There’s something peaceful about horses grazing in a field, don’t you think? Grazing is essential to a horse’s health. When horses graze, they eat a bit here and there over many hours, moving from one tasty spot to the next. Horses instinctively graze due to the design of the equine digestive system. It functions best … Read more

If your horse wears shoes, your farrier or veterinarian may have recommended hoof pads at some point. Hoof pads protect sensitive parts of the hoof, are therapeutic in certain lameness diagnoses, and enhance a horse’s comfort. Pads are also helpful on shod horses in snowy climates. They prevent snow and ice buildup under hooves, allowing … Read more

Felt saddle pads are a popular choice in Western riding. They’re typically made of wool or a wool blend, such as wool and polyester, and are known for their excellent moisture-wicking properties and durability. But as with any pad, sweat, dirt, and hair can accumulate over time. Wear spots or hardened patches of crud can … Read more

At one time or another, every rider is confronted with a saddle pad that slips. Saddle pads that shift sideways, slide forward or back, or bunch up can lead to discomfort or worse for the horse. Let’s look at some practical solutions to your saddle pad slippage problem.  Understanding the Causes of Saddle Pad Slippage … Read more

Holding western reins correctly is important for effective communication with your horse and ensuring a safe and enjoyable riding experience, whether on the trail, working, or in competition. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced rider looking to refine your technique, understanding the nuances of western rein handling can significantly enhance your control and connection … Read more

Have you ever wanted to ride your horse bareback? For those who might not know, bareback riding means riding a horse without a saddle. While challenging, this type of riding has numerous benefits, including improved balance and feel, resulting in a closer connection with your horse. And you don’t have to clean a saddle after … Read more

Horse riding is enjoyable and rewarding for many, but it’s not without challenges. For regular horseback riders, pain and discomfort are often concerns that accompany the sport, with back pain being a common complaint. The following article provides insights into the anatomy, biomechanics, and common causes of back pain in riders. We’ll also offer prevention … Read more

Have you ever wondered whether thickness matters when selecting a saddle pad?  You may equate saddle pad thickness with extreme cushioning that provides greater comfort and protection for the horse and rider or as a quick fix to a poorly fitting saddle, but in actuality, that’s not always true. In fact, sometimes, a thicker saddle … Read more

Choosing the best treeless saddle pad requires understanding how treeless saddles differ from saddles with a tree. For comparison, a saddle with a tree, or treed saddle, is constructed with a rigid “tree” made of wood, carbon, or synthetic material. The tree sits on the horse’s back, straddling the spine, and distributes the rider’s weight … Read more