| Horse ownership is a major investment and the cost | | | | your horse if you are able to bring it in. This will save |
| of buying your horse is only part of the expense. | | | | repeat trips, ensure a good fit. Remember that most |
| Another part of the investment is the tack that you will | | | | items are not returnable if they look the slightest bit |
| need to ride and handle your horse. Tack includes | | | | used. |
| halters, lead ropes, saddles, saddle pads or blankets, | | | | Buying just the basics is one way to keep the cost of |
| bridles, bits and the list goes on. | | | | purchasing your tack down. Another way to save |
| When purchasing your equipment stick with the basics | | | | money is to consider synthetic tack. Tack made of |
| (halter, lead rope, saddle, girth/cinch, pad, bridle, and bit). | | | | synthetic material is often cheaper and is easier to |
| If you have ever walked into a tack store before or | | | | care for. On the downside, it does not look as nice as |
| browsed the catalogs you have witnessed what a | | | | leather tack and may not be acceptable for your |
| wide variety of options there are, but stick with the | | | | discipline of riding. |
| basics. These are the items that you must have to be | | | | You may be overwhelmed by just how expensive it is |
| able to handle and ride your horse. Other items you will | | | | to purchase jut the basics, but with proper care quality |
| acquire over time with the ownership of your horse. | | | | tack will last you several years. Synthetic tack |
| What discipline you will be riding will determine the type | | | | generally needs to just be wiped off with water, but |
| of tack you will need. | | | | leather take must be cleaned with special cleaners and |
| The fit of your tack is very important. Tack that does | | | | conditioners. Consult your tack store owner on how to |
| not fit correctly is very uncomfortable for your horse. | | | | best care for your tack. |
| How well your tack fits your horse will have a direct | | | | Knowledge is power. Invest some time and get a |
| impact on your relationship. For example, buying a well | | | | general vocabulary for the different pieces of tack |
| fitting saddle is key. If your saddle is uncomfortable | | | | and what they are used for. It is also a good idea to |
| your horse will most likely display undesirable behavior | | | | take along an experienced horse owner to help you |
| when being ridden. Many tack stores, will help you fit | | | | make those first purchases. |