Tack carries the same issues as method, a matter of expense and fashion. The fashion is both visual and technical, and ranges from bits that are full on Jaws with a mouth full of metal to alternatives which only Heath Robinson can have devised. Systems of levers and pulleys, with reins like spiders webs, appear to be the only option for some unruly beasts. Each of course is guaranteed (by experts – for which see below) to control the uncontrollable, gain instant and light engagement and be phenomenally exclusive and expensive. It is extraordinary that after centuries of riding and high school there are so many novel solutions to the age old problem of a rider being unable to control their horse. But there you go. I particularly admire the makers of bling tack (especially the Swarovski brow bands) which is increasingly de rigueur and without which it seems that you cannot compete as you are neither socially acceptable or even likely to get above 60%. At least that is what we are told as THF’s when the wallet is demanded again.
Saddles
1 JulA full chapter definitely required for this one. Just as with blacksmiths, no saddler has ever seen a horse which does not have an appalling saddle, and no saddler has ever not had the perfect solution to the appalling saddle in the back of his van (albeit with a bit of stuffing taken out/ added on here and there). For the THF – just understand that saddles are really important and really expensive, that horses change shape all the time, requiring constant refits and new saddles. Plus that there is a massive difference between a Gp, a dressage and a jumping saddle ( all of which are of course required). What remains beyond comprehension is how no one agrees on anything. However this does mean that alternatives are endless and that if the tack change option (see above ) does not work it is always worth trying a new saddle in case that can help the rider who cannot ride or control their horse do so. So often the pinching saddle prevents perfect riding – hence a new one is a perfect solution. Simples.
thehorsefunder 