There is a vast array of western tack available on the market today, and it can be difficult to choose the best products (along with the sizing of such products!). Choosing the right tack is important for your success and safety of you and your equine partner. I’ve compiled a list of my favorite western tack tips that may come in handy as you look to add to your tack room!
1. Use your snaffle bit with a browband headstall. A one-ear or slit-ear headstall is not likely to keep your snaffle in place. A browband headstall with a throatlatch keeps the bit from sliding too far to one side as you pull the reins. Save the one-ear headstalls for your shank bits.
2. Use tie-on reins. There are many ways to secure your reins to your bit, and my least favorites are Chicago screws and snaps. Chicago screws can easily come undone, while snaps can rust, break, or become stuck on other pieces of tack. I strongly encourage using reins that attach to the bit with some kind of leather connection. Leather ties are less likely to come undone, and they will break if your horse becomes stuck on something.
3. Make sure your cinch fits properly. I often see riders with a cinch that is too large, where it touches their saddle pad. A cinch that does this does not make proper connection with the horse’s sides can cause uneven pressure and slipping. You’ll want your cinch to sit 4-5” below your saddle pad on either side.
4. Use leather tie straps and off-billet to secure your cinch. Though the nylon versions of these are known to be easier to adjust, nylon is more likely to fray and rip over time. Consider a leather tie strap and off-billet instead, which holds up better and even provides a slight stretch as your horse breathes.
5. Ensure that your saddle pad is sized correctly. A saddle that extends beyond your pad can cause saddle sores, slipping, and discomfort. A saddle pad that is too large can move a lot, and even rub your horse’s hair! At minimum, you’ll want to choose a saddle pad that extends at least 2-3” beyond your saddle on all sides. This helps reduce pressure points as the horse moves.
6. Use a breast collar. Though some horses and disciplines need breast collars more than others, I’ve gotten into the habit of using them for every ride. A good fitting breast collar helps to hold the horse and rider exactly where they need to be, and does not constrict the horse’s movement while doing so. They are great for horses with larger shoulders, as they keep the saddle from sliding too far back and creating unnecessary pressure points. Having a breast collar can also prevent you from over-tightening your cinch.
7. Use sport boots with ventilation. Booting up your horse is a great way to protect their legs from impact, and can also provide some added support. But many western sport boots are made of a thick neoprene with no airflow, which can cause tendons to overheat and can in turn increase your horse’s risk of injury. When purchasing sport boots for your western horse, consider brands that are well-ventilated, such as the 2XCool Sports Medicine Boot from Professional’s Choice.
These are just a few of my favorite western tack tips that I hope will come in handy! If you are struggling with the right equipment for you and your horse, never hesitate to ask your trainer for advice. Stay tuned for English tack tips next week!
Blog written by Nicole Fava (@hoofloose on Instagram).