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Choosing the right tack accessories isn't just about looking smart at the yard — it's about comfort, safety, and performance for both you and your horse. The correct saddle pad, girth, bridle, and grooming kit can transform a ride from uncomfortable to confident. Think of tack as the shoes and socks of equestrian life; ill-fitting gear will rub, pinch, or slip, while well-chosen accessories can make every ride feel like a walk in the park.
A comfortable horse moves more freely, relaxes over fences, and responds more predictably. A saddle pad with the right padding and shape helps distribute pressure across the back rather than concentrating it along the spine. Similarly, a soft, well-fitted headcollar or bridle keeps distractions to a minimum so you can concentrate on the ride.
Look after safety by selecting sturdy stirrups, reliable leatherwork, and well-made buckles. Even small accessories like a properly fitting girth or a secure breastplate can stop an embarrassing slip from turning into a dangerous situation. When in doubt, opt for proven materials and reputable makers — it's worth the extra peace of mind.
When you think of horse tack, a Scandinavian homeware site like Nordic Nest might not be the first name to pop into your head. Yet the store appears in the dataset for a reason: it stocks high-quality sheepskin and wool items, such as the Hans K Zigzag Pad Chair Sheepskin in Graphite, that share materials and benefits with equestrian products.
Sheepskin is prized by riders for natural cushioning, moisture-wicking, and breathability. Even if a product is marketed for chairs or interiors, the same attributes can make it appealing for saddle pad layering, girth covers, or stable comfort. Just be sensible — check thickness and sizing in inches, and consider whether the piece needs trimming to fit equestrian use.
Use crossover items for everyday schooling or for added comfort in the stable. They can be a budget-friendly way to test materials (like wool or mohair) before investing in a purpose-built equestrian pad. But for competition, always check rules; some events require regulated tack designed specifically for horses.
The UK has a rich selection of tack shops, both online and on the high street. Below are respected names to help you start shopping, with a mix of large sports retailers and specialist saddlers.
Decathlon offers accessible, budget-friendly equestrian gear and tech-forward basics. If you need simple saddle pads, grooming kits, or beginner-friendly bridles, Decathlon is a great place to start. Their approach leans practical — think reliable kit that works hard without a designer price tag.
County Saddlery is known for quality saddles and custom fitting, but they also offer a wide range of accessories. Their focus on fit and finish makes them ideal if you’re stepping up to premium leatherwork or need expert advice on girth widths and saddle pad shapes.
Brands like Horseware and Ariat have strong UK retail presence via stockists and online shops. Horseware is famed for turnout rugs and technical fabrics, while Ariat specialises in riding boots and clothing with a performance-first design. Both are dependable for long-lasting, weather-ready pieces.
High-street tack stores such as Jollyes and specialist online retailers like Horselife Shop stock a wide variety of everyday tack accessories. These are the places to browse rein lengths, bit varieties, and grooming kits when you want a large selection and competitive prices.
Saddle pads come in foam, wool, sheepskin, and high-tech composite materials. Each has strengths: foam often gives structure and shock absorption, wool handles moisture and temperature naturally, and sheepskin offers plush comfort and pressure relief. Which one fits your needs depends on the horse’s conformation and your riding style.
A general rule is to look for a pad that adds between 1/4 inch and 3/4 inch of cushioning under the saddle, depending on the horse's back and the saddle fit. Too thick and you risk lifting the saddle off the horse’s withers; too thin and you may not solve pressure points. Measure in inches and, if possible, try a range of thicknesses to find the best fit.
Wool and sheepskin need gentle care — spot clean, brush to keep fibres lofted, and air-dry away from direct heat. Foam and composite pads are usually machine-safe but check the label. Proper maintenance extends life in feet and pounds saved on replacements.
The mouthpiece, bit width, and bridle shape affect communication more than most riders realise. A bit that sits evenly and a bridle that allows natural poll movement will encourage a relaxed jaw and better acceptance of contact. Start with well-known bit makers and work with a fitter if your horse has a sensitive mouth.
Bit width should be about 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch wider than the horse’s mouth to avoid pinching at the lips. Use a soft tape to measure the mouth and add a small allowance — this is especially important for fine-mouthed horses who show sensitivity around the bars and corners.
Clean leather with a mild saddle soap, condition sparingly, and store bridles in a dry place. Regular care prevents cracking and ensures buckles and stitching last longer in pounds and years saved from premature replacement.
A tidy grooming kit makes everyday care quicker and keeps the horse happy. Key items include a firm body brush, a hoof pick, a mane comb, and a soft finishing brush. For stable comfort, invest in non-slip mats and breathable stable rugs for chillier evenings.
A quick five- to ten-minute brush after exercise keeps dirt from settling into the coat and helps you spot scrapes or swelling early. Consistency beats marathon sessions; short daily checks prevent small issues becoming big ones.
In the stable, a couple of inches of clean bedding under the horse can be more comfortable than a deep, packed base. Stable mats add insulation and reduce fatigue for horses standing during recovery periods or when they’re stabled overnight.
Riding wear does more than look good — it protects and supports your position. Breathable fabrics wick moisture, whereas sturdy breeches resist rubbing in high-wear areas. Boots should protect the ankle, have good tread in inches, and allow light heel lift to avoid catching in the stirrup.
A boot sole that provides grip without being sticky is ideal; aim for a tread depth that feels stable but lets your foot move naturally. Measure calf width and height in inches to choose the correct size, especially for tall or stocky riders who need custom-fit options.
UK weather can change fast, so layer with a waterproof outer and breathable mid-layers. A lightweight gilet or softshell helps in early spring or late autumn when the temperature hangs around the mid-50s °F.
Not all gear requires premium spend. Buy well for items that sit close to the horse: saddles, girths, and bridles. For everyday or disposable items — basic grooming tools, saddle covers, or halters — mid-range products often provide excellent value. Think of it like shoes: you want the best fit and construction where it matters most.
High-quality leatherwork resists stretch and holds stitching better under tension. A well-made girth may cost more in pounds but will keep its shape and reliability over years, preventing costly replacements and reducing the risk of slippage that could lead to injury.
Buy cheaper saddle pads for schooling and save the premium, specialized pads for competition or horses with known pressure points. Similarly, basic brushes and hoof picks don’t need a designer label to do the job reliably.
Before you click “buy,” measure in inches, read material descriptions, and check whether a piece is suitable for daily use or competition. When possible, try on bridles and boots in-store and test saddle pads under your saddle for fit. A small fitting session now can save you hours of adjustment later.
- Measure your horse and yourself in inches for accurate sizing. - Match materials to use: breathable fabrics for summer, heavier rugs for winter. - Look for reinforced stitching and quality buckles on tack. - Prioritise fit for anything that contacts the horse’s body directly.
If a retailer offers trial periods for saddles or custom-fitting services, take advantage. Even a well-reviewed product can fail to suit your horse’s unique shape; trials let you test in real-world conditions without commitment.
Finding the best horse tack accessories in the UK is as much about knowing what fits your horse and riding style as it is about brand names. From unexpected sources like Nordic Nest for quality sheepskin-type materials to specialist tack shops and big retailers, you have plenty of options. Measure in inches, prioritise comfort and safety, and think long-term when choosing premium items. With the right approach, you’ll kit out both horse and rider for many happy miles in the saddle.
| Horse Tack Accessories | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Hans K Zigzag Pad Chair Sheep Skin - Graphite | £ 52,- |
