Your horse tack isn’t just gear, it’s an investment in your horse’s comfort, your safety, and the quality of your ride. Whether it’s high-end leather or reliable synthetics, your tack faces a daily battle against the elements—rain, dust, and sun. And if not cared for properly, these can lead to serious wear and tear, or worse, compromise your safety in the saddle.
Moisture can weaken stitching and leather fibers, while UV rays can dry out and crack the surface. Dust and dirt may seem harmless, but they can grind into your tack and slowly break it down.
That’s why it’s important to clean your tack regularly, store it in a cool, dry place, and always use a proper tack cover when it’s not in use. A little effort goes a long way in keeping your tack looking great and lasting longer, no matter what the weather throws your way.
How the Elements Can Damage Your Tack
How Rain & Humidity Can Damage the Tack Set
Water will damage your leather tack set. When Leather gets wet, it can lose its natural oils, become stiff and brittle, and be prone to cracking, staining, and mold or mildew growth. Proper care after exposure to water is crucial to prevent these issues. Even light rain or damp air can lead to mold, mildew, and stretching. Over time, constant exposure can warp your tack or cause it to stiffen and crack. And if you're not careful, mold can pop up faster than you'd expect, especially in humid climates or poorly ventilated tack rooms.
How Dust Can Damage the Tack Set
Dust, especially when combined with sweat and dirt, can significantly damage leather tack. When it gets ground into the fibers, it causes premature wear and tear, cracking, and a loss of suppleness. While dust might seem harmless, it’s actually one of the biggest culprits behind tack deterioration.
Fine dust particles can settle into the stitching, zippers, and tooling of your gear, creating tiny abrasions that weaken the material over time. This can result in frayed edges, dull finishes, and an overall breakdown of your tack. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent this kind of damage and extend the life of your equipment.
How the Sun Can Damage the Tack Set
The sun’s UV rays can cause serious damage to your tack, especially leather. Prolonged exposure leads to fading, brittleness, and cracking. Even synthetic materials aren’t immune; direct sunlight can degrade them over time, leading to stiffness and overall deterioration.
Just like your skin can get sunburned, so can your tack. UV rays dry out leather, fade rich colors, and weaken the integrity of materials. You might not notice it after a single sunny ride, but the damage builds up with repeated exposure. To protect your gear, always store it in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight and consider using UV-protectant conditioners to keep it in good shape.
Smart Ways to Protect Your Tack
1. Store It Right
A shaded, dry, well-ventilated tack room is ideal. Don’t leave your gear in your trailer, truck bed, or on a saddle stand out in the open. Use breathable fabric covers to keep dust off your saddles and headstalls, and avoid plastic covers that trap moisture inside.
2. Clean and Condition Regularly
Wipe down tack after every ride, especially if it’s dusty or damp. Use a soft cloth and a gentle tack cleaner (not household soap, which can be too harsh). For leather, conditioning is key. A quality conditioner restores moisture and flexibility, keeping it supple and strong. Don’t forget the undersides, buckles, and straps—they get just as dirty as the obvious parts.
3. Weatherproof It
For leather, a good waterproofing balm or spray creates a barrier against rain and humidity. Reapply regularly, especially before the rainy season. For synthetic tack, rinse it down and dry it thoroughly—don’t store it wet.
4. Use Tack Covers and Wraps
If you're trailering to a show or leaving gear near the arena, use dust covers or towels to shield your tack from direct sunlight and flying dirt. Even a lightweight breathable wrap can make a difference in keeping your gear clean and cool.
Traveling? Keep It Covered
Whether you're hauling out for a show, clinic, or trail ride, protect your tack on the go. Bring along a small tack care kit—include a cloth, leather wipes, and a travel-sized conditioner or cleaner. Sudden rainstorm? A towel or light tarp can save the day.
Seasonal Maintenance: A Quick Checklist
Before Monsoon: Apply waterproofing balm, check for mold, and make sure storage areas are dry.
- After Summer: Deep clean and condition all leather to repair sun and sweat damage.
- Before Winter: Store tack in a dry area and consider using moisture absorbers like silica gel packs in your tack trunk.
Watch for These Warning Signs
If you notice:
- Mold or mildew spots
- Leather that feels stiff or cracks when bent
- Color fading or blotchy patches
- Sticky or rusty buckles
…it’s time to give your gear some TLC. Catching damage early prevents costly repairs or replacements down the road.
Consider Durable Tack Options
If you're riding in all kinds of weather, consider investing in tack made from synthetic or hybrid materials. They’re easier to clean and typically more resistant to moisture and sun. Some riders even keep a “wet weather” tack set just for rainy rides or muddy trails.
Tack care doesn’t have to be a chore. With just a few simple habits—like wiping down after a ride and storing your gear properly—you can extend the life of your equipment and keep your horse comfortable. Remember, good tack isn’t cheap… and a little care goes a long way in protecting your investment.
So whether it's rain, dust, or blazing sun, your tack can handle it, as long as you’ve got its back.
