A SADDLE that is well looked after should last 25 years. However, the life-span of your tack greatly depends on how well it has been taken care of. Ahead of a busy summer season, it is important to examine your tack and to ensure everything is fit for purpose. Starting with the saddle, examine the girth straps closely. Be sure to check the underside of the girth straps as this is where you will see the most wear and the girth holes starting to stretch. If you notice excessive wear or stretching take your saddle to your nearest saddler to be repaired.
Next, check the stitching on your stirrup leathers and bridle thoroughly. You need to put the stitching under strain by pulling at the leather and the stitches. This will give you the best indication as to the integrity of the leather. Most saddlers will be able to repair damaged stitching – as long as the leather is in good condition. Elasticated girths should also be checked regularly for stretching and frayed elastics. If you notice that the elastics have frayed, the girth will need to be repaired or replaced. All tack needs to be closely monitored for rust, any rusty tongs or buckles need cleaning and the leather checked for damage.
Tack care tips
Oil the underside of a leather saddle, the part in contact with the horse’s back. Do this on a monthly basis. If your numnah is wet or sweaty be sure to take it off the saddle when you are finished riding. The salt in a horse’s sweat is corrosive. Leaving on wet numnahs will cause the leather to rot over time. Store your saddle correctly on a saddletree or stand and preferably with a fabric cover; this will guarantee the shape and condition of the saddle when not in use. Clean dirt and grease from all tack and follow with a coat of saddle soap. For very dirty or greasy tack, a small handful of washing soda crystals added to the water will really help and will not affect the suppleness of the leather. Polish all metalwork. When you get caught out in the rain while riding, the tack should be dismantled as soon as possible, stripping the bridle to its component parts and removing the stirrup leathers and girth from the saddle. Clean it in the usual way, and then allow it to dry out naturally and slowly. Don’t be tempted to place it near a heater or a sunny window to speed up the drying process as this will make the leather go very hard and you may not be able to revive it. Don’t oil your tack too often: restrict oiling to when it is new, when it gets very wet, or if it has been unused for a while and has dried out.