Ariat
Maestro Pro Jodhpur
The Ariat Maestro Pro Jodhpur is a great riding boot that is also stylish and comfortable to wear anytime. It is extremely well made of soft calf’s leather and sports a smooth front with square toe and a back zipper and snap. It is easy to slip on and off, which I like. This paddock style boot features Ariat’s Cobalt technology, which incorporates an orthotic heat sensitive foot bed with extra gel cushioning in the heel and under the ball of the foot. It is lined with soft leather and has two stretch leather inserts on the sides for added comfort above the ankles. The outer sole is flexible and has good traction along with a half inch heel to keep your foot secure in the stirrup.
A friend who has the foot ailment Plantar Fasciitis and usually wears orthotic insoles in all of her shoes tested the sample pair Ariat provided me without her insoles and loved them too. Besides quality, styling and comfort, this boot also offers versatility. Ariat offers a matching leather half chap to wear with the Maestro Pro Jodhpur for the look of a tall boot. Check out their website at www.Ariat.com.
Crown Pro Half Chap
The Crown Pro Half Chap is also made from calf’s leather, is leather lined and has a High Spanish cut top line. It zips in the back like the Maestro boot and has a stretch leather panel and instep for comfort. It’s available in a variety of sizes from XS - XL in a regular or short height, which came in handy for me. It is the perfect compliment to the Maestro boot, especially if you like to “have your cake and eat it too.” The Crown Pro Half Chap retails for $139. Purchased along with the Maestro Pro Jodhpur, it totals a fair price considering what you would spend on a tall boot of the same quality. The versatility of having a comfortable paddock style boot easily modified to a tall boot with the half chap makes a lot of sense to me. Of course, you should check show guidelines for appropriate attire for the discipline in which you plan to compete before making any major purchases. Check out their website at www.Ariat.com.
Ariat Glacier
I had the opportunity to test the Ariat Glacier Tall boot when it snowed in January. It kept my feet warm and dry even while doing barnyard chores in the snow. I have to admit I was hesitant to wear such a nice boot to do chores, but I was pleased to see how easily it cleaned up with just a wet cloth. Ariat recommends using the appropriate leather cleaner/conditioner and waterproofing agent. See their website for more information. Not only is the Glacier hardworking, it is also a good-looking, well-made boot. The upper is made from soft, supple leather lined with flannel. It incorporates a unique side lace. I prefer the lace for a tall boot over a zip because it accommodates a variety of leg circumferences, although it isn’t as easy to slip on. The removable ATS foot bed is very comfortable. It is gel cushioned with a contoured heel cradle and a heat activated orthotic arch. It seems to mold to your foot each time you slip it on. It has an insulated waterproof bottom with a half inch heel and good traction on the sole. It is a great boot to wear riding during the cold winter months because it is not cumbersome like boots I’ve previously worn. The Glacier also comes in two other styles: a short front zip and short front lace up. The shorter styles are less expensive than the Tall, which retails for $249. I can say from experience that the Glacier Tall delivers what it promises: good looks, comfort and warmth. I did not try the shorter styles, but they may be a good alternative if you are budget conscious.
You may purchase Ariat boots at most local tack stores, through catalogs, or with retailers online. Check out their website at www.Ariat.com.
Deluxe Grooming Tote Bag
A must have! Everything can be kept in this durable bag with its many pockets. A removable padded shoulder strap is also included. Comes in black, green, navy or burgundy. Retails for $19.95. Check out their website at www.Ariat.com.
Carry-All Grooming Tote
A durable, water resistant matte-finished 600 denier fabric with heavy-duty zippers, molded rubber feet, elasticized pockets inside and out to hold all your barn essentials. The main zippered compartment is quite roomy with mesh pockets. This tote has a magnetic closure for easy access. 11.5”H x 11.5”W x 8”D. Comes in black or khaki and retails for around $32. Available at most tack stores and online. Check out their website at www.Ariat.com.
Cashel
Tush Cushion
The Cashel Tush Cushion offers a soft, supportive seat on even the hardest saddle.If you are sore after riding, try the Tush Cushion. According to Cashel, it is made of closed cell foam so it won’t compact, bunch up or retain heat. The half inch foam is encased in a nylon/lycra washable cover. To clean the cushion, simply hose it off and hang to dry. The cushion has adjustable nylon straps that hold it firmly in place when mounting or riding. It is available to fit different saddle styles: English, Saddle Seat, Australian, and three versions for Western. I chose to test the long Western style. Because it is 5” longer than the regular Western cushion, it provides padding up the cantle to protect the tailbone.
I usually ride with a synthetic fleece pad on my Western saddle. I noticed a huge difference in the comfort level after replacing it with the Tush Cushion, especially at the trot. I was pleasantly surprised that I didn’t feel as perched atop the saddle as I expected, but more a part of it, most likely because I was comfortable. I’m sold!
If you’d like to make your ride more comfortable, order a Tush Cushion from Cashel’s website: www.cashelcompany.com, look for it in mail order tack catalogs, or check out a tack shop nearby. The Western Style, long Tush Cushion retails for $39.95, a fair price to pay for the added comfort you’ll experience every time you ride. The other styles range from $32.95 to $49.95.
Charles Owen - GR8
With its subdued black microfiber suede covering and harness, the Charles Owen GR8 is more suitable for the show ring. The GR8 has a much lower profile, slimmer design, and smaller brim that make for an overall lighter, less-bulky product compared to the ATH Carbon Fiber Helmet. In reference to durability, I was pleasantly surprised how tough the microfiber suede was. Compared to the traditional velvet covering, it was much easier to clean, didn’t crush, and, when riding in the rain, the water beaded up on the helmet and easily wiped away as opposed to absorbing into the helmet as I had originally thought would occur due to its soft texture. However, compared to the ATH Carbon Fiber helmet, it didn’t breathe nearly as well, the draw cord harness didn’t feel as secure and it was more difficult to fasten. Despite these observations, I don’t feel the safety of the helmet is compromised in any way. Overall, this seemed to be the best buy and would be a great choice for a rider who wants a durable, stylish helmet but doesn’t want to pay a high price.
This helmet is ASTM/SEI certified (this means that they meet the specifications required for junior riders in the United States), and is EN-1384 (mark of Europe) certified. Remember, a correct fit is the most important thing no matter how safe a helmet is supposed to be; if it doesn’t fit, it is not effective. If you don’t know your size and are unaware of how to measure your head correctly, make sure you are fitted by a professional; it will be well worth it.
The Charles Owen’s GR8 helmet retails for between $274.90 and $280.00. For more information from Charles Owen, visit their web site at www.charlesowen.co.uk, where you can find numerous e-mail addresses to contact different departments.
Dos Equine, LLC - The Whip Clip
What a great idea! No more dismounting because you have dropped your crop. No more trying to find a good place to lay your crop down so you can still retrieve it if you need it. The Whip Clip is a small (2 1/2” x 1” x 1”) plastic 2-chambered clip that will slide over the top of a tall boot or half chap and holds a whip or crop. When the crop, whip or bat is not needed, the rider inserts it into the Clip safely, securely and near at hand. The Clip’s larger, upper chamber holds the whip handle or portions of it; the lower chamber secures the whip shaft. When the whip is needed again, the rider can readily retrieve it with one hand from the Whip Clip without dismounting and while maintaining rein contact with the horse.
Our tester used the Whip Clip for several weeks during her normal schooling of her horse. The idea is to be able to have quick access to a crop but not have to hold it all the time. There is no longer a need to drop the crop or find a good spot to lay it down in case you need it again. For many riders it is important to have their crop available to use, yet it is difficult to hold the reins correctly while holding a crop.
We found that the Whip Clip was very convenient to use. Our rider was able to use the Whip Clip even before she mounted her horse. It is an excellent tool when working on a horse’s ground manners. If a rider needs extra reinforcement of her voice aids while working from the ground, the crop is handy but does not have to be held. The only disadvantage to using it for ground work that our tester noticed was that the Whip Clip worked better with shorter crops; a dressage whip for instance, was too awkward to try to walk with while it was attached to the Whip Clip. The size of the whip was not as much an issue when we used the Whip Clip while mounted, and the manufacturer suggested using it with crops up to 36”.
Our tester was a bit concerned that, because the whip clip was small, she might lose it. However, the easiest way to keep track of it was to leave it on her boot or half chap. She did have to remember when taking the crop out of the Whip Clip to push the crop outward away from the boot until it snaps out instead of pulling it up, because otherwise the clip just stayed on the whip and slid off the boot or half chap.
The Whip Clip is black and is made of a thermoplastic material. It retails for $16.95 and is available at www.dosequine.com or www.thewhipclip.com. Currently there is no shipping charge when ordering through the Web site, and if you are not completely happy with the Whip Clip, you can return it within 14 days for a full refund.
Equissentials Riding Pants
Western Jods - Winter Weight:
At first glance the Western Jod is a head turner. It’s flattering fit and zip-up flare leg styling are quite stylish. It features Equissentials’s supple Deerskin patch, which is available in Endurance, Half Seat and Full Seat styles. I chose to test the full seat. I soon learned that this style is not the only thing going for this jod. The French Terry fabric feels great next to the skin, is warm as toast and wears like iron. In fact, after seeing my jods, a friend informed me that she has a pair she has machine washed at least 50 times and they still look great. Yes, MACHINE washed! Equissentials recommends machine washing with a leather soap and conditioner to keep the deerskin soft and supple (both products are available on their website) and then hang the pants to dry. My friend went on to say that she snagged her jods on protruding metal and the fabric didn’t run. She simply mended the hole and even after repeated washings they still have not run.
The Western Jod retails for $275. I asked my friend if she would consider spending that much on riding pants again. She shot back, “I just ordered another pair in the light weight last week.” Obviously, she thought it was money well spent.
Check out www.Equissentials.net to see the many styles of riding pants Equissentials has to offer. You can order online or see their list of retailers by state if you would like to try a pair on before buying.
Parelli Natural Rider Pants -Summer weight:
Equissentials Inc. paired with Natural Horsemanship clinicians, Pat and Linda Parelli, to design a bareback riding pant. I ordered it in a summer weight power tricot; it fits like a second skin. The Lycra fabric has moisture-wicking properties and therefore is cool in warm weather. The full seat deerskin patch, which extends below the calf, is soft and didn’t lose its suppleness when I washed it with the Leather Therapy soap and conditioner provided by Equissentials. The patch is cut 1” wider than the standard full seat to aid in developing an “independent seat”, thereby allowing the rider to stick with the horse while riding bareback or in the saddle. The genuine leather deerskin patch sticks like Velcro compared to my summer weight pants with a clarino patch.
The pair I tested was comfortable in the 80 degrees heat and more flattering to my figure than any pants I have previously purchased. Equissentials designed a pointed A-shaped seat that elongates your body as compared to most riding pants, which have a rounded seat that gives a wider, rounder, less desirable illusion in my opinion! These pants retail for $215. Considering the style and quality, I highly recommend these pants to anyone, especially beginning riders looking for a little help in obtaining a more secure seat. The Parelli Natural Rider pants can be viewed and ordered from the Parelli link on the Equissentials home page.
Check out www.Equissentials.net to see the many styles of riding pants Equissentials has to offer. You can order online or see their list of retailers by state if you would like to try a pair on before buying.
E-Z Up
Leg Saver & Stirrup Extender
Have trouble mounting without a mounting block? Experience pain in your knees or ankles when riding? I recommend the E-Z Up Leg Saver.
It is actually a combination of two products: the E-Z Up Stirrup Extender and the Leg Saver. The combo easily installs on the mounting side stirrup. It lowers the stirrup 3” with the push of a button and easily pops back into position with the lift of a toe. It is great for trail riding when there is no mounting block available. The Leg Saver alone is attached to the right side stirrup using two Allen wrenches that are provided in the package. The E-Z Up Leg Saver allows the stirrup to swivel 360 degrees or to be locked in the most comfortable position.
After installing the E-Z Up Leg Saver on my new Western Saddle, I tested the E-Z Up Stirrup Extender. You’d be surprised how much 3” means when you are “vertically challenged”! I prefer to mount from a block if possible. I feel it is easier on the horse, but it’s great knowing I can now easily get up in the saddle on the trail. I immediately felt the relief from the usual leg strain, especially in my ankles, with the Leg Saver. The fenders on my new saddle are still stiff so the swivel made it easy to position my legs comfortably. This innovative product is also available for English stirrups and retails for $139, a good value for the comfort it provides. The E-Z Up Stirrup Extender alone retails for $89.95 and the Leg Saver alone retails for $49.95. Order the items separately or together online at www.ezupstirrup.com or call 1 877-865-1497. Your legs will thank you!
E-Z Life Products - FIXAPHONE
This great little invention was discovered at the Richmond Virginia Equine Extravaganza a few months ago. Since then I have ridden in it several times and have made it as much a part of my riding routine as my bridle and saddle.
Designed and distributed by Kadco and E-Z Life Products, the FIXAPHONE is simply a neoprene cell phone holder. It fits securely around your arm or above your boot as you ride.
I chose to ride in it the first time, around my upper arm, on a hot spring morning. Three horses later, I was surprised at the small amount of perspiration that had built up under the product. On such a hot day, I thought the phone holder would have become uncomfortable. Instead, after removing it, I discovered that my arm was practically dry.
The FIXAPHONE kept my cell phone very secure during my rides. I actually ran around town for a few hours forgetting it was still attached to my arm. Leave the old way of carrying your cell phone behind, this thing is great! The FIXAPHONE helps eliminate the danger of falling on your phone or losing it while riding. I think this product is a necessity for those who ride or work in the barn alone. The holder keeps the phone within reach at all times and can also be used for a variety of activities such as walking, running, etc. FIXAPHONE comes in an assortment of bright colors and sizes and retails for $19.95. For more information or to locate a retailer near you email info@kadco-e-z-lifeproducts .com or www.fixaphoneusa.com.
FoxGloves
This product was also found at the Virginia Equine Extravaganza. When owner Harriet Z. originally got into making gloves, they were designed predominantly for gardening. Her passion for horses lead her to start making gloves for riders.
I tried FoxGloves once and can’t stop using them to ride in, do barn work, etc. They are such a light and natural fit, even in the summer heat. Made from DuPont Supplex Lycra, the glove stretches, but do not lose their shape. Designed with a longer cuff, they tuck neatly under shirt sleeves, without adding bulk. The finger reinforcements and grip dots provide a better hold of the reins than most gloves.
A good gallop over cross country fences can be nerve wracking if your gloves slip around in the palms of your hands, but the FoxGlove prevent this. Another fun feature is the range of creative colors that are available. Whether it is tulip red or moss green, I’m sure you will find a glove in your favorite color. The gloves retail for $19.99. For more information or to order a pair of FoxGloves, visit www.foxglovesequisport.com or call toll free 888-322-4450.
Good Hands Riding Gloves
Available in 4 different skins, these gloves provide the grip and classy appearance suited for competition or everyday riding.
The Gold Class, which is made from soft deerskin, retails between $29.95 and $37.95.
The Close Touch, styled from goatskin, retails between $21.95 and $29.95.
The Good Grips, a more practical pigskin, retails between $14.95 and $17.95.
Lastly, the Easy Care, a synthetic glove, sells between $16.95 and $24.95.
GPA
Titium Helmet
This helmet is most similar to the International helmet because of its ventilated design and CoolMax, as opposed to Coolon, lining for comfort. Instead of having a hard, carbon fiber outer shell, the Titium is covered with a material called Lorica, a durable and soft microfiber that has also been treated with Scotchgard to repel dust, grease, and water.
The Titium also had a lower profile and was much lighter than the International helmet, thus making it seem much cooler. However, it seemed as though the GPA achieved a reduced weight by sacrificing padding, thereby making it less comfortable to wear for extended periods of time than the International helmet. Therefore, while this helmet may be very popular and is certainly the most breathable, the price seems rather high for the quality. This helmet is ASTM/SEI certified (this means that they meet the specifications required for junior riders in the United States). Remember, a correct fit is the most important thing no matter how safe a helmet is supposed to be; if it doesn’t fit, it is not effective. If you don’t know your size and are unaware of how to measure your head correctly, make sure you are fitted by a professional; it will be well worth it.
The GPA Titium retails for between $400.00 and about $420.00. For more information about GPA helmets, visit their web site, www.gpa-sport.com.
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Textium Helmet
The Textium helmet is nearly identical to the Titium with the same type of harness and covering, but it combines the styling of a more traditional helmet with a more contemporary one in the fact that instead of multiple vents, the Textium has one at the top of the helmet where the button would traditionally be. However, because of this lack of ventilation, the helmet does not allow much air to enter the helmet and circulate but does help to release heat that has accumulated over extended time periods. The lining also consists of extra padding rather than mesh, which contributes to a decreased air flow, but it seemed to be more comfortable. Once again, while this helmet is very popular, the price is rather high.
This helmet is ASTM/SEI certified (this means that they meet the specifications required for junior riders in the United States). Remember, a correct fit is the most important thing no matter how safe a helmet is supposed to be; if it doesn’t fit, it is not effective. If you don’t know your size and are unaware of how to measure your head correctly, make sure you are fitted by a professional; it will be well worth it.
The GPA Textium is a little less expensive and retails for between $355.00 and $370.00. For more information about GPA helmets, visit their web site, www.gpa-sport.com.
Horsemen's Pride
Sportote Tack Trunk
The Tack Trunk is a durable plastic trunk designed with wheels to simplify travel to shows and events. The construction is predictable, and the Trunk is somewhat difficult to close when the peg does not line up in the hole. Our Trunk also included a portable tote for brushes and ointments. The Trunk is available in various sizes and may be large enough to store a saddle. This product is a great gift for anyone who needs storage space for their equine equipment. Check out the full line of trunks at www.horsemanspride.com. Prices start at approximately $100.00.
International
ATH Carbon Fiber Helmet
The ATH Carbon Fiber Helmet is a brand new helmet that is very similar to the popular ATH (Advance Tech Helmet) style but with slight modifications. For example, the Carbon Fiber Helmet comes in hat sizes for a more customized fit and has a carbon fiber outer shell. After first seeing and trying this helmet, I was a little disappointed because although its appearance would fit perfectly into the jumper or schooling ring, it didn’t seem like something I could use in a hunter show. However, after riding in it, I became more impressed. The 5 front vent ports and 2 rear vent ports truly allowed for air to circulate and for the helmet to breathe. The molded leather harness is both substantial as well as comfortable, and the “Coolon” fabric lining does help to pull moisture away from the skin and dries quickly. In addition to the extremely durable and easy-to-clean outer shell, this helmet is certainly ideal for everyday use and would make a great addition to the wardrobe of a rider who spends hours in the saddle on a daily basis.
This helmet is ASTM/SEI certified (this means that they meet the specifications required for junior riders in the United States), and is EN-1384 (mark of Europe) certified. Remember, a correct fit is the most important thing no matter how safe a helmet is supposed to be; if it doesn’t fit, it is not effective. If you don’t know your size and are unaware of how to measure your head correctly, make sure you are fitted by a professional; it will be well worth it.
International’s ATH Carbon Fiber helmet retails for between $499.00 and $579.95. For more information from International about this helmet, call toll-free at 1-800-435-6380 or e-mail ridinghelmets@optonline.net.
Kerrits
Kerrits Storm Jacket
Quite comfy, attractive, functional, and warm, this jacket is a must for windy or rainy weather. It can be combined with their zip-in Quilted Jacket for more warmth when the weather turns cold! The Storm Jacket is available in 4 colors and sells for $149.00. The Quilted Jacket sells for $109.00.You can see them on Kerrits' Web site at www.kerrits.com. Kerrits' products are available at most retail tack shops.
Kerrits Powerstretch Breech
This classically flattering breech stretches and moves with you for excellent freedom of movement in the saddle. It is breathable and wicks away moisture from the body so you don't overheat, and the soft, brushed fleece inner layer keeps you warm in cooler weather. This breech is available in 5 colors and sizes Small-Extra Large. The knee patch style is priced at $79.00 and the full seat style costs $109.00.You can see them on Kerrits' Web site at www.kerrits.com. Kerrits' products are available at most retail tack shops.
Kerrits Cooltec T-neck
Cold weather demands layers, and this fleece jacket will add warmth and style to your wardrobe. It zips at the neck, has equestrian inspired piping at the wrists and neck, is available in 3 colors and costs $59.00. You can see them on Kerrits' Web site at www.kerrits.com. Kerrits' products are available at most retail tack shops.
Palm Partnership Training® Schools Offer Excellent Instruction As Well As Fun in the Sun!
Lynn Palm is known throughout the world for her 34 AQHA World Champion and Reserve World Champion wins, as well as a record 4 AQHA Superhorse wins. Two of those AQHA Superhorse wins were aboard the legendary AQHA Stallion, Rugged Lark. When Rugged Lark retired from the show ring, he and Lynn wowed audiences all over the United States with their bridleless dressage exhibitions to music at such prestigious events as the National Horse Show, the Washington International and the International World Cup. Those who were fortunate enough to attend the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games will never forget Lynn’s bridleless exhibitions on Rugged Lark.My Royal Lark, son of Rugged Lark, followed in his sire’s hoof prints by also performing with Lynn in bridleless musical exhibitions across the United States and winning the hearts of horse lovers everywhere. He also proved the versatility of the American Quarter Horse during his short 11-year life by winning championships in three national equine associations in Dressage, Hunter and Western Pleasure.
The “Lark” and “Palm” names have now become synonymous with the versatility, willingness and charisma of the American Quarter Horse trained with a foundation of dressage principles. Those principles of Dressage or more appropriately, Classical Horsemanship, are the basics of what is taught to every horse and rider who attends the Palm Partnership Training schools. Lynn was taught these principles as a young rider and has carried them with her throughout her career. She firmly believes that they can be applied to every riding discipline.
In 1972 Lynn began sharing her knowledge about riding and training, and in 1998 Palm Partnership Training was established. Lynn, together with her husband, Cyril Pittion-Rossillon, have worked together for years to build their internationally-acclaimed riding program. Lynn and Cyril bring decades of competitive experience in English, Western and Jumping disciplines to their instruction. Cyril, who is originally from France, earned his Riding Master Degree from the French National Equestrian School, and was an Instructor for 6 years at the largest equestrian center in Paris: Brimborion Equestrian Center. Cyril’s Jumping and Equitation training are based on the same classical riding principles that Lynn was taught, further proving that it doesn’t matter if it is English or Western because the same principles apply to all riding disciplines. Thus, riders of all disciplines and levels and all breeds of horses are welcome at their school.
The school is offered during the winter at Lynn and Cyril’s home, Fox Grove Farm in Ocala, Florida, and during the summer at the Royal Palm Ranch in Michigan. Palm Partnership Training schools were developed for riders who want to strengthen their position, work on their balance and overcome any riding problems. Lynn and Cyril limit the enrollment to no more than 15 students so that all students are given the individual attention they need in order to achieve the goals they have set for themselves. Students are encouraged to bring their own horses if possible so that Lynn and Cyril can work with both the horse and rider.
The school I attended in March is called the Versatility School. The schools that are offered include Palm Partnership Training (PPT) Levels 1-4, Dressage Training 1st and 2nd level, and a Versatility school. I chose the Versatility school because it seemed best suited to my current level of riding and it was geared for riders who are showing or who intend to show. Because I had just started riding and showing again after about a 10-year break, this school seemed best suited for me. I also wanted to get my horse out of the ring and try something new. I signed up and was sent a questionnaire to fill out so that Lynn and Cyril would have an idea of my goals and my riding experience. The other schools offered have a schedule very similar to the Versatility school. Each level is a progression to improve balance, coordination and correct riding. PPT levels 1- 3 cumulate so that by PPT level 4 the horse and rider have progressed to advanced training principles of Dressage, including advanced collection and acceptance of the bit.
For more information about Palm Partnership Training Schools go to www.Lynnpalm.com
Stable Woman International
A new product line just hit the market and any horse lover who wants to show her “Horse Pride” will be quick to grab them up! Casual sportswear, gifts and travel accessories, created especially for the female equestrian in mind. Whether she is an accomplished equestrian, rides for pleasure, or just loves the beauty and grace of horses; she will find exceptional products with a candid, yet sophisticated message that identifies with her, and her admiration for horses and equestrian sports. Check out the web site for product updates and to order: www.stablewoman.com
Toklat Summer Riding Wear - Irideon Riding Wear
The Radiance shirt, which proved itself to be unbelievably cool. Made from RadianceTM, an active-wicking, brushed mesh polyester microfibre, it was comfortable even in the hottest 90+ degree weather. It was even light enough for our tester to layer it under her show shirt and jacket during cooler spring mornings, before conveniently shedding these layers as the temperature warmed up. Available in women’s regular and plus sizes as well as kid’s sizes, this also shirt comes in 4 different colors to accommodate any body and taste. The tee style retails for $34.95 for women’s sizes, $36.95 for plus sizes, and $29.95 for kids’ sizes; the women’s sleeveless style retails for $29.95.
The Iluna polo shirt. Designed with a collar giving it a more polished look for summer riding, it is perfect for clinics or casual show attire. Our tester was impressed with the freedom of movement this shirt (made of a durable, stretch polyester fabric) provided as well as its sophisticated styling and appearance. The Iluna polo retails for $49.95 (the sleeveless style for $44.95), and is available in three stylish colors: caribbean, celadon, and mango. The sizes available include women’s S, M, L, and XL.
The Cadence® stretch-cord riding breeches –Toklat calls these, “The ultimate ‘feel good’ breeches!” As promised, they do indeed feel good and are flattering too! According to the manufacturer, the fabric has a 4-way stretch. Although they are available in only small, medium, large and extra large sizes, not in “inch” sizes like most other breeches, the medium seemed to stretch just enough to fit our tester perfectly. They are also designed with belt loops, enabling the rider to adjust the fit if necessary as well as making these breeches more appropriate for the show ring. Another feature that our tester appreciated was the gripper elastic at the ankle, which kept the breeches from slipping up when she pulled on her tall boots. Available in 7 colors, these breeches can also be ordered in a low rise style and boot-cut style for around $85. Kids sizes are also available for about $70. While we feel they are not too expensive for adult riders looking for a long lasting pair of breeches they can use for both schooling and showing, $70 may be a bit too much to spend on growing kids.
You can purchase any of these items and a variety of other clothing and products through Toklat’s website, www.toklat.com or at most tack shops and online stores.