When you ride your first horse, one of the most important care aspects you’ll learn about is tack. Horse tack is the equipment used to prepare a horse to be ridden, and a rider to ride and control the horse.
If you decide to become a horse owner, one of your primary responsibilities will be to ensure you have all the essential pieces you need to keep you and your horse safe, as well as to keep them in good condition with proper storage and regular cleaning. If you’re new to the world of horse tack, check out our rundown on the basics of what you need to know!
What is the purpose of tack?
First and foremost, it’s important to understand why we use tack in the first place. The idea is pretty simple: tack keeps both you and your horse safe and comfortable when riding. Using tack makes it easier for a horse to bear your weight and serves as a direct line of communication between you and your horse.
How does tack work?
There are a lot of components to horse tack and the tacking process. A good portion of the tack you need will depend on the conditions in which you plan on riding, how you want to use your horse, and your skill level. There are, however, a few essential pieces you can expect to need whenever you head out for a ride, no matter the circumstances.
Saddle
The saddle is probably the first image that pops into your head when you picture horseback riding equipment. It’s the support piece placed on the horse’s back, on top of which the rider sits. The saddle helps distribute your weight evenly, making it easier for your horse to carry. You may also choose to use a saddle pad or blanket, for additional support and comfort.
Stirrups
Attached to every saddle is a set of stirrups, where the rider places their feet. The stirrups help you mount your horse and stay on as you ride.
Bridle
The bridle is your horse’s headpiece. It fits over the face and connects the horse to the reins, which the rider holds and uses to direct the horse. Most bridles also include a bit, or a piece that goes in your horse’s mouth to secure the bridle.
Breastplate/Collar
As the name suggests, the breastplate or breast collar fits across your horse’s chest. This piece attaches to both sides of the saddle, keeping it in place while you ride.
Girth/Cinch
The girth or cinch is a strap that goes under your horse’s belly to secure the saddle and prevent it from slipping. Depending on the type of saddle you use, you may need a girth with more than one strap.
Once you’ve finished shopping for all of your fundamental horse tack, you’re going to need a reliable place to keep everything. Lucky for you, we have the perfect solution—a sturdy and spacious horse barn from Deer Creek Structures! Our portable shedrow barns and aisle barns offer plenty of space to accommodate your horse, as well as all of the equipment and supplies you need to keep them happy and healthy.
For more information on our horse shelters and storage structures, give us a call at 254-546-2276 today!