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Not all fly sheets for horses are created equal. Many horse owners know this fact firsthand when they try to save money on their horse fly sheets, only for their horse to get rubs from rough fabric or for it to last for only half the season. All equestrians know horses are expensive– that’s why Breeches.com is constantly working to reinvent classic products so you get the most bang for your buck.  In 2024, we unveiled several new innovations for  horse fly sheets to keep your horse happier, healthier, and fly-free.  NevaTear Fabric     Possibly the most exciting addition to our 2024 horse fly sheets was the addition of our  TuffRider NevaTear Technical Combo Neck Fly Sheet. Made from self-healing fabric, this horse fly sheet stands up to wear and tear from even the most fractious colt. Almost like a magic trick, this fly sheet for horses works with a simple rub of the hand. If you notice a hole or puncture in the mesh fabric, simply rub the mesh fabric between your forefinger and thumb. Watch as the mesh fibers realign and make the hole disappear.   Stretch Fabric Our horses deserve to move freely and comfortably no matter what sort of gymnastics routines they invent out in their pastures. New for 2024, our unique stretch fabric stretches lengthwise and moves with your horse in every gait. Made from multi-filament polyester yarn, you can find this fabric in our  TuffRider Comfy Mesh Stretch Fly Sheet for Horses.  No-Rub Design     We renewed our commitment to rub-free fly sheets for horses in 2024. Our 2024 fly sheets for horses feature  a shoulder lining designed to cut down on chafes and rubs due to friction as your horse moves. Made from a silky smooth fabric, this shoulder lining reduces friction and allows the fly sheet to slide smoothly across your horse’s skin without causing unsightly hair loss and painful chafing.  Full Coverage Design     A fly sheet for horses that still allows flies and other biting insects to slip through the cracks and get to your horse isn’t much help. That’s why we designed our new horse fly sheets for 2024 with more coverage than ever before. Each new fly sheet for horses features an extra large tail flap. Many horses struggle with sweet itch and hair loss on their tails thanks to midges and gnats. Using a fly sheet with a large tail flap may help to cut down on access to your horse’s tail.  Each fly sheet also features low cross surcingles for a secure fit. If you have a horse who can be a little… clumsy, you want to make sure your surcingles are properly adjusted so they can’t get a leg caught up in the straps. Our adjustable low surcingles can help with that.  Finally, we also have several horse fly sheets that offer neck coverage for extra sensitive horses who need the extra protection. For example, the  TuffRider NevaTear Technical Combo Neck Fly Sheet for horses features both a large tail flap and neck coverage to give your horse ears-to-tail protection from summertime biting insects.  Customized Comfort for Your Horse Just like their riders, no two horses are built the same. Even with the same breed, there are many different body types. That’s why we believe it’s important for fly sheets for horses to adjust to the animal, not the other way around. One of our innovations for our 2024 fly sheets for horses is a combination of removable/adjustable straps and elastic leg straps to allow your horse full freedom of movement, no matter their build. The silky shoulder lining also helps larger-shouldered horses feel more comfortable, as the fabric glides over their shoulders and chest, instead of scraping along.  Who Said Fly Sheets Can’t Be Fun? The days of boring, plain gray fly sheets for horses are in the past. These days, equestrians like to have a little fun with what their horse can wear out in the pasture. Besides that, brightly colored fly masks, bell boots, and halters are much easier to find compared to plain navy, black, or green.  At Breeches.com, we decided to lean into the trend and offer our customers a little something fun when it comes to fly sheets for horses this year. We now have a sampling of fun patterns available in our 2024 horse fly sheets, as well as some  standard plain gray, for those who prefer to stick to what’s tried-and-true.  The  TuffRider Texilene FlyShield sheet is available in a bright Sky Blue checkered pattern, as well as a more steadfast black and gray checkered print, which would be beautiful on a black or gray horse. If you’d like to really throw caution to the wind, check out our  TuffRider Comfy Plus Daisy Print Fly Sheet. Perfect for the girly mare or pretty gelding, this pattern features white and yellow daisies against a light blue background. Even the leg straps and webbing feature blue and yellow stripes.  Breeches.com: Innovations for the Future At Breeches.com, we stay on top of the latest trends so you don’t have to. Whether that means stocking colorful fly sheets or crafting self-healing fabric for our fly sheets for horses, when you buy from us, you can rest assured that the product you receive is up-to-date on the latest technology. Who knows what we’ll come up with next for 2025! Shop our collection of horse fly sheets here.... [Read more]

Step 1: Gather Horse Hoof Care Products Before you get started, gather all of the horse hoof care supplies you’ll need. It’s important to keep these items close at hand, as certain steps require you to hold the horse hoof up, while moving to the next step. Make sure you have all of the following… Horse Hoof Care Products: Diaper Hoof pick Brush (steel or hard brush) EquiFit Pack-n-Stick hoof tape Duct Tape Treatment Paste Hoof Boot TuffRider TuffWrap Soaking Boot Step 2: Clean and Treat the Hoof It’s crucial that your horse’s hoof is as clean as possible before starting to wrap it. Dirt will trap bacteria and infection and prevent the treatment you’re using from being fully effective.  Use a hoof pick to thoroughly clean out the hoof and take the time to look over the hoof carefully. Unless there’s an open wound, a steel brush or  hard brush is a great way to remove trapped dirt and debris. Has the injury changed? Does it look better or worse? Now is the perfect time to take photo updates to send to your veterinarian or farrier as needed. Remember, always ask for professional help prior to treating your horse for any suspected hoof issue.  Step 3: Apply Treatment There are many different ways to treat your horse’s hoof, from over the counter horse hoof care products to DIY concoctions. Always ask your vet before applying anything to your horse’s hooves and work with them closely throughout the process. Read product instructions carefully before applying, as they will guide you as to the specifics of each individual product. Be aware that some products require the use of gloves.  If you’re applying a paste, the general rule of thumb is to use your hands to spread the product across the frog and sole of the hoof. If you’re using an oil-based or thin product, use a brush to thinly spread the product across the sole and frog.  Using your hands to apply product is an effective but messy process. Oily substances, like sunscreen or canola oil, work best to remove sticky residue from your hands. Once you’ve applied the product you’re using, do not put the hoof back on the ground. Instead, keep the hoof elevated and move on to step two.  Popular Horse Hoof Care Products:  Farnam Forshners Hoof Pack Sore No More Performance Poultice Runners Relief Hoof Pack Runners Relief Soak Powder Step 4: Put On the Diaper The diaper is used to contain the horse hoof care product and provide a light cushioning effect while the horse walks. Have the diaper already open and ready for application prior to picking up the horse hoof.  Imagine the hoof is a baby. Place the heel of the hoof in the cup of the diaper and wrap it forward across the toe. The tabs will close around the horse’s fetlock and the smooth front of the diaper will be across the front of the horse hoof. The area of the diaper with the most cushioning should be over the sole of the horse hoof.  You can now safely place the hoof back on dry ground. Do not place the diaper into a wet area as the diaper will soak up the liquid and deteriorate. Step 5: Add Durability with TuffWrap Applying a  self-adhesive bandage over the diaper adds to the durability of the wrap and helps prevent the diaper and paste from moving around.  A few important precautions before you begin this step. All self-adhesive bandages should be applied with care. Wrap them around the hoof so they will fit snugly, however be sure not to overtighten the wrap. A wrap that’s too tight can cause more problems than good. To avoid putting too much pressure on the sensitive coronet band, try to keep the  TuffWrap mostly on the hardened keratin of the hoof, not on the pastern.  Start the  TuffWrap at the heel and pull towards the horse’s toe. Continue this motion while moving the wrap higher and lower, until the sole of the hoof is covered. Take a sharp pair of scissors and carefully cut a small “v” shape into the very top at the front of the wrap. This vent reduces pressure across the foot.   Step 6: Tape the Horse Hoof A combination of duct tape and the  EquiFit Horse Hoof Tape will make the wrap water resistant and prevent liquids from soaking into the diaper, which deteriorates the wrap quickly. However, even with the tape, you should not turn your horse out on wet days with a wrapped hoof.  EquiFit Horse Hoof Tape is a durable anatomically-shaped tape that features a strong adhesive to ensure adherence to the hoof, even overnight. To apply, simply peel off a corner of the backing to reveal the adhesive and press the area to the hoof, starting with the heel. Then pull off the backing while continuing to adhere the tape to the TuffWrap, moving towards the toe of the hoof, similar to applying a band-aid.  Once the entire sole is covered and all of the backing has been removed, slide your hands around the sole of the hoof to apply the tape to the outside of the hoof wall before placing the hoof back down on the ground. The  EquiFit Horse Hoof Tape should cover the entire sole, the toe, the heel, and about halfway to three quarters of the way up the outside of the horse hoof.  To avoid any gaps in the tape, pull off a strip of duct tape and snugly apply it horizontally to where the top of the  EquiFit Horse Hoof Tape meets the diaper. Avoid putting tape over the sensitive coronet band and up onto the pastern. If you have to apply tape higher up the hoof, cut a “v”-shaped notch into the front of the duct tape for pressure relief.  Step 7: Step Into a Horse Hoof Boot Now that the horse hoof is wrapped in a diaper, TuffWrap, and tape, you have the option to insert the foot into a horse hoof boot. A hoof boot will elongate the lifespan of the wrap, as well as prevent liquids from working their way into the bandage and deteriorating the materials and horse hoof care products.  For horses with highly painful hoof conditions, such as abscesses and laminitis, the  EasyCare Cloud Horse Hoof Boot offers the most pressure relief. The  Cloud Horse Hoof Boot is a therapeutic hoof boot system designed to provide comfort and support to horses with thin soles, abscesses, founder, laminitis, or to horses who are recovering after workouts or are stalled on hard surfaces.  After selecting the correct size hoof boot for your horse (find the size chart  here), simply slide the horse hoof into the boot and encourage the horse to step backwards, putting all their weight on the hoof, to ensure it is fully seated in the boot. Finally, secure the hook-and-loop closure.  Get The Horse Hoof Care Supplies You Need on Breeches.com Our team here at Breeches.com prioritizes equine welfare. That’s why we pride ourselves on providing quality horse hoof products at affordable prices. Whether your horse is dealing with chronic lameness issues or you’re looking for ways to prevent and treat thrush, white line disease, and more, we’ve got the horse hoof care products you need at the prices you want.  Shop our collection of horse hoof care products now.... [Read more]

As temperatures across the United States regularly hit the upper 90s this summer, it’s tempting to throw in the towel and give up on this show season. While you should always make smart decisions when it comes to riding your horse in the heat, the right horse riding clothes can make a big difference in your overall comfort. Go from “there’s no way I can ride in this” to “let’s bring home the blue ribbon” with the right horse clothing.  Summer Show Coats for Stylish Riders Are you the type of rider who wears their show coat even if the judge makes an exception due to the heat? If you insist on wearing your coat no matter the temperature, choose a show coat that’s lightweight and breathable, like the  RJ Classics Harmony Mesh Show Coat. Made from extremely lightweight and breathable mesh fabric, this show coat offers you the ultimate comfort on the hottest day, while maintaining a traditional look.  Or if you’d like to take a walk on the wild side, try the  Spicy Girl Cayenne Show Coat by Equine Couture. This show coat is about as lightweight as it gets when it comes to horse clothing. Made entirely out of nylon/spandex lace, this coat is stretchy to allow for freedom of movement. For anyone who wants to make a fashion statement with their equestrian clothing, this jacket adds an elegant and feminine touch to the traditional equestrian show coat. Lightweight Show Shirts that Won’t Let You Down First up, we have the Equine Couture Nicolette Equicool Show Shirt, which combines color blocking and mesh inserts for horse riding clothes that are both fashion forward and practical. Made from Equicool fabric, this shirt offers UV protection and adds ventilation thanks to the strategically placed mesh inserts, which won’t show under your show coat. Find this show shirt in our  equestrian clothing clearance section.  Similar to the Cayenne Show Coat by Equine Couture, the  Spicy Girl Clove Show Shirt features lace sleeves. The combination of the airy lace accents and a traditionally collared neckline means that, when covered by a jacket, you’ll look like you’re wearing any other show shirt, but still reap the benefits of minimal fabric. Remove the jacket for a stylish and edgy look that’s sure to stand out when you’re walking around the showgrounds. Choose white lace for a more subtle outfit or black lace to really stand out.  Breathable Breeches for Hot Days The best breeches for the show ring typically have more structure than your standard pair of riding tights, come in white and/or tan, and button up instead of pull-on. Altogether, this means that show breeches are usually made of a slightly thicker fabric and aren’t as breathable as everyday horse clothing. However, it doesn’t have to be this way.  The  Ariat Tri Factor Breeches offer the best of both worlds: they’re perfect for hot days and look amazing in the show ring. ClimateTEK fabric provides the rider with temperature-regulated dynamic cooling, while Moisture Movement Technology wicks moisture away from your skin. Add these breeches to your horse clothing for a slim silhouette, thanks to compression fabric and Ariat’s Core Control Technology.  If you’re one of many riders on a budget, you can find a great pair of breeches, like the Equine Couture Lille Breeches, in our  equestrian clothing clearance section. Available in white and tan, these breeches are made of a super soft and stretchy bamboo fabric, which also has anti-microbial properties. Belt loops and front pockets elevate the style of these breeches to blue-ribbon-winning, while the soft fabric will keep you comfortable no matter the weather.  Say Goodbye to Slippery Palms with Summer Riding Gloves On hot days when your hands are sweating, gloves are necessary to help you keep your grip on the reins, but wearing gloves can also make your hands even hotter. It’s a catch-22! We have several pairs of gloves available in our  equestrian clothing clearance section that will help you grip the reins without overheating.  For example, the TuffRider Cool Rider Mesh Summer Riding Gloves have a reinforced polyurethane (PU) leather palm, so you can grip the reins firmly. But, they also have a honeycomb mesh back that allows air to flow through the glove and cool your hands. As an added benefit, the flexible honeycomb mesh also allows you complete freedom of movement. These gloves work with you as you ride, not against you, like all horse riding clothes should. Plus, these gloves are touch screen friendly! If you’d like a pair of gloves that look a little more traditional for the show ring, check out the  Heritage Spectrum Show Gloves. These gloves feature ventilation holes through the fingers and thumb, as well as an adjustable hook-and-loop closure system for the perfect fit. With a stretchable flex panel across the knuckles, you’ll benefit from both breathability and flexibility. Made with exclusive Heritage breathable Spectrum Suede synthetic suede leather, this material is designed to be breathable and permeate the perspiration from your skin out at the same time maintaining a perfect grip.  Breeches.com Helps You Bring Home the Blue Our founders, Timmy and Laurie Sharma, put our horse riding clothes to the test in the scorching Florida heat. They design products to solve the real-world problems that equestrians face on a daily basis. When you’re looking for horse clothing that can help you stay cool no matter what the summer throws at you, we’ve got what you’re looking for.  Shop our equestrian clothing clearance section here. Shop our collection of horse riding clothes here.... [Read more]

The United States has been under the oppressive weight of a heatwave this summer. With temperatures reaching upwards of 90 degrees, equestrians are struggling to make time to ride their horses outside of the hottest part of the day. But that doesn’t mean you have to stop making progress on your own and your horse’s training. There’s plenty you can do on a hot day to improve your overall horsemanship, while working up as little of a sweat as possible.  Obstacle Training Do you have a spooky or insecure horse? Obstacle training is great for horses who are a little uncertain when faced with new things. You may have seen videos of cowboys riding through pool noodles or working with tarps and assumed that obstacle training is purely for starting horses or just for western riders. Obstacle training is for everyone and can benefit every horse, no matter how experienced they are.  To get started with obstacle training, pick up the book  Over, Under, Through: Obstacle Training for Horses by Vanessa Bee. Bee has provided Six Blueprint Exercises to lay the foundation of skills you need as a trainer and a horse to go over, under, and through. Then, she takes us through 50 common scenarios—such as riding over white lines or dark shadows, or riding past farm animals or marshmallow hay bales—and illustrates with small, building-block steps and photos, what is needed to change the horse' reaction and behavior, assuring a smoother, safer ride down the road. With the help of this book, your horse will become an extraordinary trail horse in no time at all. Plus, while these exercises apply to under saddle work, they can also be completed from the ground.  Train Your Brain If it’s too hot to even step foot outside your front door, you can stay in your air-conditioned living room and sprawl across your sofa with a good book.  Brain Training for Riders by Andrea Monserrat Waldo is designed to help riders overcome their fears and anxieties and go back to enjoying their time in the saddle. Andrea Waldo teaches you how to: handle uncomfortable emotions, such as fear, anger, anxiety, and embarrassment; hone your mental game and focus your riding time to get the most out of your hours in the saddle; care for your emotional injuries the same way you would care for an injured horse; and produce a state of "Focused Calm" and tap into the skills you have (whether you know it or not!) to ensure an outstanding ride. Practice Your Braiding Don’t get caught with sloppy braids at your next show. While you can’t ride, take the time now to practice your braiding. Not only will you get to spend some time with your horse, but your horse will also stay cooler without their mane laying flat on their neck. If you’re new to braiding your horse’s mane, don’t be intimidated. You’ll need a few supplies to get started, such as this  TuffRider Aluminum Comb, yarn, or  rubber bands depending on the type of braid you’re doing.  Learn from the best braiders in the business with the book  World Class Braiding by Emma Ford and Cat Hill. Emma Ford is a groom extraordinaire, having groomed for Olympians like Phillip Dutton and was a  recipient of the U.S. Eventing Professional Groom of the Year award. In World Class Braiding, Emma and Cat cover everything from braiding basics to different ways of braiding long manes and tails. Bring this book to the barn with you and keep it in your tack trunk as a go-to reference whenever you need it.  Learn the Masterson Method of Massage Is your horse feeling a bit stiff lately? Spend some time giving them a nice massage in the shade of their stall. The Masterson Method of massage allows your horse to perform at his best without stiffness and pain in his body. Jim Masterson shares his wealth of experience with the layperson through his book,  Beyond Horse Massage, via chapters with tips & techniques, anatomical explanations, and examples from Jim's practice.  You can also buy the accompanying  Beyond Horse Massage wall charts to hang in your barn for easy references while you learn to massage your horse. These large format wall charts provide reference photos and step-by-step instructions for 13 Masterson Method techniques. With spiral binding and grommets, these wall charts are durable and long-lasting references that are useful in every barn.  Have a Spa Day If you have a horse who loves attention, have a spa day with your horse! Break out their favorite brushes or use something like the  TuffRider Massage Brush, which contains magnetic roller balls with soft teeth for grooming. These magnetic roller balls help to improve your horse’s circulation and loosen up their muscles before a ride.  Your horse will definitely appreciate a cold bath on these hot days. Start with the silicone-free  EquiNatura Shampoo, which contains geranium oil to nourish your horse’s skin and hair. For the softest most luxurious coat, follow it up with the  Mane ‘n’ Tail Original Conditioner. This conditioner’s protein enriched amino acid formula maintains, nourishes, and conditions your horse’s coat to aid healthy hair growth.  Shop the Clearance Horse Tack Section on Breeches.com You can’t get very far with your groundwork if you don’t have the basic necessities for your horse, like a quality halter, lead rope, and more. Spend some time inside doing some online shopping this summer. Check out our clearance horse tack for summer favorites for the barn, like muck boots, halters, bell boots, and more.  Click here to shop our clearance horse tack section now.... [Read more]

If you rode horses in the 1970s, you probably remember the tack store Miller’s. Not only was this tack store one of the top purveyors of horse riding equipment in Manhattan, the company also sold horse products nationwide via its iconic mail-order catalog. Known for creating quality horse supplies, Miller’s sold to everyone from Olympians to Rockefellers to everyday equestrians.  Breeches.com is excited to announce that we’ve acquired the Miller’s name and are launching a brand new collection of Miller’s horse products. We can’t wait to honor the rich history behind the Miller’s name with quality horse supplies at an affordable price.  Miller’s was founded in 1912 by Russian immigrant  Mayer Gostkovsky, who later took the surname Miller. The company really reached its heyday in the 1940s, when Mayer’s son, Joseph Miller, took over the role of president and chief executive. During that time, Miller’s achieved success as a multi-pronged company, wholesaling tack to other distributors, selling directly to the consumer in its New York City story, and retailing nationwide via the mail order catalog, which many equestrians young and old devoured.  The company reached almost mythic status. Stories about Miller’s iconic New York store are still remembered. In Joseph Miller’s  obituary in 2011, a family member related the tale of a woman who walked her horse right into the building’s freight elevator and brought the horse into the store in order to discuss the correct fit of a martingale with Joseph. The store was well-known among the community for its iconic wooden horse statue out front.  After nearly four decades of selling from its New York Store, which  the Times dubbed as “the equine epicenter of New York,” the business was  divided and sold in 1975. There still stands a tack store, The Manhattan Saddlery, in Miller’s original location in New York City. Weatherbeeta purchased the wholesale side of the company, including brands such as Crosby, Collegiate, Everest, Eisers, On Course, Good Hands, Lancers, Roma, Pytchley and Lexington. Dover purchased the retail catalog business and the name, which fell out of use in recent years.  Miller's, once the world's largest supplier of horse products, is back with a new collection priced to fit any budget! Now, more than 100 years after it was founded as a small family business, Breeches.com is bringing Miller’s back to the forefront of the equestrian industry. So far, we’ve launched just three exclusive horse products under the Miller’s name, including a horse fly sheet, with more soon to follow.  First up, we have the brand new  Miller’s Fly Sheet in gray with a royal blue trim, released just in time for fly season. Classically stylish, this horse fly sheet combines durability and comfort for the horse. Featuring two front closures, low cross surcingles, and a tail cord, this horse fly sheet fits most horses securely and comfortably. Available in sizes 69 to 87. Next, we have two Miller’s girths, the  Miller’s All Purpose Fleece Girth and the Miller’s Chafeless Contoured Dressage Girth. The All Purpose Fleece Girth would be right at home in any barn. Designed with versatility in mind, this girth boasts an all-purpose design that adapts effortlessly to different saddle disciplines. The soft fleece lining prevents chafing and protects your horse’s belly and armpits from rubs, while the neoprene outer layer offers support and durability. Synthetic leather looks stylish, but makes maintenance easy, plus you can ride in wet or muddy conditions worry-free. Done riding? Simply put your fleece girth into the washing machine to keep the fleece white and ready to go.  Created specifically for the dressage rider, our  Miller’s Chafeless Contoured Dressage Girth takes comfort to the next level. With all the comfort and durability of our Miller’s All Purpose Fleece Girth, the Miller’s Dressage Girth meets the every need of the dressage horse. Whether you’re competing in Prix St. Georges or simply riding for fun, this dressage girth is perfect for any rider who takes their horse’s comfort seriously. The contoured shape allows ample room for the horse’s legs, which prevents chafing and allows for full freedom of movement for the dressage horse. The 100% washable material ensures that it's easy to keep clean and maintain, saving you precious time and effort. Available in sizes 20 to 34.  Breeches.com is your go-to online tack store for quality horse products at affordable prices. Now, by reviving the Miller’s name with our own unique twist, we’re bringing you back to a childhood spent in barns filled with Miller’s logo. We have big plans to release even more Miller’s horse supplies in the near future. True to Joseph Miller’s original goal for the brand, we ensure all of our horse supplies are held to high quality standards, while keeping our prices low to save the everyday equestrian a dollar.   Click here to shop Miller’s products, plus keep an eye on our website for more new and exciting Miller’s horse riding equipment. As always, you'll love Miller's prices!... [Read more]

What did you read growing up? If you were lucky enough to be pony obsessed and a voracious reader, then you probably spent your summer either sitting in your favorite chair with a good book or at the barn. While your child’s school probably sent them home with a summer reading list filled with classics like The Call of the Wild or the infamously long Chesapeake, we’ve created our own summer reading list filled with horse books for teens. Summer reading doesn’t have to only prepare your child for the next school year– it can be a lot of fun, too.  Elementary School Summer Reading List We’re recommending a classic horse book by Norman Thelwell to start your elementary schooler’s summer off right:  Penelope Rides Again by Norman Thelwell. This book is perfect for those kids who are always riding the naughty ponies at the barn. Following the adventures of Penelope and her pony Kipper, this book is sure to keep your child laughing as this plucky, pint-sized equestrian tackles everything from the showgrounds to the English countryside. It’s a great choice for kids who are scared of falling off as Penelope struggles to stay in the saddle. This horse book takes a light-hearted perspective on life in the barn.   A second horse book to add to your child’s summer reading list is  The Plaid Horse Show Strides Book 1: School Horses & Show Ponies. This book follows the riders of Quince Oaks, namely working student Tally and her best friend Mac. While Tally rides the school’s lesson horses and Mac struggles to improve her riding on her pony hunter, the pair chase their dreams on horseback one stride at a time. Through this book your child will learn important lessons like resilience, perseverance and how to get back on the horse when things don’t work out quite as you’d hoped.  Middle School Summer Reading List Instead of fictional stories, we’re bringing your middle schooler some practical horse books for teens to add to their summer reading list. First up, we have  How to Speak Horse by horse trainers Andrea and Markus Eschbach. Filled with bright and colorful illustrations, this book focuses on groundwork that is fun and safe for children. By the end of this book, your middle schooler will have a better handle on what their horse is trying to tell them through their body language and how they can “talk” back.  Next up on our summer reading list for middle schoolers, we have  The Kid's Guide to Horsemanship and Grooming by world-class grooms Cat Hill and Emma Ford. Whether they own, lease, or simply take lessons, this book will come in handy for middle schoolers who are learning to care for the horse in and out of the saddle. With a focus on teaching kids horsemanship via proper care for the horse before and after riding, this horse book will ensure the fair and proper care of the horse so that he remains healthy and happy. Filled with eye-catching and accurate illustrations, this book is perfect for the horse crazy kid who is passionate not just about riding, but about horsemanship.  High School Summer Reading List Equestrians who have reached high school most likely already know basic horsemanship standards and are far beyond the days of illustrated comics. Up their summer reading list with thought-provoking novels that dive deeper into the close relationship between horse and rider.  First up, we have  The Girl on the Dancing Horse by world renowned dressage rider Charlotte Dujardin. Written by Charlotte herself, this book chronicles the amazing relationship between Charlotte and her charismatic horse Valegro. They become a household name among equestrians after bursting onto the stage at the 2012 London Olympic Games. Born into a middle class family, The Girl on the Dancing Horse is the story of how Charlotte and “Blueberry” overcame the odds to rise to the top of the sport. It’s the perfect summer read for a teen who loves dressage, but also for anyone who loves an underdog story.  Last but not least, add the book  Why We Ride: Women Writers on the Horses in Their Lives to your high schooler’s summer reading list. Made up of a collection of stories from women of all disciplines, this anthology is an emotional read that will resonate with every equestrian of any age. Whether the writer of each story is a career equestrian or simply someone who rode horses as a child, horses have played a special role in the lives of each of these writers. Each story reveals how horses have made an impact in the lives of these women. With a foreword by bestselling novelist Jane Smiley, Why We Ride offers a reflective view on the relationships between women and horses. Bring the Joy of Reading to Your Horse Crazy Kid This Summer Your favorite online tack store may also become your new favorite bookstore. Breeches.com is proud to carry an exclusive collection of books from bestselling authors, like George Morris, Norman Thelwell, Uta Graf, and Jane Savoie. Whether you want to add to your summer reading list, or to your child’s, we have something for everyone on our online horse book store.  Find your next read here.... [Read more]

English and Western disciplines have always had a friendly rivalry. From arguments as to whether a Quarter Horse or a Warmblood is better to discussions over whether reining or dressage is more challenging, to who has better behaved horses, the debates are endless. Today, we’re looking at a different aspect of the two sports: who has better matchy-matchy horse riding clothes?  Horse riding clothes that match your horse’s saddle pad and tack are all the rage. Equestrians of all disciplines love to dress up and will take any small excuse to buy a new saddle pad. But who can put together a matchy-matchy outfit that’s more stylish: Western or English? Round 1: Lettia Shadow Collection vs TuffRider Abilene Collection Let’s kick off this battle of style with the English-geared Lettia Shadow Collection and a combination of the decidedly Western TuffRider Abilene and Pendleton Collections.  The  TuffRider Abilene Western Shirt is available in five colors, but today we’re looking at this shirt in a beautiful almost vintage shade of raspberry. Styled for the show ring, this shirt is designed to be breathable and moisture-wicking, and also offers UV protection. This raspberry shirt will bring out the shades of pink in the  TuffRider Pendleton Western Show Blanket. Made of premium wool, this show blanket features a traditional Western design in pink, red, black, and gray.  If your horse wears bell boots, the cherry on top of your matchy matchy outfit is the  Professionals Choice Ballistic Boot in raspberry. Tough as well as stylish, these bell boots have a Ballistic™ nylon outer cover and binding, as well as an UltraShock™ lining that protects the hoof, coronet band, and heel bulbs. To protect your horse’s legs, throw on a pair of  black polo wraps to match the black in the show blanket. The final look will have some Barbie vibes, but with enough black to add a tough edge to your outfit.  Now that we have our raspberry Western matchy matchy look, let’s meet its opponent: a buttercup combination of horse riding clothes from the Lettia Shadow Collection. Buttercup is a unique color that falls somewhere between champagne and pale yellow, creating an overall cream-colored aesthetic. The  Lettia Shadow Saddle Pad features high-performance fill and a Coolmax lining to wick sweat away from your horse’s back. Contoured to your horse’s back, this pad is as comfortable as it is fashionable.  Pull out all the stops with a matching  Lettia Shadow Ear Net in buttercup. Handmade with open-weave cotton, this ear net protects your horse’s ears from annoying flies, and looks good doing it. Your horse equipment will be matching from top to bottom, thanks to a pair of  Lettia Shadow Polo Wraps in buttercup. Extra long and extra wide, these polo wraps will fit almost any horse’s legs, and are washable to extend their lifespan.  Finally, for the rider’s horse riding clothes, wear the  Lettia Ladies Sun Shirt in a matching shade of buttercup. Quick-drying and with added sun protection (UPF 50+), these long-sleeve quarter zips are as functional as they are fashionable. Underneath each arm is a cooling open-mesh for ultimate breathability on hot summer days.  Round 2: TuffRider Americana Collection vs Equine Couture & TuffRider Combo Next up, we have the TuffRider Americana Collection vs a stylish combination of Equine Couture and TuffRider horse equipment.  Summer is the perfect time to be a little patriotic. The  TuffRider Prescott Western Show Blanket lets you show off your red, white, and blue horse equipment with a Western design in bright eye-catching shades. Woven with premium wool and with added wear leathers, this show blanket is designed to last. Pair it with the  Tough-1 Vintage Floral Breastcollar, which features an artful floral design in periwinkle, red, and white inset into dark oiled leather. Finish off your horse’s outfit with a pair of   TuffRider Polo Bandages in burgundy.  For your own horse riding clothes, wear the  TuffRider Americana Western Shirt. Thanks to the red, white, and blue theme, choose between the royal and red colors. This snap-up shirt has a hidden zipper to prevent gaping in the mid-section, as well as snap cuffs and a fold down collar, making these horse riding clothes perfect for working in a professional barn or riding in the show ring.  Finally, we have the TuffRider and Equine Couture English horse equipment to finish off our informal contest. The Equine Couture Brinley Saddle Pad can be found in our  clearance horse tack department, so if you like this outfit, act fast! Supplies are limited. In a traditional shade of hunter green, this saddle pad features red, white, and tan accents, a contoured shape, and diamond quilting. Pair it with the  LeMieux Polo Wraps also in hunter green. These polo wraps are made of the highest quality fleece to prevent pilling, and can be used on their own or with LeMieux under bandage pads for extra protection.  Match your horse with horse riding clothes like the  TuffRider Taylor Short Sleeve Polo Shirt. A staple in every equestrian’s wardrobe, this shirt features EquiCool technology, which both wicks moisture and provides UV protection. A classic style for the English rider, you can’t go wrong with this soft, simple, and affordable shirt– especially when it matches your horse’s equipment.  Breeches.com: Where Function Meets Fashion in All Disciplines As the online tack store for both Western and English riders, you can rest assured that you’re getting the best deals on high-quality products. Our products don’t just look good, we’ve put them to the test both in and out of the show ring in all disciplines to ensure they stand up to the test of daily use.  Shop our clearance horse tack section for the best deals before they disappear.... [Read more]

Trail riders have to be prepared for anything. Unlike other equestrians who can pop into the barn to swap boots or simply get off if their horse is injured, trail riders may be miles from home when an issue arises. If their horse steps on a rock or slips and gets a cut, a trail rider can’t just call off the ride and wrap their horse’s foot. They have to walk the horse all the way back to the barn or trailer depending on where they are.  This is why it’s so important that trail riders protect their horse’s legs and hooves as best as possible. The right hoof boots, horse boots and leg wraps can mean the difference between a fun day on the trail and a long slow walk back home with an injured horse.  Protection from the Ground Up     Have you heard the saying, “no hoof, no horse?” It couldn’t be more true. Without stalwart, strong hooves our horses wouldn’t be able to walk in soft sand, let alone on a rocky trail. Before you hit the trail, consider whether or not you may need hoof protection where you’re going, particularly if you have a barefoot horse.  For the everyday trail rider, Cavallo makes a great everyday hoof boot called  the Trek. With built-in sole relief and a simple Velcro closure, this hoof boot is lightweight, but has a built-in tough tread designed to provide traction on the majority of surfaces. These boots are easy to fit to your horse and have a very accurate sizing system. With drainage holes on either side, these hoof boots can be worn even through rocky river crossings.  If you’re looking for a hoof boot that’s a little more intense, take a look at Easycare hoof boots, particularly the  Easyboot Glove. For the unshod horse, the Easyboot Glove offers the ultimate protection from rocks and debris underfoot. A urethane heel sling covered in neoprene prevents rubs, while the sling designs prevents debris from getting caught between the skin and the boot and allows water to drain out completely.  If you want to give your Easycare hoof boot a little added staying power, try adding a  bell boot overtop the hoof boot. This protects the hoof boot from wear and tear and prevents any straps from coming undone while you’re riding.   Cushion the Cannon Bone     A knock to the cannon bone can result in cuts, lacerations, abrasions, and, in the worst case scenario, a broken bone. The best horse boots and leg wraps will cushion any impact to the leg and protect the lower limb from slices or puncture wounds that may occur while you’re trail riding.  For the casual trail rider who rarely encounters hazardous terrain, the  Lettia EquiFine Horse Boot is a great choice. This brushing boot protects against sticks and plants, like thorn bushes, while you ride. With a closed cell neoprene design, it also cushions some impacts, while molding around the leg and fetlock joint. Just be mindful of your horse’s legs getting too hot on a warm day.  If you’re going to be crossing any rivers, riding on the beach, or riding through water jumps, look for a boot that dries quickly, like the  TuffRider Premium Horse Boots. These horse boots focus all of their protective efforts on the back of the leg, along the horse’s tendons. They don’t absorb water and dry quickly, thanks to their unique design. If your horse is prone to soft tissue injury, these boots provide the maximum tendon impact protection.  Are you a trail rider that regularly goes 10 miles or more? A long day on the trail can take a toll on your horse’s legs, particularly if sand and dirt get inside their horse boots and leg wraps and irritate their skin. The  Horze Impact Flexi Strike Boots not only prevent sand and dirt from irritating your horse’s skin, but they feature a strike guard and special lining that protect from both impacts and abrasions. And, with these full coverage boots, you won’t have to worry about your horse overheating as the naturally hypoallergenic polyolefin foam is perforated for improved air flow. If you’re a traditional equestrian, then you’ll have a love affair with polo wraps. Polo wraps are a great way to customize the support around your horse’s legs and ensure the fit is customized to their unique shape. However, trail riding with polo wraps must be done with a little bit of planning. Only use polo wraps on your horse’s legs when you know you will not be going through puddles or water crossings, as polo wraps will loosen and sage when wet.   The Lettia Polo Wraps are extra long and extra wide, so they’ll fit the tallest horses and add extra cushion against impacts. Available in six different colors, you’ll find the perfect pair for you and your horse  here.  Trail Riding Requires Real Protection     You never know what obstacles you’ll encounter on the trail. Be prepared for anything with the right hoof boots, horse boots and leg wraps. Shop for leg protection for the trail horse from Breeches.com’s collection of high-quality brands at great prices, including Lettia, TuffRider, EquiFit, and more.  Click here to shop our selection of horse boots and hoof boots.... [Read more]

Fly prevention for horses is a problem as old as equestrian sport. While we wish we could hit the trails in a TuffRider fly sheet  like this one, it’s sadly not practical once you start considering where to put your saddle. It’s tough to find the right combination of products that will protect your horse at the barn, let alone once you head into the woods. Trail riders often face the brunt of the unpleasant insects, as they ride straight into bug territory, unlike other equestrians who stick closer to home. It’s doubly hard to find fly control for horses that’s up to the task of repelling insects on their home turf. Luckily, if you combine sprays, barriers, ointments, and a few ingenious hacks from equestrian forums, you just might find yourself with a fly-free summer ahead.  Bring a Barrier     Your horse’s head and ears are most vulnerable to the attentions of biting flies. The insects are attracted to the moisture that gathers around your horse’s eyes, nose, and ears. Plus, your horse’s head is also farthest away from their fly-killing tail. While you can carefully apply ointments and sprays to your horse’s head and ears, you have to be extremely careful as you don’t want caustic chemicals dripping into your horse’s eyes.  The best solution is the  Quiet Ride Fly Mask. Unlike many other fly masks designed for use in the bright sun of the pasture, this fly mask allows your horse to see clearly even in the gloom of the woods. It’s also designed so as not to interfere with the mechanics of your bridle, while still providing fly control for horses.  Spook Prevention Plus Fly Repellent Do you have a horse that’s particularly irritated by the noise of flies buzzing around their ears? The  EquiFit SilentFit Ear Bonnet is a great option for these sensitive horses. Made from unique SilentFit material, the ear bonnet deadens sound while also providing a traditional method of fly control for horses. A contoured shape and durable EverLeather trim keep this bonnet looking sharp while ensuring no flies sneak under the brim of this double-duty fly bonnet. If you have a spooky horse, the noise-deadening bonnet can also prevent your horse from spooking at sudden noises in the woods and fields around them.  Hit the Trail Prepared     Equestrians who trail ride regularly are usually pretty prepared with extra  halters,  lead ropes, and possibly even  hoof boots. Unfortunately, it’s usually pretty difficult to cram a big bottle of leaky fly spray into your saddle bags. Luckily,  EcoVet developed a compact bottle of their signature fatty acid-based fly repellent for horses that easily fits inside most saddle bags. Perfect as a travel size,  the 4oz bottle creates a zone of repellency around your horse that smells like their unique herbal blend– mainly lavender with a hint of tea.  Add a Lime & Shake It All Up     Shake up your fly control for horses with a little coconut oil. According to the  USDA, “...coconut oil compounds were effective against biting flies and bed bugs for two weeks and had lasting repellency against ticks for at least one week in laboratory tests. In addition, the compound showed strong repellency against mosquitoes when higher concentrations of coconut oil compounds were topically applied.” However, it’s important to use coconut oil sparingly on your horse’s coat. The oil attracts dirt and may make your horse’s back too slippery for your saddle. Additionally, be careful around sensitive areas, like the eyes.  Take Advantage of Natural Predators     Dragonflies may look innocent to us, but to horse and deer flies, these beautiful insects are terrifying. According to this  Forest Preserve District, dragonflies are voracious predators. “While they usually eat mosquitoes and midges, they’ll also eat butterflies, moths, bees, flies and even other dragonflies.” Riders across social media and equine forums swear by clipping a fake dragonfly to their horse’s bridle to deter horse and deer flies. While this hack makes sense in terms of the food chain, make sure your horse won’t mind their new pilot on their head before you mount up. It won’t matter if the dragonfly deters any insect if your horse isn’t a fan!  Fly Repellent Plus Shine There are some areas of our horses where a traditional method of fly prevention for horses, like a spray, isn’t appreciated, typically near their face. In this case, wipes are usually better received by our horses and can be used as part of your standard grooming process. The  Supreme Products High Shine Finishing Wipes are a great option for around your horse’s face, as they’re gentle enough to be tolerated around the eyes and muzzle.  Not only will these wipes bring out the shine in your horse’s coat, they contain citronella, a natural method of fly prevention for horses.  Citronella has a very strong aroma and smells like citrus. Insects are very sensitive to odors, particularly orange, lemon, and those within the citrus family. Not only does citronella itself repel flies, it also masks the scent of odors that may attract insects, like manure.   Start with a Bath     Set your horse up for success with a nice  bath before you leave for your next trail ride.  Durvet’s Citronella Shampoo leaves your horse smelling citrusy fresh and deep cleans their skin and coat. While your horse will smell lovely to you– the biting insects that surround your barn won’t think so. Formulated with aloe vera, lanolin, herbs, and aromatic oils, this shampoo leaves behind a protective coating that nourishes your horse’s coat and mane, leaving it soft and shining. Breeches.com: For All Your Fly Control Needs As your online tack store, we understand how important it is to have multiple options when it comes to fly repellents. Each horse deserves a fly control solution for their unique situation, whether they need a fly spray for sensitive skin, a fly mask that works with a bridle, or fly repellent that can be wiped on and won’t affect their sensitive skin. When it comes to fly prevention for horses, we have everything you’ll need on Breeches.com, and at a great price, too.  Don’t let the flies keep you from your next trail ride!  Shop here.... [Read more]

Heading to Equine Affaire or the Defender Kentucky Three Day Event this month? Come see your online horse tack store in person! We’ll have amazing event-only deals and pricing on clearance tack, including all the great brands you’ve come to rely on our online horse tack store for, like  Henri de Rivel,  AWST, and  Equine Couture. We’ve also got great chances to win prizes at both events, thanks to a raffle we’re running at Equine Affaire, and as part of Eventing Nation’s Trivia Tour with Chinch at the Kentucky Three Day Event. Keep reading to plan a successful visit to both events! Equine Affaire | Columbus, OH | April 11th - 14th Breeches.com will be at  Equine Affaire from April 11th through the 14th in Columbus, Ohio. As North America’s premiere equine exposition, Equine Affaire combines the best in educational seminars with the largest horse-related trade show in the Nation. Come listen to seminars from trainers like Pat Parelli and Philip Dutton before shopping and heading to your favorite booth– Breeches.com, of course.  Equine Affaire is also well-known for its presentation of Fantasia, a musical celebration of the horse that takes place in the coliseum. The show features trick riding, costumes, and amazing performances by both the equine and human athletes. Before watching Fantasia, stop by the breed pavilion to meet exotic breeds like the Gypsy Vanner and Mustang. In the market for your next horse? Check out the For Sale stalls at the event, featuring horses that are available for sale or adoption. It’s the perfect time to buy a new horse– just skip over to the Breeches.com booth to buy all the tack you need for your new best friend at awesome prices.  Our booth (#C207)  is located behind the Equine Fundamentals Forum in the Celeste Building. Stop by to enter our raffle and take advantage of some great event-only sales. Western riders can take advantage of a BOGO deal on  Wrangler Jeans– buy two pairs of jeans and get the third pair free. It’s the perfect deal for the hard-working cowboy who needs several pairs of sturdy jeans for around the ranch!  English riders can take advantage of sales on two different types of breeches. The  Kerrits Summer Riding Tights are on sale for just $39.94, while the  Kingsland knee patch breeches are marked down to just $19.94. It’s a great deal for parents who need to buy some breeches for summer camp. We understand that English tall boots can be prohibitively expensive, so we’ve marked down our  TuffRider English Tall Boots to just $99.94. Take advantage of this sale while supplies last. We’ve also expanded our clearance section at the booth with  AWST bags, scarves, and gift items all on clearance pricing. Stop by our booth at Equine Affaire so you don’t have to choose between looking good and saving money! Kentucky Three Day Event | Lexington, KY | April 27th - 30th Eventing fans! Are you ready for the Defender Kentucky Three Day Event at the end of this month? Breeches.com will be there for the Trade Fair!  The Kentucky Three Day Event (K3DE) is best described as the peak of eventing in the United States. As one of only two CCI5* events in the country, it attracts only the top of the sport. There’s additional pressure on the competitors this year with the Paris Olympics looming just around the corner. Attendees could get a sneak peek of what the Olympics will look like as many of the riders who are aiming for the Olympics team are entered in the CCI4*-S.  If you’re interested in watching the event in style, there are four private clubs located with amazing views of Rolex stadium and closed circuit televisions with views of all the action, including commentary.  But, not only is it an amazing event for the action on the cross country field, it’s also well-known for its extensive Trade Fair. Add Breeches.com to your shopping list. We’ll be at booth 222 along Prince Panache Lane inside the Trade Fair building below the Kentucky Kids Club arena. You can also find us as part of the Eventing Nation Trivia Tour with Chinch! Find the chinchilla sticker that’s hidden in our booth to scan the QR code for a chance to win two amazing prizes.  We’ll have amazing brands for sale at our booth, including  Eurostar,  HV Polo,  Imperial Riding,  LeMieux,  Goode Rider,  Fits,  Equifit,  Horsena,  EQuick, and more. Check out our clearance section for more amazing deals and discounted prices.  Visit Your Go-To Online Horse Tack Store In Person We love our role as an online horse tack store for the quality brands we can offer at amazing prices. But, attending these two events as a vendor allows us to meet our favorite people – our customers – face-to-face. Stop by our booths and say hello! We’d love to talk to you about all of your horse tack-related needs.  Can’t attend either event?  Visit our online horse tack store instead.... [Read more]

Happy Spring! Are you ready to hit the trails? Breeches.com has all the tack, apparel, and supplies you’ll need to enjoy trail riding with your horse, worry-free. Check out our top ten must-have products that you’ll need for horseback trail riding.  1.  TuffRider Ranger Trail Saddle It’s hard to enjoy horse trail rides when you’re riding in an uncomfortable saddle. Nothing ends a nice weekend with friends faster than saddle sores! The  TuffRider Ranger Trail Saddle features a roughed-out suede seat and a close contact fit so you can enjoy trail riding in comfort. Light oil in color with partial basketweave tooling, this saddle looks especially beautiful in the dappled light of wooded trails and bright forest meadows.  2.  TuffRider Western Headstall Kick those hard to handle Chicago screws to the curb with the  TuffRider Western Headstall with latigo bit ties. Latigo ties allow for quick and easy bit swapping, as well as traditional style. This headstall sits securely on your horse’s head, thanks to the throatlatch and browband, making it perfect for a snaffle bit, which is what most riders use on horse trail rides.  3.  Australian Outrider Deluxe Halter/Bridle Save yourself the hassle of packing both a halter and bridle with the Australian Outrider Deluxe Halter/Bridle. Since you can easily customize the fit to your horse with five different adjustable points, this combination halter and bridle can be worn by most of the horses in your stable. The bit attaches with a snap, so you can take your horse’s bit off easily and safely without ever leaving the trail.  4.  TuffRider Western Split Reins with Horse Hair Comfortable for you and your horse, these reins offer a soft feel of the horse’s mouth and are pliable enough to mold to your hand. Decorated with just a little bit of bling, these reins attach to the bit with star-shaped Chicago screws and silver studs. At the end of the reins are horse hair tassels, which are perfect for swatting flies off your horse, as you go down the trail.  5.  Tough-1 Elite Insulated Saddle Bag Horseback trail riding requires a lot of supplies, but where will you put it all? Drape this saddle bag around your saddle so you can easily access your phone, emergency supplies, drinks, and – of course– snacks. Available in black and brown, this saddle bag is insulated to keep drinks cold and is made up of three different compartments to easily store all of the ingredients for a great day on the trail.  6.  TuffRider Phoenix Acrylic Saddle Pad Stand out while horseback trail riding with a bright splash of color from the TuffRider Phoenix Acrylic Saddle Pad. With built-in wither relief and made from a durable acrylic blend, this western pad is long-lasting and comfortable for your horse. Leather guards carefully placed in strategic high-wear locations ensures this pad will last for years to come.  7. Cashel Quiet Ride Horse Fly Mask with Ears Have a horse that’s sensitive to flies? The  Cashel Quiet Ride Fly Mask is designed to be worn over the bridle, allowing you to safely control your horse, while preventing irritation from flying insects while horseback trail riding. Lightweight see-through mesh will not impact your horse’s vision and allows them to navigate even wooded trails with ease. Happy horse, happy rider– keep your horse happy on your next horse trail ride with this fly mask.  8.  Cinch Arena Flex Shirt Trail riders are out on the trail and in the sun all day long. The Cinch Women’s Arena Flex Button Down Shirt is perfect for summer trail riding. Made from breathable and quick-drying fabric, this long sleeve shirt allows you to have full freedom of movement, while also keeping your arms covered from the sun. An open left front pocket, embroidered logo and turquoise-white marble pearl buttons, look as beautiful as this shirt is functional. Plus– it would pair beautifully with the  TuffRider Phoenix Acrylic Saddle Pad! 9. TuffRider Women Leigh Round Toe Western Boots These boots are as tough as you are. The TuffRider Leigh Barbed Wire Round Toe Western Boots are crafted from buff tan crazy leather, making them durable and rugged boots. Whether you’re bushwhacking through trees in or out of the saddle, these boots can handle whatever a day spent horseback trail riding throws your way. Plus, an embroidered barbed wire pattern along the scallop gives these boots a little bit of added style and flair.  10. TuffRider Men’s Old Faithful Western Boots Comfortable. Durable. Trendy. These TuffRider Old Faithful Western Boots check all three boxes. Pull-on tabs and Cuban heels ensure these boots are practical both in and out of the saddle, while contrast-topstitch detailing creates a retro and classy look. Wide square-shaped toe offers ample space to keep your feet comfortable in the stirrups, no matter how long you’re trail riding for. A comfortable and sturdy pair of leather western boots is essential for any man's wardrobe! Breeches.com: The Online Home of the Casual Trail Rider Trail riders are searching for affordable, durable tack that’s still comfortable even after spending a whole day in the saddle. At Breeches.com, we get it. That’s why we offer trail rider favorites, like saddle bags and western boots, at prices that can’t be beat. Click here to find the products you’re looking for at the prices you need.... [Read more]

Believe it or not, horse riding brushes are some of the most fun items an equestrian can buy. They’re affordable tools that we use on a daily basis, but there’s such a huge variety of brushes for horses that it’s fun to pick and choose which ones we want to use. Brushes for horses have a large variety of uses, depending on the season, your horse’s individual coat, and how much they enjoy grooming. Whether you’re looking for the perfect horse riding brushes for shedding season or daily grooming, we’ve put together a list of brushes for horses based on their uses.  Shedding Tools The Spring Equinox is only a little more than a week away, and most horses are jumping on the bandwagon and starting to shed their woolly winter coats. This means that it’s a terrible time of year to wear Chapstick or fleece to the barn and you should make sure you have all the tools you need now, before the shedding season really gets into full swing.  The  Imperial Riding Spring Comb is perfect for those horses with the winter coat of an Alaskan Husky. The metal rings can be used like a curry comb, in a circular pattern, across the horse’s whole body. Dull serrated teeth pull out any loose hair and leave your horse’s coat shiny and clean, at least until the next time they roll in the mud.  You can also use a standard  Shedding Blade. With its u-shaped metal head, this horse riding brush comes in handy as you can use the serrated side for a horse with a really thick coat and the more mild non-serrated side on horses with sensitive skin and a thinner coat. Plus, the comfortable leather grip is easy on your hands.  While you can use the Shedding Blade and Spring Comb on the horse’s whole body, it’s difficult to get into all the nooks and crannies of the horse’s legs with these tools. For the horse’s legs, you may want to use the  TuffRider Grooming Stone instead. This small handy stone fits neatly in the palm of your hand and can be rotated to get into tight spots. Plus, this stone has a sandpaper-like texture that’s perfect for removing bot eggs and burrs.  Get Mud Off Your Horse April showers bring May flowers and, for equestrians, lots and lots of mud. Whether it’s dried into their coat or wet and clinging to their hairs, mud is a pain to get off your horse. Fresh mud needs a bath and some good shampoo to get off, but dried-on mud can be easily loosened and removed with the  TuffRider Plastic Curry Comb. This brush for horses has stiff plastic bristles that easily busts up dried mud and breaks it loose from your horse’s coat. It’s small enough to get into all the nooks and crannies on your horse’s legs, but you’ll have to use it lightly on horse’s with very sensitive skin.  After loosening up the mud with the TuffRider Plastic Curry Comb, get rid of it altogether with the  Lettia Mud Brush. With slightly taller bristles for added flicking power, this Mud Brush for horses is designed to be tough enough to get through a muddy coat and bring the natural oils up to the surface of the coat.  Bring Out their Natural Shine Everyone wants their horse to look healthy with a shiny coat that makes passersby stop and say, ‘wow.’ The right horse riding brush can really bring out your horse’s natural oils that really make their coat gleam. The  Lettia Goat Hair Brush features dense synthetic goat hair bristles that are designed to make your horse look their best. Made of high-quality materials, this brush for horses is very soft to the touch, perfect for adding that finishing touch to your grooming process.  For Horses with Sensitive Skin If you own a horse like a Thoroughbred or Arabian, then you know what it’s like to have to choose your horse riding brushes carefully due to their sensitive skin. Thin-skinned horses like these hot-blooded breeds may flinch or react poorly to being groomed. But, don’t give up hope. With the right brushes for horses with sensitive skin, you can make grooming time their favorite time of day.  Currying is often a sensitive horse's least favorite part of the grooming process.  Hands On Gloves are a great way to change that. These grooming gloves can be used with a very light touch, and the scrubbing nodules will feel much better on your horse’s skin than standard curry combs. Thanks to Hands On Gloves, you can curry your horse clean while giving them your usual pets and snuggles.  Additionally, you can try the  TuffRider Velvet Touch Horse Grooming Set. This set comes with two red rubber curry combs featuring two different sized rounded nubs. One comb has larger nodules and the other has more flexible smaller rubber nubs. For only $7.99, this set is a great way to test out which type of curry comb your horse likes best.  Prevent Fungal Infections Did you know that a good brushing can help prevent the formation of fungal infections on your horse’s skin? Grooming increases circulation to your horse’s skin and removes bacteria and dirt for an overall healthier coat. Good daily grooming horse riding brushes can play a key role in your horse’s health.  The  TuffRider Horse Groomer with a Big Handle is perfect for riders who may have arthritis or otherwise have trouble holding onto a smaller curry comb. With thick flat-ended rubber nodules, this curry comb will feel good on your horse’s skin, break up dirt, and increase circulation during your everyday grooming session.  Follow the curry comb with the  Lettia Plastic Dandy Brush. This stiff dandy brush for horses removes all that dirt you just loosened up and gets it away from your horse’s sensitive skin. Complete with an ergonomic wooden back for a comfortable feel, the synthetic bristles of this brush are durable, long-lasting, and designed to keep your horse’s coat healthy and happy.  Find a brush for any use on your online tack store, Breeches.com. With a variety of high-quality brands, like Lettia and TuffRider to choose from, you’re sure to find the right horse riding brush for you. Click here to shop our collection of brushes for horses.... [Read more]

Many equestrians balk at the phrase “positive reinforcement training.” They picture horses fed handfuls of treats and unsafe horsemanship practices. In reality, there’s a lot of benefit to including positive reinforcement techniques into the daily routine of the competitive dressage horse.  First, what is positive reinforcement training? In this scenario, positive reinforcement can look like empathetic riding that includes verbal praise, wither scratches, riding with a lighter hand, changing your horse’s daily routine, and, yes– using treats in your training. There are many different ways to incorporate positive reinforcement training into your dressage horse’s life. How you go about it depends on your goals and your individual horse.  Reduce the Pressure     For some horses, positive reinforcement training can look as simple as taking the pressure off. If every ride feels like a race towards perfection, this might be a good tactic for you.  Taking the pressure off can look like releasing the reins after riding in collection for a short time, instead of drilling the exercise for an entire ride. It could also include shortening the duration of your rides and ensuring your mix in some relaxing, undemanding training into your riding routine.  Overall, reducing pressure means being empathetic with how your dressage horse is feeling that day. As equestrians, we are not always perfect, so why should our horses be? Instead of aiming for perfection, keep your goals flexible and take into account your dressage horse’s daily stressors. Did they have a tough ride recently? Was their feed or turnout changed? By considering your horse’s perspective and adjusting your expectations accordingly, you’re practicing empathetic horsemanship. Allow Your Horse to Stretch Often     How often do you allow your dressage horse a loose rein where they can really stretch out their topline? As riders, we should offer our horses the opportunity to warm up slowly and stretch out their bodies every single ride. Stretching can be relaxing for the horse and is a great reward after a hard workout.  To encourage your horse to stretch and relax, loosen your  reins and encourage your horse to take their head towards the ground in a long-and-low position. Use your legs to maintain the impulsion and keep your horse moving through the stretch.  Alternatively, if your horse has a hard time stretching under saddle, increase their flexibility on the ground with carrot stretches. This easy form of bodywork is good for your horse both physically and mentally. Not only does it help prevent imbalances in the body and increase their flexibility, it also encourages them to think differently about what you’re asking of them. Plus, it’s almost guaranteed to be their favorite activity, thanks to the  treats.  Choose the Right Tack     A dressage horse that is unhappy in their tack will never enjoy their work no matter how many treats you feed them. Working with a saddle fitter and a bridle fitter to get your tack checked regularly is a basic horse care task that can go a long way towards a happier horse.  While many equestrians have had their  saddle fit, few have had their  bridle and  bit fit to their horse. Many horses are perfectly happy being ridden in a bit, but if your horse isn’t, why not try  bitless? Don’t let yourself be peer pressured into a choice that isn’t in the best interest of your horse. Plus, it doesn’t have to be black and white. You can ride your horse bitless in your everyday schooling rides and use the bit when the circumstances call for it.  Here’s how this ties into positive reinforcement training– going bitless ensures you aren’t relying too much on your hands, gives your horse a break, and encourages you to ride with more seat and leg, and less hand. In short, going bitless can make you a more empathetic rider.  Keep It Fun     Remember, horseback riding is supposed to be fun first. If you and your dressage horse aren’t having fun, then why are you doing it?  Keep your horse’s routine fun by mixing it up. Don’t spend every day in the sand box. Instead, try trail riding, cross training, or throw in a little bit of low jumping or polework into your dressage horse’s routine. Don’t be afraid to get out of the saddle and do some groundwork, like  lunging or ground driving, as well.  Varying your horse’s routine prevents your horse from becoming bored, tired, or overall sour. Prioritize learning what your horse likes to do and include it in your training regimen. For example, if your horse enjoys trail riding, try and end every ride with a trail ride as a reward for their hard work in the ring.  Breeches.com: Everything You Need to Keep Your Horse Happy Every horse deserves a job they enjoy. As riders, it’s our responsibility to create a work/life routine for our horses that they take pleasure in. Including more positive reinforcement training in your daily routine with your dressage horse is a quick and easy way to help your horse feel happier and more confident.  At Breeches.com, we pride ourselves on supplying all the equipment your horse loves. From  bitless bridles to  treats galore, shop on our online tack store for everything you’ll need in one convenient spot.  Check out our website.... [Read more]

Groundwork exercises for horses are a great way to bring your horse back into work after their winter vacation. From lunging to ground driving to working your horse through an obstacle course, groundwork builds your horse’s fitness, confidence, and relationship with you. To get you started on your journey to using groundwork to get your horse fit for the 2024 competition season, we’ve put together six exercises for you and your horse to tackle together.  Before we dive in, you’ll need certain supplies to get started.  Lunge Line Horse Training  Whip Surcingle Rail Razers Poles We also suggest purchasing a  book to guide you through the basics of groundwork if you don’t have much experience using this particular skill set.  #1 Ground Driving Unlike lunging, ground driving is when you have two long reins connected to either side of your horse’s halter or bit that run through a surcingle and back behind the horse, where you hold them. These reins act exactly as they would if you were in the saddle instead of walking behind the horse. Also carefully hold a horse training whip or aid in your hand to encourage the horse to move forward when asked.  Learn more about ground driving here. There are many benefits to this groundwork exercise for horses. Because they have to rely on your verbal cues and rein ads, it will increase their responsiveness to cues other than your seat and legs. Because the horse is in front of you in a “leadership” position (in physical space only, you’re still in charge!), the horse will build their confidence, particularly when it comes to exploring new environments or obstacles.  Ground driving also ensures your horse has excellent posture for backing up and strengthens the horse’s topline, when done correctly. By improving the horse’s confidence, fitness, and responsiveness, it’s a great way to get your horse back to work after a long winter off.  #2 Polework Poles may seem deceptively easy– after all, how hard is it for the horse to lift up their hooves over a pole that’s barely 4 inches tall? In reality, adding poles into your ground work routine is harder for the horse than it looks. Working your horse over poles at all three gaits builds fitness in their core and thoracic sling, while also improving their proprioception. Once your horse is easily able to work over poles, you can increase the difficulty of this groundwork exercise for horses by using Rail Razers or similar to raise the poles slightly. For a super advanced version of this exercise, you can make the poles uneven, with one side on the ground and the other side raised slightly. This will not only further increase their proprioception, but it will also help to even out any muscular imbalances in the horse, as long as the high end of the pole is on their weak side.  #3 Backing Up Backing up is another groundwork exercise for horses to build fitness, and it doesn’t even require you to leave the barn. If the weather outside is nasty or the footing is too muddy, you can back your horse up the barn aisle.  This exercise puts more weight on the horse’s hindquarters and improves their strength and fitness in the hind end. Keep in mind that this is hard work, like weightlifting is for us. If your horse is really out of shape, ask for only a little at a time and watch for signs of tiredness.  When backing your horse, keep their head even with or slightly below the withers. Aim for straightness and a consistent rhythm with each hoof stepping back evenly. If your horse struggles to stay straight, you can back them up between two poles.  #4 Carrot Stretches Carrot stretches are a great excuse to give your horse all those treats they’ve been asking for. Using a carrot or other  treat, ask your horse to keep their body still but turn their head towards their tail, then ask them to lower their head to the floor, to their knees, and to their chest. Repeat this groundwork exercise for horses on both sides.  Learn more carrot stretches here.  These stretches are like yoga for horses. It encourages your horse to move through the entire range of motion in their body and joints. This increases their resilience and flexibility. It can even help improve their balance and core strength. Plus, this exercise allows you to ditch the horse training whip and pick up a bag of treats instead. #5 Lunge on an Incline Have you ever had to run up a hill? Running on an incline is hard work, but it will improve your fitness in a short time frame. The same is true for our horses. Lunging a horse on an incline is a groundwork exercise for horses that helps them with their balance, cardiovascular fitness, and overall strength. However, start slow and only do this exercise for short periods of time. Start off with a small incline and ensure the footing is perfect, as footing that’s uneven or too slippery could cause your horse to stumble. Use the horse training whip as little as possible during this exercise, as you don’t want to rush your horse.  #6 Build an Obstacle Course Have you ever created an obstacle course for your horse? This can involve using pool noodles, poles, flags, and possibly even  balls. Obstacle courses are great groundwork exercises for horses as they work your horse’s brain and help create a trusting relationship. Create a course that can be completed from the ground. Start by walking next to your horse and staying calm, no matter what your horse does.  Allow them to explore the obstacles and indulge their curiosity. Once your horse is very confident, you can try ground driving them through the obstacle course with a trainer’s help.  Getting ready for the competition season isn’t just about fitness. If you have a spooky horse, an obstacle course can build your horse’s confidence when they’re faced with new situations and objects. This includes going to a strange environment, like a horse show, or getting by the flowers by the judges without spooking.  Breeches.com: For All Your Training Equipment Needs Whether you’re working on your horse’s fitness under saddle or from the ground, Breeches.com has all the supplies you need to get your horse ready for the competition season. From horse training aids to lunge lines to surcingles, you can find all of our training supplies  here.... [Read more]

When it comes to learning the  parts of horse tack, the bridle may be one of the trickiest. There are a lot of small pieces that look very similar, as they’re all essentially leather straps. Despite this, it is one of the most important pieces of tack to learn about. When used incorrectly, the bridle can cause significant harm. For example, if the noseband or throatlatch is done too tightly, you could have a big impact on the horse’s ability to breathe. Take the next step on your path to becoming a great horseman. Keep reading to learn the parts of the bridle and how they work.  What Are the Parts of the Bridle? Defining what the different parts are and how they work will help you understand how you can communicate seamlessly with your horse. Review the parts listed on the image below.  Let’s start from the top. The crown piece sits directly behind the horse’s ears and keeps all the pieces of the bridle together. The browband, noseband, cheek pieces, and throatlatch all connect to the crown piece. The browband goes over the horse’s forehead and prevents the bridle from sliding backwards, away from the ears and up the horse’s neck.  Just below the browband are the throatlatch and cheek pieces. The cheek pieces connect to both the bit and the crown piece and keep the bit in the proper position in the horse’s mouth. Ensuring the bit is well-located in the horse’s mouth is a difficult task and varies from horse to horse. It’s best to ask your trainer, bridle fitter, or veterinarian if your bit fits your horse nicely.  The throatlatch goes behind the horse’s jaw and around the throat, just as the name suggests. When tightening the throatlatch, it’s important not to make the fit overly snug. You should be able to place a fist between the bottom of the throatlatch and the horse’s throat.  The noseband goes behind the bit and wraps around the horse’s nose and jaw. It prevents the horse from dislodging the bit and keeps their jaw in alignment. Perhaps its most important purpose is to prevent the horse from moving their tongue over the bit, which can cause injury. A noseband should fit snugly, but not tightly. You should be able to fit two fingers between the front of the horse’s nose and the leather.  Last but not least, the reins connect to the bit and loop behind the horse’s neck. Think of the reins as a telephone. The connection to the bit is the horse’s end of the phone. When the rider picks up the reins, it’s like they’re picking up the phone and saying hello.  What’s the Difference Between the Bridle and the Halter? When you first start riding it’s easy to get the bridle and the halter confused. After all, they’re both worn on the horse's face and are used to guide the horse. Look closely. Halters do not have a bit– the metal mouthpiece worn while the horse is ridden. Bits are for precise communication only, and should never be connected to cross ties or used to tie the horse.  One of the biggest distinctions between the bridle and the halter is when they are used. The bridle is used when the horse is being ridden or is being led to or from the riding arena. The halter is used to lead the horse from the pasture or stall and is worn while the horse is being groomed and tacked.  What Type of Bridle Do You Need? There are many different types of bridles for different disciplines and situations. If you’re a beginner rider, it can be difficult to figure out when you should be using which bridle. Is one better than another? In short, no one bridle is better than others, but certain bridles are designed for specific situations. For example, there are dressage bridles for the dressage ring and hunt bridles for fox hunters. What type of bridle should you choose? Let’s take a look at some of the most common types.  Bridles like the  Henri de Rivel Mono Crown Fancy Stitched Bridle are most commonly seen in the world of hunters and equitation, particularly in the show ring. This bridle is best described as minimalist. It doesn’t have a flash, drop noseband, or anatomical design. Instead, its purpose is to show off the horse’s head and allow the rider to control the horse with as few “gadgets” as possible. If you’re a beginner rider, most of your lesson horses will have a bridle like this one.  Then you have the  Henri de Rivel Anatomical Bridle. This bridle is not discipline specific, but you normally won’t see it in the competition ring, particularly in hunters and dressage. The unique shape of the noseband is designed to better accommodate the clusters of nerves and delicate facial bones on the horse’s face. The padded crown piece is shaped around the ears to allow for full rotation and mobility. Use a bridle like this one for particularly sensitive horses who don't like traditional bridles, or if you have a horse with a unique head shape.  Dressage queens would typically wear a bridle like the  Henri de Rivel Diamonte Dressage Bridle during day-to-day schooling practice and in the competition ring. There are three key characteristics that make this bridle a good fit for the dressage ring. A curved crystal browband will catch the light and highlight the beautiful lines of the horse’s face. A flash comes off the front of the noseband and wraps around the horse’s mouth, just in front of the bit. And lastly, the noseband features a “crank” style closure that ensures a snug fit.  This next bridle may, at first glance, look similar to the dressage bridle as it also has a flash-type noseband that closes in front of the bit, but it’s actually most commonly used in the jumper ring. The  Henri de Rivel Kushy Figure Eight Bridle features a combination flash and throat latch that gives the appearance of a figure eight crossing over the horse’s face. This design keeps the horse’s jaw aligned while preventing restriction of the horse’s breathing. The padded, anatomically contoured mono crown piece removes pressure points across the poll. Are you going fox hunting in the near future? The  Henri de Rivel Advantage Hunt Bridle is a favorite of fox hunters everywhere. The flat leather and simple stitching is very traditional. Thick leather and wide straps come together to create a durable and rugged bridle that’s ideal for holding back an excited horse while galloping through the countryside.   Finally, there are bitless bridles, like the  Horze Bitless Bridle. Bitless bridles forego the bit and work off of sidepull style reins that connect directly to the sides of the noseband and put pressure directly on the nose of the horse, instead of the mouth. This style of bridle is typically not allowed in most competition settings, but is ideal for horses who have had an injury to their mouth or jaw that prevents them from wearing a bit, or who simply have an aversion to the bit altogether.  Breeches.com: Your Source for High-Quality Bridles Breeches.com has bridles for every discipline, from polo to hunters to dressage. When you’re looking for high-quality bridles or replacement parts, our online tack store is just one click away.  Click here to shop for a bridle that fits your needs. Looking to learn more about bridles?  Click here to learn how to clean your bridle.... [Read more]

From one of the top hunter/jumper circuits in the country to the Global Dressage Festival, the Winter Circuit in Florida is truly one of the best places to see Olympians and top equestrians doing what they do best. Among the gorgeous horses and star-studded entry lists, you have to be bold to make a splash.  A grand entrance starts with a great outfit, especially in Florida. We’ve put together three very different sets of English horse show clothes so you can rock up to the ring in style. Whether you want an outfit that’s flirty and fun, colorful, or elegant, there’s an outfit for everyone in this blog.  Flirty English Horse Show Clothes from The Spicy Girl Collection Let’s be honest, your show clothes are one of the most important parts of your horse show supplies, especially if you’re going to wear a gorgeously bold outfit from Equine Couture. The Spicy Girl Collection was designed to bring high fashion’s lace fabric and peekaboo cutouts to the equestrian show ring.  This outfit combines a traditional breech, the  Equine Couture Charlotte Suede Knee Patch Breech, with a wild show coat and show shirt. The Charlotte Knee Patch Breeches perfectly offset the  Spicy Girl Cayenne Show Coat, thanks to their traditional Safari color and elegant suede knee patches.  The  Spicy Girl Cayenne Show Coat will allow glimpses of these breeches to be seen through the lace fabric of the show coat. Yes, you read that right; this show coat is entirely made out of a nylon and spandex lace! Reinforced hems, lapels, and buttons ensure that you still have all the traditional details of a show coat, but with an innovative lace design.  Wear the  Spicy Girl Cinnamon Show Shirt underneath the Cayenne Show Coat to really emphasize the lace pattern. The Cinnamon Show Shirt features lace mesh inserts on the midriff, underarms, collar bones, and shoulders. There are many different ways to style this English show shirt. For a more modest take, you can wear a skin tone or white tank top underneath the shirt, which will still display the lace details. Finish off this English horse show outfit with a little bling. The  Tipperary Windsor MIPS Wide Brim Show Helmet features a rose gold inset that is both elegant and eye-catching. Designed to take full advantage of the MIPS® Multi-Directional Impact Protection System and with a lightweight, high-density ABS shell that provides high impact resistance, this show helmet is as safe as it is stylish.  Ombre English Horse Show Clothes with the Gradient Collection If you want to come across as more colorful than flirtatious, the Equine Couture Gradient Collection is for you. There’s nothing else like this collection of English horse show clothes on the market. The Gradient collection features unique stripes of collar placed strategically on the breeches, show shirt, and show coat. Available in three different color patterns, you can mix-and-match your English horse show clothes or take a matchy-matchy approach.  The  Equine Couture Gradient Full Seat Breech is perfect for the Dressage Queen who wants to add a hint of color to her white breeches. The full seat is designed using innovative silicone grip technology for a secure hold in the saddle. A wide waistband is both comfortable and trendy, plus it’s ideal for showing off a beautiful belt. Ombre stripes adorn both the pockets and back belt loop.  On top, rock up to the ring wearing the  Gradient Short Sleeve Show Shirt. With short sleeves that are ideal for the Florida heat, this shirt has a convenient ¾ zip-up collar and a curved hemline to enhance your natural silhouette. The fabric is designed to be durable, while allowing for full freedom of movement. Available in sizes extra-small through extra-extra-extra large, this shirt is designed to fit most equestrians.  Finally, top off your English horse show clothes with the  Equivent Gradient Show Coat. A new spin on the traditional Equivent Show Coat, this jacket features matching ombre stripes on the arms, just above the bicep. This show jacket is perfect for the show jumping ring or unrecognized events.  Comfortable & Traditional English Horse Show Clothes Bold isn’t for everyone, especially as non-traditional colors and styles are still not widely accepted in most show rings. Equine Couture has continued to produce elegant English horse show clothes that stand out because of their high-quality make and subtle style.  Start with the  Nicole Knee Patch Breech. Available in safari, these breeches are ideal for the hunter ring, where there are fewer rules, but more pressure from judges to conform. With a silicone knee patch and star detailing on the pockets, these breeches still have unique features that allow you to add just a touch of extra flair to the traditional show outfit.  Next, choose the  Cara Long Sleeve Show Shirt for your top. With a snap-up, not zip-up, collar and a loop for a stock tie, this show shirt has all the bells and whistles of a traditional show shirt. However, it also features ventilated mesh panels under the arms, EquiCool technology for moisture wicking, and embedded UV protection, making this shirt perfect for the Florida heat.  Finish off your English horse show outfit with a traditional navy blue show coat. The  Equine Couture Equivent Lite Show Coat hides a secret– it’s constructed from hardly noticeable mesh fabric to help you stay cool, no matter the weather. A curved hemline, princess stitching, and notched lapels give this coat all the style you’d expect in a traditional show jacket, but with innovative technology for ultimate comfort.  Whether you want to stand out or blend in, Equine Couture has English horse show clothes for everyone. On Breeches.com, we don’t just sell horse show supplies. We use our in-house brands to innovate new technology and new styles for equestrians from all disciplines.  Shop our collection of horse show supplies and apparel from brands like TuffRider, Equine Couture, AWST, Lettia, and more.... [Read more]

Are your riding breeches looking a little worn? Do your boots have duct tape on them? Get rid of the old and welcome the new this New Year with this Breeches.com sale. We’ve compiled all of our new and best-selling products from 2023 into one collection for a big horse tack sale. From December 28th through January 2nd, when you spend $100, you get a $25 gift card. Check out our top picks from this breeches sale.  New Year’s Sale: Breeches First up on our breeches sale, we have the  Spicy Girl Chili Tights. Available in six different color combinations, these knee patch breeches will become the most stylish pair of tights in your closet. Lace accents below the waist band and in the front and back add a unique twist on traditional riding tights. They’re functional, too, with a silicone knee patch that will stop you from sliding in the saddle.   The next pair of breeches we have on sale are the  Equine Couture Techno Breeches. These breeches may look traditional at first glance, but their extended knee patch breeches offer a unique twist on a classic full seat breech. The extended knee patch runs from the mid calf through the inner thigh, but does not cover the back of the breeches. This combination is perfect for riders who are looking for a little extra grip in the saddle, but who don’t want to add wear and tear to the seat of their saddle.   New Year’s Sale: Tops Start the new year and new show season with some fresh riding shirts. The  Equine Couture Linear Horses Sport Shirt is ideal for all-season schooling. Made from Moisture Wicking and UV Protection fabric, this shirt has ventilated mesh underneath both arms for added airflow. During the winter, layer up with a vest and jacket if needed. But during the summer, this shirt will help you stay protected from the harmful rays of the sun while also staying cool.  Make a splash at your next horse show. The  Spicy Girl Cinnamon Show Shirt was designed for equestrians who are tired of blending in. Lace cutouts on the shoulders, back, and waist show a little bit of skin while also allowing additional airflow and keeping you cool.  If you’re heading to Florida to compete for the winter show season, pack the  Lettia EquiFine Sun Shirt into your suitcase. Available in three stylish colors, this UPF 50+ quarter zip provides excellent protection from the sun. Mesh underarms add airflow and prevents sweat from accumulating.  New Year’s Sale: Footwear How are your riding boots looking? If they’re getting worn around the edges, walk into 2024 in a new pair of riding boots. The  TuffRider Plus Rider Field Boots are perfect for curvier riders who are looking for a pair of tall boots designed specifically for their body shape. These boots have two stretchable elastic gussets on either side of the zipper, so every rider can find the perfect fit! Whether in the show ring or schooling at home, these boots will look beautiful.  If you prefer to ride in paddock boots and half chaps over tall boots, check out the  TuffRider Como Waterproof Paddock Boot. These boots will hold up to whatever you throw at them. From riding in muddy conditions to bathing your horse after your ride, the Como Paddock Boots’ waterproof leather can handle the challenge.  New Year’s Sale: Safety Gear Safety first! Don’t learn this lesson the hard way. Stay safe in 2024 thanks to our New Year’s Sale. The  TuffRider Back Protector is a great investment for the new year. This lightweight back protector is designed to provide upper back coverage for both adults and children in case of an accident or fall.  Do you wear a helmet every time you ride? Finances shouldn’t prevent you from being safe. The  TuffRider Carbon Fiber Print Helmet was rated #2 out of over 40 helmets tested in the 2022 Virginia Tech STAR study, outperforming helmets more than double its price. The precision dial-fit system with a detachable peak ensures you’ll get the perfect fit. The ABS outer shell provides strength and protection against possible impacts and helps to distribute and absorb the force of impact during a fall, in turn reducing the risk of injury. Internally, an EPS inner layer adds extra protection by reducing the amount of energy transferred to a rider's head during an impact.  New Year’s Sale: Horse Tack Treat your horse to new horse tack in 2024. Our horse tack sale includes everything from saddles to bridles to saddle pads. Whatever your horse needs, you can find it on Breeches.com.  For example, our  Henri de Rivel Parisian Monoflap Dressage Saddle will allow you to develop that close connection with your horse that you’ve been craving, without additional layers of bulky leather in the way. If your horse is tough to fit, they might benefit from our interchangeable gullet system, which will allow you to achieve a semi-custom fit. Plus wool flocked panels will allow you to further change how the saddle sits on your horse’s back.  Don’t worry hunter/jumpers, we have the perfect horse tack for you, too. The  Henri de Rivel Kushy Figure Eight Bridle is one of the newest bridles we’ve developed for Breeches.com. A simple raised browband allows your horse’s natural beauty to shine. The padded, anatomically contoured mono crown piece removes pressure points across the poll. With a piece of faux sheepskin beneath the figure eight, this bridle puts your horse’s comfort first.  Traditional equestrians will appreciate that the  Equine Couture Luxe Saddle Pad is part of our horse tack sale. Black sherpa fleece stands out against the crisp white saddle pad, while black and white candy cane-esque piping adds just a little bit of flair to the overall look.  New Year’s Sale: Accessories No outfit is complete without a great accessory. In the fashion world, accessories come in the form of jewelry and purses. In the equestrian world, accessories are a little more practical. The  Equine Couture Pro Backpack is the must-have accessory for the ringside groom. With pockets designed specifically with the rider in mind, this backpack easily holds your helmet, a crop, rags, grooming supplies, and more. Plus the padded straps ensure the pack will rest comfortably on your back all day long.  Accessorize your house with equestrian décor in 2024! The  AWST International Horse-Themed Kitchen Towel is perfect for that homemaker who also loves horses. Available in blue or beige, this towel features a vintage style print of horses galloping across the background.  Ring in the New Year with Breeches.com’s Horse Tack Sale How you start 2024 could set the tone for the whole year. Start it on a good note and treat yourself to a shopping spree on Breeches.com’s horse tack sale. Remember, spend $100 and get a $25 gift card! Sale ends 1/2/24.    Click here to shop the sale now.... [Read more]

How often do you grab the nearest saddle pad and throw it over your horse’s back without a second thought? Saddle pads can have a big impact on our horse’s saddle fit and overall comfort. For example, did you know that the right saddle pad can fix a saddle that sits too low over the withers? Or that gel saddle pads can absorb some of the shock of jumping and protect your horse’s back and legs? No matter your situation, the right saddle pad can help.  For High Withers Horses with high withers are prone to saddle sores from low spine clearance and general discomfort from too much pressure on their delicate withers. For a high-withered horse, you’ll need a wither relief saddle pad, which allows for adequate spine clearance and has enough padding to distribute pressure evenly. If you have a horse with high withers, the most important thing to look for when choosing a saddle pad is one with a well-contoured spine.  For example, the  LeMieux Close Contact Square Wither Relief Saddle Pad features a curved back that maintains its shape. The wither is quite high and will stick up into the gullet of the saddle without any pulling or jostling. Underneath this wither relief saddle pad, the super soft Bamboo lining absorbs and controls sweat to minimize friction even on sensitive skinned horses. Western riders should look for a cutback saddle pad for wither relief. The  TuffRider Phoenix Western Cutback Saddle Pad features a wither cutout that relieves spinal pressure while a soft and moisture-wicking fleece-like material provides cushion for your horse's back. For western riders who like a little extra style, this cutback saddle pad is available in three colors, from a stately black to a bright rainbow.  For Back Pain Have you ever sat on a “cold-backed” horse? These horses may buck when you first get on or hunch up under the saddle, but quickly work out of it. While you should always speak to your vet when it comes to your horse’s health, the  Back On Track A/P Saddle Pad may be able to help.  Powered by Back on Track’s signature Welltex fabric, this therapeutic saddle pad is designed to help your horse’s muscles loosen and relax from the moment you put it on. The Welltex fabric helps to increase blood flow to the important muscles under your saddle. If your horse hasn’t worn Back on Track products before, build up to wearing it for long periods in small increments.  For Shock Absorption If you jump or ride on hard surfaces regularly, your horse's back has to handle a lot of shock absorption, both from you posting up and down and from the concussion of their legs pounding against the ground. Luckily, the right show jumping saddle pad can absorb and redistribute some of that shock.  Horsena Gel Saddle Pads have a 3D structure that absorbs shock and provides pressure relief and pressure distribution. The hexagonal open design also allows for better airflow and breathability than other gel pads. If you jump your horse on a regular basis, this gel show jumping saddle pad will help prevent damage to their back.  For Saddle Slip Saddle slip can be caused by many different things, from horse and rider imbalances to poor saddle fit. But, if you’ve had your saddle fitted by a professional and you still feel as though you’re slipping and sliding while you ride, you may want to invest in a non-slip saddle pad.  The  Horsena Slim Gel Saddle Pad has a tacky surface texture that grips both the saddle and saddle pad to prevent slip. At only 4mm thick, this thin pad won't disturb your horse’s freedom of movement, which is particularly important in a show jumping saddle pad, or disrupt your saddle fit. Sometimes horses that are barrel-shaped, with particularly well-sprung ribs, will have some movement in the saddle no matter how well it fits. A  gel pad like this one can help stop that from happening so you can get back to enjoying your ride.  For Overall Saddle Fit Sometimes your horse doesn’t need a big adjustment from a reputable saddle fitter, but just needs a stopgap correction until they gain weight or muscle. A shimmable half pad allows you to customize the fit of your saddle without making big, expensive changes to the saddle itself.  The  Weatherbeeta Memory Foam Shimmable Half Pad includes eight shims to adjust saddle fit. These shims can be inserted into four different openings– two on each side. When customized to change how you saddle fits, this pad distributes pressure evenly and has shock absorbing properties thanks to the memory foam construction.  If you ride Western, you have the option of using the  Tough-1 Western Shim Saddle Pad, which was designed specifically for heavier Western saddles. Six shim pockets are strategically located giving you the ability to correct a variety of saddle fitting issues by removing or adding half-inch felt shim pads. For Raising the Cantle If you grew up riding lesson horses, you may remember some horses needing a “lollipop pad” to raise the back of the saddle. These bulky white foam pieces would slide underneath the saddle and take up the entirety of the gullet. Now, there’s a better way to raise the cantle of a saddle.  The  Horsena Back Balance Gel Saddle Pad gradually gets thicker towards the back of the pad and lifts the cantle slightly off the horse’s back to even out the balance of the saddle. Unlike a lollipop pad, this Back Balance Pad leaves ample space for your horse’s spine to lift up into the gullet and won’t cause pressure points. For Raising the Pommel If your saddle sits too low in the front, you may feel as though you’re constantly toppling forward or reminding yourself to sit with your shoulders back. If you’ve had your saddle fit and the problem persists, your fitter can help you raise the front of the saddle with the  Horsena Front Balance Gel Saddle Pad.  Similar to the Back Balance Saddle Pad, the  Horsena Front Balance pad gradually increases in height towards the front, while still leaving the spine channel open. It still has the same shock absorbing, pressure-distributing, and non-slip properties as other Horsena pads as an added bonus. Raising the saddle in the front, ensure that the withers have enough room. You may want to combine this gel pad with a wither relief saddle pad or a cutback saddle pad.  No Matter the Situation, There’s a Saddle Pad for You Whether you ride English or Western, own a shark-finned Thoroughbred or a round Quarter Horse, spend your days jumping or riding over rocky trails, there’s a saddle pad out there that can help your horse move better and feel better under saddle. AT Breeches.com, we pride ourselves on carrying a collection of saddle pads and half pads to address every equestrian’s needs.  Looking for a solution to your problem?  Shop our saddle pads here.... [Read more]

It’s here. The moment riders and horse owners have waited for all year. Equestrian Black Friday is this week! We have the best Black Friday deals around when it comes to all things equestrian. From apparel to horse tack to equestrian gifts, we’ve got Black Friday sales on just about everything.  Black Friday Deal: Women’s Apparel Warm. Comfortable. Stylish. Ladies, what else could you ask for in a winter outfit? This Black Friday, we have deals on all of our house brands, including Equine Couture. Put together an outfit that checks all three boxes.  Check out the  Equine Couture Icefil Sun Shirt for your base layer. Look both elegant and sporting while you school or show in this shirt. And don’t forget– just because it’s winter, doesn’t mean you can’t get a sunburn. This long sleeve shirt has a UPF factor of 50, providing the highest level of sun protection for outdoor activities.  Or check out the Equine Couture Techno Collection. The  Ladies Techno Vest would fit beautifully over the Icefil Sun Shirt. This black fitted vest is thin enough to allow for outerwear to be worn over it, while still keeping you warm thanks to a special bonded fabric with stretch for ease of movement. Plus, you can pair this sleek black vest with the  Techno Extended Knee Patch Breeches. These breeches are the perfect compromise between knee patch and full seat breeches. The added silicone grip extends from the knee all the way up the inner thigh, but leaves the seat untextured.  Black Friday Deal: Men’s Apparel As every male equestrian knows, it can be tough to find a great pair of men’s breeches. Most tack stores, both online and in-store, stock only women’s equestrian clothing. At Breeches.com, we understand how frustrating that can be. That’s why we’ve added the  TuffRider Men’s Claudio Knee Patch Breeches to our current collection of men’s riding apparel.  These breeches are made from soft and stretchy Nylon and Spandex to keep you comfortable in and out of the saddle. A traditional suede knee patch adds durability and grip to this high-motion area. With a slightly looser fit than our women’s breeches, you’ll feel comfortable and look trendy while you ride. Plus, two back pockets provide added convenience and function.  Black Friday Deal: Footwear Slogging through mud in the pasture is no fun without the right boots. Even worse– jumping off your horse with cold feet. We developed the  TuffRider Tempest Winter Tall Boot to keep your feet warm both in and out of the saddle. The sherpa fleece-lined tall boot with a waterproof foot will keep both your feet and legs warm and cozy no matter the weather. Unlike old school tall boots, these boots are easy to get in and out of, and adjust to fit a variety of calf sizes, thanks to the adjustable side Velcro closure with elastic.  Black Friday Deal: Saddle Pads Can you ever have too many saddle pads? The answer is… no, definitely not. And we’ll never stop you from adding another one to your collection! Equestrian Black Friday is the perfect time to shop for your next matchy-matchy tack set.  If you’re looking for vibrant colors and a luxurious satin finish, you need the  Lettia Infinity Collection Saddle Pad. This saddle pad has a Coolmax lining to wick moisture away from your horse’s back and keep the saddle area cool and dry. Don’t worry about your girth messing with the satin finish on this pad. Added leather reinforcement in the girth area means this pad is just as durable as it is gorgeous.  Do you love the look of a fleece lined half pad? Now you can get the look without the extra bulk thanks to the  Equine Couture Luxe Saddle Pad with Fleece Lining. Available in white with black fleece and black with white fleece, these saddle pads look sharp and classy in and out of the show ring. With faux mink fur, double-cord piping, and added support foam, this pad doesn’t just look good, it also relieves pressure points and protects the horse’s back.  Black Friday Deal: Equestrian Gifts Every equestrian wants to show people they care, but save money at the same time. That’s why there’s no better time to get your holiday shopping done than on equestrian Black Friday. We have equestrian gifts for everyone on your list, from pony clubbers to adult riders.  Get your horse crazy teen a new makeup bag, like the  AWST Lila Cosmetic Pouch. Available in a variety of colors, like  this beautiful blue toile, this pouch is durable and easy to clean thanks to the polyurethane exterior fabric. Plus, the bag is fully lined for added durability and protection from loose powder and eyeliner.  For the home decor enthusiast, we have a variety of equestrian gifts, from bedding to kitchen towels. For example,  this beautifully simple cotton throw features galloping horses along the border and a tassel fringe. Machine washable, even the farm dog can lay on this blanket.  For the littlest ones on your list, we have three beautiful  LeMieux Toy Ponies, which are possibly the most popular equestrian gift of the year. Available in buckskin, pinto, and gray, these elegantly designed stuffed horses can be dressed in their own matchy-matchy tack set. Plus, your child can learn how to tack up their horse thanks to the realistic  saddle.  The Biggest Deal of Them All… If nothing in this blog fits the bill for your Black Friday list, don’t worry. Our biggest Black Friday Sale hasn’t been revealed yet– our house brands are 40 percent off. This includes products by TuffRider, Equine Couture, Lettia, Henri de Rivel, and AWST International. You’ll be able to find the best Black Friday deals on everything you need, from equestrian gifts to riding apparel. Some exclusions apply.  Shop now.... [Read more]

What are your grandkids asking for this holiday season? When it comes to horse crazy kids, there will probably be several equestrian gifts on the list. If you’re shopping for gifts for horse lovers, we’ve compiled the ultimate list of horse gifts that’s sure to satisfy every kid, from your grandson who is taking lessons every week to your granddaughter who loves to play with her toy horses.  LeMieux Ponies & Accessories When it comes to equestrian gifts, there’s one present that’s topping every list this year. The hottest item on every horse crazy kids’ list is the  LeMieux Pony. These ponies are like the horse girl version of American Girl dolls. Each pony comes with their own backstory and identity. Kids can shop for various accessories and outfits until the pony’s closet is nearly as big as their own.  For example, meet  Dream. Dream is a dun pony with a dappled coat and darling white stripe on her face. This striking pony will land under the tree in her own horse box that turns inside out to become a luxury stable. Dream has her own passport and instructive care booklet, so your grandkid can practice taking care of their dream horse at home, as well as at the barn.  Matching  accessories in a variety of colors are available, from saddle pads to fly hoods and polo bandages. Fully working saddles and bridles made from real leather are also available to purchase, making these toys educational as well as fun.  Guide to Speaking Horse Is your grandkids biggest wish to become a horse whisperer? This holiday season, you can help them get one step closer to their goal with this gift for horse lovers: a book called  How to Speak Horse. In this book, horse trainers Andrea and Markus Eschbach have created easy lessons in “horse speak.” No, your granddaughter won’t start whispering in her horse’s ears. This one-of-a-kind book will introduce your grandchild to natural horsemanship and how good communication can keep you safe in everything you do with your horse.  Bright and colorfully illustrated, this equestrian gift is perfect for youngsters working with and riding horses, and their parents. This book will teach your grandchild how they can use their posture and movement to ask a horse to go forward, stop, turn, and follow. Plus, it includes an illustrated dictionary of common horse body signals to help get kids started.  Necklaces for Your Horsey Granddaughter Is your granddaughter equally horse crazy and a girly girl? The best equestrian gift for her could be one of these adorable necklaces. Plus, they make great stocking stuffers.  For example, check out the  Precious Pony Necklace. This silver-plated Precious Pony necklace comes packaged in a colorful, velour horse head box. The necklace itself is available in four different colors: aqua, blue, clear, and pink. It features a small galloping pony inset with 11 rhinestones in the color of your choice.  Or, does your grandkid prefer their mounts to be small and spicy? This  Prancing Pony Necklace pays homage to some of the littlest members of the equine community. A silver-plated adorably sassy pony hangs on a 16-inch chain. This horse gift would be especially meaningful for a child who just leased or bought their first pony.  Saddle Pads These next two equestrian gifts may require a little bit of research to figure out if your grandchild rides English or Western. If your grandkid rides in a saddle without a horn, then you’ll want to get them the  TuffRider I Heart Ponies Pad. This diamond-quilted all purpose saddle pad is available in fun and fresh colors, like Parisian Blue and Hot Pink. The adorable pony design in the lower back corner is both adorable and practical. The pony size pad is perfect for lesson ponies.  If your child rides Western, or in a cowboy-style saddle with a horn, the best gift for horse lovers would be the  TuffRider Cheyenne Acrylic Felt Western Saddle Pad. This pad fits under most Western saddles, with just the adorable scalloped edge and some of the ombre stripes sticking out under the saddle. Available in pink, aqua, and purple, this gift for horse lovers is made of compressed one-inch felt, which provides excellent shock absorption for your horse’s back. Durable wear leathers protect the felt’s edges and prolongs the pad’s life.  Practical Equestrian Gifts: Breeches This gift for horse lovers is something you can be sure your grandchild will use often. A good pair of winter breeches is worth their weight in gold on a cold winter night in a drafty barn! You will most likely have to recruit mom and dad to figure out the right size for your grandchild.  The  TuffRider Children’s Macy Winter Breeches feature a faux fleece lining and contrasting pockets and sock bottoms for a fashionable, but warm, outfit. The faux fleece lining on the inside is soft and warm without being bulky or restricting movement, as the polyester/spandex mix ensures the breeches don’t get too claustrophobic. No detail is missed when it comes to these breeches– the silicone full seat is designed with a horseshoe pattern.  Keep Cold Hands Warm Don’t leave your grandchildren out in the cold! The  Lettia Children’s Shield Thinsulate Glove is a smaller version of one of our best-selling gloves. Designed for children’s hands, this equestrian gift is available in small, medium, and large sizes. Leather reinforces the areas where the reins sit, i.e. between the thumb and forefinger and to the inside of the pinky finger. Lined with thinsulate, these gloves are sure to keep your grandchild’s hands warm, no matter the weather.  Socks “One can never have enough socks.” –Dumbledore Socks are some of the most underrated equestrian gifts out there. A good pair of socks replaces those that have worn through over the past year. The  TuffRider Holly Kids Winter Socks is a three pack of adorable holiday-themed socks with scalloped tops and an extra stretch opening. Made of luxurious bamboo, cotton, nylon and spandex blend fabric, these socks are comfortable and soft.  Upgrade this gift for horse lovers one step further with the  Equine Couture Children’s OTC Boot Sock. These socks feature a thin upper nylon sock designed to fit nicely under half chaps or boots. But, a padded foot protects your grandchild’s foot from rubs and chafing inside the boot. Crafted with four-way stretch fabric, these socks offer comfort from knee to toe. The over-the calf height provides protective coverage to your calves and helps reduce the chances of uncomfortable bunching. Plus, if your grandchild has a pair of the  TuffRider Printed Knee Patch Tights, you can get them a pair of OTC Boot Socks in the same pattern.  Grandparents: Convenient Shopping for Horse Gifts Forget running around from store-to-store. Get all your shopping done for equestrian gifts in one convenient place without ever leaving the comfort of your home. At Breeches.com, we have a wide variety of gifts for horse lovers, from practical presents to fun toys and books. Check out our website to cross off everything on your list– and check it twice.  Click here to start shopping now.... [Read more]

Like most things in the equestrian world, there is no simple answer to this question. When you start blanketing your horse depends on the weather in your area and your individual horse. Luckily, there are a few things you can watch for to see if your horse is getting cold and struggling to maintain their body heat.  Physical Signs of Cold Don’t you wish your horse could just tell you when he’s cold? While they can’t talk, horses do have ways of signaling when they’re feeling cold. One of the most obvious signs that your horse is too cold is shivering. However, you don’t want to wait to use a TuffRider horse blanket   until they’re shivering. Not only does shivering mean they’re uncomfortable, it also burns essential calories that your horse needs to make it through the winter.  Before your horse starts shivering, you may notice that they’re huddling close together with the other horses in the herd. They’ll most likely stand with their tails to the wind and clump together. Like penguins in the Arctic, horses clump together like this to share and preserve body heat. While it’s a natural behavior and not necessarily a bad thing, it does mean your horse is feeling chilly.  When you look out at your pasture, is your horse standing with his head down, tail tucked, and ears back? This posture is a classic display from a cold and grumpy horse. Blanketing isn’t just about your horse’s physical health, it’s also about their mental and emotional health, too.  If you do decide to blanket your horse, how do you tell if the blanket is heavy enough? Deciding whether to use a medium weight horse blanket, heavy weight horse blanket with detachable neck, or a horse blanket with neck cover can be tough. If the blanket your horse is wearing isn’t keeping them warm enough, they’ll feel cold to the touch near their kidneys, which are located just behind the saddle area. You can also touch their shoulders and chest to see if they’re staying warm. Just keep in mind that the chest area may feel colder than either the shoulders or kidneys as there tends to be a draft that comes up from the bottom of the blanket in this area.  If your horse displays any of these signs of being cold, bringing a blanket out to them may make them feel happy and more comfortable.  Weather Conditions Deciding whether or not to blanket your horse depends a lot on the current weather conditions. Keep in mind that wet is the enemy of warmth. Wet coats won’t keep your horse warm as efficiently. If it’s raining or snowing, you may consider blanketing more than if it was a cold, but sunny, day.  Normally, horse hair raises up and becomes puffy when it’s doing its job effectively and properly insulating your horse. This mechanism where the hair follicles lift up actually traps more air underneath the coat, creating an insulating barrier. If your horse is soaked through, the hair coat won’t be able to puff up and instead will become slicked down against the skin.  Wind also works against your horse when it comes to staying warm. On a windy day, even horses with a thick coat of winter hair may be cold if the wind is blowing through their coat and exposing the skin underneath.  Consider both the wind and rain when deciding whether or not to blanket your horse. On a nice, sunny 35-degree day, your horse may not need a blanket. But when it’s 45 degrees outside and pouring down rain, they may need a little extra help keeping warm, such as a TuffRider horse blanket.  Is your horse displaying all the physical signs of being cold? Are they shivering when you go out to get them each day or standing with their head down and tail tucked? Is it pouring down rain or snowing hard? There are many signs to tell you that you need to start blanketing your horse, you just need to know what to look for. Ideally, by stepping in and using a medium weight horse blanket when you first notice these more subtle signs, you’ll avoid bigger problems and health issues later on, such as weight loss and failure to thrive.  Be Wary of Over Blanketing Blankets can be a double-edged sword. If you blanket your horse too heavily, they can sweat underneath all the layers. Not only does this often lead to severe rain rot and skin irritation, sweating underneath a blanket actually makes your horse colder than having no blanket at all. This is due to the fact that sweat and moisture will rarely dry itself underneath the blanket. So, as temperatures drop later on in the day, the trapped sweat will leave them colder than ever before with no way to dry out.  If you do have to start blanketing your horse, air on the side of caution. Start with lighter blankets, like a sheet or medium weight horse blanket before switching to anything more intense, like a horse blanket with neck cover.   Horses Aren’t Humans Remember, just because you’re cold, doesn’t mean your horse is cold. Horses were designed to live outside and, most of the time, they can tolerate cold temperatures pretty well. However, it’s important to understand when your horse is telling you they’re cold, so you can start using TuffRider horse blankets. While some horses don’t mind the cold at all, and even thrive in it, other breeds are quite sensitive to the cold and don’t adapt well. For example, a big draft horse or stocky Shetland in the neighboring pasture will grow a coat like a Yak and thrive without blankets no matter the weather. But, a sensitive Thoroughbred or Arabian, will look miserable in cold weather without a blanket.  Find Blankets on Breeches.com Just like not every horse needs a blanket, the same blanket won’t fit every horse! On the Breeches.com website, we offer a wide variety of medium weight horse blankets, heavy weight horse blankets with detachable neck, horse blankets with neck cover, and so much more. From Horseware  to TuffRider horse blankets, we carry trusted brands to provide our customers with the high-quality blankets they rely on to get their horses through winter safely and happily.  Click here to shop our collection of horse blankets.... [Read more]

You may have noticed a cool breeze blowing across your yard and Halloween decorations going up in homes all across the United States. It can only mean one thing– Autumn is here! For many equestrians, fall signals a time of preparation. We’re busy buying and repairing blankets and pulling out our favorite cool weather clothing and boots. But male equestrians face a unique problem: finding high-quality men’s equestrian clothing in most tack stores. That’s where we come in! We’ve put together a fall outfit that’s both practical and stylish, just for our male customers.  Fall Weather Tips Autumn is a tricky time of year when it comes to knowing what to wear. On a practical level, the weather can change dramatically throughout the day. When you wake up to a cold, crisp morning with a beautiful layer of fog on the ground, you may want to dress for a day in the 50s or 60s. However, if you do, you’ll regret it when the sun breaks through the fog by mid-morning and the temperatures rise to a warm 70 degrees. Luckily, there’s a science to dressing for fall that will have you wearing outfits that are both practical and fashionable.  Wear layers – Layers are key to fall fashion. As the day warms up, you can take off layers of men’s equestrian clothing and put them back on again as the sun goes down.  Don’t forego sun protection – Just because the weather is cooler doesn’t mean that you can’t get a sunburn! Whether you’re trail riding or working in the ring, prepare for some sun exposure.  Dark colors are in – Autumn is synonymous with moody neutral colors that match the changing weather and the fall foliage. When you’re getting dressed in the morning, reach for shades of charcoal gray, navy, rust red, and mocha brown.  A Stylish, but Practical Outfit Layers are a must for a practical outfit, as we just mentioned. But it’s difficult and impractical to layer on multiple men’s english riding breeches. To solve that issue, we suggest choosing a slightly thicker breech to wear that will keep you warm in the mornings, but is breathable so you don’t overheat in the middle of the day. The  TuffRider Claudio Knee Patch Breeches are the perfect mix. Not only is the Nylon and Spandex combination fabric soft and comfortable, it’s also stretchy, so you’ll have excellent freedom of movement. Durable, comfortable, and affordable, the contoured sock bottoms offer a seamless fit underneath boots.  On top of your men’s english riding breeches, wear a shirt that offers airflow, but also has long sleeves, like the  TuffRider Dennison Shirt. Made from breathable and lightweight EquiCool-infused fabric, this shirt pulls double duty by providing coverage from the sun, while the button down collar looks at home both in the show arena and at your next lesson. Designed with contrast colors on the side and sleeves, this shirt gives a trendy look to a classic style. Layer a vest on top of the sun shirt for a versatile middle layer that will be easy to add on and take off as the weather changes. A vest like the  Roper Softshell Vest is warm and cozy while also offering additional pockets for all the bailing twine and hoof picks you’ll inevitably pick up throughout the day.   When it comes to men’s equestrian clothing, there’s no such thing as being too prepared for a day in the stables. On extra chilly days, put on the  Roper Charcoal Softshell Combo Jacket for added warmth.  Available in stylish charcoal gray with a black upper, this jacket is bonded with fleece to keep you warm. Featuring a stand up collar, front welt zippered pockets, and reflective zipper pulls, you’ll be prepared for whatever the day throws your way. The Best Boots for Fall When most people think of Autumn, they think of picturesque landscapes and beautiful fall leaves. For equestrians, we think of frisky horses and… mud. Lots of mud. The boots you choose to wear to the barn in the fall have to be durable enough to stand up to abuse, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be stylish.    Finish off your men’s equestrian clothing outfit with the  TuffRider Lexington Tall Country Boots. These boots are right at home in the barn and in the bar. Made with a water resistant leather and lining, these boots can be worn both in the pasture and in the saddle without taking the time to swap. A drawstring closure and elastic gussets keep shavings out of the boots and ensure a secure and comfortable fit, no matter what you’re doing.  Find Men’s Equestrian Clothing on Breeches.com As a tack company co-founded by a male polo player, we understand the struggle many male equestrians face when it comes to finding quality men’s equestrian clothing. That’s why we’ve worked hard to make sure our male customers have access to quality men’s english riding breeches, shirts, footwear, and more via our in-house brand, TuffRider.  To shop our collection of men’s equestrian clothing, click here.... [Read more]

Did you know that a  study published in the Journal of Neurosurgery found that horseback riding contributed to 45.2 percent of all sports-related brain injuries? Many think of concussions as almost a joke, saying merely that someone “had their bell rung” or is just “seeing stars.” However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Suffering from a traumatic brain injury is serious. Patients that have suffered from even a  mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) have reduced cognitive performance on tasks that assess attention, memory, executive function, and information processing, even more than 3 months out from the initial injury. Unfortunately, horseback riding is a repeat offender when it comes to causing  concussions and head injuries. Equestrian sport carries a higher injury rate per hour of exposure than downhill ski racing, football, hang-gliding and motorcycle racing according to the  University of Connecticut. And, this risk is  statistically similar across all riding disciplines. Even  Western riders should make sure they wear the best horseback riding helmet every time they ride, even if it’s not the “cool” thing to do at a rodeo. You won’t regret it when your helmet saves your life in a freak accident! This International Helmet Awareness Day, take the time to mind your melon, every ride. But, don’t just throw on any old helmet. The best horse riding helmets fit perfectly, which is crucial for your safety.  ASTM/SEI-certified helmets reduce horse-related head injuries by 30 percent and severe head injuries by 50 percent.  SEI Testing is extremely thorough and uses computer senses throughout the testing process to document the force of impact. Simplified, the four-step process looks like this: The helmet is dropped onto a flat anvil from a height of six feet from various angles and directions. The helmet is also dropped onto an anvil with a sharp corner to simulate the impact incurred from a rider’s head hitting a jump or the strike of a horse’s hoof. Then the helmet is placed on a head form that is comparable to human bone structure; with straps in place, the helmet is weighted, then dropped. The straps cannot stretch beyond a specified amount. The helmets are further tested for the three parameters above--concussion and retention--following freezing to minus 20o F, heating to 120 o F, and submergence overnight in water. Safety doesn’t have to be expensive, and nothing proved that more than the results of the  Virginia Tech STAR Helmet Study. In this study, our  TuffRider Carbon Fiber Print Helmet came in second place in the 2022 ratings. This means that our best horseback riding helmet that sells for under $60 out-performed helmets that were well over $600.    Brand, price, and style don’t define whether or not a children’s riding helmet is safe. Instead, the helmet that fits you is the best horseback riding helmet. Fitting a helmet isn’t rocket science. You can easily learn how to fit a helmet to your own or someone else’s head  right here, in this blog.  The best horse riding helmet matches your discipline. For example, if you’re competing in the hunter/jumper ring, you wouldn’t want to wear a bright pink or leather helmet. But if you’re riding in a rodeo, a leather helmet would be perfectly acceptable.  Learn more about discipline-specific helmets here.  Just in time for International Helmet Awareness Day, we have developed three new helmets, all from our in-house brand TuffRider: the  Ultimate Wide Brim Helmet,  Essential Helmet, and  Guardian Wide Brim Helmet. All three of these helmets are SEI / ASTM F1163-15 certified.  Both of these best horseback riding helmets feature an ABS outer shell and EPS inner layer. The ABS outer shell helps to distribute and absorb the force of any impact, thereby reducing the risk of injury. The EPS inner layer adds extra protection by reducing the amount of energy transferred to a rider's head during an impact. This inner layer is composed of beads that burst when an impact occurs, which helps to absorb and dissipate some of the force of the impact and protects the rider from the full force of the accident.  The best horse riding helmets offer protection from both sun and injury, like the  Ultimate Wide Brim Helmet and the  Guardian Wide Brim Helmet. The wide brim extends further out from the face of the rider than traditional helmets and blocks the harmful rays of the sun, similar to a ball cap or visor. While both helmets have a comfort padded leather harness lined with suede, there are stylistic differences between the two helmets.  Available in both navy and black, the  Guardian Wide Brim Helmet features a matte finish with ventilation slots in the trim for a sleek look. The  Ultimate Wide Brim Helmet is only available in black, however it features a carbon fiber look-alike insert that catches the light with a glossy finish. The  TuffRider Essential Helmet looks very similar to the Guardian Wide Brim Helmet, however it has a standard brim and also features a gloss ventilated trim on a matte finish for a modern look.  In honor of International Helmet Awareness Day, check the expiration date on your helmet and think about the last time you fell off. Do you need to replace your helmet? Learn more about the best horse riding helmets for you  on this blog.  Shop our collection of riding helmets and safety gear here.... [Read more]

Are you a stickler for safety or do you sometimes skip the helmet on a particularly hot day? Think twice before skipping your horse riding safety gear. According to one article from  Ohio State, “Of common childhood injuries, only being struck by a car had a higher severity score than equestrian-related injuries.” No matter how experienced you are or how gentle your horse is, you really should prioritize wearing the right horse riding safety gear every time you mount up. Even while working horses on the ground, it’s always a good idea to wear the right apparel to protect yourself.  Horse riding safety gear isn’t just for the riders. It’s also important to take the right steps to minimize injury to your horse both under saddle and on the ground. Not only could the right tack and equipment save you from a hefty vet bill, but all equestrians should want to do the right thing to keep their horse safe, including using horse riding safety gear.  TuffRider Has Your Back You may have seen eventers power around cross country courses wearing bulky body protectors that make them look a little bit like the Michelin Man. A back protector is similar to a body protector, but it’s more suitable for everyday use. Back protectors may look like a body protector at first glance, but there are several important differences.  Back protectors prioritize safeguarding the spine and don’t protect your internal organs. There are a few advantages to this approach. The vests are more flexible and lightweight, so riders are more apt to wear them on a daily basis, even on hot or humid days. Back protectors also tend to be much less expensive than full body protectors, making safety more affordable for all riders.  The new  TuffRider Flex Pro Back Protector features complete protection of the upper body and back for both adults and children. Designed with high-quality, lightweight, impact-absorbing materials, the Flex Pro ensures reliable defense without weighing you down. Its ergonomic construction seamlessly adapts to your body, enabling enhanced mobility, while the adjustable side Velcro closures guarantee a personalized fit. This back protector is certified according to EN 1621-2:2014, which is the same standard used for motorcycles.  Protect Your Feet As equestrians, we put our feet through a lot. Dodging heavy horse hooves, trudging through mud, walking circles through deep arena sand, and much more. Having an injured foot can keep you out of the saddle and away from the barn for a long time. High-quality footwear is an important piece of horse riding safety gear, even though many wouldn’t think of a good pair of boots as safety equipment.  With the right footwear, you can prevent blisters by keeping your feet dry and free from mud that can chafe and rub. If your boots don’t have a high-quality tread, you could find yourself slipping and falling on ice in the winter or wet rubber mats in the summer. The last thing you want to do is fall on the ground next to a large and easily spooked horse. A sturdy pair of boots can also help to lessen the impact when a horse inevitably steps on your foot.  The  TuffRider Galloway Country Boots are up to the task of keeping your feet safe at the barn. Thanks to their waterproof construction, they’re able to handle rainy and muddy days. A nylon lining offers optimal breathability and helps prevent sweaty feet, which contribute to blisters. The memory foam footbed means you’ll be able to get all your barn chores done without sore feet. A thick rubber outsole and sturdy construction will keep you on your feet, even in slippery situations.   Travel Safe with Shipping Boots We take a risk every time we load our horses onto a trailer. We’re trusting all of the other drivers on the road to drive safely near our trailer and we’re trusting our horse to behave and make smart decisions while traveling. The reality is that we can’t reduce all the risks of trailering. We can’t personally ask all other drivers to drive more carefully or slowly around us. But we can add extra horse riding safety gear to our horses.  Shipping boots cover our horse’s legs from above the knee or hock, all the way down to the fetlock. These thickly padded boots are strapped on using Velcro and protect our horses from their kicking neighbor, the surrounding metal, and even their own hooves if they become unbalanced and step on themselves.   The  TuffRider Shipping Boots come in three different sizes: cob, horse, and pony. The outer shell is made of a durable and water repellent 600 Denier Polyester that makes them both rugged and easy to clean. Filled with a 15mm pu foam, these boots have a fleece lining for the horse’s comfort.  Brushing Boots to Safeguard Your Horse’s Legs Do you ride your horse in boots? Or do you ride your horse bare-legged? While not every horse must wear boots every time you ride, boots do help to minimize the risk of injury. Because of the way some horses move, they may knock their legs together or even clip one of their legs with a hoof. Known as interference, this phenomenon can be almost entirely resolved by using boots. Full coverage boots, like brushing boots, can also protect your horse’s legs from poles when jumping and soften the blow if they knock their legs against any sort of equipment, from cavalettis to barrels.  Professional’s Choice Ventech Brushing Boots provide some of the best protection on the market. An extra-strong PVC padded strike patch covers the inside and front of the horse’s leg, while strong Velcro straps secure the boot to the leg. If you’re worried about overheating during exercise, these boots feature a breathable Ventech lining that promotes airflow. Designed by a brand you can trust, these boots are under a 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee/Six-Month w­arranty.  Mind Your Melon When most people think of horse riding safety gear, a good helmet is probably one of the first things that come to mind. According to an article from  Ohio State University, “Approximately 10%-30% of horse-related injuries are head injuries. In fact, of all sports in the U.S., equestrian sports are the most common cause of sports-related traumatic brain injury (TBI) in adults.”  We only get one brain. Cherish it and protect it by wearing a helmet  every time you ride. When choosing a helmet, proper fit is more important than any brand loyalty or fashion trend. An ill-fitting helmet can fall over your eyes, leaving you blind, give you a headache, or fail to protect your head effectively. To learn how to fit a helmet properly,  click here.  The  TuffRider Essential Helmet is a brand new helmet that offers a fashionable look at an affordable price. With a gloss ventilated trim on a matte finish, this helmet will look at home both in the competition arena and at your next lesson or schooling ride. Thanks to an adjustable dial, you can ensure a custom fit every time you put the helmet on, whether you’re wearing your hair up or down. The ABS outer shell of the helmet provides strength and protection against possible impacts and helps to distribute and absorb the force of impacts, reducing the risk of injury. The high quality EPS inner layer adds extra protection by reducing the amount of energy transferred to a rider's head during impact. Find All the Horse Riding Safety Gear You Need on Breeches.com Outsiders view equestrian sports as low effort and low risk. Equestrians know the truth. Horseback riding requires grit, perseverance, and the right horse riding safety gear. If you’re sick of running from tack store to tack store searching for all the equipment you need, start shopping online at Breeches.com. On our online tack store, you’ll find all the brands you trust at accessible prices.  Click here to shop our collection of horse riding safety gear.... [Read more]

When fair season comes around, equestrians across the United States make the trek to their local fairgrounds to enjoy live rodeo demonstrations, every type of fried food imaginable, and ride on carnival classics like “The Scrambler.” It’s also a chance to put on your best Western equestrian apparel and show off your most trendy look. If you’re not sure what to wear– never fear, Breeches.com is here with recommendations for every style.  Jeans and Cowboy Boots: A Match Made in Heaven First things first, you have to get your cowboy boots sorted out. When it comes to Western equestrian apparel, you have to build your outfit from the bottom up, starting with the most important part: your cowboy boots. Remember, the majority of your boots will be covered with your jeans, unless you’re wearing over-the-knee boots with a pair of skinny jeans or leggings. Because only the toe will be showing, you’ll want to prioritize fashion boots that have details on the foot of the boot.  For someone looking for a more feminine boot, check out the  TuffRider Mormon Embroidered Square Toe Boots. Made of a rich, brown leather, these boots feature embroidered white flowers up and down the shaft of the boot, as well as on the toe. When worn with bootcut jeans, you’ll be able to see delicate white flowers poking out from beneath your pants.  If flowers aren’t quite your thing, take a look at the  TuffRider Ostrich Print Round Toe Boots. With an ostrich-inspired vamp and burnished leather shaft, these boots scream class. The Cuban style heel offers a little extra height and status for the wearer, while also providing enhanced stability. Clean contrast topline stitching is the cherry on top.  All About the Accessories “I see bold accessories as a woman’s armor.” - Rachel Zoe This quote by American fashion designer Rachel Zoe says it best. You should never leave the house without a great accessory. Before you leave to head to the county fair, put the finishing touch on your Western equestrian apparel with help from a wallet, handbag, or, of course, a great ball cap.  If you’re someone who loves a neat and tidy clutch, you’ll love the  Lila Rodeo Clutch by AWST International. Perfect if you love to watch the barrel racers at the fair, this zippered wallet with wristlet includes three inside compartments along with two bill fold slots and eight credit card slots, plus plenty of room for your phone.  But, if you’d rather have your hands free, grab this  Lila Toile Pattern Handbag. Featuring vintage-style horses galloping through the trees against a cream background, this is one eye-catching accessory. This handbag is fully lined with a zippered top closure and accessory pockets, so you won’t lose anything small, like chapstick. Plus, it’s trimmed with high-quality vegan leather! Finish up your Western equestrian apparel with a tongue-in-cheek  “Ride It Like You Stole It” hat. Designed to look distressed, this traditional baseball cap is made from 100 percent cotton and has an adjustable velcro closure. But if you prefer a trucker-style hat, check out this  Grit and Gut Trucker Cap. With a mesh back and snap closure, this hat will help you stay cool in the heat of the day.  Keep It Casual What better place to wear this  Rodeo T-Shirt than to the rodeo? Perfect for casual fair fashion, this t-shirt features a vintage vibe with a graphic of a bucking horse against a red-white-and-blue southwestern background. Its bold decal will give you the courage to take risks in life– like ride that roller coaster you’ve been avoiding. Ready, set, ride!  We didn’t forget about the guys! If you’re a fan of Cinch Jeans, show your allegiance with this comfortable and casual  Cinch Jeans T-Shirt. An all-season pick that's ideal for ranch work or a trip to the county fair, this screen-printed tee would fit right in among the Western equestrian apparel you’ll see at the county fair.  While we’re always partial to cowboy boots, if you’d rather keep it casual when it comes to your footwear, check out the  TuffRider Slip-On Graphix Shoes. These comfortable yet stylish shoes are crafted out of durable canvas that come in five stunning Southwestern patterns.  Tried and True Classics     If you’re not feeling very adventurous when it comes to Western equestrian apparel, that’s okay! You can fall back on some tried-and-true classic pieces that will always look great at any county fair.  When in doubt, reach for a denim shirt or jacket. The  Stetson Classic Denim Shirt is a great choice that can be worn in multiple different styles. Wear it buttoned up for a more modest look, or wear it open over a neutral colored tank top for a more modern style. If you’re feeling like you want to try a little something new, leave it unbuttoned and tie the bottom of the shirt together for a cool twist effect. Check out more ideas from the  Ways of Style blog here.  Or, if you’re feeling like you want to keep things simple, choose a sporty black short-sleeved shirt, like this  Sport Shirt from Goode Rider. A classic shirt like this one can be paired with a nice pair of bootcut jeans and a pair of cowboy boots for a subtle but stylish outfit, particularly when paired with the right accessories.  Whether you’re headed to the fair or to the barn, Breeches.com is here for all your Western equestrian apparel needs. We’re proud to provide our customers with products from trusted brands, like  Tuffrider,  Wrangler, and  Stetson.  Click here to shop our collection of Western apparel.... [Read more]

In early August,  68 major cities were forecast to have dangerous levels of heat on one or more days. According to the New York Times, “About  67.1 million people — 20 percent of the population of the contiguous United States — live in the areas expected to have dangerous levels of heat.”  Chances are high that if you’re a horse owner in one of these areas that the weather has had a big impact on your plans for the summer. The fact is, horses overheat more easily than humans. They sweat  three times as fast as humans, which means they dehydrate more easily if they don’t have access to the water needed to replace what they’ve lost. Plus, the amount of water needed is no small amount. Horses typically need to drink  55 liters, or 14 and a half gallons of water, each day.  As a horse owner, you should take the time to familiarize yourself with  signs of dehydration in horses. Luckily, many of the signs of dehydration in horses are easy to evaluate, even for new horse owners.  First, check your horse’s skin elasticity. The skin of a dehydrated horse loses elasticity. Gently pinch the horse’s skin on their neck above the shoulder. If your horse is well-hydrated, the skin will snap back immediately and disappear. In a dehydrated horse, the pinched skin will form a wrinkle and take up to five seconds to disappear. If your horse is dehydrated to the point where their skin forms a wrinkle, you need to bring them to water immediately and call your vet for advice.  Poor riding performance is not a well-known symptom of dehydration in horses. A dehydrated horse may have difficulty bending or moving off the leg. They may appear sluggish and lethargic. If this is the case for your horse on a hot day, get off and check for other signs of dehydration in horses, such as capillary refill time.  Checking your horse’s capillary refill time is an easy way to see if they’re dehydrated. To check capillary refill time, lift up your horse’s lip and gently press the flat of your thumb onto the horse’s gum. It should turn white due to the pressure of your finger. When you remove the finger the color should return almost instantly. If it takes longer than two seconds to return to pink, you should call your vet immediately.  Keep an eye on your horse’s stall. Take note of what a normal amount of urine looks like for your horse. If you suddenly notice a large decrease in the amount of urine your horse is producing, take note of it and see if you can find a way to increase the amount of water your horse drinks.  You should also be aware of what “normal” looks like for your horse in terms of how much water they drink. Do they normally finish both buckets? Just one? How often do you typically have to refill their trough? You may notice an increase in how much they drink in hot weather. Be prepared to offer them more water than usual when the temperature increases. If your horse suddenly starts drinking less despite the heat, watch them closely for signs of dehydration in horses.  Dehydration can quickly become heat stroke if you do not take prompt action. There are several ways you can ensure your horse stays hydrated, no matter the weather.  Have salt available to your horse at all times. Not only will salt help to replace some of the important minerals and electrolytes that are lost due to sweating, but it will also encourage your horse to drink more. If your horse is picky, try having several different types of salt available for your horse. Tie a salt lick, like the  Redmond Rock on a Rope, to the bars of your horse’s stall for them to lick at their discretion. Or you can add a salt supplement to your horse’s feed to prevent dehydration in horses.  Redmond Rock Crushed will encourage your horse to drink and provide them with the essential electrolytes and trace minerals they need.  How many water buckets are in your horse’s stall? Consider increasing the number over the summer to ensure your horse has access to clean water at all times. You should also clean the buckets on a near-daily basis. Many horses won’t drink enough water if the bucket is dirty.  If your horse is not a “good drinker,” consider flavoring their water.  Redmond Reinwater is an all-natural equine drink mix that encourages horses to drink more. This can come in handy during extreme heat, while traveling, at horse shows, and in stressful situations, such as colic or injury. If your horse is still not drinking enough, consider adding a splash of water to their morning or evening feed to prevent dehydration in horses.  Preventing dehydration in horses can be fun, too. Get creative and DIY hydrating treats for your horse. Try making horse popsicles by freezing your horse’s favorite treats in ice. This could include apples,  horse cookies, carrots, or mints. Get creative with the liquid you use in your popsicles. Consider adding molasses, applesauce, or gatorade to the popsicles to sweeten the deal for your horse. Your popsicle can be as big or as small as you want. Medium size popsicles can be placed in your horse’s water bucket to create a cool drink with a surprise treat. Or you can use a bundt pan to create an extra large popsicle and hang it in your horse’s stall with bailing twine. Make popsicles the size of an ice cube to hand feed your horse these nice, cold treats.  Being a horse owner can be hard work at the best of times. With the extreme temperatures this summer, it takes even more work to make sure our horses are happy, healthy, and hydrated. The right products can make your life easier and allow you to spend less time worrying and more time with your horse.  Shop for all of your equestrian needs on Breeches.com.... [Read more]

Summer means it’s time for rodeo season! With county fairs and rodeos going on all summer long, there are plenty of opportunities to compete your horse and come home with a blue ribbon and possibly even a little bit of cash. Unfortunately, summertime also means heat. This summer the United States has been shrouded in blistering temperatures that show no sign of letting up. For many riders, this complicates their rodeo routine. Understanding how to cool off a horse by choosing a lightweight saddle blanket for horses, shortening your warm-up, and supplementing your horse’s diet, among other techniques, is crucial for a safe and happy rodeo season.  Adjust Your Warm-Up Routine Warming-up at a rodeo is crucial. A good warm-up allows your horse’s muscles to stretch and become more flexible after standing in a stall or trailer. A warm-up protects your horse’s muscles and tendons by gradually introducing them to work, instead of throwing them right into the strain of running barrels or roping. On a cool day, your warm-up may consist of several laps of walk, jog, and lope. Depending on what classes you’re competing in that day, you may even be throwing in some extended lope or galloping, practicing pole bending, or turning around barrels.  On a hot day, you’ll have to adjust the expectations for your warm-up. Instead of loping for laps at a time, you may have to stick to one lap each direction. Stay on your horse’s back for the shortest amount of time possible. Don’t waste 20 minutes walking before your class. Hop off and wait on foot until it’s closer to your time to ride. While you wait, have a bucket of water nearby so you can offer your horse a drink and maybe even sponge off major veins in their body– their chest and inside their hind legs.  Pack Lots of Water Speaking of water, you should always pack water from home when traveling to a rodeo for a variety of reasons, including biosecurity and familiarity of taste. In hot weather, you should bring more water than usual. Make sure you have designated buckets for drinking versus sponging down your horse. To prevent it from getting overly hot sitting in your trailer tack room or in the bed of your truck, add some ice to the water buckets before you leave for the rodeo in the morning.  If your horse is reluctant to drink while traveling, test out some flavor additives before leaving home. Some horses enjoy gatorade, while others enjoy electrolytes or a handful of sweet feed added to the water. There’s a wide variety of products on the market designed to encourage horses to drink, like  Redmond Reinwater. Reinwater is added directly to your horse’s water while traveling or at home. Made of natural ingredients from Redmond’s mineral deposits, Reinwater will help replenish your horse’s vitamins and minerals while encouraging them to stay hydrated at the same time.  Bring a Cooler of Ice After a hot day of competition, ice is your best friend. There are many creative ways to use ice on a hot day at the rodeo. Once you’re done competing, take the time to ice your horse’s legs. Not only will this help cool off your horse, but it will also help prevent swelling and injury. According to  Pro Equine Grooms, “Heat in the tendons, ligaments, and joints creates cellular damage, which creates tendon damage, ligament damage, arthritis in the joints.” The faster you can cool down your horse’s legs, the better you’ll be able to prevent damage in the tendons, ligaments, and joints due to the heat. Make icing your horse’s legs easier with the help of a set of ice boots. You can get boots that you keep in the freezer, like the  Arma H2O Cool Therapy Boots, or you can use zip-up ice boots that you manually fill with ice, like  Jack’s Ice Boots.  Besides icing your horse’s legs, there are less traditional ways you can use ice at your next rodeo. Some equestrians swear by mixing some ice into the bedding of the trailer. As the ice melts, the water evaporates, theoretically filling the trailer with cold air. The only consideration should you choose to do this is to be cautious with the amount of ice you use. Not only do you not want to saturate the shavings, but you don’t want to make the floor of the trailer slippery. You can also make gatorade ice cubes, which some horses enjoy as treats.  Use Electrolytes to Your Advantage In hot weather, your horse will sweat more, particularly when working hard at a rodeo. As they sweat, they’re losing essential nutrients. According to  Kentucky Equine Research, “Equine sweat is more concentrated with salt (sodium and chloride) than other body fluids. As a result, horses can lose a lot of these electrolytes quickly when they sweat.” Without electrolytes, your horse can become dehydrated and won’t be able to cool themselves as efficiently. Luckily, we can supplement our horses with electrolytes to prevent this from happening. Electrolytes come in many different forms, from pastes to powders. For example, the  Redmond Electrolyte Mint Syringe is a fast-acting paste that can be administered easily before stressful situations or at the first sign of dehydration. This syringe is easy to throw into your dressing room or grooming bag to bring to the rodeo with you.  You may want to add some electrolytes to your horse’s breakfast and dinner on the day of the rodeo. The easiest way to do this is with a powdered supplement, like  Equinavia TRM Electrolyte Gold. This supplement contains essential electrolytes and vitamins in an amino acid and glucose base. The inclusion of antioxidants Vitamins E and C also help to protect muscle tissue by eliminating ‘free radicals,’ a byproduct of exercise.  Change Your Tack Have you heard the phrase “dress for success?” Change your tack before heading to the rodeo on a hot day. Swap out heavy traditional saddle blankets for horses for a lighter saddle pad. The  Lettia CoolMax Western Liner is a great option to keep your horse cool. These liners are designed to keep your horse cool and comfortable while you ride. The CoolMax fabric featuring moisture wicking properties on the underside of this liner provides cool comfort under the saddle. Other great options for saddle blankets for horses on a hot day include the  TuffRider Felt Western Saddle Pad. This saddle blanket for horses is made from compressed felt to protect the horse's back from shock and impact from the rider. This felt is made out of compressed polyester, which is breathable and keeps your horse dry and cool all ride long.  Many Western saddle pads are made from wool. When it comes to hot weather, wool has some pros and cons. Unlike cotton and linen, wool won’t wrinkle or bunch up underneath the saddle when it gets sweaty. Wool also wicks moisture away from the skin, allowing the horse’s body to cool itself more efficiently. However, wool saddle blankets for horses tend to be heavier than other materials. If you choose to ride in a wool saddle blanket at your next rodeo, choose your lightest one and look for a saddle blanket that’s advertised as made from summer weight wool.  If you normally put neoprene sports medicine boots on your horse, reconsider these before a hot summer rodeo. Neoprene boots that don’t have ventilation can trap heat against your horse’s legs, causing them to overheat and increasing the risk of tendon damage. Instead, choose a lightweight boot with mesh or honeycomb material, like the  Tough-1 Extreme Vented Sport Boots. These boots feature a suspensory sling strap that provides flexible fetlock and tendon support without restricting movement or inhibiting performance. The vented (perforated) inner and outer layers allow heat to escape while keeping dirt and debris out.  Know When It’s Time to Throw in the Towel Sometimes, too hot is just too hot. It’s better to skip a rodeo than risk your horse’s health– or your own. Remember, horses overheat faster than humans. If you’re struggling in the heat, chances are high that your horse is having an even harder time than you are. There are a few factors to consider when deciding whether or not to cancel your next rodeo. Is your horse new to this climate? Or are they well adjusted to the heat? If you recently imported your horse from a cooler climate, like the Northern United States, your horse won’t be used to the heat that’s prevalent in the southern parts of the country. They will struggle more than a horse who grew up in Florida, for example.  If your horse finds rodeos to be very stressful, the heat will only exacerbate their stress and compound heat-related issues. An experienced competition horse who is relaxed in a rodeo environment will be better able to handle the heat.  At the end of the day, you have to make the decision that is right for your horse. Use the  Heat Index as a guide to tell you when it’s time to withdraw. The Heat Index is calculated by adding the humidity plus the temperature. If this number equals less than 120, you’re in the green zone and free to proceed as normal. If the heat index equals 150 or more, your horse’s ability to regulate their body temperature has decreased. At these temperatures, it’s time to reconsider competing in a rodeo.  Keep Your Horse Cool with Breeches.com Keeping your horse cool at a hot rodeo takes effort and consideration on your part. You can make your job easier with the right supplies and equipment. On Breeches.com, we strive to provide our customers with the products they need at affordable prices. Whether you need a new saddle blanket for horses or are hoping to invest in a new pair of ice boots before your next rodeo, we’re here to help.  Click here to shop for all of your rodeo needs.... [Read more]

How much thought do you give to the saddle pads you use? Do you know how half pads and English riding saddle pads change how your saddle fits your horse? Simply adjusting what you use underneath your saddle can completely change your horse’s comfort while ridden– for better or worse.  Lift the Cantle Take a step back and look at your saddle while it sits on your horse. Is the pommel and cantle even? Is the back of the saddle sitting lower than the front? Other signs the cantle of your saddle is too low include the saddle sliding backwards while you ride, sitting with your leg out in front of you, and struggling to get out of the saddle and into half-seat or two-point position.  After having a qualified saddle fitter look at your saddle, you can use an English riding saddle pad that is thicker in the back than in the front. This will help to lift the back (or cantle) of the saddle and put it in line with the pommel. Ideally, you should be able to take a long level that rests on the pommel and the cantle and have it read as even.  The  Horsena Back Balance Saddle Pad gets thicker towards the back of the half pad. This gradual increase slowly lifts the back of the saddle to bring it level with the front. Due to the hexagonal three-dimensional structure, this pad offers excellent shock absorption, pressure relief, and pressure distribution for the horse's back. Lift the Pommel Saddles that are too low in the front apply pressure to the horse’s withers and cause the rider to tip forward onto the horse’s neck. You may also find that you’re riding more on your pelvic bone than back on your seat bones.  Just like there are English riding saddle pads that lift the back of the saddle, there are also half pads that lift the front of the saddle. For example, the  Horsena Front Balance Gel Saddle Pad increases in thickness towards the front of the pad, which gradually lifts the pommel up off of the horse’s withers and into balance with the cantle.      Make the Gullet Narrower There’s a very important distinction between the gullet and the tree of a saddle. The tree is buried inside the saddle and is typically made of wood or carbon fiber. The gullet refers to the space between the two panels underneath the saddle. This space allows the horse’s spine to lift up comfortably.  English saddle pads can make the gullet narrower, but they will not change the shape of the tree. This distinction is crucial to understand, as the right half pad can add padding and take up space within the gullet, but it will not impact the tree. If the tree points or rails are in the wrong spot, no amount of padding will make the saddle fit perfectly.  That being said, if you do need to lift your saddle up off of your horse’s back and narrow the gullet, look for saddle pads like the  EquiFit Extra Thick T-Foam Half Pad. This pad has a unique T-Foam core that reacts to body pressure and heat and conforms to the exact contours of your horse and saddle, ensuring a custom fit every ride. If you’re riding in an extra hot or humid part of the country, you can rest assured you won’t cause your horse to overheat by adding extra bulk under the saddle. The open cell structure is self ventilating to prevent overheating. Stop Saddle Slip Your horse has a tough job balancing their rider. It only gets harder if the horse has to balance a sliding saddle as well as a rider. For some particularly barrel-shaped horses, no matter how well a saddle fits it will always have a little bit of slide. Luckily, the right English saddle pad can help.  When searching for half pads or English riding saddle pads to reduce the movement of your saddle, look for one made from a gel material. There are many benefits to gel, including shock absorption, but they’re also slightly tacky. This tackiness reduces the movement of the saddle and helps to keep your horse healthy and happy.  The  Horsena Gel Saddle Pad is an eight millimeter thick pad that features a unique surface texture that helps to keep your saddle in place, particularly combined with the gel construction of the pad. Many owners worry about overheating their horse’s back when using a gel saddle pad. Horsena’s three-dimensional open design allows air to circulate better and optimizes the removal of sweat.      Add Shock Absorption How often do you jump your horse? Do you often sit the extended trot? Everytime we ride, our horses’ backs take quite a pounding. While we can alleviate the impact of our weight on their back by increasing their fitness, ensuring our saddle fits properly, and working on our position, the right English saddle pad can make a world of difference for your horse.  The best half pads are made of technologically advanced materials to absorb shock, reduce impact on the horse’s back, and distribute pressure evenly. One such saddle pad is the  EquiFit ImpactEQ Half Pad. This half pad may look unassuming, but its everyday appearance hides high-tech features.  The pad features an ImpacTeq foam core that molds to the body of the horse for a secure, supportive fit. As the rider posts, sits, or lands after a jump, the open-cell non-newtonian foam transforms from soft to rigid upon impact, absorbing extreme concussion and providing greater comfort for horse and rider. Accommodate High Withers Owners of horses with “shark-fin withers,” listen up! When it comes to high-withered horses, the fit of your saddle and English riding saddle pads becomes even more important. Those high withers are prone to developing rubs and scars, due to pressure points. Some horses even develop  “fistulous withers,” which involves inflammation and infection in the supraspinous bursa, a fluid-filled sac located in the area of the horse’s withers. If your horse has high withers, it’s particularly important to use a half pad that provides wither relief. The  Shires Arma High Wither Fleece Half Pad may provide added comfort to a high-withered horse. A high wither profile and synthetic fleece lining provide comfort and keep the moisture levels down as air circulates between the fibers.  Work with a Saddle Fitter Before you start making changes to how your saddle fits your horse, work with a qualified saddle fitter to assess what needs to be changed. Think of your saddle like dominoes. Anytime you make a change to one part of the saddle, another part of the saddle will be affected. For example, let’s say you use the EquiFit Extra Thick T-Foam Half Pad. Now the saddle is lifted slightly off of your horse’s back, which allows your horse to lift his spine more and altogether be more comfortable. But, because the saddle is higher off the back, it begins to move around more and slide. A good saddle fitter can help you find the right saddle pad for your saddle and for your horse.  Shop our collection of English riding saddle pads here.... [Read more]

Have you noticed a new brand available on  Breeches.com? We’re proud to announce that we’re now offering Equinatura for sale on our online tack store. Offering a natural horse care option, like Equinatura, allows our customers to reduce the use of chemicals on or near their horse. Equinatura is committed to only manufacturing and selling well-researched and high-quality products, making them a perfect fit for our collection of brands available on  Breeches.com.   Why Choose Natural Horse Care Think of all the chemicals that surround your horse. From pesticides in fly spray to parabens and sulfates in grooming products to carcinogens in leather cleaners, your horse is constantly surrounded by chemicals. Fears about what’s in beauty products in humans is spreading to the world of horse care, and with good reason.   For example, according to  Everyday Health, “While the FDA says that some of these concerning ingredients, including phthalates and parabens, are safe as used, research points to these as potential endocrine disruptors, or chemicals that affect hormones and may increase risk of cancer or fertility problems.” If the ingredients in human beauty products could harm us, what’s to say the same isn’t happening to your horse? Even worse, the overuse of medications and chemicals is common. Harry Werner VMD spoke to  The Horse in regards to the damaging aspects of overusing medications and chemicals in horses. “Any medication—NSAIDs, in particular—can have deleterious side effects ranging from gastric or colonic ulcers to kidney disease and intestinal microbiome disturbances. Use NSAIDs as infrequently as necessary, he says, and only when a veterinarian’s diagnosis deems them appropriate.” While some of these chemicals are necessary– for example, when your veterinarian prescribes NSAIDs– why not cut back on the use of strong chemicals when you can? In general, the educated use of herbs for horses means fewer side effects and less chemical exposure for your horse. That’s why we’re now offering Equinatura products on Breeches.com, to give our customers the option to avoid harmful side effects due to long exposure to chemicals for both themselves and their horse. The History of Equinatura Equinatura was created over two decades ago, when Dr. Ulf Jacoby from leovet first developed high-quality natural horse care products that were both sustainable and affordable. From the very beginning, Equinatura focused on innovation and quality. The brand invested a lot of time and resources in research and development to create the most effective and gentle formulas for its products. They worked closely with veterinarians, horse care specialists, and riders to ensure that their products meet the highest standards. Equinatura is proud to be a subset of leovet Dr. Jacoby GmbH & Co. KG. leovet  is among the leading producers of horse care products in Germany and Europe. The company was founded by pharmacist and competitive rider Dr. Ulf Jacoby in 1982. From the very start, Dr. Jacoby was focused on better health for the horse and less work for the rider. More than 40 years later, that is still the company’s philosophy today. leovet Dr. Jacoby GmbH & Co. KG regularly offers new and innovative products, using only raw materials and active ingredients of pharmaceutical quality. Each of their 60 products provides effective care for horses at the highest level. Equinatura products use alpine herbs and numerous naturopathic plants. All of these herbs for horses are handled with care at the Equinatura manufacturing facilities. Sticking to the philosophy of simple is better, Equinatura products contain only the absolutely essential ingredients. The Equinatura team uses appropriate natural alternatives instead of chemical additives. All products have been reviewed by independent experts who advise the team on how to improve Equinatura recipes and products. Only when these independent experts are satisfied do new products hit the shelves.  Equinatura Products for Every Aspect of Barn Life There’s an Equinatura product for every aspect of barn life, whether it’s cleaning your leather tack or grooming your horse. We’ve stocked Breeches.com with the essential Equinatura products, including hoof oils, skin balms, and cooling gels.  The  Equinatura Hair Tonic provides our customers with a natural horse care solution for itchy skin using only the best herbs for horses. This tonic relieves dandruff and soothes itching and rashes. Caffeine revives the roots of the hair, promoting the growth of both the mane and tail. Burdock root oil stops the spread of bacteria that cause summer eczema. Thanks to these high-quality herbs for horses, this tonic will help to maintain healthy skin. Are you looking for that beautiful show-ring quality hoof polish without the harsh chemicals?  Equinatura Hoof Oil will nourish your horse’s hooves while creating a long-lasting shine at the same time. This hoof oil contains oils of avocado, jojoba, sesame and marigold. These oils nourish the hoof and keep it elastic. The oil supports the growth of the hoof, improves its structure and gives it a long-lasting shine. Having a multi-purpose skin balm at the barn can be so useful. Skin protectors shield the skin from bug bites, soothe rashes, and prevent girth rubs. If you’re looking to swap out carcinogenic petroleum jelly for a natural horse care option, check out the  Equinatura Skin Balm. This balm contains a high-quality, preservative-free lipid cream and rosemary to care for the skin, keep it supple, and protect it from harmful environmental influences. Try using it on your horse’s tail, hind leg, scars, and more. Click here to shop the entire Equinatura collection and learn more about this great brand.... [Read more]

Flies can have a big impact on your horse’s quality of life. Whether they’re causing irritating and painful sweet itch, or preventing your horse from sleeping or relaxing in the pasture, flies, gnats, and mosquitoes are the bane of every horse’s existence over the summer months. Horse owners want to get their horse the best of the best when it comes to fly protection. Whether you’re looking for the best fly sheet for horses or a great pair of fly boots, we’ve rounded up our best-selling fly protection products from every category. Here are the products our customers love year after year.  Beaded and Beautiful Fly Bonnet Some horses are severely irritated by the mere presence of flies, even while being ridden. Unfortunately, you can’t ride in a mesh fly sheet for horses! But, you can use a fly bonnet. Our customers chose to make this  Beaded Equine Couture Fly Bonnet a best-seller, and it’s easy to see why.  Not only does this bonnet protect your horse’s ears from pesky insects, but it looks good doing it. This bonnet has four rows of multi-colored beads bordering the lower edge, which adds a pop of color to any look. The 100 percent cotton bonnet and spandex ears provide the ultimate in comfort and allow your horse to fully rotate their ears without restricting movement. Plus, thanks to the knit/crochet pattern, the many holes allow for optimal air flow on hot summer days.  Crusade Against the Flies with this Fly Mask It takes a lot to become a best-selling fly mask. Just like the best fly sheet for horses, fly masks have to stand up to the daily wear and tear that comes from horses rolling in the dirt and playing in the pasture. The mask has to stay securely on the face and provide protection from flies while also not chafing, but having enough structure to stay well above the eyes. According to our customers, the  Cashel Crusader Horse Fly Mask with Ears checks all of these boxes.  Made with soft and breathable nylon micromesh, this fly mask is soft enough for even the most sensitive skin. The tented design keeps the mask well above and off the horse’s eyes to avoid disrupting their vision. Plus, this fly mask has a patented design that allows you to pull the forelock through the hole to lie over top of the mask. This prevents damage to the forelock and adds to your horse’s comfort.  Best Selling Fly Sheet for Horses For horses who need a little more protection, a mesh fly sheet for horses is a great idea. However, finding the perfect fly sheet for your horse can be a little tricky. You want it to be extremely lightweight to avoid overheating your horse on hot days, but it also has to be durable enough to stand up to life out in the pasture. It needs to provide full coverage, but it also has to fit really well, otherwise it could rub. The  TuffRider Sport Mesh Combo Neck Fly Sheet is the best fly sheet for horses on Breeches.com.  This best-selling fly sheet is made from 190g polyester fabric that’s lightweight, but tough enough to stand up to some roughhousing in the pasture. Even better, this mesh fly sheet for horses also has a soft shoulder lining to prevent rubs and chafing around your horse’s shoulders. Available in three unique colors and a wide range of sizes, this sheet has truly earned its title as the best fly sheet for horses on Breeches.com.  Fly Boots that Shoo Flies Away Every summer these fly boots become the talk of the town. Their unique look will have other horse owners at your barn asking questions. These aren’t your typical fly boots— these are  Jack’s Shoofly Leggins.  The Shoofly Leggins have an almost corset-like construction, with stiff plastic stays holding the shape of the boots. Unlike most other fly boots that velcro around your horse’s legs, these boots wrap around your horse’s pastern and then stand straight up at a slight angle, like an upside down cone. The movement of the boot back and forth on your horse’s legs keeps the flies off, while the open top allows for optimal airflow and keeps your horse’s legs cool on hot summer days.   Many horses wear fly boots all day long during the summer with few breaks, which can often lead to rubs or chafing. While the Shoofly Leggins are tough on flies, they’re soft on your horse’s skin. A felt rim around the bottom of the boot creates a barrier between the tough mesh and your horse’s sensitive skin to prevent rubs.  The Coveted Best-Selling Fly Spray Too often fly sprays are filled with harsh chemicals that are detrimental to our horse’s health, not to mention the environment and local pollinators. On the other hand, there are a lot of all-natural fly sprays on the market that either don’t work, smell awful, or still contain harmful chemicals. According to our customers, the  Fly Bye! Plus fly spray is an insect repellent that they’ll buy again and again.  Fly Bye! contains a soy-based technology that repels flies by causing them to feel a change in their exoskeleton. To survive, the flies move away. Fly Bye! Plus uses geranium oil, as well, to repel mosquitoes and gnats. With Fly Bye! you can spray worry-free. The biodegradable, non-toxic formula is safe for both your horse and your environment.  Get the Best for Your Horse The true measure of a product is when it’s tested in real-life situations and found more than up to the task. We listen to our customers. When one of our products becomes a best-seller, we know it’s because they’ve put it through the ringer and it passed the test. By purchasing a best-selling fly protection product, you’re not just trusting us– you’re trusting all of our other customers who have purchased that product over and over again.  Shop our collection of fly protection products here.... [Read more]

Are you getting ready for your first hunter show? Hunter judges can be very particular about how the horses look in the ring. While you may not get marked down a specific number of points for leaving your horse unbraided, the judge can choose to leave you out of the ribbons. For your best shot at a blue ribbon, learn how to horse show braid. Horse mane braids look sharp and professional at a horse show.  Start with a Clean Mane Horse show braids take a long time and a lot of effort to complete. You’d hate for your hard work to be ruined by a dirty mane. Plus, a clean, freshly detangled mane will make your job easier, since you won’t be fighting through tangles and grime while you braid.  You can clean your horse’s mane when you bathe them for the horse show. Use a high-quality shampoo, like  Mane ‘n’ Tail Original Shampoo, and work the soap all the way down to the root of the hair. Be careful when you use shampoo near your horse’s head. They may not like the hose to spray water so close to their face, which could make it difficult to get all the shampoo out.  Make sure your horse’s mane is short enough and thin enough to braid. The mane should be roughly one hand width, or four to five inches in length. It should also be of even thinness. If the hair is too thick, or thick in some places and thin in others, the braids will look large and messy. To shorten and thin your horse’s mane, you can either pull it the traditional way using the  TuffRider Aluminum Comb, or you can use a combination of the comb and scissors to create the same look as a pulled mane.  After your horse’s mane is clean and tangle-free, you can start to braid.  Step 1: Three Plait Braid The three plait braid is a basic braid that most girls know how to do, as it’s the same way many women braid their own hair.  Start by sectioning out a piece of the mane that’s roughly a ½ inch in width. You may find that it’s difficult to keep the section of hair that you’re working on separate from the rest of the mane. If this is the case, a spare comb or hair clip can hold back the rest of the mane while you work on each section. Split this piece into three equal parts and overlap one piece over another, rotating between the three pieces, until you get about halfway down the hair.  Be sure to pull each horse show braid tight while you work. Instead of a large loose braid, you want to get the smallest braid possible.  Step 2: Braid in the Yarn Once you get halfway down the length of the mane, take a small piece of yarn that’s roughly an inch or two longer than your horse’s mane. Hold the middle of the yarn back behind the horse mane braid so that the two “tails” of the yarn are of even length.  Continue braiding and work the yarn into the two side pieces of your plait. This will build the yarn into the rotation. Once you reach the end of the hair, double knot the yarn around the end of the braid. This can be done by looping the yarn around the horse show braid and pulling the yarn back through the loop. Do this twice for added security.  You should now have one long thin braid with two strands of yarn hanging off of the end. Before moving on to the next step, work your way down (or up) the mane until all of the hair is braided into neat, thin braids with yarn. Seeing all the braids together before moving onto the next step gives you a chance to check and ensure all the braids are the same length.  Step 3: Pull Through Now your horse mane braids will start to take their final shape! Grab your latch hook crochet needle or pull through and slide it through the middle of the braid at the base of the neck. Your hook should be parallel to the horse’s neck.  Use the hook to grab the yarn knot at the end of the braid and pull it up through the base of the braid. You want the end of the braid to go through the exact middle of the start of the braid, as close to the base of the neck as possible.  Don’t pull it too far, otherwise your yarn and knot will stick through on the other side. Instead, just pull until you feel some resistance– that’s your knot hitting the base of the braid. After this step, you should have a three plait braid that has been folded in half. The two tails of the yarn should stick out the back of the braid.  Take the two tails and create a loop with a double twist in the middle. Slide the braid through the loop and tighten to secure the knot.  Step 4: Create the Bump Now for the finishing touch– the hunter bump. The bump is what makes hunter horse show braids so iconic. Now that you’ve knotted the underside of the braid, it's time to create the knot on the front of the braid. This knot is what creates a fold in the braid, which turns into the bump.  First, bring your “tails” to the front of the braid. Twist the two strands over and under each other twice. This will create a sturdy knot when you tighten the ends of the yarn. Before you do that, push with your fingers until a bump appears in the horse’s braids. Then slide the bump through the loop you created with the yarn and pull until your braids aren’t going anywhere. Use a pair of sharp scissors to carefully snip off the remaining tails of the yarn as close to the braid as possible.  Repeat the process until your horse’s mane is filled with 30 to 40 horse show braids.  Step 5: Tackling the Forelock Next up, the forelock! The forelock is a simpler process than the mane itself, as it doesn’t usually require knots.  Just like the mane, start by braiding from the base of the forelock down. Instead of doing a three-plait traditional braid, French braid until you’re about ¾ of the way through the braid. Then, just like with the mane, loop a piece of yarn around behind the braid and begin to work it into the braid.  Once you’ve run out of hair, knot the yarn around the end of the braid. Use your latch hook crochet needle to reach through the middle of the base of the forelock and grab the yarn at the end of the braid. Close the hook around the yarn and pull it up and into the forelock until the end of the braid disappears and is snugly enveloped by the French braid.  Tips & Tricks for Horse Show Braids For the hunter ring, you want your horse to have between 30 and 40 braids, depending on the length of their neck. To get really petite and tight braids, wet the mane before you start. It helps to have a spray bottle on hand so you can wet each section as you go. Some braiders even add hair spray into the water for better grip and staying power.  Don’t be afraid to get creative! Many braiders for young riders will place a “lucky braid” right where the rider’s hands should go during a crest release. This serves the dual purpose of adding some personality to your braids and to remind the rider of how high up the neck to place their hands.  Find Supplies for Horse Show Braids on Breeches.com At Breeches.com, we serve many disciplines, including hunters and equitation riders! Find the supplies you need to create high-quality horse show braids for your horse all in one convenient place.  Check out the supply list: TuffRider Aluminum Comb Supreme Products Easy Plait Tough-1 Mane Stay Spandex Hood TuffRider Mane & Tail Comb Mane ‘n’ Tail Original Shampoo Yarn Latch Hook Crochet Needle Scissors... [Read more]