EUROPEAN TRENDS IN TACK

Saddles: Even if the art of saddle making is centuries old, a good saddle is still a good saddle. But such technologies as thermographic photography and radiography have given saddlers the ability to focus on pieces that are more functional and comfortable for horse and rider. The Busse Sportartickel Company has created a “Soft Touch Saddle” with the help of Heinz Deikhans of Warendorf, Germany (who holds the European patent on the product). Soft Touch replaces the conventionally flocked saddle with a pressure-stabilizing layer within the panel. Toward the horse’s back are two foam layers that distribute weight evenly and form to the shape of his back. Above that layer, the saddle can be re-flocked with wool as necessary.

Girths: One new girth has fixed roller buckles and is elastic on both sides. It is padded and anatomically formed with loops at the base of the buckles. Another new girthing system has an elastic back billet that can be tightened to hold the saddle panels more firmly against the horse’s back without sacrificing the “V” billeting system. The system reputedly keeps the cantle area from “bouncing” on the horse’s back.

Stirrups: Nearly every major manufacturer is showing an angled, comfort stirrup. A few manufacturers feature release systems—the stirrup unclips from the leather in case of a fall. There are also slanted shanks that prevent the rider from getting stuck. Comfort for the aging rider has become just as important as comfort for the horse, and the innovations have been coming fast and furious from stirrup makers. One stirrup, which is angled so the foot easily comes out of it, also reduces knee and hip stress.

Bits: Tradition rules in the dressage ring but, with a better understanding of the horse’s mouth through research, new bit styles are available. Customers were asking about the loose ring snaffle with fixed curb hooks.

Bridles: A Belgian bridle and leatherworks company that plans to re-enter the U.S. market has designed a bridle with a crownpiece that sits well behind the ears, relieving pressure on the horse’s poll and the area behind his ears.

Additional products include the Easi-dri grooming towel to dry wet horses and the Suna Massage Mit, a two-sided mitten with fine “hairs” on one side for grooming and massage and a finishing, softer surface on the other.