PRO TIP
Leather Tack Care and Cleaning By Ashley Swift
Equestrian sport equipment is more than a tool for success. Our equipment, our tack, provides more opportunities to connect with our equine partners safely and effectively. With a multitude of options available, the possibilities for your best ride seem endless. So we spend hours researching different saddles, bridles, reins, and more to find the perfect tack. We make the purchase. But what comes next? How do you keep these significant investments in top shape? We spoke to master saddler Claire Painter, who owns Clever with Leather, and Sara Esthus, brand manager for W.F. Young/Absorbine, for their advice on leather and its care. Before You Buy: Research, Examine, Question Good tack care starts with smart selection at the tack store. When the time comes to purchase, it is essential to be as knowledgeable as possible about what you and your horse need. And don’t be afraid to ask retailers the questions you need answered before you invest in tack. “People are more educated about their saddles and tack in general today,” Painter said. “Everyone is interested in making themselves and their horses comfortable and healthy. People want to understand every part of what it means to be an equestrian. “Don’t be afraid to question what retailers are telling you! If it was any other part of your horse you would question the provider about their recommendations. Saddlers are no exception.” There are many different leathers, and factors like tannage (the specific process of turning animal skin into leather to make it more durable) and the part of the hide that make up the piece will contribute to its overall quality and price. “Products are made from specific parts of the hide, depending on the strength,” Painter explained. “The strongest leather comes from across the animal’s back.” 38 SPRING ISSUE 2018
Cleaning your leather tack regularly also prompts you to check for worn areas that could become a safety concern.
