It has been amazing to be able to join my two passions: riding and performance physical therapy. Eight years ago, I was fortunate to be selected to train (as a physio) with the former Lead Physio for the US Equestrian Federation—I am one of only four physios here in the US, credentialed to work with the teams and squads of the US Equestrian Federation.
Being an equestrian performance physio has brought me around the world—Aachen, Germany for the World Equestrian Festival, Herning, Denmark and Pratoni, Italy for 2022 World Championships, and Santiago, Chile for the 2023 Pan American Games. Here in the US, I continue to work with riders of all levels, helping them to be the best riders they can be, through rider biomechanics work in and out of the saddle!
I am excited to share with you, my five favorite unmounted exercises for equestrian athletes!
Here we go:
Dynamic Spinal and Hip Mobility:
Want to improve your sitting trot? Work on your spinal segmental mobility! In the sitting trot, your pelvis needs to have a controlled oscillation to begin the absorption of ground reaction forces from the horse—a rocking on your seat bones. Moving upwards, your lumbar, thoracic and even cervical spine (up to the base of your skull) must have good segmental mobility (and dynamic control, I might add), in order to act as a spring to continue to absorb
those forces.
Rider Specific Bridge:
Bridges are a great exercise for riders—they achieve several goals: improved core strength, improved pelvic stability, improved anterior hip opening and improved anterior chain mobility.
Lunge to Pull Back:
A supple thigh against the saddle (and horse) helps to absorb ground reaction forces, aswell as allow for fluidity of moment with the horse, making for a fluid, quiet, supple, efficient
ride. Frequently we have restrictions in the saddle, that cause us to draw our knees up or
forwards (anterior chain restriction), or drawing our lower leg up and back (posterior chain
restriction). Give this exercise a try to improve connection in the saddle!
Dynamic Hip Mobility: Side Lunge to Spinal Twist:
Want to dial in your seat in the saddle? Work dynamic hip openers and spinal mobility. This exercise can be modified by standing in front of a table, in a side lunge (instead of kneeling).
Shin Box Switch:
Your thigh has the greatest amount of surface area contact with the saddle (and your horse!)—having symmetric, supple, fluid movement in your hips allows a rider to better follow the movement of the horse, and to be a more effective rider!
Follow Jennifer on Instagram at @fivestarriderphysio and Facebook at 5 Star Rider Physio!
Featured Image Photo Credit: Hannah Marie Photography
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My Samshield
Head protection is a given, and I’m never without my Samshield helmet. I made the switch to this brand a few years ago, and I’ve yet to look back. It’s by far the most comfortable, breathable, and ventilated helmet I’ve ever worn. I’m a Samshield girl for life!
Romfh Breeches
A few years ago, I wrote a post on my blog titled “A Tall Girl’s Guide to Dressage,” where I mentioned that as a woman of height, I found my brand tribe and loved them hard. Romfh Equestrian Apparel is the one company I always turn to when it comes to properly fitting breeches. They’re basically all I wear, just because they compliment my stature so very well.
Roeckl Gloves
You won’t catch me riding without my Roeckl’s, friends. I own a navy pair for everyday training and a classic white pair for competitions – this brand is my ol’ reliable. I never have to worry about rein rubs, blisters, or pinching of any sorts while in the saddle. The gloves allow for airflow while maintaining a solid grip, even in Texas humidity!
My Everest R Saddle + flocked sheepskin half pad
I have a confession… I’m in love with my saddle. I’ve kissed quite a few toads when it comes to finding a perfect fit for both myself and for Leah, and my Everest R by Custom Saddlery was the one. Because Leah is older, and her comfort is my ultimate priority, I never ride without a sheepskin half pad. My saddle fitter extraordinaire, Susan, custom flocked our half pad to accommodate Leah’s back. These two items are by far the most important!
Positivity
My last favorite “thing” isn’t a material item at all. In my opinion, in order to succeed with our daily riding, we all have to come strapped with a positive, optimistic outlook, even when our ride does not go according to plan. Turning a negative into a learning experience is one of the most beneficial principles we equestrians can apply to training.
]]>You can follow along with my riding on Instagram @mdadultammy. You can find my podcast at @amateurhour_podcast or https://www.amateurhourequestrian.com
I love the ROMFH Sarafina breeches for schooling, and I have them in burgundy and navy. They are so comfortable and look so much like leggings to me that I wear them all the time, even outside the barn. I’m super old school, so for showing I love Tailored Sportsman breeches.
I love my Charles Owen AYr8! So many helmets make me look like a mushroom, but this helmet looks good and fits so well!
Gap Body has a brand of shirts called Breathe that are incredibly comfortable and—yes—breathable. I wear them all the time when I’m not at the barn as well, but they are so soft and lightweight that they are perfect for riding.
My Butet is 11 years old, but it is still the absolute best saddle I’ve ridden in. I seriously cannot handle riding in other saddles! It’s balanced, soft, and comfortable (can you tell that it’s important to me that things be soft and comfortable?).
Pluto will eat literally anything you give to him. I always have a bag of Miss Pastures Horse Cookies in my trunk, and I keep peppermints in my pockets. Treats are a staple in his diet, and he’s so good to me that he even gets a treat as soon as he walks out of the show ring. Luckily for him, my daughter’s favorite activity is feeding him treats!
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Comfortable Breeches. I love riding in my favourite breeches, Eq Athletica. They are cute, flattering and most importantly, comfortable. The seams are beautifully placed making sure that there is no chance of them sliding down throughout your ride. I also love being able to have my phone on me at all times with their convenient pocket on the bum!
Konia Equestrian. It’s no secret, living in Canada our winters can be brutal. This past winter I decided to combat the -18C days spent at the barn by investing in one of Konia Equestrian’s midweight jackets. The Anya Jacket is perfect for all riders and I genuinely lived in it this past season- both in and out of the barn! I can’t wait to invest and pick up some more of Konia’s products.
Tall Boot Socks. Foot Huggies Riding Boot Socks are my absolute favourite. With a classic and sophisticated design, you really can’t go wrong with them. They have the right amount of padding on the sole and heel, without being bulky in your boots. My favourite thing about them is that they are breathable and come in sizes to ensure the perfect fit!
Riding Gloves. I can never understand how some equestrians ride without gloves, most of the time I’m somewhat envious too! With that being said, my go to gloves have been Kerrits mesh riding gloves. They have just enough grip and a bunch of ventilation allowing your hands to stay cool during the warmer months.
Purvida Conditioning Spray. If you’re horse has dry skin, then Purvida is your answer. Ever since I met the owner, Amanda, of Purvida Healthy Horse I’ve been hooked! Lexington is prone to dry skin, whether it be in the winter or in the summer. Ever since I started using the conditioning spray his skin isn’t as dry and hair as brittle. The spray also smells amazing and Lex loves it!
]]>I grew up near Boston, Massachusetts, so it was difficult for my parents to foster this obsession of mine without traveling a distance out of the city. We were fortunate to be able to summer on beautiful Cape Cod, where my riding debut started at Sea Flash Farm. I was 7 or 8 years old when I took my first lesson. I rode a black and white painted pony named Stevie from Chincoteague Island. I wore a B.U.M. Equipment sweatshirt, Espirit blue sweatpants, and white Adidas sneakers. Hard to believe, but I did not wear a helmet for that first lesson. Despite my poor equine fashion sense, I was convinced that riding was going to be my life. My summers on the Cape Cod were spent riding. Eventually I upgraded my attire to a pair of light gray jodhpurs, paddock boots, and a velvet riding helmet. As I got older, I only wanted to ride more. I spent the winter months riding up at Andover Riding Academy, where I fell in love with a 5 year old chestnut thoroughbred gelding. I saved every cent to buy this horse and all of the ‘stuff’ to go with it. All I had to do was convince my wonderfully supportive parents, who knew nothing about horses, that I was ready for horse ownership. That day happened in the summer of 1995. I will never forget that day, nor the day I passed over $2400 in a stack of cash for my Stübben Siegfried saddle. I called my horse Telly. What I did not realize when buying this 5 year old GREEN thoroughbred from the race track, was that I going to end up with a lot of ER visits – a few sprained ankles, a couple of concussions, and a hair line fracture to the pelvis. I was 16 and spending every bit of time I had training this horse to be an eventer. It was all worth it. I loved riding him, when it was a ‘good’ day. He eventually developed into a wonderful horse, with a lot of work and sacrifice.
I headed off to the University of Vermont in 1997, and had to leave Telly behind. Eventually, we had to sell him. I was heartbroken. I attempted to mend my broken heart by joining the UVM equestrian team. I rode for 2 years in college, but needed to stop due to lack of time. It certainly felt like a part of me was missing.
Now 40 years old. I am a wife, a mom, and have a full time career as nurse practitioner in internal medicine. I had not sat back in a saddle until 2 years ago. What got me back there was my daughter, Tatum. She was also born with a bit of the horse bug. At the age of 4, I started her in lessons at this wonderful hidden gem close to my home, Highlander Farm in Falmouth, Massachusetts. Watching her joy while riding, was like watching myself that first day I rode Stevie the pony. I never thought I would ever ride again, as there was a strong sense of fear, as I lacked confidence that I would be able to bounce back as quickly if I were to take a fall. With a bit of a push from a good friend and trainer at Highlander Farm, I decided to bite the bullet and take a lesson. It was indeed like riding a bike, and only wanted more from that moment on.
It has now been 2 years. I am part-leasing a beautiful and gentle warmblood mare named Rita. When I ride, the stressors of my demanding job are remedied, I am able to reset on who I am, and most importantly, it has helped me center my life as a mom and wife. I never realized how therapeutic riding could be, nor how much I needed it back in my life.
With that being said, having been out of riding for almost 20 years, my gear needed a big time update. Equestrian gear, both tack and apparel, have come a long way. Of course, I attempted to wear what I had from 20 years ago, as I saved everything! Sadly, my old light gray breeches tore as I tried to squeeze myself into them, the lining to the velvet helmet had disintegrated, and the leather on my crocheted gloves was almost fossilized after sitting in the basement for years. I desperately needed an update.
Piper Breeches by SmartPak
The breeches today have certainly exceeded my expectations. I recall them coming in white, gray, black or tan. The materials seemed not quite as durable. They would stretch out easily and not wash well. Today, I love the bright colors, patterns and durable fabrics. I’m about 5’4” with a short waist. I had to try multiple brands of breeches, before finding the pair that fit perfectly. Hands down, Piper Breeches by Smarkpak are the best. They are the most comfortable breeches I have found. I am partial to the original full seat, as it gives me good secure contact in the saddle. They wash well without becoming stiff. They sit perfectly around my short waist. I especially love the array of colors they come in.
One K Defender Matte Helmet
Since that old velvet helmet was no longer usable, I had to find new one promptly. Obviously, it is the most important piece of equine attire you could own. I initially bought an inexpensive, adjustable one. I would get headaches with every ride from it. It was light weight, but not the type of light weight you want while riding a 2000lb animal. Having been through some terrible falls, a couple of concussions, and a cracked helmet from a fall, I needed something more durable and comfortable. I was advised by one of my trainers to consider the One K Defender Helmet. This helmet is extremely comfortable, and more importantly, I feel like I am getting that protection I need. I like the matte over the velvet material, as it is easy to keep clean.
Roeckl Roeck-Grip Gloves
Sadly, I also had to throw away those fossilized crocheted gloves, as I was not able to hold my grip on the reins with them. The Roeckl gloves are worth every cent. They not only provide a good secure grip, they are not cumbersome to wear while tacking up during the cold winter months. The winter glove provides good warmth.
CWD Classic Saddle
That Stuuben saddle that I paid $2400 in hard earned cash was also out dated. Prior to committing to a lease, I wanted to make sure I had my own saddle to use. It is too expensive of a piece of equipment to borrow from someone else. Additionally, everyone’s bodies are different, so it can often be a challenge to have a good ride when using a saddle that you are not properly fitted to. Having that saddle that fits you and your horse perfectly will only improve your ride. I was lucky to have a CWD dealer right at my barn and fit me for a new saddle. She found a perfect fit was a CWD classic saddle. It is well made and attractive, but most importantly it does not bother my back which is what I noted with other saddles I had trialed.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Water Resistant Sunscreen SPF 45
One can often forget how much sun you can be exposed to while riding. As a health care provider, I am a huge advocate for sun protection, as I have seen way too much skin cancer in my 10+ year career. On those sunny summer days, with the hot rays reflecting off the sandy ring, I will not leave the house without applying sun screen to my face before going to the barn. It is hard to find a good sun screen for the face that is not greasy and does not clog pours. I love Neutrogrena Ultra sheer suncreen. It goes on like a silky moisturizer. It is not greasy, not difficult to rub in. It dries quickly and does not run. There is nothing worse than sun screening seeping into your eyes while riding due to sweat.
]]>Blogger, Author and Horse Girl 24/7
By profession I’m a middle school history teacher, but my passion is horses. I blog about life as an everyday equestrian at Saddle Seeks Horse and write feature stories for magazines like Horse Illustrated and Sidelines. I recently published my first book: Horses Adored and Men Endured: a Memoir of Falling Off and Getting Back Up. It’s a quirky reflection on how when I was a girl I wanted to marry a horse, and when I was around 30 I thought I actually might have to marry my horse since I went on way too many completely disastrous dates. The chapters alternate between sharing stories of lame men and gentlemanly steeds.
My riding debut started out as backyardy as backyardy can be, hopping on borrowed horses from family friends’ fields and then progressing through lessons at horse camp, riding in a local riding school, then working with a hunter/jumper trainer and showing on the circuit in the Chicago area. The last couple of decades on and off I’ve been in the world of hunt seat riding with an occasional dressage lesson. This past fall I joined a local fox hunt and am having a blast. After years of arena riding, I feel like I’m reconnecting with the way I grew up riding--hopping on the back of a horse and heading out into the countryside to explore and ride fast.
I live in Orange County, California with my horse hubby Mark, Golden Retriever and Doberman. My lucky OTTB Knight lives in Temecula wine country in a glorious green pasture with a couple of buddy horses. I bought him a few years ago when he was a greenie and we’ve been to a few local hunter/jumper shows. However, 2018 has been dedicated to rehab for an injury and coming up for a plan based on his recent kissing spine diagnosis. I’m not sure what our future plans are as a team, but I’m confident he’ll tell me what he can do as we head into the new year. Picture Credits: Lady Photographic for all riding photo
County Stabilizer Saddle
I’m a devoted County Stabilizer saddle fan. I have my original light tan County Stabilizer from around 1997, that I might still be riding in if the tree fit Knight. My newer County Stabilizer is from about 2016 and the love fest continues. I am a huge proponent of wool flocking so that the saddle can be adjusted to fit your horse when his muscling changes. The workmanship on County saddles is unparalleled. I have been told each saddle is made by one person in England and there is a way to trace back who the artisan was based on how it’s numbered. I’m glad this old-fashioned, slow version of saddle making still thrives as I’m not convinced new, factory techniques and the latest materials serve our horses best.
Sun Shirts.
Where I ride there are no indoor arenas and it’s usually very sunny. When I ride, I want sun protection and to stay cool. I have three favorite brands of sun shirts for different reasons. First, Kastel sun shirts are durable, have an attractive fit on my body type and come in a gorgeous array of colors. Next, Ariat winter tech shirts are warm for winter riding, but still breathable. I wear them as a base layer under sweaters when I go visit my family in Chicago during the holidays. I have been know to wear the Ariat and Callidae (my third pick) shirts to work AND get compliments from colleagues! What is special about the Callidae is it looks dressier--like wearing a nice blouse under a sweater. Very preppy and classy. I wore my blue Callidae with little foxes during the fox hunting clinic I attended in October, that launched my new obsession with fox hunting.
Kate Spade Sunglasses
About 90% of the time I ride in sunglasses as it’s bright when I ride. I have two favorite Kate Spade pairs, both with a cat eye vibe. They are tortoiseshell and make me feel a little bit glam in the saddle.
Equivisor
Speaking of sun, in the spring, summer and most of fall I wear my Equivisor. I have one in dark brown cotton and one in jute. It is almost a requirement if you don’t want to squint with the strong sun blazing down and also reflecting back up in some arenas here in SoCal. If you’re not familiar with the Equivisor, it is an extra wide visor with an adjustable velcro strap; it’s made specifically for riding helmets.
Roeckl Riding Gloves
Roeckl are the best around! The gloves are durable and you can even throw them in the washing machine. They make really good colors too. I enjoyed my navy pair, but most of the time wear black.
Picture Credits: Lady Photographic for all riding photos
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BREECHES
I absolutely LOVE Mastermind breeches. I swear by them as being the most comfortable, well-fitting breeches you can find. They are detailed with elegance, and I love their color options available. I also find them to be the most durable out of any other breeches - considering I ride around 8 horses every day and work in the barn.
BOOTS
For the show ring, I prefer my Secchiari boots. I purchased my first custom pair at Solea Equestrian, designed all black with a bit of patent piping at the top. I'm very simple and traditional when it comes to my show boots, and find Secchiari to be my favorite because I can create an elegant boot that is tough enough to handle the amount of ring time I have, yet keeping a stylish and classy look. Side note: under my boots, I always have Foothuggies riding socks on. Jeffi at Foothuggies makes the best socks for riding. Soft, comfortable, no-tear or holes, and sweat-proof! You can also design your own pair with your logo, name, or horses. They're fun!
HELMET
I've tried so many helmets - really, SO many - and have to say that my all-time favorite helmet is the Samshield Miss Shield. It's classic, so comfortable, and offers a wide rim to protect your face from excess sun exposure. They also offer this helmet with rose gold piping, and it is gorgeous!
COAT
I have all of my show coats designed and tailored by Alex of Solea Equestrian. He makes the BEST coats that are breathable, beautiful, and elegant to fit. If you are ever in the Southern California area, I definitely suggest you stop by his boutique at any of the shows here to check out his designs. Or shop his instagram at @soleaequestrian.
SADDLE
My CWD 2g Mademoiselle is by far the best saddle I have ridden in. It fits every horse I put it on. Detailed but a classic look. And, most importantly, I feel close to the horse. I find too many saddles these days are so over-produced with padding and elements that take your leg and connection away from the horses. I don't find that the case with my Mademoiselle and feel truly connected to my horse and able to apply my seat and leg correctly and effectively.
]]>F.WORDS is one of my all-time favorite brands. Kendel, Designer and CEO creates couture performance apparel collections with superior fit, fashion, function & flexibility for equestrians, fitness & lifestyle enthusiasts.
Struck Breeches are my go-to and favorite breeches to practice and show in. They offer a lower cut with a wide belt to keep in place while riding. I love that these breeches hold their shape and continue to wear extremely well.
Silver Oaks Farm creates one-of-a-kind custom apparel. I absolutely love the design and style Erin brings to the market. Her denim shirt is an equestrian must-have.
Parlanti Tall Boots are my go-to boot. They are soft and ready to go immediately. I love riding in my Parlanti's as they give me such a close feel to the horse giving me extra connection through my lower leg.
CWD Mademoiselle Saddle is hands down my favorite and most comfortable saddle I've ever sat in. The softness of the leather makes for an immediate break-in. The fit and design of the saddle keeps my leg where it should be, helping to maintain the proper leg position over each fence.
]]>For more information about me, visit www.victoriacolvin.com or follow me on Facebook (Victoria Colvin, LLC) and Instagram @victoriacolvin !
Der Dau boots
I have been riding in Der Dau Dream Boots for years, and I have loved every single pair I have had. From the moment you put these boots on, they fit like a glove and feel like you are walking on air. Some days I ride 10 or more horses, and at the end of the day my boots are still as comfortable as when I put them on. I especially love that Der Dau is also very receptive to any requests I might have - they listen and work hard to make me happy.
GPA helmet
My GPA Safety Legend helmet keep me safe and fits me nicely, in addition to providing ventilation. Since I’m sometimes wearing a helmet for the majority of the day and in the sun, that is a necessity. I wear the First Lady model, which comes with a wider visor to protect me from the sun.
Grand Prix show coats
I absolutely love my Grand Prix jackets. I wear a few different models and colors depending on the class I am riding in, but all of them share the same great qualities. They are comfortable, breathable, durable and stylish. I can slip one on and forget I am wearing it. I tend to stick to the more traditional looks, but Grand Prix also offers lots of options to personalize jackets.
Essex Classics shirts
I always compete in an Essex Classics show shirt. The material is so stretchy and comfortable that it doesn’t bother me throughout the day, which is important since I am getting on and off of horses so frequently. Plus, it looks great, helps to keep me cool and provides some UV protection from the sun.
American Equus stirrups
My American Equus stirrups are always my favorite pair to ride in. Not only can you fully customize them (my favorite pair are light blue with crystals in them), but they ease my knee, ankle and foot pressure thanks to their design. The footbed and arches allow me to ride more naturally, plus the metal is proven to be especially strong in case I should ever fall so that my foot is not injured. I ride in both the Hunter EQ Fillis and E’Lan models, depending on the class and the saddle that I am using.
Struck Breeches: Every time i put on a pair of Strucks, I feel amazing. They fit so well, have the grippiest knee patches, and are SO comfortable.
RJ Classics Monterey Show Jacket: This show jacket is super lightweight, stretchy and comfortable, while still giving me a shape. The patterned fabric gives it a traditional look and adds some dimension. It's also very easy to care for (machine wash, hang dry) and comes out looking perfect every time.
Voltaire Stuttgart Saddle: This saddle is everything. I'm so lucky to have a saddle custom fitted to my horse and I, and the soft, grippy buffalo leather makes it one of my most prized possessions. Antoine, the rep in my area for Voltaire Design, has been phenomenal as far as customer service goes as well!
My Tailored Sportsman belt: I bought this belt on sale in 2014, and it's the one I still reach for the most often. It's broken in perfectly, so comfortable, and matches everything.
Two Bits Equestrian Bamboo V Neck & Bomber: You'll hear me talk a lot about TBE, but I truly just LOVE their clothing. It's the perfect balance of comfort and style. I love feeling like I'm wearing pajamas but looking really put together, and their bamboo V-Neck pullovers and bombers enable me do just that.
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Endurance is a discipline where you spend 3-24 hours a day in the saddle at a time, which is why I love it so much. I have a passion for riding, the outdoors, and pushing my own limits, so it really is a match made in heaven. In addition to over 4,000 accredited miles with AERC (the American Endurance Rider’s Conference) I have also competed all over the world in the UAE, England, Australia, Japan, South Africa, and Mongolia. I have done 5 endurance rides over 500 miles, including 3 trips to the Mongol Derby, the World’s Longest and Toughest Horse Race, done on semi-feral horses. I have also finished the SandyMount Express 1000 kilometer in South Africa, and ridden a pony 500 miles through the backcountry from Denver to Durango, Colorado. I’ve also finished the prestigious Tevis Cup twice.
During the time I’m not on horseback, I’m an Ultra Marathoner, which means I also run distances from 25-100 miles in a day. I have aspirations of going longer though, and am currently eyeing a few multi-day competitions on that front.
Anything I put on my body is expected to keep up and be comfortable, hard stop. If it chafes or wears out quickly, it doesn’t last long in my wardrobe. I’ve found a few pieces that have served me well over my multiple adventures, and can keep up with my lifestyle!
Tipperary Sportage Helmet
The Tipperary Sportage is lightweight, aerodynamic, and cheap. It doesn’t get in the way of my riding and can be replaced economically when needed (after a fall or two). The mesh air vents help keep the heat bearable, and the matte colors don’t soak up heat. Honestly, I’ve forgotten it’s there a few times and driven home with it on (but that could have been exhaustion!)
Nathan VaporHowe 2 Liter and Camelbak Charge 240 2 Liter
I practically live my life in a hydropack, and it’s hard to choose just one! Having liquid readily accessible at all times is a life saver, especially if you’re riding difficult horses. Hydration is so important during endurance rides because if you’re not performing in peak condition, you can’t take care of your horses as well. I like the Camelbak Charge 240 for short rides (25-100 miles), and the Nathan VaporHowe for prolonged efforts. I even run in the Charge, so It’s economical and molded to my body, at this point.
ASICS
I ride and run in ASIC Nimbus 19’s. I run in them until they wear out, and then they become my barn and riding shoes! I made the switch from boots about 7 years ago due to some ankle issues, and never looked back. The ASICS support my feet and ankles, and keep me in a comfortable position for long rides. Of course, I always make sure to have cages on my stirrups to prevent the shoe from slipping through during a bronc episode. Safety first!
JUST CHAPS
My “signature” look is mismatched lime green/hot pink socks, so I was really excited to find these colors in half chaps, too! They’re made of neoprene, so they hose off well after a hot ride, and are super light weight. They also fit over my ASICS and keep my legs protected from trees and brush.
FITS Tech Tread Breeches and Cloudmax Rain Coat
My favorite breeches at the moment are FITS tech tread. I was having a problem with knee patch breeches wearing out too quickly with all the riding I do, and full seat is too hot for Texas. But these are seamless, breathable, made of a moisture wicking fabric, and so far have held up admirably. I wore the same pair through the 1000 kilometer Mongol Derby this year, and was very impressed. I also took along their Cloudmax Rain Coat, which was a real winner battling the elements. Having the double zipper and riding flap made sure I stayed drier in the saddle than a traditional rain coat. (Disclosure: I’m currently sponsored by them!)
I don’t have a blog, but you can keep up with me (if you can) on my Facebook Page, www.facebook.com/texantemujin
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My go-to show coat is my Winston. It checks off every box: stylish, comfortable, and flexible. Its classic, slimming designs keeps it old school, but is still new school enough to be thrown in the wash and hung to dry between long horse show days. Who could ask for more?
My favorite breeches to pair with the Winston are my GPA Skin Breeches. Although no longer in production, they still top the other brands I wear. They are thin and breathable, making the hottest Wellington days almost bearable.
Having as heavy a course load as I have, I often go days or weeks without getting my feet in the irons, which is where my Flex-On Stirrups come into play. They are a lifesaver, and help keep me in the tack when school keeps me from riding for a bit.
But of course, my horses have to be as excellently outfitted as I am, and that’s why I love my EquiFit ImpacTeq half pad. Whether I’m schooling 1.15m or turning and burning my way through the U25s, this half pad absorbs every ounce of impact. The pad is thin enough to not alter the fit of my saddles, and practically bulletproof. The ponies even like it too!
At the end of a long day, when my Winston has served me well, my GPAs have kept me comfortable, my Flex-ons have kept me seated, and my ImpacTeq pad has kept my horses’ backs happy, slipping my feet out of my Parlantis and into a pair of Superga sneakers is the ultimate relief. These stylish shoes from Fab Finds by Sarah are the perfect stable-to-street sneaks, and were the best purchase I made this past winter at WEF. On top of comfort, they are fully customizable, and an on-site artist makes you your very own unique pair of shoes.
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I always ride in my favorite boots that are pretty old but I feel safe in them and they are very comfortable
A lucky stone I keep in my pocket.
A little flask in the other pocket for tradition, sometimes I have port in it.
My favorite stock pin and comfortable undergarments and my favorite lightweight blue and pink socks that come up to my knee. They are pretty and make me feel good.
I also have a monogrammed crop that I am very proud of, given to me by my best friend.
My goal is to own my own ranch someday with many horses and other animals. I am also involved in rescuing horses through a wonderful foundation called Horses Without Humans.
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1. Saddle. My CWD was new (to me) last year and I just have had the best time with it. It is a SE01 model and it is just as beautiful as it is comfortable. A wide tree was really important to me as I am always riding different horses. Comfort was always a plus too, because you start to feel it after 6 or 7 rides in a day! I got mine used from Redwood Tack redwoodtack.com
2. Tall Boots. I have been riding in DeNiro boots for over a year now and they are definitely my new favorite show boots. They hold up so well and are made with the nicest Italian leather... without the outrageous custom boot price. I would compare them to the quality of Tucci's and Fabbri's but they start at $799. I love that they are really sturdy leather but it only took me a couple rides to break them in! I worked with Anita via @denirobootcousa instagram.com/denirobootcousa and had the most wonderful experience. She is knowledgable, kind and extremely helpful!
3. Boot Socks. I just designed a pair of My Equestrian Style boot socks with Dreamers and Schemers and they have been my favorite to ride in! The colors are so fun and the sock is made to be so functional. Looking at them, the DS socks seem to be just a thin nylon sock, but in reality they are breathable through the leg and padded through the heel and toe- perfect for me who is prone to blisters in those areas!
4. Leather Belt. I love my leather belts from Mane Jane. They are so simple, well made and go with everything. I find myself always picking a Mane Jane belt as a finishing touch to every outfit. To be honest, I own three MJ belts and I could definitely match them with every single outfit I own because they are reversible and you can select different buckle finishes! I have a black/brown, ivory/burgundy, and olive/navy. They're perfection, especially from those #viewfromthetop shots! I got mine from manejane.com
5. Show Coat. I'm definitely a little more rebellious when it comes to hunter show coats. I like to push the envelope with riding in unique colors. I think standing out is a great strategy if you are within USEF limits. I am obsessed with this grey MakeBe Cindy Show Coat I got from KAVAL. The color is stunning and it is one of the only grey jackets I've tried on that still looks amazing with tan breeches; the tan suede collar perfectly ties it all together! It would obviously look great with white breeches or in the jumper ring as well. I love to shop all my show clothes on kaval.com
]]>HRH: Yes, you are so right, you wear "normal" clothes and look great. I was thinking your "must haves" might be more about your tack, helmet, boots, etc. I'm always wondering, "why the goggles"? Have you ever needed to use them? DBB: Habit. I started wearing a helmet when I started galloping horses at the track back in 1984 and, yes, I needed them then because I would work horses in the morning (breezing them at something near race speed) and needed goggles. And then, of course, needed them riding races. Do I need them for what I do on tv? Absolutely not. Would I feel naked without them? Absolutely.
HRH: You are in a western saddle, is that dependent on the horse or is it yours and can carry all that you might need? DBB: Generally speaking I am riding someone’s “pony horse”, the term we use at the track for saddle horses that accompany the Thoroughbreds to and from the track in the morning and to the starting gate in the afternoon. Most of these saddle horses are ridden in a western saddle and when I borrow the horse the saddle comes with them. I don’t even own a riding saddle anymore.
HRH: You have a bag hanging on the saddle, same bag every time?, is it for emergency personal equipment or your audio visual equipment? DBB: My “saddle bag” is a make-shift crossbody bag that I’ve fashioned into a saddle bag. When I’m on a horse I have a microphone, a racing program, our show’s production format, usually a couple of other relevant notes, a pen and, of course, peppermints for my horse! Sometimes I even have my phone with me. Since I can’t hold on to all of these things and, simultaneously, ride my horse, I needed a saddle bag.
HRH: You have a camera mounted to your helmet, typical go-pro or NBC Sports issued camera and does it create an unbalanced situation with the helmet? DBB: This is NBC’s “lipstick cam” and comes with a full motor/battery pack. Anytime I’m wearing the helmet cam I’ll also be wearing a “fanny pack” with a rather fat cable that runs from the camera to the motor in the fanny pack. I never even notice the camera as it is very lightweight but the motor in the bag can run very hot and on hot days is very noticeable.
HRH: Is there any other special equipment you rely on? DBB: Yes, I sew button into the insides of my pant’s legs—one at the inside seam and one at the outside seam at the very bottom of my pants. I had a special strap made, about 6” long, that has a button hole on each end. I use this “equipment” to keep my pants legs down while riding. Nothing more uncomfortable (or sloppy looking!) than having a pant’s leg half way up your leg while riding.
HRH: Any other special adjustments you make while on horseback to conduct the on track interviews? DBB: Yes, I have to ride right handed when interviewing. Like most riders, I was taught to ride left handed (presumably from the working horse days when a farm hand needed his/her right hand free to do the farm work) so I have to make a conscious effort to get the microphone into my left hand and the reins in my right hand before interviewing (the rider is almost always on my left side). One time I rode up next to the rider and asked a question before realizing, as I went to extend the microphone to the rider for his answer, that the microphone was in my right hand. My transition was just a bit awkward.
]]>My yoga mat- I will be 58 years old soon and I have a bad back. I do vinyasa yoga on my jade yoga mat religiously every morning. It keeps my broken body in working order and my type A personality under control!
Fudgie keeps me entertained on a daily basis. Go to the RRF website to watch his exploits!
I love my new Meyer saddle and my horses do too! Their backs have never felt better!
My ankle stretcher is an integral part of my riding warm up. My legs are really short so every fraction of an inch counts!
Did I mention my legs are very short??!!
Spurs plus dressage whips equals horse in front of my leg!
]]>I wear a lot of technical fabrics, and I believe there are One Shirt Days, Two Shirt Days, and the occasional Three Shirt Day. Beyond that, here’s what’s in my kit.
Romfh Sarafina full seat breeches. They’re made of a material with just the right amount of stretch - enough to move with me, not to show off every flaw on my 5’10” and Nordic body. And they always come in a few fun seasonal colors, just enough to be a little different.
Roeckl Madrid gloves. I have giant hands, so I can’t wear any of the cute, fun, feminine gloves. I ride in a few Roeckl models but the Madrid is my favorite, because it’s got a more breathable upper layer, with Roeckl’s tough-as-nails grippy palm, and still has a few fun decorative details. If I can make a pair of gloves last more than a year, it’s one helluva glove, and I can make the Roeckl gloves last (though I do have several pairs in rotation a day, because putting on wet gloves is, like, such a major ew.)
Charles Owen AYR8 or SP8. The SP8 is new, and it’s sized just a little differently than the AYR8, which has been my ol’ standby for years. And as such I ordered the wrong size SP8 and it has to go back. Doh! But my two rides in it were AWESOME - it has a cool channel in the middle of the head that really does make an airflow difference, and its wider visor is good for us Melanomas Waiting To Happen that need more protection from the sun. I’ve also got a flotilla of AYR8s in a few colors, but all with the leather-like exteriors. They wear like iron, and hold up beautifully to Florida’s windy dusty outdoor conditions. And they’re so comfortable I can live in them all day; I often do!
Swanky Saddle logo plates. Every black dressage saddle looks like every other black dressage saddle. But I’ve added gorgeous plates of my cool farm logo to the back of my saddles, and it’s just enough detail to stand out, without adding garish snakeskin or crystals to my bum. Swanky also carries a whole slew of cool belts and beautiful jewelry.
Funky socks. I know we DQs aren’t supposed to be silly and raucous, but I am, and there it is. I always have a funky pair of tall socks on. It lets me have just a smidge of personal expression, even under boring ol’ black boots and boring ol’ white breeches.
Bonus 6th item: the Panache underwire sports bra. I’m a big, strong 36D, and when I’m not riding I’m a distance runner and gym rat. To the bigger busted ladies of the world: you’re welcome.
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On a daily basis, one item that I can’t go without when Im riding are my Maui Jim Sunglasses, specifically their “Sugar Beach, Polarized Rimless Sunglasses”. I have blue eyes that are very sensitive to the sun, and being outside all day in the elements irritates them, to the point where it is painful. A lot of the shows and facilities we attend also have that bright, very light colored sand footing, and the Sun just reflects off of that when I'm riding or setting jumps, making it difficult for my eyes. These particular Maui Jim sunglasses are so light weight, I can’t even feel them on my face, and the straight sides on them make it so easy to wear with a hairnet, because they just slide right into the net’s holes and they never move on my face. I don’t always wear them when I go into the show ring, and am jumping, but if it is not raining outside, you will always see me in my sunglasses.
My favorite Breeches are made by a Canadian company called Struck Apparel. I wear these on a daily basis as well; colored when I am not showing, and Beige on the days I go in the show ring. They have some great color combinations, with little pops of color to contrast the solid color of the Breech themselves. It makes it so much fun to color-coordinate my tops and belts, and even my boots (as I have black and brown tall boots). I always like to be stylish and functional, and well put together, and these breeches add to the overall look! The best part is that even though they are extremely functional, with a knee grip on the inside, the material they use is very comfortable to wear all day long. Its thin, breathable, and durable, so it feels like you’re in stretchy leggings! Not to mention, David is sponsored by this company, so I am partial, but I would promote this brand any day of the week!
When talking about riding Breeches, many of the brands these days, including Struck, have wide belt loops, which I love, and I have a favorite belt that goes with almost anything I’m wearing. I try to stay away from the equestrian trends, and brands when it comes to these types of accessories, because it is a way for me to have my own style and create my own look, with fashionable pieces that I normally find at a TJ Maxx or Banana Republic (My two favorite stores to shop in)! I am a bargain shopper by nature, so whenever I find an item at a great price, I get it because you never know when it may go great with a riding outfit. I found a Linea Pelle, very wide, brown leather belt at a TJ Maxx about five years ago, and it has been my favorite belt ever since. It happens to have a small gold snaffle bit on it as decoration, and its made from great quality leather. It was on sale for under $50 and I don’t think I would ever be able to replace it! I also found it in Black at another TJ Maxx in an entirely different state!
A piece of equipment that I use on my horse on a daily basis, both in and out of the show ring, is a “Zandona, Chafe Guard”, in which its main function is to prevent spur marks on the horse. My horse has very fine hair, and can easily get irritated skin with any type of friction. Because she is still green, she can also be a bit of a ‘leg-ride’ and is prone to getting rubs where my boot heels or spurs are on her. Zandona released this item, and the quality is great. The material is much thicker than any other brands I’ve used in the past, so I know it will last a long time, and I love having the piece of mind knowing that I won’t irritate my horse’s skin when I am riding her with this piece of equipment.
An item that I always have with me in the show ring, is my Angel Whip. I rarely have to use it in the show ring, but I am prepared when I walk in the ring, because it is an outside aid that I have with me, just incase I need it. What I love most about it, is that I custom designed it, and again it is a way for me to differentiate my style. Many riders, including David have superstitions about their ‘lucky whip’ in the show ring, and won’t use anything other than that! I am a little bit the same way, just because this whip is a reflection of me, it’s functional, and I have my name and initials stamped on the end of it!
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My Samshield is definitely one of my favorite riding tools. Not only for its safety, but also its comfort and style.
I recently switched over to Fabbri boots and immediately fell in love with their fit and look. I can’t tell you how many boots I have worn holes through after a short time, and so far they have lived up to the rest of multiple rides a day.
Another new but welcoming addition to my list of favorites are my new stirrups. I grew up with a very traditional and classic riding style so it took me a while to try new stirrups, but these are a subtle addition with a shock absorber that feel better on my feet and knees.
This is one of my favorite items in my ring bag and very reliable! Apply to the inside of your boot and this no slip grip glue is perfect for those horses that try and jump you loose, and they leave no mess on your saddle or boots like the sticky spray. What’s better is that you can find them in almost any tack store for a couple of bucks.
My last item on my list are my sunglasses. I have tried all types of sunglasses to ride in to protect my eyes but the only sunglasses that stay on and don’t slip down my nose happens to be this cheap pair we picked up at a National soccer game in Columbus. Not only do I love the way they fit, but I also love my city so this turned out to be a great purchase!
]]>Ponyglam
I might be biased, but I love using Pony Glam’s Hoof Hi-Lites! If you like healthy hooves and pretty things then a colored hoof dressing is a no brainer! Posh Purple was the first color I made, so I will always be partial to it, but nothing beats the sparkle of Sassy Silver on a sunny day!
LeFash Clothing
I love LeFash Clothing because it fits me perfectly and is always ahead of the trends. It makes me want to start showing more just so I can have an excuse to buy their polos and show shirts. I love my black breeches with the vintage tan knee patches. They seamlessly transition from stable to street, just like their trademarked saying promises.
Dreamers & Schemers Socks
Dreamers & Schemers are the only socks I wear. They don’t slouch, they aren’t too thick or too thin, and they have a bit extra padding on the soles/heel of your foot. More importantly, they make me smile. I like that you can be dressed in your conservative hunter show apparel and be wearing socks with unicorns floating on a donut raft and no one has any idea. You can get a discount if you use the code "Andrea" at checkout!
Soless Visor
I am in the sun/rain/wind/cold year round and my face needs all the breaks it can get from the harsh weather. When I am not wearing a ball cap or sun hat, I am wearing my helmet with the Soless visor. Compared to previous helmet visors, it is doing the best job of staying attached to my helmet while I jump Chloe. It also is transparent, giving me a better and unrestricted view.
Mountain Horse Jacket.
This isn't a year round riding item but it is one that is probably my favorite of all ever purchased. I use it every Winter or when it is remotely cold. It never fails to keep me warm. It has side zippers to make riding easier, easily fitting over the saddle and allowing full range of motion. It has a million zippered pockets so I do not lose my winter gloves, horse treats, keys, or cell phone. The hood has faux fur and is huge and deep - covering my head (and more) completely. It also washes super easy. I cannot imagine not having this jacket.
I am born and raised in Tennessee, and I live in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains. I’m used to riding up steep ridges in thick covert (i.e. woods), picking my way through rocks and clay mud. I have been foxhunting for many seasons and was a Master (MFH) of the local foxhunt for about 7 years. I’ve had many mounts, but I love the handy, large ponies. In the foxhunting field, pretty is as pretty does. And the breed doesn’t matter as long as they can do the job.
My main hunt horse is an Amish bred large pony that we think is a Morgan Standardbred cross. Phillip had only pulled a cart until he was excommunicated from the Amish faith at age 6. He has done every job in the hunt field. He jumps anything, whips-in, leads groups over jumps and will begrudgingly go in the middle of the Hunt Field. Although, he suffers through being behind a bunch of horses with much whining and not-very-Amish-like cussing.
I’ve ridden all over the country, but this past spring I went with a group of friends to foxhunt our way across the country. We traveled 10,000 miles in 30 days with about 20 horses between the 12 of us. We rode on the Kansas Prairie, which was described as looking like “if the moon grew grass”. Then we rode in the hot desert of New Mexico (we actually parked right where the filmed the TV series Breaking Bad). The most fun ride was riding up and down the extinct volcanos in between Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon in Arizona. From there we drove to California where we could see the Pacific Ocean and rode in impossibly beautiful country that looked like it was faked inside photoshop.
We then turned back east and rode in the high Sierra Mountains outside of Reno, which had the best footing (eroded granite) of all the places we rode. We rode in the rolling sand hills of central Nebraska, which I thought was an odd name since I never saw any sand there. We turned back west to ride in the front range of the Rockies south of Denver, which had signs warning about the bubonic plague infesting the fleas of the entire area. Nice. Finally, we went north to ride in eastern Montana on the edge of the bad lands with its eroded soil and dramatic cliffs and ravines.
I took a year to plan for the trip, and I spent a long time planning out what I should bring. Foxhunts have a particular dress code, even the number and type of buttons on the coats are dictated. So, I had to bring clothes that were not only correct but also for the varying weather I was going to encounter. I brought three hunt coats of different thickness on the trip. The one I most loved was a very thick, heavy weigh wool melton that is only comfortable if it’s as cold as Antarctica or Nebraska in April.
All of my coats are specially tailored since I carry a large, 300mm zoom lens camera with me on every hunt I ride on. I shove the camera down the front of my coat for safety when I’m not taking photos. My coats are all tailored across the chest to fit the large camera, dubbed Dolly Parton since it improves my profile greatly. Taking the camera in with the coat to the tailor raises some eyes, let me tell you. I have to be able to get the camera out of my coat, take the photo, and shove it back down my coat all with one hand (the other hand being full of the reins). I’ve jumped over 4 feet and crashed several times with the camera, but it has only come out of the coat once to clock my chin when I had an epic crash that ended up shredding coat into tatters. So usually, it’s pretty safe inside the coat.
In the hunt field you wear stock ties, so I had several white ties with me. I like to use the men’s length of 6 foot for ties because I suck at tying the proper knot. The extra fabric lets me hide the fact that my knot is terribly done. Shh – don’t tell anyone.
I would say that the only part of my hunting kit that I am really persnickety about are my gloves. I hate the usual riding-style gloves that fit tight over the wrist and have super thin leather. I need to be able to work a glove on or off with my teeth so I can work the camera or my flask. Not only do I ride with double reins, but with the hunt whip and 4-foot thong that are also in my hands I just don’t have the extra digits to devote to taking off a glove. I want something thick for when I have to hold onto barbwire while I cut it off my horse’s shoe and a good wind break for those crazy days when the wind blows a hurricane. My favorite are the goat leather gloves that you can buy at a hardware store.
Tack wise I always ride with a neck strap in addition to my breast plate because when you gallop through prairie dog holes, and the occasional pony-swallowing badger hole, you need to hold on with both hands. I put two fingers of one hand through the neck strap and two fingers of the other hand on the breastplate to cover myself if I start to tip off on either side. I also grab the neck strap when I climb steep ridges to save my back and when over a particularly scary jump that I don’t want to get launched over sans pony.
Any item in my hunting kit must be dress-code correct and practical for those long hours in the saddle while in every kind of weather. And if it gives me a profile reminiscent of Dolly Parton, I won’t complain!
I blogged the trip for The Chronicle of the Horse as well as a print article in UnTacked this summer. If you search Naked Foxhunter on their website you’ll find the articles. http://www.chronofhorse.com/search?q=naked+foxhunter
]]>Cairo is 15’1” hands worth of big-jumping, cross-country loving, dressage-hating hotness, and I adore her. We have been competing at prelim — higher than I had ever intended to go cross-country, but Cairo took me there. She’s my heart horse and I pour my love and money into her. I live in an old travel trailer to keep rent down (OK, it’s an old Airstream so it’s pretty cool) and teach writing classes and freelance write in addition to my newspaper job to afford my passion. Some people spend money on tropical vacations. I prefer my pretty pony money pit!
Since I spend all my money on my horses, and newspapers aren’t a big money industry, I’m budget minded. Pretty much everything nice I own is on sale or used, and pretty much everything nice I own is horse oriented! I’m the queen of the sale and stalking Tack of the Day and Ebay.
I’m also a helmet freak, so you won’t see me on a horse without one. My go-to is the Charles Owen JR8, which looks fairly fancy but you can find on sale for $140-$160. A friend recently pointed out to me that you can make it “fancy” by adding a narrow headband in the color of your choice and wrap it around the helmet above the brim for cross country color.
My newest show splurge is Chubby Cov stock ties. I have finally reached a point where I am capable of tying my stock tie before I ride without dissolving into frustrated tears. I’ve graduated past the pre-tied Velcro and now have an old-fashioned tie-it-yourself model with light blue and silver stars scattered on a white background to go with my light blue coat for show jumping and another with scatted silvery and grey polka dots for dressage. They are both old fashioned and funky fun.
Good luck socks! I’m absolutely positive that my blue socks with the pink flying pigs on them are the secret to riding success. I love funky weird socks (hidden beneath my boots) and I theme them to whatever phase I’m riding that day. Tapatio hot sauce for show jumping, a unicorn shooting a rainbow out of its butt for dressage. The most common brand I get is Sock it to Me. It’s ironic since I really am not a shoe person — I wear riding boots and clogs and that’s it — but I love fun socks.
My Voltaire Lexington monoflap saddle makes all the difference in my jumping. I kept feeling left behind the motion in my last saddle that I’d owned and ridden in for a decade that wasn’t quite right for Cairo. Then I got super lucky when we discovered a friend’s Voltaire saddle fit my little mare perfectly so I bought it used. The importance of the right saddle hit home for me when I was riding in a clinic some years ago and watching a kid in it just have a terrible ride. The clinician pulled the kid off, found a different saddle for her to use that had better balance and support, and suddenly she could jump. Your saddle has to fit both you and your horse, and that doesn’t have to be expensive.
And since it really is all about Cairo, the right bridle makes life better for everyone. Cairo goes in a Micklem bridle. She’s a sensitive New Age girl and a little goes a long way. There are fancier ergonomic bridles out there these days, but the Micklem stopped Cairo’s head tossing for about $150. And despite her hotness, she’s a delicate flower and does best with minimal pressure, which the Micklem is all about.
]]>My deep love and appreciation for the Equestrian life began before I can remember. Growing up on a farm on Maryland’s Eastern Shore gave me an understanding of horses, as I learned firsthand from my mother, who was a professional Equestrienne. Over the course of a lifetime being surrounded by horses, traveling, and providing professional Interior Design, I have been able to curate my personal sense of style and design. In its essence, Equestrienne Décor represents a lifestyle influenced by all things equestrian, and a belief that personal style can be easily enriched with design elements that are approachable, elegant, and luxurious.
Charles Owen GR8 Helmet. I adore the comfort of this helmet and I never ride without it. The company is one I admire and respect and I feel comfortable and safe wearing it. I love the classic yet sporty lines of the GR8.
Tech Stirrups. I have only been using my new stirrups for a month, but I don't think I will ever find a pair that is better. It was love at first ride! I like the safety feature, grippy wide base, and ergonomic design. Mine are the black on black Venice style.
Ariat Tall Boots. These boots are truly the best bang for your buck. Mine are Cognac and I am so in love with the look and feel of them. The fit is so good without being custom, and the cognac color is so handsome.
Black Jak Refinery Browband. We call it Cowboy's "Party Bridle" for good reason! The navy color of the beads really brings out his beautiful blue eyes. I love this company and all of the selections they offer. For me, a personalized browband is the finishing touch.
Tipperary Eventer Vest. I always wear this vest when I ride, it is lightweight and so comfortable, you honestly forget you have it on. I highly recommend this great piece of equipment!
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I always jump in Devoucoux and ride Dressage in Custom Saddles.
For both schooling and competition, Pikeur are my breeches of choice!
I am obsessed with my Animo show coat and Equiline Tailcoat
My horses have looked and felt their best for over 15 years using Horsetech products.
I love my helmet by Samshield
]]>DeNiro Boots
These boots ... they have grown on me and everyone compliments them. I have dark brown ones, too. I really can't say enough good things about DeNiros -- they fit well, almost a made-to-measure fit. They are durable. They are comfortable. "Cotto" must be "orange" in Italian? It actually means "cooked," but I love the color either way! (Picture credit to Olivia Hullinger)
Roeckl Gloves
A well-loved pair of Roeckls can't be beat. Add a glittery monogram to them and I've found perfection. I wear them all the time, and they last a long time and still offer that close-contact feel.
Arm Candy
I love a good wrist stack, and I tend to not bother taking off jewelry to ride, unless it's dangly earrings. The bracelets stay on. I am especially fond of my James Avery charm bracelet, with the horse shoe and dachshund representing my fur kids.
Mango Bay Tee
This is the softed tee shirt I own, and the design says it all for me. I am in the midst of a life-long love affair with off-track thoroughbreds and Eli is no exception.
Duftler spur belt
This is my go-to splurge item. I love how this belt looks with a lot of my breeches. It works well with my current burgundy mood (as does wine, but I can't wear wine).
]]>I’d say my style is very monochromatic—black, white, and grey are my favorites—and classic. Aside from the occasional lazy day, I like to have my horse and I looking put together and somewhat organized. Because I am a lover of shopping and spending money on my horses, I’ve acquired quite a few things, so picking only five was pretty difficult.
Happy Mouth Loose Ring Snaffle
Ax is a sensitive guy, especially about his face (fun fact: he loves to go bitless!). After four years of trying what felt like every bit possible, he is most comfortable in a double-jointed loose ring from Happy Mouth.
Ogilvy Baby Pad
Trust me when I say that Ax has some big withers—they resemble those of a buffalo—and these are the only saddle pads I’ve found that fully clear them. Because of that, I’ve acquired quite a collection and hardly use anything else. They hold up well, look beautiful, and give Ax’s buffalo hump plenty of breathing room.
Roeckl Roeckl-Grip Gloves
I used to be anti-glove, but now I can’t ride without them, specifically my Roeckls. I have a few pairs of these and they are my absolute favorite because of how grippy and long lasting they are.
Stubben Soft Touch Spurs
While he isn’t lazy about going forward, Ax doesn’t always willingly give his gaits the impulsion I’d like and he isn’t shy about blowing off my lead change cues every now and then. These roller ball spurs are perfect as he’s quite sensitive but still needs a little extra nudge sometimes.
Breeches and Boat Shoes
Obviously. You can’t have a great ride without a good pair of breeches—my current favorites are my trusty Tailored Sportsman Trophy Hunters and the SmartPak Hadleys—and if my tall boots aren’t on, then my Sperry Topsiders are.
]]>As an adult amateur and starving journalist, very little of my riding habit includes especially high-end brands (or anything that is, I've picked up gently used). I like to focus on comfort and color -- it's always sort of driven me crazy that a lot of riding clothes or gear came in sort of boring colors until recent years, so if I'm schooling I like to choose fun colors or patterns where I can.
Stretchy lycra helmet cover: One thing I do splurge on a bit is a good quality, ASTM-approved helmet. Safety is important to me; I wear my helmet every ride, so I want one that's a little beyond the minimum in terms of protection and comfort. I try to get something plain enough to wear to shows, usually some variety of Charles Owen, but I don't do the thing of 'having two sets of gear for showing vs. schooling' so I find a helmet cover to keep it clean and dust-free during the day-to-day. (I've had good luck getting Charles Owens at great prices on Tack Of The Day, often in the wintertime.)
This is part of my horse's gear rather than mine, but I've gotten in the habit of riding with a breastcollar. It started when I was trying to keep an old saddle from slipping back, but it's just gotten to be habit. I like the idea of having something to grab onto, especially if we're hacking out -- a built-in 'Oh crap strap,' if you will. The breastcollars I use for schooling are from Two Horse Tack. They're made from beta biothane so are water and sweat-proof, which is key for a draft cross in summer. We have light blue and white options.
Gloves: I know it makes me sound like Scarlett O'Hara, but I never ride without gloves if I can help it. Originally this started as a necessity when we were working in double reins for a while, but now I've noticed I get blisters even in single reins. If you're hoping to ride back-to-back days, that gets annoying really quickly. I've used SSG for years because they had fun color options (including, you guessed it, light blue) but recently decided to make the switch to Heritage.
As an adult amateur, I'm sometimes heading to a dinner with friends after a quick ride. While I'm not above throwing on a good baseball cap and heading out in breeches, that is apparently a little puzzling to non-riders. So, I've been looking for a good solution to combat helmet hair, which is particularly tricky since I have bangs which get smooshed and crimped by the helmet. I've been experimenting with different ways of tying bandanas and have lately settled on a Buff headband to do the trick.
I used to save tall boots for shows, but I've gotten used to riding in them routinely. It seems my calves are wider and also a little shorter than average (alluring, I know) so I've struggled to find boots that fit me in the foot but also don't pinch the backs of my legs when I zip up. I settled on Mountain Horse's zip-up varieties, which come with a strip of elastic built into the backs for a better fit. Even with daily wear, I can usually get several years out of a pair, especially if I'm diligent about conditioning.
]]>Greenhawk Shedrow Vividus Saddle Pad: I am in love with this saddle pad! I also like to add pops of color in my riding tack, so this saddle pad was perfect. The color matches with Sky perfectly. I cannot go anywhere without my turquoise saddle pad!
Shedrow Nylon Halter: As I said, I love to add pops of color to my tack, so I love this dark pink halter! It is super cute on Sky and is perfect in any picture.
Horze Grand Prix Women’s Leather Full Seat Breeches: I recently purchased these breeches at a horse event and I was so excited to try them out! They are SUPER comfortable and stretchy! I also love the style.
Tipperary Sportage II Helmet: I have had this helmet for a couple years now and I am obsessed with it! It is supported with padding on the inside of the helmet which makes it very comfortable and soft, perfect for long rides.
]]>My color, and my horse Riley's color, is orange. I work with a pretty broad palette, ranging from apricot (not peach, never peach) to amber to hi-viz to rust. Here are some signature fashion items from Ri's and my respective closets.
I make and sell browbands (btbbrowbands.com). Many are conservative in color, but I like to have fun with the ones I make for my horse Riley. Riley is an equine Austin Powers, so these really suit him I think.
He has an orange halter from twohorsetack.com -- they make durable, beautiful custom Biothane halters.
Riley does not wear a bonnet normally, but this Elegant Reflections bonnet was a must have.
And me? I wear orange when I run and ride -- this gilet is from ProvizSports -- great for visibility but also a great fit.
Oh, I have a blog at behindthebitblog.com -- I don't update it as often as I used to, but feel free to visit and learn about me and my Hanoverian dressage horse, Riley. Thanks!
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