How to make your tack last for years
Love it or hate it, taking good care of your tack will ensure it’s safe to use and comfortable for your horse
AFTER BUYING YOUR horse, your saddle and bridle will be your next biggest investment. Look after these essential pieces of kit and they’ll last for years. Your heart may sink at the thought of cleaning your tack, but this task doesn’t need to be time consuming. Taking a few minutes every day to take care of your leatherwork will keep it soft, supple and in great condition. In this feature we explore why it’s so important to care for all your tack, and how to do it correctly.
GOOD TACK CARE
Once you start using new leather, tiny cracks and splits will occur. These provide an entry site for water, dirt, grease and salt from sweat, which without the correct care weaken and damage the leather. It’s important that you only use specialist products when caring for your leather tack. There are many such products that will help you to thoroughly clean and care for your tack to keep it in good condition.
WEAR AND TEAR
Cleaning your tack is the perfect opportunity to have a good look at all the stitching, buckles and billets for any signs of damage or cracking.
Pay special attention to areas such as where the buckle attaches to your stirrup leathers and where the bit is fixed to the cheekpieces of the bridle. Also, check all the billets on the bridle to ensure that the leather around them has not stretched or become worn.
If you find any damage get it repaired or replaced — don’t risk it snapping while you’re riding.
It’s also a good idea to have your saddle checked by a qualified saddler twice a year. Problems such as a twisted or broken tree, faulty rivets or lumpy flocking can go undetected, potentially causing discomfort to your horse.