Prioritizing Equestrian Safety: Best Practices

At Equimade, we’ve seen firsthand the devastating consequences of equestrian equipment failures. When equestrian safety isn’t a priority, equestrians and horses face serious risks.

Our analysis of real-world accidents caused by unsafe gear reveals that many of these incidents could have been avoided. This post explores common equipment failures, their consequences, and how to prioritize safety in the equestrian world.

Common Equestrian Equipment Failures: A Deep Dive into Safety Risks

Saddle Woes: More Than Just Discomfort

Poorly fitting saddles and saddle pads cause major equine back problems. Back diseases in horses encompass a range of conditions, including Impinging Dorsal Spinous Processes, Ventral Spondylosis, Osteoarthritis of the Articular Process, Intervertebral Disc Disease, Vertebral Fractures, Conformational Abnormalities, Desmopathy of the Supraspinous Ligament, Desmopathy of the Intraspinous Ligament, and Longissimus Muscle Strain. Additionally, back pain can also arise as a consequence of lameness, particularly when it affects the hindlimbs. This issue extends beyond comfort, it affects long-term health and performance.

Improperly fitted saddles and saddle pads create pressure points that cause muscle atrophy, pinched nerves, and spinal misalignment. Horses often develop behavioral issues, refuse jumps, or show decreased performance due to saddle-related pain.

To prevent these problems, learn more yourself and check regularly and schedule a professional saddle fitting at least annually. Watch for changes in your horse’s behavior and back shape, as these indicate a need for saddle adjustments.

 

Bridle Troubles: Small Equipment, Big Impact

Ill-fitting bridles often fly under the radar but cause significant issues. Overly tight nosebands restrict breathing and potentially cause nerve damage.

Severe or incorrectly sized bits lead to mouth injuries, resistance, and head-tossing. Some horses develop dangerous behaviors (like rearing or bolting) due to bridle discomfort.

Check your bridle fit regularly. Ask yourself if you need a noseband and, if so, ensure you can fit two fingers between the noseband and your horse’s face. Look out for signs of discomfort such as excessive mouthing, head-shaking, or resistance to contact.

Blanket Blunders: Protection Gone Wrong

Low-quality horse blankets often do more harm than good. Poorly fitted blankets cause chafing, leading to hair loss, skin irritation, and open sores. Overheating presents another serious risk, as well as transferring dangerous chemicals from the fabric into the horse’s sensitive body.

Some horses develop respiratory issues or suffer from muscle stiffness caused by restrictive blankets. To avoid these problems, select blankets made from breathable, high-quality materials with a construction designed for horses that keep their heads down, as they do so 80% of the time. Check regularly for signs of rubbing or overheating, and adjust blankets based on weather conditions and your horse’s workload. Don’t think about filling as to weight – that is an old-fashioned way of thinking about construction. You should always try to find solutions that are as lightweight as possible.

Tie-up Errors: The Impact of Bad Luck Thinking

Traditional horse tie-ups pose significant dangers to both horses and handlers due to the risk of panic and subsequent injuries.

Rigid attachments can lead to lacerations, neck trauma, fractures, and even death for horses, while handlers risk crushing injuries and broken bones. Even without physical injury, improper tying can cause long-term stress and behavioral issues.

Modern breakaway systems, like the EasyConnect, offer safer alternatives by releasing under pressure, preventing catastrophic consequences.

However, equipment alone isn’t enough; proper training, gradual exposure, and consistent practice are crucial for creating a safe and positive tying experience. 

The Importance of Quality and Innovation

These common equipment failures underscore the need for high-quality, innovative equestrian gear. Companies like Equimade lead the charge in developing products that prioritize horse wellbeing and performance. Their focus on anatomical design, safety, and sustainable materials sets a new standard in the industry.

Prioritizing safety and staying informed about the latest advancements are essential for responsible horse ownership.

As we move forward, it’s clear that the consequences of equipment failures extend far beyond mere discomfort. The next section will explore the wide-ranging impacts of these issues on both horses and equestrians.

The Hidden Costs of Unsafe Gear: A Wake-Up Call for Equestrians

Performance Plummets

Ill-fitting or poorly designed equipment directly impacts a horse’s ability to move freely and perform at their best. The prevalence of back problems in horses varies widely, with estimates ranging from 0.9% to 94% of the ridden horse population, depending on factors such as the type and level of activity, breed, and expertise of the evaluator. Horses showed poor performance in 76% of the cases. This statistic highlights the importance of proper equipment not just for winning ribbons, but for allowing horses wellbeing and to express their natural athleticism without restriction or pain.

Safety Risks Skyrocket

The link between equipment failures and accidents is undeniable. The British Horse Society reports that a lot of equestrians were injured in incidents involving ridden horses on roads in Britain. 81% of incidents occurred because a driver passed too close or too fast. A loose girth or broken stirrup leather can spell disaster in a split second. Countless stories of near-misses and serious injuries underscore the critical need for properly maintained, high-quality equestrian safety gear.

We still see many riders using earphones while riding, which is an absolute no-no when it comes to equestrian safety. When you are together with living animals, all your attention should be focused on them to be able to prevent them from things that might happen. As Benny, an experienced farrier teacher at Flyinge, says:

“I have shod horses for almost 35 years, you get a little scared when you think about how people handle horses today. Mobile phones – it should be absolutely prohibited in all horse handling! You cannot be in two places at the same time, you must be with the horse. I propose that mobile phones should be prohibited in all horse handling!”

Long-Term Health Consequences

Chronic equipment issues often lead to lasting physical problems for horses. Pain and welfare issues in horses cause performance failure among athletic and riding horses. These issues can persist long after the problematic equipment is addressed, potentially shortening a horse’s competitive lifespan.

The Financial Fallout

The costs of equipment failures extend far beyond replacing a broken piece of tack. Veterinary bills for treating injuries or chronic pain can quickly add up. Lost training time and missed competitions have real financial impacts for professional riders and amateur enthusiasts alike when including lost earnings or potential prize money.

A Call for Informed Choices

Equiestrians must prioritize safety and invest in well-designed, properly fitted equipment to avoid these hidden costs. It’s not just about spending more money – it’s about making informed choices that protect both horse and handlers in the long run.

The next section will explore how to make those choices and create a culture of safety in your equestrian pursuits. We’ll examine the key factors to consider when selecting equipment and provide practical tips for maintaining your gear to ensure optimal performance and safety.

How to Prioritize Safety in Equestrian Equipment

Choose Equipment That Fits

Proper fit is essential for equestrian safety and performance. When selecting equipment:

1. 1. Work with a safety and welfare specialist to ensure that the facility is in good condition.
   2. Use a professional saddle-, bit- and bridle fitter to ensure your tack matches your horse’s shape and your riding discipline.
   3. Measure your horse regularly, as their body shape can change with age, fitness, and season.
   4. Pay attention to pressure points and areas of rubbing – these are clear signs that equipment needs adjustment.
   5. Make sure that the blankets are creating comfort, and not harming your horses, and use them as little as possible.
   6. Invest in a lightweight welfare solution for tying up the horse in the stable, grooming area, as well as during travel.

Invest in Quality Materials

High-quality materials last longer and provide better protection and comfort. When shopping for gear:

1. 1. Look for safety certifications.
   2. Choose breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics for saddle pads and blankets to prevent skin irritation and overheating.
   3. Select strong, flexible materials in bridles and girths to allow natural movement while maintaining security.
   4. Always look out for a lightweight and welfare-developed solution – the more natural, the better for the horse.

Implement a Regular Maintenance Schedule

Equipment failure often occurs due to neglect. Create a maintenance routine:

1. 1. Clean leather equipment after each use and condition it weekly.
   2. Check stitching, buckles, and straps for signs of wear or damage.
   3. Replace safety equipment like helmets every 3-5 years (or after any impact).
   4. Oil the carabiner on a regular basis to maintain its functionality. For instructions about taking care of your tie-ups, please look at this instructional video. 

Embrace Innovation in Equestrian Safety

The equestrian world evolves, and so should your approach to safety. New technologies and designs can significantly reduce risks. Consider:

1. 1. Explore smart technology (like sensor equipment that monitor your horse’s comfort and performance).
   2. Try ergonomically designed bridles that reduce pressure points and improve communication.
   3. Invest in advanced safety gear like breakaway stirrups or quick-release mechanisms for emergencies.
   4. Use tie-up solutions, like EasyConnect, with welfare considerations in mind.

You protect yourself and your horse when you prioritize safety in your equestrian equipment choices. The best equipment allows both you and your horse to perform at your peak while minimizing risks. Stay informed about the latest equestrian safety innovations and always put your horse’s wellbeing first.

Final Thoughts

Equestrian equipment failures pose serious risks to horses and riders. Poorly designed saddle-pads and saddles, ill-fitting bridles, low-quality blankets, dangerous tie-ups lead to discomfort, injuries, and long-term health issues that impact performance and jeopardize safety.

Responsible equestrians must take action to ensure the safety of the equines they care for.

This includes careful equipment selection, professional fittings, and consistent maintenance routines. It also involves staying informed about the latest safety innovations and embracing new technologies that improve horse comfort and equestrian safety.

Equimade provides wellbeing for performance in horses through innovative, sustainable products. Our focus on anatomical design, quality materials, and safety aligns with the goal of preventing equipment failures (and their consequences). We encourage all riders to prioritize equestrian safety in their equestrian pursuits to protect themselves and their horses.