Six essential items of tack that every horse or pony owner needs

If you are a novice rider, acquiring tack can be quite an investment, but every owner should have at least six essential pieces of tack to call their own. You may find these items second hand at a reasonable price at large sales geared towards horse and rider equipment, or even at sweep meets.

The two most basic pieces of tack that you will need a as a horse owner are a halter and lead line. The halter is used to “catch” and secure your horse and fits over his or her face and can be adjusted with the side buckle to ensure a secure fit. The lead line clips to the metal ring on the side or underside of the halter.

A lead line is essential because while you can lead your horse simply by holding on to the halter, if he spooks or makes a sudden jerk, holding just the halter can result in serious injury to you, and thus the extra room granted by the lead line is a must. The halter will also allow you to secure your horse to cross ties in the barn for tacking and grooming, and in a pinch the lead line can be used in lieu of cross ties, although cross ties are the safest option when stationary.

Of course, the other four items essential to owning your horse are those that will allow you to ride him! The saddle is the most expensive piece of tack that you will purchase. You should borrow or try out saddles from other owners before you make this investment, as there are many, many styles and sizes and finding a saddle that fits both you and your horse well is of the utmost importance for a comfortable ride.

The saddle pad goes between the saddle and your horse’s back, providing a cushion and will soak up his sweat so that the saddle does not cause sores on his withers or backbone. Saddle pads come in a range of sizes and shapes, with the two most common being square/ rectangular or saddle shaped. They also come in a range of color options, although white cotton pads are the most absorbent and can be easily cleaned in the washer with bleach, keeping them sanitary.

The girth, which holds the saddle down on your horses back, is size specific. This is probably the only piece of tack you will not be able to use on every horse, but it is important to measure well and find a well-fitting girth.

The bridle and reins are another riding essential and investing in a good bridle and comfortable pair of reins is worth the cost. Depending on your horse’s needs, you may need a pair of double reins, but for most a single braided rein is the most comfortable. The bit, which will allow you to steer your mount, is also specific to your horse’s needs and your trainer can guide you to which is the most appropriate. Happy riding!

1. Halter
2. Lead Line
3. Saddle
4. Saddle Pad
5. Girth
6. Bridle & Reins