Canter Chronicles

Small equestrian businesses play a crucial role in the horse industry. They provide specialized products and services that are often hard to find elsewhere, and they often have a deep passion and knowledge for the equestrian world. However, with the rise of larger retailers and online shopping, many small businesses struggle to compete. Here are some reasons why you should support small equestrian businesses and some tips for doing so.

1. Personalized Service: Small equestrian businesses often provide personalized service and attention to their customers. They are passionate about their products and are often happy to answer questions, make recommendations, and provide guidance.

2. Unique Products: Small businesses often offer unique products that are not available elsewhere. They may specialize in a particular discipline, breed, or style, and their products are often designed with a deep understanding of their customers' needs.

3. Supporting the Local Economy: By supporting small equestrian businesses, you are contributing to the local economy. Small businesses often source their products and services locally, which helps to create jobs and support the community.

4. Maintaining Diversity in the Industry: Small businesses help to maintain diversity in the horse industry. They offer a wide range of products and services, and their passion and knowledge help to keep the industry vibrant and growing.

Here are some tips for supporting small equestrian businesses:

1. Shop Local: Look for small equestrian businesses in your local area and make an effort to shop there. You may find unique products and services that you wouldn't find elsewhere, and you'll be supporting the local economy.

2. Attend Equestrian Events: Attend equestrian events in your area, such as horse shows, clinics, and competitions. These events often have vendor booths, and you can support small businesses by purchasing products or services from them. This also supports horse shows!

3. Share on Social Media: If you have a positive experience with a small equestrian business, share your experience on social media. This can help to spread the word and encourage others to support the business.

4. Write Reviews: Take the time to write a review of a small equestrian business you've used. Reviews can be helpful for other customers and can also provide valuable feedback for the business owner.

5. Be Understanding: Most equestrian small businesses are owner/operators. In order to keep prices low and still make a profit, owners are often wearing multiple hats. Please be patient as they are their own staff.

Supporting small equestrian businesses is important for maintaining diversity in the industry, supporting the local economy, and accessing unique products and services. By shopping local, attending equestrian events, sharing on social media, and writing reviews, you can help to support these valuable businesses and contribute to the growth of the equestrian world.

With dressage rules constantly changing, it is important to be on top of the USEF rules. Dressage saddle pad colors is a rule that is super easy to follow, but also easy to get disqualified for if you don't. Dressage competitions are a popular equestrian sport that requires riders to showcase their horse's movements and training while demonstrating excellent horsemanship. Dressage saddle pads are an essential accessory for riders competing in dressage events, but it's important to understand the rules and regulations regarding their use in competition.

The first thing to consider is the color and design of the saddle pad. In dressage competition, the saddle pad must be white or a conservative color per the USEF rules. Day glow, glitter and holographic saddle pads are strictly prohibited. Any patterns on the saddle pad are strictly prohibited. Advertising on the saddle pad is acceptable for professionals if they are sponsored by the company but are prohibited for amateurs. As of 2023, manufacturer logos are allowed, but must fit into a certain size dimension. Additionally, the pad may have piping or binding consisting of glitter, crystals or holographic if it is tasteful and doesn't distract the judges eye. 

It's worth noting that the regulations regarding saddle pads in dressage competition can vary by region, level, or type of event. It's always advisable to check with the governing body or show officials regarding any specific rules or regulations that may apply.

Don't want to have to worry about your dressage pad legality? Check out our USEF Dressage Legal Pads here.

With all the choices available to you, you may be asking; How do I know which dressage saddle pad to choose? Dressage saddle pads are an essential accessory for any rider looking to ensure their horse's comfort and performance during training or competition. With so many options available, it can be challenging to know what to look for when selecting the right pad for your horse. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at some key factors to consider when picking a dressage saddle pad.

Material: The material of a saddle pad is one of the most crucial considerations when picking a dressage pad. Some popular materials include cotton, satin, fleece lining and mesh. fleece, Each material has its advantages and disadvantages, with cotton being breathable, easy to clean, and affordable, while fleece lining offers excellent shock absorption and moisture-wicking capabilities. Stain is gorgeous but sometimes hard to clean.

Size and shape: The size and shape of the saddle pad are also essential considerations. Dressage saddle pads are typically larger than other pads, covering the entire length of the saddle flaps, and come in a range of shapes, from square to contoured and with or without wither relief. The right size and shape of the pad will depend on the size of your saddle, the horse's back shape, and the rider's preference.

Thickness: The thickness of the saddle pad also plays a crucial role in selecting the right pad for your horse. Pads that are too thin may cause sweat to reach your saddle, while pads that are too thick may cause the saddle to sit too high, leading to an unideal saddle fit. The ideal thickness will depend on the horse's back shape, the saddle fit, and how heavy a training day it is.

Breathability: A breathable saddle pad is essential to prevent the horse from overheating during training or competition. Pads made of breathable materials, such as cotton or those with fleece lining, are ideal for wicking away moisture and promoting airflow around the horse's back. We highly recommend checking the lining of the saddle pad you're interested to see how moisture wicking it is.

Features: Is d-ring Velcro or billet velcro essential? It depends. We like our d-ring velcro due to it keeping the saddle pad off the withers and securing it in place. Billet velcro also helps keep the pad in place but personally, we find it too bulky. 

Style: Finally, the style of the saddle pad is a personal preference and can be a reflection of the rider's taste and style. Dressage saddle pads come in a range of colors and designs, from classic white or black to bold and bright colors, and patterns. Keep in mind that USEF Dressage rules do require the pads to be a conservative color, so if you're planning to show in your dressage saddle pad double check the color wheel. You can also check out our USEF Dressage Legal Pads here. 

In conclusion, when picking a dressage saddle pad, it's essential to consider the material, size and shape, thickness, breathability, and style. By taking these factors into account, riders can find the perfect saddle pad to enhance their horse's comfort, performance, and style.

Horseback riding is a rewarding and exciting activity that can provide a great sense of fulfillment and enjoyment. However, if you're new to the world of horses, getting started can be overwhelming. Here are some tips on how to get started riding horses.

1. Find a Stable or Riding School: The first step to getting started with horseback riding is to find a stable or riding school in your area. Look for a reputable facility that offers beginner lessons or an introductory program. Check to see if their horses looked cared for. Join local Facebook equestrian groups to ask for recommendations.

2. Learn About Horses: Before you start riding, take some time to learn about horses. Read up on horse care and basic horsemanship, and ask your instructor or other experienced riders for tips and advice.

3. Wear Proper Riding Attire: When riding horses, it's important to wear proper attire, including a helmet, riding boots, and fitted pants or breeches. Dress comfortably and avoid loose clothing that can get caught on the saddle or other equipment. I personally recommend wearing long sleeves in case of a tumble and make sure you wear shoes with a heel to ensure your foot does not slip through the stirrup.

4. Start with a Basic Lesson: Your first horseback riding lesson will likely be a basic introduction to riding and handling a horse. You'll learn how to groom the horse, mount and dismount, hold the reins, and guide the horse.

5. Volunteer at a Horse Rescue: Volunteering at a horse rescue can be a great way to learn about horse care and get hands-on experience working with horses. Many rescues offer volunteer programs that allow you to help with horse care and feeding, grooming, and other tasks. Check out your local horse rescue to see how you can get involved.

6. Take It Slow: You'll hear this a lot in the horse world; fast is slow. Walking in the right direction is better than running in the wrong direction. It's important to take things slow when starting out with horseback riding. Don't be afraid to ask questions and take your time learning the basics. Building a strong foundation of knowledge and skills will help you progress more quickly in the long run. Don't worry if you feel like you're behind! You are just building your foundation and confidence. 

Getting started with horseback riding can be a fun and rewarding experience. By finding a reputable stable, learning about horse care, wearing proper attire, starting with a basic lesson, volunteering at a rescue, and taking it slow, you can develop a strong foundation for a lifelong love of horseback riding.