It’s that time of year again. Time to hang up the lights, pull out the stockings and prepare those holiday wish lists! I’m fortunate to get to try tons of great products and services in the horse industry and have some definite opinions about what is innovative, hip and functional around the farm so in the spirit of giving this is my gift to you! Even if a pony is at the top of your list, you should take a look at some of these great items for you and your animal family.
FITS has been leading the path for high tech innovations in the apparel industry for quite a few years now and they really outdid themselves with the FITS Laura Breech. I love that I can go seamlessly from the sandbox to stable to market with a simple boot change and each look is comfy, stylish and completely functional! Watch the episodes with FITS innovator Sheryl Rudloph HERE and HERE. fitsriding.com
Mountain Horse Stella Polaris Winter Boot
Here’s another winner in the fashion meets function world – the Mountain Horse Stella Polaris Winter Boot. I’ve ridden, done stable chores AND farm work in these and in all they are comfy and toasty warm beating back even the most severe winds the eastern shores can throw at you! Stepping in and out of these with winter layers is super simple with the back zipper. My favorite accent is the faux fur peeking out of the top! Weatherproofed, traction controlled and tested with 1 million flexes at -10 degrees make these rocking winter boots! mountainhorseusa.com
Perri’s Soft Padded Leather Halter
I’ve always been a fan of quality leather halters, leads, leashes & collars for the safety and longevity they offer. Perri’s Leather takes the traditional leather halter & spices it up with bright & fun colors. Of course I got the padded turquoise for HorseGirlTV®. Picollo looks dashing in his collar/leash combo + it even matches his diaper for his cart! The leather is SO supple & the Amish, Made in the USA, craftsmanship is hands down some of the best I’ve seen! perrisleather.com
Back on Track Therapeutic Quick Leg Wraps
I’m über keen on innovations to improve both human and horse athletes so when Bo contacted me this past fall I was wicked excited! The Quick Leg Wraps are brilliant! They are easy to use, easy to wash and I’m now applying them to my gelding overnight with GREAT success in the sandbox! They are a fabulous choice for riders who are not super stealth in their wrapping skills too! These are a definite must for under the tree! backontrackproducts.com
These are a true classic and should be part of every self respecting horse girl’s wardrobe! The Tall River Boots have an unmatched versatility with the traditional good looks! You can even hop on for a hack if you’d like and the RCS (Rider Comfort System) makes each step with cheer. When not wearing them at the stable, I’ll give them a quick brush off, tuck a pair of stylish jeans in and head to town! The path to many a horse girl’s heart is through fashionable footwear that functions. dublinclothing.com
Hands down the best blanket I’ve ever had! Snap front closure is super fast. The neck cover is a quick velcro on and off. The wither relief coupled with the gusseted shoulder points is a guaranteed no rub with a proper fit and the blanket itself is terribly kind to the eye. Great colors! Great fit! Your horse will thank you if you stuff his stocking with one of these! I used it for the HorseGirlTV® “How to Fit a Blanket” episode. Plus they have matching dog rugs that are just TOO cute! weatherbeeta.com
I couldn’t pick just one so… I’ve really enjoyed the Canterwood Crest
The absolute MOST COMFY fleece ever! The FITS Bump Fleece is toasty warm, offers a zip front that goes over a helmet with ease, rich winter colors and a silky touch you’ll seriously not be able to stop petting yourself! Beyond the silky smooth texture of the fabric, the cut is such that it is very easy to tuck in even. If find myself wearing mine daily this time of year and it goes great with trousers for a biz casual look. It’s definitely a recommended item for all scribes, judges to look and feel great sitting for long hours in or out of the saddle. fitsriding.com
Between a series of world class events and HorseGirlTV® shoots I’ve been fortunate to spend some time with the Jumpline Designs designer, Mollie Wolfe. Mollie’s vitality and personality sparks show through in her designs. I’ve proudly wore my Jumpline Designs ring these past few years. It’s great quality, easy to clean and is a wonderful educational tool (SEE the dressage court ring). The Polo Rings are equally as dashing adding crisp color to your hand all year round. Horse partners & BFs, you can never go wrong with a tasteful piece of jewelry as a gift! jumplinedesigns.com
I’ve been using my Draper Equine Therapy Cooler now for several years and it still looks as great as the day it arrived and it even made the trip across the pond with me to train in Holland (SEE picture)! It’s easy to wash and I’ve found that folks sitting ringside tend to quickly gravitate to it and next thing I know they are bundled up toasty warm in their chair. It’s made in the USA by super folks so whether you’re looking to keep yourself or your horse warm at ringside, this is one to add to the list! You can watch the interview with the Ladies of Draper online. draperequinetherapy.com
Do you have a favorite high tech, innovative or super comfy and fashionable item on your list and would like to share? Please feel free to leave a comment below! 🙂
One of my BFFs and an amazing colleague Geoff Butler was kind enough to come back to Eastern North Carolina for another clinic at the farm. It was a full weekend of rides and I think everyone had a great time. Looking back at my June clinic notes (