More than just a hobby, owning and working with horses is a way of life that requires dependable and well-maintained equipment. Every equestrian equipment—from saddles and bridles to grooming supplies, stable equipment, etc.—is essential to the riders’ and horses’ comfort, performance, and safety. However, if such equestrian equipment is not maintained correctly, it can quickly deteriorate due to continuous exposure to dirt, perspiration, and the weather. Frequent maintenance protects your investment, ensures everything works as it should, and keeps the equipment looking its best. A weakened strap, cracked saddle leather, etc., can cause discomfort and even mishaps. Conversely, equipment that undergoes regular cleaning and inspection can endure for many years, supporting optimal performance during training, competition, and daily rides. Therefore, implementing a smart maintenance regimen can help you save time, money, and stress while strengthening your relationship with your horse.
Why does maintenance matter?
- Safety and reliability – Over time, dirt, sweat, and moisture can weaken the leather, corrode metal parts, or degrade synthetic materials. Without proper care, items like saddles, bridles, etc., may fail mid-ride. It poses a significant risk to the rider’s safety.
- Cost-effectiveness – High-quality tack can be expensive. Regular maintenance protects your investment and delays the need for replacement.
- Comfort and performance – Clean and supple tack fits better and moves more naturally with your horse and reduces soreness, irritation, and pressure points.
Tips for everyday care and periodic maintenance
Here are tips for everyday care and periodic maintenance:
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After every ride –
- Use a clean, soft cloth – microfibre, sheepskin, etc. – to wipe down the leather tack immediately after use. This removes sweat, dust, and dirt, which, left unattended, can degrade leather over time.
- Wipe down synthetic gear or metal parts, such as bits, stirrups, buckles, etc., to remove sweat, saliva, mud, etc.
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Weekly or bi-weekly –
- For leather tack, use a specialised leather cleaner or saddle soap with a damp sponge or cloth. Work it it into the crevices and stitching, then wipe off the excess without soaking the leather.
- Once leather is cleaned and dried, use a quality leather conditioner to keep it supple and prevent cracks. Conditioning helps restore moisture lost through sweating or exposure to the weather. It also helps to maintain flexibility.
- For synthetic tack, clean it using mild soap and water. Rinse well and air-dry. Synthetic gear doesn’t require additional conditioning but still benefits from regular cleaning.
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Metal parts
- Bits, stirrups and buckles – all metal – must be rinsed or wiped clean after use to remove sweat, saliva, and dirt. Use metal polish occasionally to remove tarnish and rust.
- Regular inspection is crucial because it helps identify wear, tears, corrosion, cracks, weak spots, etc., that can compromise safety.
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Proper storage and organisation
- Store tack in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or excessive heat, which can dry out leather and cause cracking or fading.
- Use racks, saddle stands, or padded hangers to maintain the shape of saddles – rather than placing equipment haphazardly.
- Cover stored gear with breathable cloth or tack covers to protect from dust and pests. Avoid plastic covers, as these trap moisture and prevent leather from breathing.
- Ensure good ventilation to prevent mould, mildew, moisture buildup, etc., during hot and humid weather.
Maintaining your equipment properly is crucial for its longevity, dependable performance, and the health of both the rider and the horses, regardless of how often you train. Choosing KTS solutions can transform your horse stable management regimen and ensure better long-term results. This reduces the cost of maintaining and caring for the horses.
