Western tack sets are more than just functional riding gear—they’re a way to express your personalized style and make your horse stand out. These sets are highly customizable pieces of equestrian gear, giving you the freedom to personalize your tack set according to your choice from a variety of designs like printed leather, hand-carved patterns, or even intricate stone beading. You can also add decorative elements such as sparkling rhinestones, shiny studs, and eye-catching conchos to create a truly unique look that reflects your taste and riding personality. Whether you prefer something bold and flashy or classic and elegant, there's a Western tack set out there that can be tailored just for you.
Explore MOUSM's Handcrafted Western Headstall and Breast Collar Set
How Hot and Dry Weather Can Affect
During the summer months, your leather tack set faces some tough conditions. High temperatures, intense sun exposure, and hot, dry air can dry out the leather, causing it to crack, become brittle, and wear out faster than usual. UV rays and low humidity don’t just damage the leather—they can also fade the beautiful dyed or hand-tooled designs and dull the look of decorative elements like rhinestones or conchos. Sweat and dust can tarnish hardware over time, and even the stitching can weaken and become brittle. Without regular care and protection, even the best-quality tack can lose its strength and style in the summer heat.
Tips to Keep Tack Safe and Durable
1. Clean regularly
To keep your tack set looking like new, clean it regularly after each ride, use a damp cloth to remove dust, sweat, dirt, and other environmental debris that could irritate your horse's back during the next ride. Always brush off any hair, dirt, or dried sweat with a stiff brush or rubber curry comb after every ride.
2. Condition leather
Leather is a natural material that needs proper hydration to stay flexible and strong. Use a good-quality leather conditioner and deep clean your western tack set thoroughly. Just take a small amount of conditioner on a soft cloth and rub it into the leather using gentle, circular motions. Let it soak in, then wipe off any excess with a dry cloth. Be careful not to over-condition; too much moisture can make the leather too soft and weaken its structure.
3. Avoid direct sunlight
Avoid leaving your tack set in direct sunlight or near heat sources like trailers, car dashboards, or barn windows. Prolonged exposure to intense sun and hot, dry air can dry out leather, causing it to fade, crack, and weaken over time. Even short periods in extreme heat can damage decorative finishes and reduce the overall durability of your gear. Always store your tack in a shaded, cool area to help preserve its strength and appearance.
4. Use tack covers
If you ride often, using a tack cover when storing your gear is a smart move. It helps protect the leather from dust, heat, and sunlight, keeping it soft, strong, and looking great for longer. Tack covers are a simple way to extend the life of your set. Choose breathable covers to avoid trapping heat or moisture inside
5. Check buckles and hardware
Don’t forget to inspect the hardware, like buckles, conchos, and studs—regularly inspect all hardware on your tack set, including buckles, conchos, studs, and D-rings. Hot weather can cause metal parts to expand or loosen, which may affect the fit and safety of your gear. Dust and sweat can also lead to tarnishing or corrosion over time. By checking for rust, tightness, and any signs of wear or loosening, you’ll keep your tack set both functional and secure for every ride.
6. Inspect for Wear and Tear
Regularly inspecting your tack set helps you spot early signs of wear before they become serious problems. Before each ride, take a moment to check the straps—especially around the buckle holes, stitching, and ends where stress tends to build up. Watch out for cracks in the leather, fraying threads, loose rivets, or worn-out buckles. If you notice any damage, fix it right away or replace the strap. Riding with a damaged strap isn’t just uncomfortable, it can also be unsafe for both you and your horse.
Proper Storage Advice
Proper storage is essential for keeping your horse tack in great condition. After each ride and cleaning session, allow the straps to dry naturally in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Moisture from sweat or cleaning can seep into the leather, and if not dried properly, it can lead to mold, mildew, or cracking. Use a sturdy rack or padded hook to hang the tack without folding or bending it, as this can lead to permanent creases or cracks. If storing for an extended period, cover the tack set with a soft cotton cloth or breathable fabric to protect it from dust and moisture. Always keep your tack in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, as UV rays can dry out, fade, and weaken the leather over time. Instead, store them in a breathable tack bag, a gear locker, or hang them in a well-ventilated tack room where air can circulate freely.
Bonus Tips
1. Use UV Protectant Spray
UV protectant sprays for leather work by creating a barrier on the surface that either absorbs or blocks harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight. This action helps prevent damage such as fading, discoloration, drying, and cracking, which are common issues associated with prolonged UV exposure on leather surfaces. By preserving the leather's natural oils and flexibility, these sprays extend its lifespan and maintain its aesthetic appeal. Some sprays also offer additional benefits like water and stain resistance, making cleaning and maintenance easier.
2. Schedule Deep Conditioning
Mark your calendar for deep cleaning every 1-2 weeks, schedule during the season transition, depending on the usage, the type of leather, or the climate. Without conditioning, it can dry out, crack, and become brittle. To keep it in good shape, apply a leather conditioner or balm, depending on how often you use it and the weather conditions. Deep cleaning makes the leather softer, and durable, and long-lasting over the period of time.
3. Keep Moisture Absorbers
Always keep Moisture absorbers, such as silica gel packets or activated charcoal pouches, to protect the leather tack set from excess humidity and moisture. Leather can be damaged by damp environments, leading to issues like mold, mildew, discoloration, stiffening, cracking, and loss of shape. Desiccants absorb excess moisture, creating a dry environment that preserves the quality, texture, appearance, and longevity of leather goods and protects metal components from corrosion.
Taking care of your Western tack set in hot, dry weather isn't just about keeping it looking good—it's about protecting your investment and ensuring your horse stays comfortable and safe. Extreme heat and low humidity can quickly dry out leather, fade colors, and weaken stitching if not managed properly. By cleaning your gear regularly, conditioning the leather, and storing it away from direct sunlight, you can extend the life of your tack and maintain its quality throughout the summer. A little attention now can save you from costly repairs or replacements later.
Choose MOUSM
If you find a Western tack set collection, MOUSM is a great place to visit for. Here, you'll find a wide range of equestrian products, including headstalls, breast collars, wither and spur straps, bronc halters, saddles, saddle pads, bosals, as well as home décor and fashion accessories, etc. Every piece is crafted from genuine Argentine cowhide leather and meticulously handmade by skilled artisans. Each design showcases exceptional craftsmanship, featuring intricate hand tooling, striking acid wash finishes, and eye-catching stonework.
Equipped with premium-quality studs, sparkling stones, and elegant conchos, these products are built to offer both durability and long-lasting performance. Their sturdy construction ensures they can handle the rigors of Western riding while maintaining their stylish appeal.
Perfect for Western riding, rodeo events, equestrian shows, and everyday wear, MOUSM pieces not only complement your gear with confidence but also add a distinctive and fashionable flair to your collection. Whether you’re in the arena or on the trail, these accessories combine functionality with stunning design, reflecting your passion for riding and your appreciation for quality craftsmanship. Shop Once! and Grab Amazing Deals and Discounts
