best equipment"...how to fit tack correctly and just as important...how to care for your investment in quality horse riding equipment...

Your tack essentials will include a saddle...bridle...a bit...reins...a girth...stirrup leathers...stirrups...boots...blankets...halters and a saddle pad...

Beyond these basic items, there is a huge range of other horsey equipment, such as: martingales, schooling pads, leg quilts, nosebands, neckstraps, and breast plates etc...

Horse tack can be very expensive...But if you maintain and keep it clean, then the leather can last much longer...It also keeps you aware of the condition of the gear...avoiding any un-pleasant surprises...

It's good to be equipped with all the necessary gear that can make life easier for you and your horse...But don't go overboard...Avoid buying stuff, because it looks pretty, or someone else has one...

Remember...riders who ride cross country with a matching purple shirt...safety vest... helmet cover... pad...overgirth and polo wraps...look very posh...but the horses don't care and neither do the fence judges...Its the performance that counts...

Tack and grooming items...need not be purchased new...There's some great second hand bargains to to be snapped up...especially from TRADE ME if you're from NZ...or even auctions, if you know what you're buying...

But never ever...compromise on a good quality bit or reins...which can affect your safety...

Tack Cleaning Tips:

• Always clean regularly - dirty, muddy tack is uncomfortable for the horse and can cause sores...After every use, give your gear a good wipe down and at least once a week, strip down and clean thoroughly...
• Before cleaning - strip down tack...take the bridle completely apart and remove stirrups, leathers and girth from the saddle...Soak and wash the bit in clean water...All other metal work can be cleaned with metal polish...
• Clean the leatherwork by removing any dirt and sweat with a large sponge and clean water...avoid getting leather too wet...using a circular movement, apply saddle soap or glycerin with a sponge...dry with soft cloth
• Saddle cloths and saddle pads must be cleaned too...
• Always keep tack room tidy, clean, well ventilated, dry and dust free...
• Bridles and saddles should be hung on purpose built racks and hangers...
• Keep all tack off the floor and store blankets away in containers...
• Before storing winter blankets, have them properly cleaned and reproofed...
• Do not store any horse feed near tack room, to avoid attracting rodents...