ridecamp@endurance.net: Packs/weight distribution

Packs/weight distribution

Deb Higgins (higginsd@u.washington.edu)
Mon, 12 Jun 1995 14:04:20 -0700 (PDT)

I'd like some feedback regarding water bottles and packs, and where to
place them on the horse or myself.

My current tack is a Passier dressage saddle that does *not* have any
rings in back by the cantle, a biothane breast collar and regular saddle
pad. I hook and tie a lead rope to the left ring of the breast collar up
by the pommel.

I'm not sure I want to carry water bottles or pommel packs up on my
mare's withers/shoulders. She is very fine coated, and it might rub hair
off and even cause sores. I've looked at some cantle bags that are like
western saddlebags with a "banana" bag behind the cantle, and it has
straps that go around the billett straps. I also like the looks of the
"lumbar" packs, sort of a larger version of the fanny pack, that attach
to the rider. REI carries a couple sizes that also come with 2 water
bottles that are carried on either side in their own pockets. I'm not
sure if it would interfere with the cantle. The bottles are far enough
back that my arms will be free at my sides. I was also thinking that this
pack might be a good support for my lower back which sometimes is easily
fatigued. I don't want a standard pack with straps over the shoulders. I
think the lumbar pack might also be beneficial to the weight
distribution/horse's center of gravity.

And as a further aside, mice have nibbled on my cotton web reins, so I'm
looking at options there. I'm tending towards rope reins - any comments
regarding McPhail's Yacht reins carried by EnduroTrail? Specifically,
gripping power for braking. I've handled reins with the double nubby
rubber, and I think it might be too rough on bare hands (gloves?) and
wonder if sunlight dries the rubber out and cracks it.

Thanks for your help, especially on topics that are "well worn". If
anyone wants me to post the info or privately e-mail, let me know thru
private e-mail.

Debbie Higgins, Seattle, WA
Sunrise Marisa, Arab/Welsh
Tiffany, Shetland pony
Joey, Samoyed dog