Horse riding is more challenging than it seems.
Why?
You will need different horse riding equipment to enjoy the sport. Otherwise, your horse will not make a single move. Yes, talking about Horse saddle accessories- those items that help you enjoy every minute of equestrianism.
What are horse saddle accessories called?
Stirrups, saddlebags, breastplates, saddle covers, pads, etc., are a few common tacks attached to the horse saddle. You have to buy the right one as per your preference.
11 Must have saddle accessories you will need for a pleasant horse riding journey
First, let us clarify something……This is a general list of saddle accessories.
Don’t consider it as an ultimate horse riding saddle gear list. Having these accessories will make your horse riding time safe and memorable.
| Accessories Name | Why do you need them? | Price Range |
| Stirrups | To support the feet of a rider | 20-80$ |
| Stirrup leathers | To prevent more swings in the leg | 30-200$ |
| Saddle pads | creates friction on the back | 70-250$ |
| Girths | Save the saddle to go on forward, backward, or slip sideways | 200-4000$ |
| Breastplates or martingales | For safety from going backward | 100-300$ |
| Saddlebags | Help in carrying different items | 300-200$ |
| Hoof picks | Save the hoof from dirt | 5-100$ |
| Mane comb | To comb the mane | 5-500$ |
| Grooming kit | To clean and care for the horse’s skin, hooves, and coat | 50-300$ |
| Saddle cover | Save the saddle from damage | 50-100$ |
| Saddle stand | To store the saddle safely | 50-200$ |
#1. Stirrups
Stirrups are hung loops on a horse saddle.
What is the purpose of stirrups?
It supports the feet of a rider. Plastic, metal, or even wood is used to manufacture the loop. Riders use a wide range of stirrups nowadays.
A rider can easily balance them with the help of stirrups when horse riding. Moreover, stability is ensured for it. Furthermore, you can control the horse’s direction since it allows the rider to perch over the horse’s center of gravity for improved efficiency.
Generally, broader stirrups are popular among western riders. On the other hand, English riders prefer narrower stirrups that are also known as “irons.”
#2. Stirrup leather
The stirrups loop is attached to the saddle using leather or nylon. This part is called stirrup leather. It goes directly under the rider’s leg. Usually, they are designed to be wider. For its wide design, it creates more friction between the saddle and the leather. Thus, it prevents more swings in your leg.
Ok, I know what you are thinking…….Do stirrup leathers make a difference?
Besides, stirrup leathers come with an adjustability feature. A rider can easily adjust them to the leg’s length for optimum comfort. Remember, proper adjustment is mandatory when riding a horse. The reason is, controlling depends a lot on the stirrup leathers.
This saddle accessory has 2 styles:
- Slim.
- And traditional.
Major differences between the normal and traditional stirrup leather are unavailable, except the bottom of your foot is 2” wider. While the least bulk is available under the leg of slim saddle stirrups.
#3. Saddle pads
You already guessed what it could be, right?
Saddle pad or saddle blanket, or saddle cloth refers to the pads, blankets, or clothes inserted under a saddle.
It’s not a brainer!
But the question is why the heck will you spend $$$ on this thing?
Well, here is why:
The saddle creates friction on the back of the horse when it comes directly into contact with the horse’s skin and back. Saddle pads protect the horse from this friction.
Plus…….the pad keeps the saddle to stay clean.
If you ride without a saddle pad, the saddle will absorb sweat and lots of dust from the horse’s back.
You will find saddle pads made of different materials such as synthetic felts, woven, wool, gel packs, air bladders, etc. Wool saddle pads are the best choice as they protect the horse from overheating and collapsing from exhaustion. Related articles you should read:
- Stay Comfortable & Safe with Best Horse Saddle Pads Brand
- Saddle Pads Color for Your Horse?
- Showman Saddle Pad Reviews – STOP & Think Is It Worth?
#4. Girths
Girths are a crucial accessory for the saddle as the saddle is of little use without them.
You’re probably wondering why.
By confirming proper tightness of girth, your saddle will not go forward, backward, or slip sideways. It is a broad strap built of cotton, leather, or other materials that go around the horse to ensure the secure mount of the saddle on the back of your horse.
Here is the kicker:
Girths’ should be made of such material that breaks easily over time. At the same time, they should be comfortable for horses.
In addition, choosing the right-sized girth for your horse is essential. Girth size depends on 2 factors;
- Saddle type.
- And the stomach size of your horse.
So please Measure your horse’s stomach before choosing a girth.
Related: Learn how to calm your nervous horse while in the saddle! Our 7 easy steps will help you and your horse feel more relaxed and comfortable.
#5. Breastplates or martingales
Is your saddle sliding off frequently, and looking for a way to get rid of it?
A breastplate will be your lifesaver in this case.
It is solely designed to stop the saddle from sliding backward. The other name of this saddle accessory is martingales.
Additionally, it benefits horses with flat rib cages and large shoulders. The reason is that such body structure can force a saddle to slip back regardless of the tightness.
And guess what?
A breastplate also performs as safety equipment.
When the saddle girth or billets break accidentally, the cavalier will have enough time to stop and dismount the saddle before it is wholly slipped off.
#6. Saddlebags
From the name itself, it is easy to understand saddlebags are smaller portable pouches attached to the behind of the saddle.
However…….
Saddlebags can be mounted in different positions, such as the front of the saddle, sides, or back. A saddlebag will be of utmost help if you need items to be accessed frequently when riding a horse.
Depending on the saddlebag’s size, you can carry a water bottle, rain gear, lunch, or other important items. These bags come in various types, including dual saddle bags, rear, cantle, etc.
#7. Hoof pick
Enough of your safety accessories now comes to the well-being of the horse.
Let’s pick a Hoof pick– a hooked tool made of metal (well usually).
It is an important tool for the care of your horse’s feet. It allows you to clean mud, snow, rocks, dust, debris, and other items from your horse’s hooves. Hoof maintenance is vital as it prevents the growth of bacteria and fungi and other infections.
Don’t think that hoof pick can hurt your horse.
In fact, there is no nerve ending in the hooves. So your horse will not feel pain when hoof picking.
#8. Mane comb
The horse got debris & tangles too!!!!!
And Mane comb is used to brush the mane and tails of horses to loosen any knots. This saddle accessory looks quite similar to a hair comb.
It also removes that pesky debris and tangles easily. But it is more decorative and ornate than common hair combs. Besides, this item will be significantly helpful if you want to shape, thin, finish, or create a hand-stripped look to your horse’s mane.
A humble request to you…….
When using a mane comb on the horse’s hair and tail, be gentle and avoid rushing. Sensory nerves are available on the hair follicles; rush pulling can create pain and discomfort for your horse.
Yup, just like your hair.
#9. Grooming kit
We believe every horse owner should have a separate grooming kit for their horses.
Grooming kits are for cleaning and caring for the horse’s skin, hooves and coat. This kit helps spread different diseases and infections.
You will find different items in a grooming kit such as-
- Body brush,
- Dandy brush,
- Metal curry comb,
- Mane and tail brush,
- Shedding blade,
- Sweat scraper,
- Sponges, etc.
Not to mention, all horse grooming kits don’t have the same items.
Choose a grooming kit for your horse by looking at the kit list and according to your preference.
#10. Saddle cover
No matter what they say, the horse saddle will lose its shine over time.
It can damage or lose its effectiveness if you don’t take care of it properly. And that’s why the saddle cover was designed.
A saddle cover will keep the saddle damage-free from different elements when you don’t ride your horse.
Different materials are used to manufacture saddle covers.
Some are made of fleece, while others are cotton constructed. When choosing a saddle cover, make sure it has a waterproof outer. This way, you can use them in many situations.
#11. Saddle stand
You can’t store your saddle here and there.
Why?
Just because of this reluctance, it minimizes its effectiveness.
Avoid storing your saddle on the ground or in any unsafe place. Keeping the horse’s saddle in proper condition is only possible when you have a saddle stand. In fact, a saddle stand aims to protect the saddle from being broken or torn when you are not using it.
Saddle stand material can be iron, wood, etc. Also, make sure they can be folded easily for convenient storage.
You will find some saddle stands that can be modified based on the Western and English saddle styles. Some models feature portable wheels, allowing you to carry the saddle easily.
FAQs
What is the difference between a bridle and a Headstall?
The bridle is a headgear to guide a horse and carry reins and bits. On the other hand, the headstall is a part of the bridle, fitting over the head of the horse and supporting other elements.
What tack goes on first on a horse?
The term “tack” is used to describe the riding equipment of a horse. Horse riding equipment can be stirrups, saddles, saddlebags, girths, breastplates, martingales, etc. The saddle is the first tack that goes on first on a horse.
Should I tilt my saddle down?
Tilting your horse saddle down will only sometimes be beneficial. However, tilting your saddle forward will help relieve the strain on specific areas of your horse’s back. But it would be best if you positioned the horse saddle according to your and your horse’s comfort level.
Final notes
There are lots of horse saddle accessories available on the market. That doesn’t mean you should buy everything. Focus on what saddle components are necessary for you. Buying many items can waste valuable money, effort, and time.
The reason is all things are not suitable for every horse. Also, the horse tack accessories list depends on the riding habit.
Most importantly…….
Always focus on the protection, comfort, and safety of you and your horse before buying the saddle items. Overall, you don’t need lots of tacks for horseback riding. Know your requirements first.
