Tricks of the Trade for Tack & Equipment

Note: this will be a growing series!

Learn tips and tricks that have been acquired over decades of teaching that will not only make your job easier but also keep things safe and affordable!

Part 1- All Things Stirrups

• Peacock Stirrup Pros & Cons
• S Stirrup Pros & Cons
• Caged Stirrup Pros & Cons
• Hooded & Devonshire Stirrup Pros & Cons
• Attachable/Removable Stirrup Covers
• Adjusting English Stirrups
  • Uneven holes
  • Correct wrapping
• Adjusting Western Stirrups
  • Adjusting the fender
  • Importance of fender keeper
  • Swapping western fender for English stirrup leather
  • Little Dudes
• Rubber Banding Feet in Stirrups
• Tethering Stirrups to Girth
• Correct Fit/Size of Stirrups for Safety

Part 2- Whips

• Dressage whips
  • What it is
  • How it’s used
  • How to incorporate into lessons based on rider’s ability and unique needs
  • Demonstration of use and in-depth discussion
• Crops/Bats
  • What it is
  • How it’s used
  • How to incorporate into lessons based on rider’s ability and unique needs
  • Demonstration of use and in-depth discussion
  • Short lesson showing a rider learning to use a crop
• Western Popper
  • What it is
  • How it’s used
  • How to incorporate into lessons based on rider’s ability and unique needs
• Discussion of final thoughts, cautions, and considerations when incorporating whips into lessons.
• Demonstration video discussing and how to use them

Part 3- Reins

• Adaptive Reins
  • Ladder Reins
    • Demo video discussing and how to use them
    • Flexible vs. PVC
    • Safety considerations when using handle reins
  • Handle Reins
    • Demo video discussing and how to use them
    • Safety considerations when using handle reins
  • Rainbow Reins
    • Demo video discussing and how to use them
  • Rein Extenders
    • Demo video discussing and how to use them
    • Safety considerations when using rein extenders
  • Alternate Locations for Attaching Reins
• Progressing from Halter to a Bit and Bridle
• Western Rein Types
  • Demo video discussing when and how to use
  • Safety considerations for western rein types
  • Safety considerations when using English style reins in western saddle
• Grazing Check/Overcheck Rein
  • How and why to use one
  • How to make one with things found around the barn
  • Safety considerations when using
• Correct Rein Grip
  • What is correct rein grip
  • Common phrases heard that encourage bad rein grip
  • Why teaching correct grip for all riders is important