Longer rides, warmer weather, dusty tracks, sweaty horses and the occasional summer shower — while summer is one of the best times of year to be in the saddle, it can be surprisingly hard on your tack.
A little extra care during the warmer months will help keep your saddle and bridle comfortable for your horse, safer for you, and looking great for years to come.
1. Wipe Down Your Tack After Every Ride
The quickest way to extend the life of your leather tack is to get into the habit of a quick wipe-down after riding.
Sweat, dust and dirt build up much faster in summer and can dry out leather over time. Even just a few minutes with a damp cloth can remove most of the grime before it has a chance to cause damage.
Pay particular attention to:
- Girth straps
- Stirrup leathers
- Reins
- The underside of the saddle
- The horse side of the bridle
These areas tend to collect the most sweat and dirt.
2. Don't Leave Leather in Direct Sunlight
Leather and intense summer sunshine are not the best of friends.
Leaving your saddle sitting in the back of a hot car, on a fence post, or in direct sunlight for long periods can dry the leather out and make it stiff or brittle.
Whenever possible, store your tack somewhere cool, dry and shaded. If you're travelling to competitions or clinics, try to keep your tack covered when not in use.
3. Clean More Often Than You Do in Winter
Many riders give their tack a thorough clean once a week during winter, but summer often calls for a little more attention.
If you're riding several times a week, especially in hot weather, consider:
- Quick wipe after every ride
- Leather cleaner once or twice a week
- Leather conditioner as needed
Regular light cleaning is far easier than trying to rescue leather that has become heavily coated in sweat and dust.
4. Keep an Eye on Stitching
Summer riding often means more miles in the saddle.
Take a moment while cleaning to inspect:
- Billets
- Stirrup leathers
- Cheekpieces
- Reins
- Buckles and keeper loops
Look for loose stitching, stretching leather or signs of wear before they become a safety issue.
A few seconds of inspection can prevent a problem developing out on the trail.
5. Condition Leather — But Don't Overdo It
Leather needs moisture to stay supple, but too much conditioner can soften leather excessively and attract dirt.
Apply a good-quality leather conditioner when the leather starts to feel dry rather than following a rigid schedule.
The goal is supple, healthy leather — not oily leather.
6. Let Tack Dry Naturally
After a particularly sweaty ride or an unexpected rain shower, allow tack to dry naturally.
Avoid:
- Hair dryers
- Radiators
- Direct heat sources
Rapid drying can cause leather to crack and lose flexibility.
Simply wipe away excess moisture and allow the tack to dry slowly in a well-ventilated area before conditioning if necessary.
7. Don't Forget Your Bridle
Bridles often receive less attention than saddles, despite being exposed to just as much sweat.
The reins, noseband and headpiece are all in constant contact with your horse and deserve regular cleaning.
A well-maintained bridle not only looks smart but feels more comfortable for your horse too.
A Few Minutes Goes a Long Way
Taking care of your tack doesn't have to mean spending hours in the tack room.
A quick wipe after each ride, regular cleaning and sensible storage during the warmer months will help keep your saddle and bridle performing at their best for many summers to come.
After all, quality tack is an investment — and a little care today can save a lot of money tomorrow.
