Autumn Fashion Focus!

This month's edition of Local Rider Magazine featured an article on Autumn Fashion written by The Saddlery Shop's very own Lucy Nicholas! Pick up a copy of the magazine today or read highlights of the feature below.

Lucy says...

"Summer has sadly drawn to an end, and many equestrian fans are starting to think about their autumn and winter wardrobes, in order to make sure they have all the items needed to get through the colder, wetter and muddier months. So, with the new season on the horizon, many fashion-conscious riders are turning their attention to the new styles on offer for this time of year. 

Coco Chanel was reportedly the first woman to wear jodhpurs for fashion reasons rather than riding practicality back in the 1920s, having been inspired to copy the riding breeches she saw a friend’s groom wear. But in more recent years, we have seen the fashion world increasingly turn their attention to equestrian fashion for inspiration, with the Fall 2015 fashion collections featuring lots of tweed, and American model and eventing enthusiast Bella Hadid appearing in an equestrian-themed fashion shoot for the next edition of international style bible, Porter.

But returning to our horsey suppliers and retailers, what is in store for horsey fashionistas this year? 

Both functionality and fashion is important to chic horse riders, as each clothing item needs to perform in order to keep us warm, dry and comfortable in the saddle and also whilst we are working on the yard. The key colours for the 2015 season include multiple brown shades, from rich chocolate to the paler taupe; stylish burgundy and the ever timeless, classic navy.  Fashionable styles include simple, straight collar zip up tops, Gilets and warm hoodies. Cosy fleeces with plainer patterns than in recent seasons are set to become fashionable this year, while no wardrobe is complete with an essential waterproof jacket - look out for more tailored looks with defined waists (ideal when your instructor wants to observe your body position), as well as eternal favourites, bomber-jacket styles. 

Our suggestions

For autumn, pairing a smart, collared long sleeved polo shirt with a cosy Gilet provides a smart and functional look, and this season, high-shine quilted Gilets are set to become fashion favourites for anyone who likes a bolder look.

Layering is essential for the colder weather, trapping in warm air between comfortable layers, so when the winter months hit, investing in a thermal vest is a must, topped with a long sleeved shirt and warm jumper such as a fleece. A good quality jacket is an essential item for the avid rider, and blouson styles and bomber jackets are already proving popular here at The Saddlery Shop, especially in smart plain colours, such as black or navy. 

Don’t forget as well that during the coming months, the sun sits lower in the sky - hacking can therefore become more dangerous as the sunlight on bright days can obscure motorists’ vision, so be sure that you have plenty of high visibility fluorescent or reflective clothing at the yard for hacking in these conditions. (Wrap-style sunglasses are also ideal, and can be worn under your helmet safely). In recent years, ‘high vis’ clothing has become a lot more fashion friendly, with more flattering styles available too - perfect for those who like to look good in the saddle whilst staying safe.

Finally Waterproof trousers are a must-have for any rider to stay warm and dry during the rainier season. 

The Dublin Thermal Waterproof Riding Trousers available are ideal for cold, wet days and have full length zips on the outside of the legs These functional, thermal over-trousers are designed to both ride in and to wear around the yard. The smart trousers can be worn on their own or over jodhpurs or breeches, and will be sure to keep you warm and dry on cold or wet days. They feature lightly padded legs for warmth and ease of movement, and a really smart synthetic suede seat for excellent grip in all weathers - if you have discounted such garments before because you have experienced rustly, nylon waterproof over-trousers previously, you may like to give these a try!" 

To see the wide range of rider and country lifestyle clothing available from The Saddlery Shop visit the website at www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk 

Hoof Boots on the Beat!

Did you know that in America, mounted police divisions have been using hoof boots with great success for some time? We feel this is something that the UK could also benefit greatly from investigating. There are several important reasons why a booted horse benefits over a shod horse over the length of their service.

Lance Nicolai Modesto in California is a mounted police officer and uses Old Mac G2 boots. “When the boots were new, they wore on the bulbs of his hooves if I kept them on too long. Once they broke in, however, he could keep them on for extended periods of time with no problems,” he says. “I typically ride outside of work at least twice a week, we train once a month and deploy on patrol twice to three times a month. Our deployments last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, and our training is almost always an eight hour day, with seven of that in the saddle. These boots have been great and outlasted my expectations. My horse has worn them in mud to his hocks, water, on polished concrete, asphalt and gravel.

“We have ridden in the mountains, over rocky terrain and competed in trail trials. I have been able to take him onto chain link fences that have been knocked down by unruly crowds and also not have to worry when a bottle breaks underneath him. The first pair of boots worked and worked, and only after a year of abuse, finally got to the point that they need to be replaced. They are a good product and have taken very good care of my horse,”

To find out more about the Old Mac’s G2 Hoof Boots, or any of the other wide range of hoof boots available  visit The Saddlery Shop’s website at http://www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk

Create the perfect turnout environment for your horse

In our latest blog The Saddlery Shop is going to be looking at the benefits of a Paddock Paradise system. Also known as a track system, this is a natural way of keeping horses that imitates wild horses and their herd life – it is favoured by many owners of barefoot horses, but has benefits for most equines. 

In the wild, horses move along a route in search of food and water, roaming. Most estimates put this roaming figure at around 20 - 30 miles per day. The constant need to move and find food, while avoiding potential predators, encourages movement; this is exactly what nature intended. Paddock Paradise systems replicate this and help stimulate horses in order to behave and move naturally, according to their instincts. 

The benefits of a Paddock Paradise or track system

• Encourages constant movement and conditioning of hooves
• Allows you to control grazing, so laminitis / sugar sensitivity is kept under control
• Helps prevent boredom 
• Can help to rehabilitate horses after illness/injury

How do we build the perfect Paddock Paradise?

1. The theory is to create a natural habitat that allows our horse to move around. Movement is of course essential for circulation and development of the shock absorbing structures of the hoof.
   
2. The tracks you create should vary in width, but always be wide enough to allow the horses contained within the system space to safely pass each other (opinions vary, but for a small, amiable group of horses, 10ft minimum seems to work well). The longer you can make the track, the better. A circular track will usually work better than a straight one, as it will encourage a more natural movement pattern.
   
3. If resources are limited, or you can’t introduce surfaces into your space, you could just use electric fencing to zigzag back and forth across the field to encourage the movement – this could considerably increase the distance the horse travels in a day.
   
4. Once you have erected your track system, you will ideally need to have a number of different surfaces for your horse to walk on; this is especially important when keeping a barefoot horse. Along the track there should ideally be varying gradients and surfaces and areas of pea gravel, especially around flooded watering area, to give the hooves moisture and stimulation. Rocky areas and sand also contribute to the environment the horses roam within, and benefit the natural wear of the hooves.
   
5. You could make shelter from nearby trees and simple man-made structures. Providing a few watering holes and food sources means you can change them around every so often, so your horse is expected to move in order to find them.
   
6. The introduction of certain obstacles will urge your horse to play instead of standing or just grazing all day. Constructing areas with logs and rocks that they must go around or over helps to create the path they would expect to find in the wild.
   
7. Whatever the horse is provided with, good shelter and a clean water supply is obviously essential, as is somewhere the horse can stand out of the mud to allow his feet to dry.

We’d love to hear any feedback from you about how you manage your track systems in winter - comment on The Saddlery Shop's Facebook page if you have any tips! See link- https://www.facebook.com/TheSaddleryShop

Improving your Flatwork Position!

We are fans of practices like Alexander Technique, Pilates and Yoga to enhance our riding - here are some top tips for achieving a good position through attaining supple joints.

• The ankle joint - acts as a shock absorber and needs to be supple and flexible. Keeping the heel down through a supple ankle joint gives the rider stability, particularly important if you are jumping!
• Knee joint - allows free movement of lower leg, to give aids whilst keeping the upper leg relaxed against the horse's side. Also acts as a shock absorber when jumping and in the faster paces.
• Hip joints - probably the most important joint of all, the very centre of all riding. These joints need to be supple and flexible to allow movement of the rider's body both in flatwork and jumping. They also allow the free movement of the horse under the rider. Stiff, unyielding hips will impede movement. The rider uses the hip joints more than any other. Even when mounting, the twist of the hip creates strain within the joint.
• Lower back - another important area; includes several joints between the vertebrae. The back needs to have strength in the muscles so that the rider can control the horse's movements from the lower back, maintain his or her own body posture, whilst at the same time allowing the free flowing movement of the horse with flexibility, balance and relaxation.
• Shoulders - these joints are often forgotten, yet they are one of the foundations of 'good hands'. The shoulder joints need strength of muscle combined with flexibility and suppleness.

Work on your flexibility with classes and exercises such as pilates and yoga, and stretching exercises before you mount to ride.

Having the right stirrups can help your back and joints immeasurably - check out our range at -http://www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk/Products/ProductList.aspx?Keywords=stirrups&RootCat=0 

Countryside Footwear Fashions & the new Dublin River Boots!

If you, like us, are chomping at the bit to find out more about the fashion trends for autumn and winter country footwear then listen up!

As the summer sadly draws to an end we are all starting to think about our autumn and winter wardrobe and making sure that we have all the items we need to get through the colder, wetter and muddier weather! We know that there is nothing more important for us "outdoors" types than footwear, so it is good to know that the word on the street is that high street fashion is set to continue to look to the countryside for its inspiration to be top of the style stakes. 

For us practical types it is excellent news that this season's high street fashion presents the majority of footwear and boots designed with low or flat stable heels so we can fit right in with our functional footwear. The colours of autumn and winter are set to be emerald as a staple in the collection alongside; deep lichen green, rich blues and bright reds- for the brave, tartan is also set to make a comeback! 

The key to pulling off these vibrant hues is to keep the footwear simple in classic blacks and browns and traditional leather. Neutral footwear is "in" in order to achieve a regal look with simple straps and timeless detailing.

As equestrianism hit the high street many horse owners were inspired to make their countryside lifestyle footwear dual function and move away from rubber boots in search for an item which is smarter and multipurpose. 

The new style River Zip Boots from Dublin are completely multi-functional, smart and desirable, and are currently on offer at £131.99 - grab a bargain while stocks last! Visit the website at www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk to snap up yours! 

Can driving horses work without shoes?

All working horses can experience the effects of concussive forces that are driven into the limbs and feet from the ground. The heavier the horse, the greater the vertical hoof force distribution; one reason why ponies are notoriously popular driving animals!

Barefoot advocates believe the healthy, bare equine foot horse experiences dramatically less concussion on hard ground than the shod horse, and has improved hoof mechanism; e.g. the hoof naturally contracts and expands with more functionality. But can driving horses work without shoes, and avoid concussive injury? The answer, according to many hoofcare experts, is yes.

Concussion frequently linked to foot shape

There’s not a ‘one size fits all’ mentality in the field of barefoot trimming – each horse’s situation must be taken on its own merits, and its workload, the capabilities of the animal’s hoofcare professional, and the horse’s foot shape assessed. Concussion is frequently linked to the horse’s foot shape. According to CEO of hoof boot company Easy Care, Garrett Ford,

Hereditary defects and poor trimming or shoeing can create a foot shape with a low heel, which puts strain on the deep flexor tendon and navicular bone. If blood supply and nourishment do not reach the bones of the foot, there could be serious implications.

According to Ford, iron shoes increase concussion. “They hold the frog off the ground, thus reducing blood circulation through the hoof. Shoeing can cause contracted heels, corns, contribute to navicular disease, sidebones, ringbones, and so on. A good many of these problems arise simply because nailing on an iron shoe locks in problems that a barefoot hoof would automatically adjust to, by natural wear and freedom,” he believes.

(Of course, this is Ford’s opinion; it certainly gives us plenty of food for thought, and healthy debate! We like to encourage discussion about hoof functionality, and I would encourage owners to discuss it with their horses’ hoofcare professional).

Many observers of barefoot driving enthusiasts may wrongly assume that carriage horses and ponies, many of whom trot on hard surfaces for long periods of time, are being subjected to excessive concussion; but this isn’t necessarily so. Driven horses are not subjected to the same stresses as ridden horses, which are constantly adapting to the rider’s balance – especially in the case of an in-experienced rider on a young or spooky horse. There is of course also the additional weight of the rider to consider, in the riding horse – and a heavy, unbalanced rider will compromise the animal’s gait and balance.

Barefoot horses enjoy dramatically reduced concussion 

American natural hoof care specialist and driving trainer, Heike Bean, says a barefoot horse with healthy hooves can feel the ground better and enjoy dramatically reduced concussion on hard ground. “They are also more sure-footed, usually move more freely, and have better traction on most surfaces,” Bean states. “When balancing a hoof, it is of utmost importance to ensure that it lands heel first. Heel-first landing is necessary for ideal joint loading and shock absorption. Toe-first landing stresses ligaments within the hoof capsule and places concussion on structures not suited for this purpose.

“Driving horses land toe-first going uphill, and heel-first going down. This is caused by a locking mechanism in the knee and cannot be altered, but it can be worsened by poor trimming; since driving horses have increased stress on their hooves when pulling a vehicle uphill, timely breakover of all four hooves is essential to minimise stress. This factor is often overlooked when shoeing, trimming, or booting a horse.”

Heike says driving enthusiasts formerly faced limitations regarding suitable hoof boots on the market. “However, with today’s boot styles, driving can be done barefoot,” she states.

Visit The Saddlery Shop’s website at www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk to see the wide range of hoof boots and accessories available.

Dealing with Hard Ground

Hard ground affects horses in various ways – concussive forces and bruising of the sole in particular can lead to lameness. Riders should monitor their horse’s workload on hard ground in summer and early autumn when the ground can still be hard, and speak to the animal’s hoofcare professional about appropriate management techniques.

Many owners turn to barefoot hoofcare because their horses do not cope well with the concussive forces linked to hard ground, and barefoot advocates believe that horse shoes potentially increase concussive damage by holding the frog off the ground, reducing blood circulation.

During the transitional process from shod to ‘bare’, many horse owners choose hoof boots as the hoof strengthens, while a growing number of horses use hoof boots on a long term basis within a training programme, or to avoid concussive forces from hard ground. Remember that appropriate exercise, correct trimming and booting, and optimum nutrition can all boost equine soundness and the ability of the horse to withstand challenges that hard ground creates.

www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk has the UK’s largest stock of hoofboots, so peruse our pages today to see what we have to offer!

Right on Track!

By Lucy Nicholas, author of ‘The Barefoot Horse: An Introduction to Barefoot Hoof Care and Hoof Boots’

The Paddock Paradise system, or track system, originated in America and is a natural way of keeping horses that imitates wild horses and their herd life – it is favoured by many owners of barefoot horses, but has benefits for most equines. Here, in our latest blog- taken from our recent feature in Local Rider Magazine we share some first-hand views of UK-based owners using this increasingly popular system.

Natural horse keeping

Lauren Hetherington runs Graveney Natural Track Livery in Kent; Lauren’s barefoot trimmer introduced her to tracks when Lauren bought a youngster with some hoof issues.

Lauren says...

“I went away and researched the system, later convincing my partner to help me construct a small track at my horse’s livery yard - after a few months with little grass, ad lib hay and movement, there was a world of difference in my horse's feet,” Lauren tells us. “Since then, we have set up a track on our own land, added more of my own and livery horses, and have experimented with features and challenges for the horses, such as different surfaces and obstacles.

Not only has having a track made a huge difference to the health of my horses’ hooves, it has opened up a world of more natural horse keeping. Behaviourally, there have been huge benefits to the herd horses. They groom, play, chase, feed, rest and move at free will. It has also allowed any horses carrying more weight to self regulate their food, and tone up,” Lauren concludes.

Metabolic issues

Nicola Downes from Bewdley in Worcestershire is also a fan of track systems, telling Local Rider Magazine that the system benefited her former mare.

She says...

“I put my new horse on my own track system, and for two years she was barefoot and out 24/7. But when my circumstances changed and I had to sell her, she went to a lady who stabled her, fed her both haylage and hay, and put her out on a paddock. Within three weeks, the new owner had concerns about the horse’s headshaking and dental problems - she sent a photo to me that showed the mare had very swollen glands that were affecting her eating; obviously linked to grass intake. Although I was not aware of it when I owned the mare, it turns out that her owners prior to me, who kept her at stabled livery on a dairy farm with haylage, had also had the same issues. During the two years I had her, not once did she show any of these symptoms. For some horses, especially those with metabolic issues like this mare, conventional turn out on lush grass, combined with reduced movement and confinement, can lead to a range of wellness problems,” Nicola states.

Suiting the horse’s natural physiology

Melanie Isaac from Dorset keeps her horses at livery on a bare earth track through most of the year.

“It keeps my good doer free from navicular, which was the reason I put the track up,” she states. “But what I found really interesting was the affect it had on my other horse, an anxious rescue case. Previously he’d spook at everything, gallop straight to a fence and try to push himself through in panic. With the track, he could carry on running till he had used up the adrenalin in his system, effectively running it off. He is far calmer now, and rideable; I do believe the track has had a part to play in this, because it provides a natural environment that suits the horse’s natural responses and physiology,” Melanie says.

So how do you create a track system? 

Tracks are set up utilising fencing to create 'channels' - they should be wide enough to allow the horses contained within the system space to safely pass each other e.g 10-12 foot min. Grass should be sparse, never lush, encouraging the horse's to travel to graze. Hay should also be distributed around the track where required. 

If you are interested in a track system and/or barefoot hoof care why not read more in 'The Barefoot Horse; An introduction to Barefoot Hoof Care and Hood Boots' by Lucy Nicholas. Price £15.99. Available from retailers including www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk, specialists in barefoot hoofcare products and hoof boots.  

Key Tips and Advice for Barefoot Hoof Care from The Saddlery Shop!

Here at The Saddlery Shop, we are renowned as being barefoot hoofcare experts. Here are my key points, if you are considering taking your horse barefoot:

I believe there are very few equines that do not have the potential to lead sound, working lives without metal shoes. But ‘transitioning’, post de-shoeing, requires patience. When taking a horse barefoot, you are suddenly allowing the hoof to function at full capacity, with improved circulation and firing of nerves. This will in turn bring to light the true state of health in a newly de-shod hoof. When the shoes are initially removed, a horse with no major issues will usually be sound immediately at pasture, and will often be sound for at least short distances on a hard, flat surface, and only sore on stony surfaces; this horse could transition in just a few weeks. Whereas a horse with very flat soles; one that has been shod with excess ‘flare’ at the hoof wall; or an equine with metabolic challenges may take many more months to get to the same level of comfort. Hoof growth is a reactive process, stimulated by movement and wear, so the hooves need to be given time to respond to the increased requirements placed on them.

Afraid of excess wear? You can use hoof boots when protection is required; they also provide shock absorption on concussive surfaces. 

With a barefoot horse, you will see precisely how diet affects the feet, notably how quickly high-sugar grass or feeds can be detrimental to hoof health. Diet is key to successfully managing a horse without shoes. High-quality forage and relevant vitamins and minerals, such as those found in very high-specification feed balancers or supplements, are vitally important.

Choosing a good hoof care professional (whether trimmer or farrier) is key. LANTRA (the UK’s Sector Skills Council for land-based and environmental industries) coordinates the National Occupational Standard (NOS) for Equine Barefoot Care. There are a few different trimming associations in the UK, as well as some good, independent trimmers; and many farriers are becoming more experienced in the field of trimming for work and performance. Seek personal recommendation.

UK Contacts-

• Association for the Advancement of Natural Horse Care Practices (AANHCP) - www.aanhcp.net (click on ‘get help’ tab, and European practitioners are provided)
• Barefoot Horse - an independent information resource with a list of UK based barefoot trimmers and training providers - www.barefoothorse.info 
• Equine Podiatry Association UK (EPAUK) - www.epauk.org
• Institute of Applied Equine Podiatry (IAEP) - www.equinepodiatry.com (click on ‘care providers’ and European practitioners are provided)
• UK Natural Hoof Care Practitioners - http://uknhcp.org.uk

Searching for a horse? Visit the classified ads site http://www.horsequest.co.uk to see a range of horses for sale.

Purchase ‘The Barefoot Horse’ book here - 

A Look at Popular Bits for all Disciplines; Read our Guide!

With the European Championships well underway, we look at some popular bits you may see in the different riding disciplines:

Popular bits for cross country 

Dutch Gag

This bit – also known as the Ringed Continental or Bubble Gag - is available with three or four cheek rings, in most of the commonly seen mouthpieces, and in several materials. It us often chosen by riders of horses that can be heavy in the hand, as it emulates the effect of draw reins; Dutch gags are best described as a cross between a traditional gag and a Pelham. They aim to help to keep the horse between hand and leg, and in a nicely rounded outline.

Waterford 

The Waterford is a type of mouthpiece consisting of a series of balls across the main part of the bit, designed to encourage the horse to ‘mouth’ the bit and encourage better perception of the rider's aids. It is recommended by many riders whose horses are sensitive, yet strong, and hang on the bit or go on the forehand. It is available with several cheek piece styles, including a hanging cheek. It is also popular as a Nelson Gag (with full cheeks), Balding Gag (with loose ring cheeks) and the Cheltenham Gag (with eggbutt cheeks). 

Popular bits for Dressage

WH Ultra by Sprenger

This bit was developed in America and has a unique roller in the centre section. The roller provides gentle stimulation to the tongue, which encourages salivation, allowing the acceptance of the bit, therefore the relaxation of the jaw. The roller gives the horses a greater feeling of freedom with the tongue and is often chosen by riders of horses that have a tendency to put their tongue over the bit, or those that have a ‘busy’ mouth.

KK Ultra Loose Ring Snaffle 

This bit by Sprenger is double jointed, and features a lozenge link; it is favoured by many dressage riders. It is made from the specialist material Aurigan, and is renowned to offer the rider a soft connection with the horse. Aurigan contains silicon and is nickle free, so it combines the oxidation advantages of copper with maximum strength and durability. The KK Ultra is said to encourage a soft, relaxed jaw, and quick acceptance of the bit and aids.

Popular bits for show jumping

Butterfly Flip

The Butterfly Flip features bit rings in a ‘D’ shape for multiple rein positions; it looks similar to a Kimblewick once in the mouth. The Butterfly Flip gives varying degrees of control, depending on the positioning. It is said to be ideal for horses with sensitive mouths that are still strong and inclined to lean on the bit in the exiting show jumping environment. It has a small amount of leverage. 

Wide Port Segundo

The Segundo has a leverage action and works on several of points of control on the horse's head, and also within the mouth. This bit is unusual in that it does not use tongue pressure, as it features a large port, through which the tongue lies. It is said to be good for horses that are strong in mouth, as the horse can’t lean on the bit or get their tongue over it; it is popular with very experienced riders. It is also good for horses with a narrow jaw, or those that find it difficult to lie their tongue down comfortably when a bit is in their mouth. 

The Saddlery Shop offers a wide range of bits suitable for all horses and ponies and every discipline. For free bitting advice, email advice@thesaddleryshop.co.uk.

Going Barefoot; A Guide from Barefoot Expert Lucy Nicholas

Going barefoot requires specific management and care; and as we know, some horses’ feet may be harder to maintain in good condition than others so making the transition from shoes to bare feet on a horse with less than perfect hooves may take time, patience and a little investment!

In order to keep your horse’s bare feet well maintained horse owners should consider the following three  main points:

1. A good balanced diet containing all the essential vitamins and minerals that he needs.
2. Regular trimming
3. Regular exercise

How to choose hoof boots

Purchasing a set of hoof boots which provide adequate support and protection to the hoof when you are making the transition from shoes to bare foot – often known as ‘transitioning’ is crucial. There are very many brands and types of hoof boots available from The Saddlery Shop suitable for very small ponies right up to large heavy horses!

Sizing

Once you have chosen a suitable boot for your horse or pony, it needs to be correctly fitted according to the manufacturer’s instructions. There are a couple of points you should consider with regard to sizing:

1. Does the boot go on easily?
2. Does your horse’s hoof fill the inside of the boot in a snug fashion, without any bulging or gapping?
3. Check that the fastenings are not too tight.
4. You should not be able to twist the boot from side to side by anymore than 5 degrees (unless otherwise stated by the manufacturer), as this could indicate that the boot is too big or the wrong shape for your horse’s hoof.  Likewise, if you are finding it difficult to get the boot on, it could well be too small, so try the next size up.
5. Rubbing:  if the boot is too small it will rub, making your horse’s foot very sore.  Check the measurements again and try the next size up to see if this fits any better.

To see a range of articles, videos and reviews concerning equestrian and countryside matters visit www.horseandcountryside.com

The Saddlery Shop Helps you ‘Shop for your Shape’ in our Guide!

In our latest blog The Saddlery Shop takes a look at shopping for your shape and optimising the opportunity to look good in the saddle! when competing. To read the full feature pick up a copy of Local Rider Magazine!

When competing, there’s no denying that if you look the part, you will feel more confident, and give a good impression.

Most women who have the finances to ride and compete are busy, working people, and many are mothers; this means that most of us are of average build, with the odd lump or bump here and there! However, there’s no reason why you can’t look the part and feel confident, whatever your size or shape.

There are generally considered to be four main types of female body shape: Apple shape (round), Pear shape (bottom heavy), Hourglass shape (curvy) and Rectangle shape (relatively straight up and down). It’s important you spend some time kindly critiquing yourself, before purchasing your outfit!

Apple shape – your friends say you have great legs, however you have some fullness around the middle that you may like to minimise. A fancy stock and ‘blingy’ pin will put more attention on your top half; go for high waisted, well cut beige breeches (ideally without a belt) to comfortably support your tummy – hunting breeches, such as Horseware Ladies Aylesbury Hunting Breeches, are ideal – and a jacket with obvious shoulder definition and sufficient length so that your tummy is not too exposed, like the Shires Ladies Cotswold Show Jacket. If your calves are wide, then choose made to measure boots or those in wide sizes, so they do not look too tight. Dublin’s ‘On Air Stretch Dress Boots’ feature a leather-look rear stretch panel on the calf, providing around 2cm of ‘stretch’.

Pear shape – you carry more weight on your hips or thighs but have a clearly defined waist that you can show off. Choose tailored jackets that make your shoulders look broader (velvet collars raise the eye line), and finish above the widest point of your hips and bottom – Shires’ Ladies Kingston Show Jacket is a good example. Blingy stock pins and bold stock patterns will draw the eye upwards, while you can rock a white pair of high waisted breeches like Hy Performance Competition Ladies Breeches, which have a Polymide, Cotton, and Lycra material blend.

Hourglass shape – the envy of many females, you have a well-balanced body shape with your shoulders and hips in line, a well-defined bust, and a nipped in waist. Choose stretchy, belted breeches, ideally in beige – Shires Ladies SaddleHugger Breeches are very nice, with a four-way stretch knitted fabric – and a jacket that flatters the female form; the Horseware ladies competition jacket would be a bold choice but it is softshell, and form fitting to show off your balanced shape. Show off your waist with a snazzy belt and remember to invest in a good sports bra, to add a smoother silhouette.

Rectangle shape – you have a moderately straight shoulder and ribcage line, and may be fairly petite in your clothes size; you may like to try to create the illusion of a waist and curves with a jacket that gently shapes the waist but does not ‘nip you in’ – we like the Horseware Embellished Ladies Show Jacket. Exaggerated pocket details, detailing at the hips and a fancy stock will help. (Avoid vertical pin stripes if you are choosing a tweed). You can wear hipster or low waisted breeches in a light colour including white – we like the Horseware Ladies Woven Competition Breeches.

 Top tips for all sizes from The Saddlery Shop

1. Check your underwear for VPLs and consider seam free versions. Lace is a ‘no go’ as it creates bumps!
2. Double rear Jacket vents are always flattering.
3. Wear a good sports bra for comfort and a nice silhouette.
4. Match your gloves and breeches, for a smart look.
5. Choose machine washable fabrics – Polyester and cotton blends wash well.
6. Consider your horse’s colouring when choosing your single coloured show jacket or subtly-patterned tweed jacket.
7. Always wear a securely fastened ‘two point’ helmet meeting industry standards.

To find out more about the stunning show gear The Saddlery Shop has to offer, including the products mentioned visit the website at www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk 

Key pointers for going Bare by Lucy Nicholas, author of ‘The Barefoot Horse - an Introductory Guide to Barefoot & Booting’

In our latest blog we take a look at the key points for taking your horse barefoot with barefoot expert Lucy Nicholas from The Saddlery Shop. Lucy's book The Barefoot Horse- an Introductory Guide to Barefoot and Booting packed full of information about barefoot hoof care can be purchased from The Saddlery Shop. Click here to view! 

Here are my key points, if you are considering this method of horsecare-

1. I believe there are very few equines that do not have the potential to lead sound, working lives without metal shoes. But ‘transitioning’, post de-shoeing, requires patience. When taking a horse barefoot, you are suddenly allowing the hoof to function at full capacity, with improved circulation and firing of nerves. This will in turn bring to light the true state of health in a newly de-shod hoof. When the shoes are initially removed, a horse with no major issues will usually be sound immediately at pasture, and will often be sound for at least short distances on a hard, flat surface, and only sore on stony surfaces; this horse could transition in just a few weeks. Whereas a horse with very flat soles; one that has been shod with excess ‘flare’ at the hoof wall; or an equine with metabolic challenges may take many more months to get to the same level of comfort. Hoof growth is a reactive process, stimulated by movement and wear, so the hooves need to be given time to respond to the increased requirements placed on them.
   
2. Afraid of excess wear? You can use hoof boots when protection is required; they also provide shock absorption on concussive surfaces.
   
3. With a barefoot horse, you will see precisely how diet affects the feet, notably how quickly high-sugar grass or feeds can be detrimental to hoof health. Diet is key to successfully managing a horse without shoes. High-quality forage and relevant vitamins and minerals, such as those found in very high-specification feed balancers or supplements, are vitally important.
   
4. Choosing a good hoof care professional (whether trimmer or farrier) is key. LANTRA (the UK’s Sector Skills Council for land-based and environmental industries) coordinates the National Occupational Standard (NOS) for Equine Barefoot Care. There are a few different trimming associations in the UK, as well as some good, independent trimmers; and many farriers are becoming more experienced in the field of trimming for work and performance. Seek personal recommendation! 

The Saddlery Shop offers a wide range of hoof boots from brands including Easycare, Old Mac, Renegade and much more! Visit the website today to find out more or make a hoof boot or barefoot enquiry which will be answered by Lucy Nicholas! 

Kids clothing

High quality kids’ clothing is usually designed to offer warmth retention and also protect against overheating; it may also have waterproofing capabilities, as well as durability and comfort. Technical clothing may also dissipate perspiration, and offer adequate air permeability.

Look out for soft fabrics that won’t irritate gentle skin, and garments that have a good shape. For riders, the item must go with the body, and not restrict movement.

Here are some of our faves-

http://goo.gl/PUuDZU  - The Mark Todd Bally children's waistcoat - £4.99

http://goo.gl/TdfZd2  - The Sherwood Forest synthetic, Pararda long riding boots - leather look! - £39.99

http://goo.gl/6e8rkD  - The Equisafety Polite Air Road Safety Fluorescent Waistcoat - available in small sizes - just £22.49

Remember that you often get what you pay for – a low RRP item may have less shape stability or colour-fast properties. However, there are many bargains to be had, especially online at The Saddlery Shop, where good quality items are reduced in price. Happy Shopping!

Bridling the Sensitive Horse

This month's edition of Local Rider Magazine featured a bitting feature from our in-house expert Lucy Nicholas. If you are based in the South East read the full article by picking up a copy of the fab magazine today available from good equestrian retailers in the South East! 

Lucy says... 

"We recently helped a customer whose horse can be very fussy around the head, and doesn’t settle very well when being ridden. He doesn’t like his ears being touched and wasn’t very comfortable in his single jointed snaffle and conventional bridle; here’s what I advised, to help him settle."

Young and sensitive horses and ponies can often be reactive to the pressure created by the bridle or the bit, creating a common issue for horse owners. This sensitivity can be innate, a natural part of the horse’s personality, or it could have been created by previous owners or trainers. However, the initial thing to rule out is a physical problem.

Firstly for a query such as this, I would ask whether the horse has received sufficient equine dental treatment. The bridle and the bit place pressure on the tongue, the bars of the mouth and the poll, so the first thing I would want to rule out is a dental problem! If you have a sensitive horse that hasn’t had his wolf teeth removed, this issue could may be the culprit, as the bit can interfere with the wolf teeth, causing pain. Ask a qualified vet or equine dental technician dentist to come and assess your horse’s teeth if you haven’t done so already, and keep up regular assessments and treatment to rasp any sharp teeth or hooks, and assess for unhealthy tooth matter. 

The Micklem

Providing that all bases are covered in terms of dental care for sensitive horses, and that there are no further veterinary complications such as ear mites or pain in the poll region, in terms of a bridle, I like the Micklem.

The Micklem has been specifically designed for those horses that don’t conform well to regular tack. Designed by trainer William Micklem, the innovation is based on increasing comfort in a range of different avenues, as it is designed from the inside out, following the shape of the skull itself instead of the outward appearance of the head.

In particular, the Rambo Micklem Multi-Bridle avoids pressure on the facial nerves, the projecting cheek bones and the upper jaw molar teeth. This prevents the potential pressure put on facial nerves and the sensitive tissues lining the cheeks inside the mouth by tight fitting cavesson or flash nosebands. 

The Rambo Micklem provides a great solution for the many horses that resist because of pain around the bars of the mouth, hate significant pressure on the tongue and as a result fight the contact or get their tongue over the bit. The headpiece of the Micklem has been widened and padded to reduce pressure and is ideal for a horse that is difficult to settle, particularly if changing the bit has not worked.

Myler Comfort Snaffle

In terms of bitting, I also suggested a Myler Comfort Snaffle. There are various versions available. These bits do not pinch like conventional bits can, and wrap around without the conventional nutcracker action, allowing independent side movement. Many of the mouthpieces in the range limit poll pressure, ideal for a sensitive horses, or those with a large or fleshy tongue. Ask an expert which version would suit your horse - if your horse likes a loose ring style, the Loose Ring Myler is also very nice, and has a sweet iron mouthpiece and copper inserts.

NOTE: Because we rarely encounter problems with our horses' ears, we often take them for granted. However, discomfort, headshaking or resistance to the bridle can in some instances be caused by ear mites. These cankerous little parasites are small insects, white in colour, and less than 1mm in size, so are only just visible to the naked eye! Ear mites can produce a waxy plug in the ear canal, reducing hearing and irritation. If ear mites are bothering your horse, the vet may need to use sedation in order to examine the deep ear canal, and recommend relevant medication and treatment! 

To find out more about the Rambo Micklem Bridle and the Myler Loose Ring or Comfort Snaffle available from The Saddlery Shop or if you have a question visit the website www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk or contact our team via the website or on Tel: 0344 880 6900

How could the hot days seen in July affect horses’ feet?

We are all too familiar with the old proverb “no foot, no horse” and it still couldn’t be truer today. Hoof health is indisputably important, as neglected hooves can lead to discomfort, pain, disfigurement and even lameness. But what effect has a dry summer on our equines’ hooves? The Saddlery Shop takes a look... 

Firstly, it is worth noting that a dry hoof is better than a wet hoof; excess moisture causes the bonds within the hooves’ molecular structures to weaken. It is said that hoof horn is strongest when it has a moisture content of around 25%; like our fingernails, which become flexible after a swim or a soak in the bath, hooves are strongest when dry.

There’s not much we can do about the dry weather of course, however certain management aspects can make its effects worse:

• Inactivity – a lack of exercise will compromise equine circulation and hoof integrity.
• A lack (or imbalance) of essential minerals and vitamins, and other key dietary requirements – hoof health starts from within.
• Poor shoeing or trimming – if these do not allow the hoof to function properly, environmental factors will be more influential.

What can we do about dry hooves?

1. Although opinion does vary on this matter, many farriers and trimmers believe it is inadvisable to completely drench horses’ feet with water for long periods, and that this is a dated school of thought. However, the simple act of bathing the horse in hot weather, when the water will trickle down and wet the hooves, or allowing the field water trough to overflow, so the horse stands in wet grass while he drinks, could be beneficial.
2. Avoid painted-on hoof products. Topical hoof products, with a few exceptions, generally do not improve hoof integrity and may compromise the ‘breathing’ function of the hoof. 
3. Assess the diet. A balanced diet is vital to the condition of the hooves, and ensuring the horse has a forage-based diet that is low in sugar and starch, with appropriate levels of vitamins and minerals, is key. Minerals often lacking in the equine diet that are key ingredients for hoof health are Biotin, methionine, zinc (provided with copper), and Magnesium Oxide; but you can also have too much of a good thing,  so it may be advisable to have your hay analysed for deficiencies, so you can ensure you provide everything your horse needs for healthy feet in all conditions.
4. Provide exercise to encourage circulation within the hoof. Mere turn out in a traditional field may not be enough – ideally the horse needs purposeful, regular activity. Creating a system of tracks instead of an easy-to-navigate square, to encourage maximum movement whilst foraging, is also an excellent way to increase everyday movement.
5. Many horse owners are now turning to barefoot hoof care as a long-term management regime. One benefit is that the hooves can expand and contract with the changing environmental conditions, without the restriction of shoes. Hoof boots with pads can be useful for the barefoot horse, for comfort and protection when transitioning from horse shoes, or for longer term use when the ground is particularly challenging.