Horse Equipment - What you need before you ride
Buying horses is a huge undertaking and requires more than just the purchase of the animal. You need a lot of horse equipment to go along with the animal. If you are considering making this investment, you should start out by making a list of the horse equipment and supplies that you will need to properly care for your horses.
Tack is the term used for all the gear that comes with ownership when you buy horses. This includes the bridle, saddle, saddle pads, bit, cinches, girth, halters, lead ropes, stirrup irons and leathers, whips, boots and clothing. Purchasing all the horse equipment for the first time can be an overwhelming experience. There are two different types of tack, English and Western, so it is very important that you understand the difference before you spend the money on horse equipment.
Horse equipment needs to be maintained and taken care of. Some tack is made of synthetic material and can be washed in the washing machine or hosed down. This is pretty easy to take care of and is less expensive than leather. Leather requires much more care. It should be washed every time you use it and the leather parts oiled a few times a year. It used to be that only leather was used, but that has changed with the advent of synthetics. You will need to buy a tack box that has compartments for all your horse equipment. This would also include grooming combs and a hoof pick. You should store your tack box in a barn, stable, or trailer, wherever it will be most convenient for you. It should be kept out of rain and bad weather.
You should choose a saddle based on the type of riding you plan to do. There are general purpose saddles, western saddles, hunt seat saddles, dressage saddles and show saddles. The frame is meant to fit both the animal and rider and is made out of wood or fiberglass and then covered with leather. The saddle is one of the most expensive pieces of horse equipment that you will need to buy, so it is important that you try one first before you make a final purchase.
There are four main types of girths (English term) and cinches (Western term)—webbing, string, leather, and nylon. The girth is used in English style gear. Although all are commonly used, leather is preferred since it is stronger and easy to clean.
The bridle includes the headstall, bit, chin strap, and reins. The bridle allows the rider to control the animal by applying pressure to the mouth or front of the nose. The bit is usually made out of forged steel but can me made out of materials such as plated steel, nickel, or rubber.
These are just a few of the basic horse equipment pieces you will need to purchase when buying horses, but you will want to gather more information before making purchases. It may be helpful to take and experienced rider or an expert on horse equipment with you when you go shopping for your riding and equine needs.