Proud Members of:
Good Quality, Handcrafted saddlery
Can last for years if carefully maintained & looked after. Here are some tips:
It’s time to give your saddlery some love
Grease and dirt should be removed after every ride by wiping all surfaces with a damp sponge or cloth using warm water. Once clean, treat your leather with a balm or cream made of natural ingredients. Ask your SMS Saddler or retailer to recommend a suitable product, or follow the manufacturers guidance.
Wipe over the bit and clean off any dried matter.
If you use polish on metal work, do not use it on the bit.
Giving your bridle a thorough clean once a week helps to spot any signs of wear. Take the bridle apart to check for worn stitching or cracked, stretched or broken leather – especially under the buckles
Regularly check over all your tack, looking for worn or broken stitching, worn, stretched or torn leather, and any hard or sharp edges. It is a good time to spot any issues – and the good news is that an SMS Saddler, Bridle or Harness Maker can perform professional repairs, giving that item a much longer life.
Of course it’s not just your bridle you need to check…
Make sure you perform regular essential safety checks on all your tack, particularly girth straps. Any stretched straps, torn holes or loose stitching should be repaired or replaced immediately. Your SMS Saddler, Bridle or Harness Maker can do this for you, performing a professional repair
Make sure both stirrup bars are secure – with no movement or noise.
Matching stirrup leathers are an important part of saddle balance. If they are uneven both you and your horse may be unbalanced and uncomfortable Are they the same length? Do the holes match, left to right? Is the stitching in good condition?
