Equine ergonomics takes the applied science of ergonomics and applies it to horse tack and other products to design and engineer it to work with maximum efficiency for you and your horse.
The angled cone keeps the rider’s foot flat to decrease knee and ankle fatigue; also includes a thick rubber foot cushion. $77.95; www.tuckersaddlery.com
Anatomic dual-density shell is engineered for high-level leg protection, while allowing freedom of movement. Technical materials provide shock absorption and impact protection, while a double ventilation system channels heat away from the horse’s leg. $279.95; www.veredususa.com
Intelligent design allows full range of shoulder motion, without interference from the saddle tree. Removable felt, fleece or neoprene liner options. $139.95-$179.90; www.totalsaddlefit.com
Anatomic contour monocrown is designed to reduce pressure around the poll and ears.Padded, contoured ergonomic noseband is made with equine comfort in mind. $169.95; www.smartpakequine.com
Cue your horse with a gentle nudge thanks to the broad contact surface area of the Spursuader. Created with sensitive horses in mind, the Spursuader is also a useful tool for amateur riders. Available in English and western styles. $45.99; www.tapestryequineproducts.com
Designed to keep your horse’s back cool and comfortable while holding your saddle securely in place. Breathable, high-density foam offers impact protection where it’s needed while ultra-thin flaps eliminate bulk and enhance rider communication. $170; www.ecogold.ca
Soft, dense medical-grade fleece reduces friction and pressure against the horse’s back while Ecogold’s nonslip system keeps the saddle securely in place. A layer of 3D air flow spacers improves ventilation while adjustable inserts provide impact protection $300; www.ecogold.ca
Wide-body design is smooth and flat under your leg. Broader contact area on the saddle flap promotes a secure, stable position. Jump or dressage. $139.95; www.totalsaddlefit.com
Designed with the anatomy and physiology of the horse in mind, the Tapestry Comfort Girth features elastic placement that hugs the rib cage, allowing the horse to breathe easier. From $119.99; www.tapestryequineproducts.com
This article on products designed using equine ergonomics appeared in the February 2020 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!
Elizabeth Moyer works in marketing and development for the United States Pony Clubs, Inc. She served as a longtime editor of Horse Illustrated and Young Rider. She is also the author of two Horse Illustrated Simple Solutions books on grooming and horse safety (BowTie Press). Moyer is a lifelong equestrian and horse lover. Prior to becoming part of the equine industry, she worked in advertising and is a graduate of the University of Colorado’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication. She lives in the beautiful bluegrass horse country of Kentucky with a pack of adopted Dachshunds.
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