My 5 Things While Up in the Tack

2/22/2013

I've been riding since before I can actually remember. No formal lessons until my late 30s, but I did compete in endurance for 15 years, and I've ridden in every environment possible (mountains, beach, desert, forests, city, other countries, etc.).

Now that I am riding dressage, I am refining my likes and comforts for arena riding. Here are my (current) five favorite tack accessories.

So comfy!

I have a very nice pair of Ariat paddock boots and a comfy pair of chaps, but a few months ago, I decided that I prefer tall boots. For Christmas, I wanted to ask for a second pair of dressage boots (I use my first pair for shows only), but then I remembered that I have a super comfy pair of Ariat field boots. Who cares that they're not dressage boots? I don't. So I've tucked my paddock boots away, and I now ride exclusively in these.

Love the grip!

A new find. All I can so is OMG why didn't someone tell me that expensive riding gloves can be so, so much more comfortable than the cheapo cotton gloves I've been wearing?

It's comfortable that I forget I have it on!

It's dirty, and I'll probably need a new one this summer, but the Ovation Sync is the most comfortable helmet I've ever worn. This one FITS me!

Super stretchy!

I use the Nunn Finer Rubber Spur Straps. They wash up easily, and they are super adjustable. They also stay flexible and don't get stiff. This pair is several years old, and I ride nearly daily. They're holding up really well especially for the price, under $10!

Like wearing a seat belt!

And of course my Road ID bracelet (Thank you Dr. Hart for the recommendation) - I never ride without it. It's like riding with a helmet; I can't imagine getting on without it.

Lauren link

2/22/2013 12:58:55 am

Never thought about a road ID bracelet, that's pretty nifty. I also like the way that helmet looks, I haven't looked into Ovation much.

Karen

2/23/2013 03:32:59 am

I started wearing the ID bracelets about 4 or 5 years ago. It's a lot like wearing a helmet: I feel much safer with it on. I have a hard time finding a helmet that really fits. When i tried on Ovation's Sync, I was in heaven. I bought their show version, can't remember it's name, but it isn't as comfy as the Sync. Go figure!

Val

2/22/2013 06:36:09 am

The Road ID bracelet is a great find. Where can I get one?

I had an old pair of field boots that I loved for years. The foot size was a bit too big for me, but the leather was so broken in and wonderful. I went through serious growing pains when I got my high boots with the zipper up the back of the calf. The top of the plastic zipper just wouldn't drop like leather. Next time, I am looking of a side zipper or going back to field boots with laces!

2/23/2013 03:37:55 am

I have another Road ID post coming, but in the meantime, check out their website: www.roadid.com

I remember reading about your tall boots. My dressage boots are comfortable, but being dressage boots, they are very stiff as compared to the field boots. I prefer the field boots for schooling because they allow me to be more flexible, almost like wearing running shoes. The problem with using my show boots exclusively for show is that I am never quite as comfortable in them as I am in my field boots.

Sandra Baur link

2/22/2013 01:51:48 pm

Hi there! I just found your blog and love it! I had never thought of an ID bracelet... Brilliant! I must get one!

2/23/2013 03:41:18 am

Hi Sandra! Thanks for stopping by. :0)

I have a follow up post about the Road ID bracelets coming this week, but if you're interested in checking out their site, go here: www.roadid.com

I really enjoy getting to know my online friends whether it be simply online or in person. What's your horse disease? H/J, dressage, endurance, or something else? :0)

Angela

2/23/2013 12:15:41 am

I really like all of your favorite tack things. I'm so glad you added the road id. My son told me about them years ago, and I most of the time I forget about it, which is not good. They really are vital to our welfare regardless of our sport/activity. Time to get it back in my tack :-)

www.roadid.com

2/23/2013 03:44:09 am

Hi Angela! I've been using the bracelets for 4 - 5 years and really feel safer with them. I have a follow up post coming later this week. I have one for regular riding, one for show, one for travel, and one for running. I've bought several as gifts, too. It's a great product for sure. Is your son a runner?

2/24/2013 12:05:07 am

Well, he likes to go fast, but on two wheels...lol
He rides both street and mountain/dirt bicycles and motor cycles. (Motor cross dominated our household for years!) While he is often with a group when out riding, he will sometimes head out on a quick ride by himself. Either way the road id is essential because cell phones and wallets can be damaged or lost in a crash. I must take a moment to do some "mom bragging" because he purchased his first road id while away at college, and told me that I needed to get one...usually it's the other way around. :0

2/24/2013 06:44:08 am

It sounds like you raised him right! :0)

Kelly link

2/23/2013 05:46:35 am

I never thought of a road ID bracelet - thanks for sharing!

2/23/2013 07:11:40 am

Hi Kelly! Even though I stick to the arena anymore, I like knowing that ER people would at least know my name, age, and that I am an organ donor. :0) I hope I never actually need it!

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Not-So-Speedy Dressage