Re: Equipment HELP needed

[Roberta Jo Lieberman <woik@home.com>]

<<I need some help with purchasing the right equipment to get started in 
distance riding, here are the items I need help with:>>

Hi Sandy,
Since it sounds like you're just starting out in the sport, you might
want to use the equipment you already have for a while before running
out and buying a bunch of stuff that may or may not work for you. Buy
when you have a clear and present need. Go to a few rides to crew or
assist and you will see all of the choices in action...visit the vendors
and over time you will learn what you like.

For most items, your choice will mainly be a matter of personal
preference, determined over a period of time using "trail and error."
I'll share what has worked for me over the last 10+ years that
specialized equipment was developed for our sport (before that, we used
an assortment of regular leather tack, standard breeches or blue jeans
[ouch!] and tennis or hiking shoes).

Breast plate -- most folks use biothane, with neoprene probably running
second. The fleece ones look great but I wonder if they absorb water and
become heavy.
Tights -- I prefer cotton with a touch of Lycra, although nylon blends
are also quite popular. Depends on personal preference and climate
(cotton breathes a bit more). I've liked most of the tights I've ordered
through various distance mail-order catalogs. 
****Flash: SADDLEBUMS just got mentioned on the endurance bit on the
Today Show!
Bridle -- again, biothane is the standard. Among the design options:
halter/bridle with bit hangers, a bridle that snaps on to your halter or
a bridle with halter snaps built-in. You'll also find there is quite a
choice in reins.

Here's a rundown of what I'm using right now:
Breast plate -- biothane from Running Bear. Features a neoprene cover on
the center ring.
Tights -- O'Keaheys from Sportack -- nice knee patches. Aanstadt Das
makes awesome breeches also (the ones with the sticky little horse prints).
Bridle--Halter from Running Bear with snap-on bridle and S-hackamore
from Sportack
Reins -- braided, soft, woven <not sure of name of material> from Animal Tacker.

Good luck, have fun and don't be afraid to experiment!

--Bobbie


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