Heather Wallace: Tell me about the first time you and Connie met.

Allison Malenfant: Our husbands work in the New York entertainment industry and often collaborate. We met occasionally, and Connie told me about her equestrian background. I always wanted to ride, but had no exposure. Connie agreed to teach me, and we became friends through weekly lessons in Brooklyn. And double dates!

HW: Were horses a childhood obsession or an adult passion?

AM: I took one lesson a week while working a corporate job in the athletic retail industry. Once I left to start Redingote, I increased my riding two days a week. It’s a slippery slope, of course. I bought my first horse in 2020 and now have two. I hunter pace and fox hunt, but also travel and compete. It has become a lifestyle.

Connie has horses in her blood. Her father was a Standardbred trainer in Monmouth County, New Jersey. She started hunter/jumper lessons and eventually had her own horses at home. She was very successful in riding and competing by age 16. She now owns and runs a small private facility in Colts Neck, N.J.

HW: What sparked the idea of Redingote?

AM: Connie owned a vintage men’s insulated coverall she found at a yard sale. She loved the functionality of a one-piece. She could wear it while teaching or working in the barn, and then take it off to ride. However, it lacked waterproofing and enough pockets. Plus, the men’s shape didn’t flatter.

People asked her about it wherever she went, loving the practicality or thinking she looked like a mechanic. There was an untapped market for a similar product that was warm, waterproof, and designed for a woman’s body. She shared her idea with me. I knew about the retail industry and the development of products, so I suggested a partnership.

HW: How did you come up with the name Redingote for your business?

AM: A redingote is a fitted outer coat with a cutaway front. It’s a French derivative of the English phrase “riding coat” from the 18th century. We came across this word while trying to name our brand, and it was a perfect fit, since we were reinventing the riding coat for the 21st century rider!

HW: What was the first step in launching your brand?

AM: Nailing a product we believed in was the first step. There was no brand if the idea didn’t work!

We started working on the idea in early 2017, sourcing an outerwear manufacturer that would work with a niche startup brand and develop prototypes for a year. There were many changes with the focus on flattering style but offering warmth and movement. We tested several levels of insulation to find the happy place between staying warm without bulk.

HW: What is the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome?

AM: The horse industry is traditional, and people are skeptical about new products. A technical performance coverall for women was a completely new idea.

We are a small, self-funded business. Marketing was and is very grassroots. We wear our jumpsuits, driving to barns and horse shows to pass out flyers. It was fun to see the idea catching on. We’d sell one to somebody in one barn, and then their barn mates would order.

Marketing a business our size in a niche market is still a challenge, but our brand recognition has grown wonderfully!

HW: How do you work as successful partners?

AM: Business partnerships are like marriages, and each person has different strengths. I think this has been the foundation of our partnership. We’re very different. I am hyper-organized with a retail background. Connie is a dreamer with an equestrian background. I am better at project management. Connie has a sales and marketing brain.

We agree with a lot of things, but we navigate any disagreements. I think we’ve learned a lot about each other over the years—just like a marriage!

HW: Have the challenges changed over the years?

AM: They just get bigger! I say that with a sense of humor, but it’s true. The bigger the business, the bigger the challenges. The challenges stay the same (i.e. marketing, staying competitive in a growing industry, funding, supply chain, et cetera) but the scale grows.

HW: How has your business evolved?

AM: It’s amazing to look back on the way Redingote has grown. Our winter insulated jumpsuit is still our No. 1 product, and new customers are discovering it all the time. We are always innovating. Redingote has launched winter outerwear separates, a schooling collection, rainwear, and our signature one-piece for men and kids. We have a new scrim jacket coming out this spring so we can stay protected in the summer while still enjoying short sleeves.

We’ve even added another brand to our portfolio, acquiring FITS Riding, a beloved breeches company, in November 2022.

HW: Where do you see Redingote going?

AM: We have a big vision! Our highest concentration of customers is the Northeast U.S. English market, where we live. Ultimately, we have some exciting projects and collaborations in development. We plan to expand across all equestrian disciplines, markets, locations, and into other sports—we have many clients who use our outerwear for skiing, sailing, fishing, hiking, camping and more.

This article about Redingote appeared in the May 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Meet the Founders of Redingote appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Ariat Cruisers

Speaking of blurring that line between barn and civilization, I loved my first pair of Ariat Cruisers so much that I ended up buying a second ($94.95). My original pair (that I promised myself would not become a barn shoe) became a barn shoe, especially for those quick little trips to check on a horse, drop something off, or throw hay in the morning before work.

They’re really comfortable, super-easy to slide on and off, and look cute with jeans, shorts, or even breeches. So I gave in, let the originals follow their calling as barn shoes, and I now own a second pair that is truly reserved for excursions into the real world, including work. A number of styles are currently on sale on Ariat’s website, and I just snagged two more pairs in new patterns for less than $40 a piece.

◆ Shop at Ariat.com 

Kerrits Fall Riding Line and EQL Jeans

Kerrits has always been one of my favorite brands for breeches, and I actually still have a few pairs from the late 1990s in my closet. They hold up. But while I’ve been eyeballing their EQL casual clothing line at events like the Kentucky Three-Day Event and Equine Affaire, I’d never felt like taking the time to try on any of their casual clothing. But this summer, at a local tack shop’s annual tent sale, I was the lucky winner of a $250 Kerrits gift certificate. The ladies at The Carousel Horse suggested that I wait for Kerrits’ fall line to come in, and when it did, I was really impressed. Kerrits has maintained their signature style while introducing contemporary colors and patterns. And their high-tech fabrics are both warm and breathable without impeding movement — necessary around here as the weather gets cold and we have to layer up.

I went home with their Bits of Plaid Quilted Vest ($109), which I’m hoping to wear to work a few times before it becomes barn-wear, and a super-soft and warm On Course Quarter Zip Fleece Tech Top ($74) that will be perfect for teaching and riding this fall and winter.

Then, The Carousel Horse ladies mentioned Kerrits’ new EQL jeans, and said that there were a few styles that had come in that even they hadn’t tried yet. I struggle with pants fit (my butt is a size bigger than my waist) but I ended up really liking the In-Motion Bootcut Jean ($99) with a raw hem. The jeans are a little lighter weight with more stretch than what I normally wear, but they’re really comfortable and flattering, and the detailing at the bottom of each leg is a little something different. These have become my go-to Friday “denim-day” jeans for work this fall.

◆ Shop at Kerrits.com 

Muck Boots

As farm owners, my husband and I have a rather large boot collection. I have boots for riding, boots for barn chores, and boots that can do both. My husband is usually in some kind of work boot, preferring something he can slip on and wear comfortably all day.

We’ve always been Muck fans for their durability and comfort, but two additions to their current lineup have been pleasant surprises.

My husband has been really liking Muck’s Mens Western Chore Mid Boot ($140), with a similar rubber foot and neoprene top to Muck’s classic style, but with a much slimmer, western boot profile. The square toe and reinforced heel makes this a boot that can easily convert from barn chores to riding, unlike Muck’s traditional work boots which don’t safely fit into stirrups. My husband, who is not often found on any of our horses, still prefers this more streamlined fit just for working around the farm. He says they feel more secure in the heel and less bulky than traditional Mucks. Last weekend, when the majority of his day was spent repairing things that the horses had broken, he said his feet were comfortable and cool in these boots all day long.

And since our temps have dropped, I’ve been slipping on Muck’s Outscape Max Ankle Boots ($135) every morning before work to take care of the horses. These boots are great. They slide on and off hands-free, a necessity when I’m rushing out the door carrying everything but the kitchen sink. The sole is really rugged and grippy, which I appreciate when I’m leading horses out to their pastures in the dark, especially when it’s been rainy and the ground is soft and I’m running late, dressed in work clothes. And with a footbed that is incredibly light and comfortable, this is another Muck boot that could easily be worn all day long. (Though I toss mine in the trunk after chores on the way to work!)

◆ Shop at MuckBootCompany.com

Dapplebay Riding Top

When an ad for Dapplebay’s riding top in a French toile de Jouy pattern ($58) appeared on my social media, I visited the website and contemplated the shirt. While I’d found myself on Dapplebay’s site a few times before, I’d never committed to a purchase (you know, the whole mental game of “do I need this, or do I want this?”). But something about this classic blue and white pastoral pattern made my “want” win over, and I completed my order. I am usually an end-of-season sale shopper and rarely pay full price for something that I don’t need, but I loved the look of this pattern and was curious about the quality.

When it arrived, I was more than pleased: the fabric is buttery soft; the colors are beautiful and the pattern crisp. Reviews said that this particular shirt tended to run small, so I ordered one size up and the fit was perfect. I was so in love with the design that I went back for the matching saddle pad, too. The shirt is currently sold out, but you can ask to be notified when it’s back in stock.

◆ Shop at Dapplebay.com

Hay Chix Nets

Now that we’re back on daytime turnout in western Pennsylvania, my horses are spending a little more time in their stalls, and I’m so grateful for my HayChix Free Up Feeder hay nets (starting at $110). The large majority of my equines are really easy keepers, but I’m a firm believer in free-choice hay (despite my Fjord occasionally looking like an overstuffed sausage). I was also so sick of waste — watching my 30+ gelding pull his expensive, third-cut hay into the middle of his stall and pee all over it made me want to cry. So when we built our barn, I splurged on Hay Chix nets and swear that they’ve paid for themselves several times over in just two years. I spent the extra $30 per stall on the wider opening (24” x 24”) and am glad I did; between the larger frame and the really easy to use hardware, I can open and close the frame one-handed and never have to set hay on the floor.

Hay Chix advertises that you can open and fill each in less than thirty seconds, and they’re not lying. And for the MacGyvers in your barn who will figure out that if they pop the net hard enough from the bottom with their noggins to undo the latch themselves, there’s a pin you can put in to prevent them opening it (I’m looking at you, Waffles). We fill the nets at night, and most of my crew still has hay in their nets in the morning — which makes both my anxious horse-mom mind and wallet feel good!

◆ Shop on HayChix.com

With these fall equestrian gear picks, you’re sure to be set for barn chores and riding this season. Embrace the beauty of fall while staying comfortable and chic, whether you’re in the saddle or just out enjoying the crisp air.

This fall equestrian gear list is a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Fall Equestrian Gear Round-Up appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

When the pandemic brought a bustling world to a screeching halt, equestrian Jessica Andrews immediately felt panicked. Her successful Los Angeles company, On Location Hair & Makeup, was dependent upon human touch, which was not conducive with social distancing.

With over 20 years of experience in the personal care industry, her expertise lay in making women feel confident and beautiful. The events leading up to launching her apparel business, Eques Pante, were influenced by stillness. Andrews followed her instincts, allowing her equestrian experiences to take the reins.

Beauty & Horses

Born and raised in London, England, Andrews moved to Los Angeles, Calif., in 2005, pursuing her hair stylist dreams. She gradually built her beauty business, providing makeup and hair styling services to the entertainment industry. Soon enough she had developed a long list of clients, from celebrities and producers to other influential women.

A horse girl from an early age, Andrews started riding at age 11. In her childhood, she could be found gallivanting through the English countryside aboard her pony, Pepper. She took the train by herself every weekend into Oxfordshire to spend time with him.

This strong dedication at an early age showed how much horses meant to her. Fast forwarding to adulthood and her new life in Los Angeles, Andrews found herself horseless, unsure about her future. Eventually she found her stride again, and began taking lessons at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center and beyond.

Changed by a Horse

One day she met Nahlea, a life-changing red filly that had been on a truck bound for slaughter until an equine rescue intervened, pulling her from the situation. Malnourished and unhandled, Nahlea didn’t have an easy start to life.

But there was something about the mare that captivated Andrews from the fateful moment she met her in a dusty Southern California lot. Nahlea was uneasy from her past, and trust wasn’t something she willingly gave out at first.

“It took me a while to gain her trust,” says Andrews. “I went slow, meeting her twice a day for short periods. Once I gained her trust, she followed me everywhere. We went for hand-walks in the hills and through forests; it was one of my favorite times with her.”

Mentally, Nahlea bloomed, but she needed to have surgery for osteochondrosis in her stifles. When she returned from a successful surgery and rehab, Nahlea was ready to start her riding career.

Andrews sought out a dressage trainer and began advancing her skills, spending hours in the saddle riding various warmbloods. Her seat and knowledge progressed, along with a new awareness of rider rashes and hot spots from long hours in the saddle.

It was then Andrews began trying different undergarments, searching for something that could help meet the demands of life in the saddle.

“I just felt like we needed something really custom for our sport, because every sport has an underwear!”

The Pandemic Idea that Led to Eques Pante

In the spring of 2020, Andrews was out of work due to the pandemic. Her creative mindset never stopped, and she began sketching and creating Eques Pante.

A passion for practical products and entrepreneurship was in Andrews’ blood. At one point, she wanted to make a hairbrush, but it never came to fruition because of cost and design challenges. When it came to Eques Pante, it felt easier, as if this product was meant to be.

“I had a little bit of an issue finding a factory that wanted to do something completely custom,” Andrews says. “Then I found a really great guy, and he helped me with everything through the entire design process.”

A year later, Eques Pante was launched in February of 2021, just a month after Andrews relocated to Colorado. Covid had inspired changes, and she was ready to embrace them.

Andrews has worn all the hats: she was the product tester, the fit model, the designer, and the brains behind the operation. There has been an amazing response to the brand, despite it being brand new. Andrews says the typical first-time customer is skeptical at first, but then impressed.

Goodbye Nahlea

2023 began with the heartbreaking and unexpected passing of Nahlea. The mare shaped much of Andrews’ life and the decisions she made along the way throughout the creation of Eques Pante.

“It was one of the hardest, saddest days I have been through,” she says. “That day, I said goodbye to my great friend and adventure partner for over eight years. [Nahlea] wasn’t an easy ride, and without her, I probably wouldn’t have sought to advance my riding skills and had a need to create Eques Pante.”

Moving forward, Andrews plans on continuing to introduce the world to Eques Pante. The brand was invented out of necessity, and Nahlea’s memory will always live on through this special company.

Find Eques Pante online at equespante.com and Instagram @equespante.

This article about Eques Pante appeared in the May 2023 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Eques Pante: Ingenius Equestrian Underwear appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Inspiration & Action

Growing up, Barratt moved several times. Each new home offered her mother an opportunity to redecorate. Barratt always recalls being captivated by the prints and fabrics selected for curtains and trimmings. Fast forward to adulthood, when Barratt married and settled down in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, with her husband, Tom.

Whenever she browsed through equestrian clothing and apparel at a tack store, she felt like something was missing. She’d envision bold printed collars and vivid colors. Barratt didn’t have a background working with fashion or fabric, but one day she expressed her ideas to her husband.

“My husband gave me $500 and bought me a new computer to give it a shot,” she says. “I set off to do what was in my head and try to make it come to fruition, which was a total trip because I didn’t know anything about clothing fabric.”

Initially, finding the right clothing manufacturer for her equestrian-inspired vision wasn’t easy. Many companies wouldn’t talk to or help Barratt since she didn’t understand the manufacturing language or have a design background. There were a lot of clicks and hang ups as the search persisted.

“Once you think about something like starting a business, it takes on a life of its own and becomes an obsession,” says Barratt. “You eat, sleep and breathe bringing something out of thin air and actually making it happen.”

One day, she began looking into companies making men’s form-fitting shirts for executives. She finally found a company online that agreed to make her samples, only to realize they were based out of Thailand. Determined to create the clothing she had envisioned, she jumped through frustrations of language barriers and communication to bring her shirts to life.

“I ended up having 18 samples made because I didn’t know anything about manufacturing clothes,” says Barratt.

Armed with her gorgeous new sample shirts, Middy N’ Me’s first debut into the world was at the Chagrin Hunter Jumper Classic. Her friends excitedly invited Barratt to be a vendor when a booth turned up empty.

“I got a mannequin, I ironed my shirts, and I went,” she says. “I didn’t even bring anything to write with. It never dawned on me that anyone would actually buy my shirts. We had a very successful show, and that’s how it all started.”

Meet Middy

Middy N’ Me is appropriately named after Middy, Barratt’s beloved Belgian/Quarter Horse mare. Middy is boarded close to home at a large estate in Hunting Valley. It’s the perfect property for the fox hunting duo to spend their days riding through the expansive acreage.

“I bought her sight unseen, and she didn’t even have a name,” she says. “I named her Middleburg because I’m a fox hunter and I love Middleburg, Va. My husband started calling her Middy.”

Middy is a beautiful buckskin who happens to be a PMU rescue and an unexpected heart horse; Barratt describes her as an angel.

“She had never been handled and was very aloof and distant—emotionally wounded,” she says. “But she and I became very good friends, and she’s the horse of a lifetime. She’s taken care of me. There are no words to describe how much joy she has given me.”

Building a Brand

Middy N’ Me celebrated 10 years of business last summer. The brand has evolved and grown over the years. Initially, Barratt thought she would be designing shirts for women to ride in, but it turned out, women want to wear the shirts in everyday life, too.

“Equestrian style is a universal desire—people like it—it’s very pretty,” she says. “We don’t position ourselves as an equestrian company, but a lot of equestrians wear our shirts.”

Barratt’s true passion shines when she’s designing behind a computer screen. She loves fuchsia, kiwi green, turquoise, yellow and bright colors paired with ginghams and solids.

Every shirt, skirt or dress is made to order. The fit is an important part of the style and overall look. Every shirt is cut, sewn and made in the United States. After Kimberly’s wild ride making samples, she was able to find the factory in America she had searched for to produce her clothing.

Kimberly’s days are spent designing, keeping in contact with her factory, working with customers, and tackling her never-ending to-do list.

“It’s not for the faint hearted, but I love every minute of it.”

◆ Middy N’ Me website
◆ Middy N’ Me Instagram (@middynme)
◆ Middy N’ Me Facebook

This article about Middy N’ Me’s success in creating equestrian clothing and beyond appeared in the September 2022 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Middy N’ Me: Equestrian Clothing and Beyond appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

In the Horse Illustrated podcast Barn Banter episode 4, hosts Susan Friedland and Raquel Lynn chat with guests Hope Ellis-Ashburn and Leah Kaufmann about an ag-centric life and establishing an equestrian lifestyle brand.

Click to listen on mobile.

Listen now to meet Hope and Leah. Plus, hear about our ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse of the month, Miss Jane, offered by This Old Horse, Inc. in Hastings, Minn.

Title Sponsor: Straight Arrow Family of Brands

Hope Ellis-Ashburn, Horse Illustrated Contributor and Farm Owner

Hope Ellis-Ashburn of Red Horse on a Red Hill Communications is an award-winning author, dynamic educator, equestrian, and farmer whose work has appeared in more than a dozen agriculture and equestrian publications including Hobby Farms, Horse Illustrated, and Young Rider. Her books include “Always Hope: How Dairy Cows and Arabian Horses Inspired Grit in a Young Girl’s Life” and “Kimbrook Arabians: How an Unlikely Midwestern Couple Influenced an Ancient Breed,” along with a riding diary, “New Horse Journal.”

Hope and her family live in a 1927 farmhouse located on the family’s Tennessee Century Farm in the Sequatchie Valley of southeast Tennessee where they raise hay and Black Angus cattle. She has a Half-Arabian mare (Sally), an American Warmblood gelding (Bucky), two donkeys (Harmony and Goobie), Border Collie dogs (Gus and Daisy), and a house cat (Rose). 

◆ Red Horse on a Red Hill Website
◆ Red Horse on a Red Hill on Facebook
◆ Red Horse on a Red Hill on Instagram
◆ Hope on LinkedIn
◆ Hope’s books on Amazon
◆ Hope’s books on Goodreads

Leah Kaufmann, Founder of Dapplebay

Leah Kaufmann is the CEO, Creative Director and artist behind Dapplebay, a top-selling equestrian apparel and accessories brand. The creative mind behind Dapplebay’s sassy sayings and unique products, Ms. Kaufmann fully conceives the equine designs for the company’s attire and accessories. She not only built Dapplebay into a successful business but also uses the company to celebrate a shared passion for horses between the consumer and herself.

◆ Dapplebay Website
◆ Dapplebay on Instagram
◆ Dapplebay on TikTok

Featured Adoptable Horse

Today we talk to Nancy Turner, the president of This Old Horse in Hastings, Minn. This month’s ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse of the month is Miss Jane, lovingly known as Jane. Jane started at the tracks in 2016 and became a broodmare after her last race in 2018. Since ending her career as a broodmare, she joined the Racehorse Retraining program at the University of Wisconsin – River Falls. Jane is a one-rider horse and has the ability to succeed in a multitude of things. Her personality encourages trying new things and not having repetitive training sessions, as well as loving obstacles of any kind. Jane has been working on her connection on the flat, consistently working on pole/jump work, as well as going on trail rides. Jane would be a perfect horse for a rider interested in doing all-around work. For more info on Jane, click here.

Title Sponsor of Barn Banter

We want to thank our Title Sponsor, the Straight Arrow Family of Brands, makers of Mane ‘n Tail, Cowboy Magic & Exhibitor’s, with over 100 years of grooming excellence. For more information about your favorite products, visit straightarrowinc.com and find Straight Arrow Products at a tack shop near you!

In addition to Barn Banter episode 4, you can find all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

The post Barn Banter – Episode 4 from title sponsor Straight Arrow Products appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

What’s Hot in Riding Helmets

Newer trends include rose gold or chrome trim, wider sun brims, fresh colors like chocolate brown, dusky gray and royal blue, and glossy finishes.

New riding helmets comfort features that are also elegant include faux leather harnesses for a sophisticated look that provides soft padding around the face. Many brands offer ventilation without compromising safety; these strategically-placed vents channel air flow beneath the helmet while also creating visually appealing lines. Look for anti-microbial, moisture-wicking, and Coolmax liners to help keep things fresh.

For western riders, Resistol riding helmets have a cowboy hat look, while Troxel has created a traditional helmet styled with western designs.

Certification Standards

Be sure when shopping for a new helmet to look for one designed for equestrian use and not for other sports. Riding helmets are tested to withstand perils specific to equestrian activities, such as impacts from kicks and crushes, falls from horse height, and falls onto objects.

Guidelines for equestrian helmets published by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend certification by the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI), Snell Standards (Snell Foundation), and/or the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). Helmets certified by the Snell Foundation have undergone the most rigorous level of testing.

MIPS Technology

More recently, you may have noticed riding helmets featuring a prominent yellow tag emblazoned with “Multi-Directional Impact Protection System” (MIPS). MIPS is an additional safety component integrated into the helmet; this layer redirects rotational force when there is side impact to the head. This technology originated with the cycling helmet industry.

Equestrian brands with current MIPS helmet technology include Armis, Back on Track, Champion, Charles Owen, Hööks, One K, Tipperary Equestrian and Trauma Void.

“The addition of MIPS to equestrian helmets has become more top of mind for riders in recent years,” says Kara Williams, merchandising buyer at Massachusetts-based SmartPak.
How exactly does MIPS work?

“In short, MIPS is a thin inner liner inside the helmet that allows the helmet to shift up to 5 millimeters in the event of a fall, thus enabling the helmet to move slightly to absorb more of the impact when you make contact with the ground,” explains Michelle Drum, e-commerce, social media, and marketing manager for Farm House Tack in Landrum, S.C.

Size Your Riding Helmet Right

Ready to get started finding your optimal riding helmet?

“The best advice I can offer to riders shopping for a riding helmet is to take the time to go to a tack shop and get fitted by a trusted professional,” says Drum. “If you don’t have access to a tack shop you trust to fit you for a helmet, find a shop that is up to date with the technology that can do a real-time head measure via Facetime or Zoom. Shopping for a new helmet can be time consuming, but consider we are talking about your head here. You only get one, so this is an important investment. Take into consideration the safety levels offered by all of the helmet manufacturers and choose the one that offers the most protection and comfort for your budget.”

To select the right size, measure the widest part of your head (about a finger’s width above your ears and eyebrows) with a soft tape measure, keeping it level around the circumference of your head. Some helmet brands are sized in centimeters and others are in inches, so take note of both measurements.

Next, consult the corresponding size chart for the brands you’re interested in. Some use universal sizing (S, M, L), while others go by traditional hat sizes (7, 7 ¼, 7 ½, et cetera).

A dial feature on many helmets allows small adjustments to customize the fit, and new on the scene is One K’s adjustable air bladder within the helmet liner, which can be inflated and deflated for discreet changes in fit.

Riding Helmet Fit

A knowledgeable sales representative can advise you in finding the best brand for your needs, as well as finding the optimal fit. Try on different lines and styles. Williams notes that different brands vary slightly in their sizing and shape, so it’s not uncommon to be different sizes in different helmet brands.

Your helmet should sit just above your eyebrows. When trying on, gently shake your head: the helmet should stay snug and not slide; it should move up and down with your skin if you lift your eyebrows, but not slip if you tip your head forward and backwards.

If the helmet is too small, it won’t fit down flush on your head and may leave you with a headache. If it’s too large, it will slide around, compromising safety.

Keep in mind that the materials around your head may loosen a bit with wear in some brands, so if you are between sizes, consider going down to the smaller size so your helmet isn’t too loose later.

You know you’ve got the right fit if it’s snug but comfortable. If it’s too tight against the front and back of your head, you may need an oval shape. If it’s too tight against the sides of your head, then you may need a round shape.

Adjust the chin strap so that one finger fits between the strap and your chin. The straps on the sides should sit just below your ear lobes.

Try on the helmet with the hairstyle you wear to ride; for riders with long hair, this means either secured in a ponytail, braid, or bun at the nape of the neck. If you wear your hair tucked up under your helmet in a hair net, try on all helmets this way.

If you sometimes wear long hair outside of your helmet, like in a ponytail, and other times tucked into your helmet, you may consider buying two different helmets. Another option is a helmet with an adjustable dial or air-fit to accommodate the slightly different sizes. Alternatively, there are brands that offer a thicker liner and thinner liner so you can wear your hair both ways, and also wash one while using the other.

Taking Care of your Riding Helmet

To clean your riding helmet, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth. Linings can be removed and washed in some cases; otherwise, they may be treated with a deodorizing spray. Extreme temperatures may weaken your helmet’s materials, so don’t store it in your car or direct sunlight.

All helmets should be replaced at least every five years or after any fall or drop. Even if you see no damage after an accident, the interior structure may be compromised from absorbing the blow. Many manufacturers offer a discount on replacement helmets after an accident within the warranty period, so be sure to save the documents related to your helmet purchase.

A Helmet for Any Rider

Drum shares a new feature she finds especially appealing.

“My favorite of the newest trends now has to be the extended brim to shield the sun from your face,” she says. “These helmets are a great option for helping to protect your skin from the sun, as well as offer protection from glare in bright climates.”

Brighter colors are hot in the jumper ring right now, while hunters can find classically styled helmets that offer the latest technology and cooling air vents.

In the rodeo sector, world champion barrel racer Fallon Taylor has made a splash with helmets featuring colorful patterns that match her tack and outfits. In an effort to entice even more riders to make helmets part of their regular routine, many retailers nationwide offer promotions on International Helmet Awareness Day.

With correct fit and a little care, today’s helmets offer unprecedented levels of protection while looking snazzy at the same time.

The post A Riding Helmet for Every Equestrian appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Heritage Reversible Mask

Enjoy two mask options for the price of one. Change up your face covering according to your mood with a reversible option. A basic black mask with the Hunt Seat Paper Co. logo is practical, but the flip side is a fun Southwest inspired black and white print.
$16.99; www.huntseatpaperco.com

Mini Horse Fucsia Mask

Beautiful horse print by Rönner Design covers this mask with a matching bag that is perfect for traveling. Instead of stashing a mask away in your glove compartment or handbag, it is ideal for keeping your mask clean and ready to wear. It’s lined with cotton and comes with soft yellow straps.
$15.00; www.ronnerdesign.com

Plaid Jumping Horses Mask

This comfortable mask is printed with bold red-and-black buffalo plaid and accented with horseshoes and jumping horses. It comes with a soft and adjustable strap, allowing your ears some much needed comfort.
$14.95; www.equestriancreations.com

Riding Retro Face Mask

Strap on a cute mask loaded with detailed riding accessories. Dreamers & Schemers uses blue, green and yellow to make the perfect retro print design. Known for their cute sock prints, D&S comes through with lots of fun mask prints.
$15.99: www.dreamersnschemers.com

Hand Made Face Mask by Rebecca Ray

A vibrant option from Rebecca Ray is reversible and comes with adjustable straps. This gray horse surrounded by flowers offers a fresh print that will make you smile. The flip side is black and white for a more subtle design.
$15.00; www.rebeccaraydesign.com

Yellow Equestrian Face Mask

Add a pop of cheerful yellow to your outfit with this face covering from Woof & Hoof. It features a realistic print accented with saddles, ribbons, jumps and riding accessories. The mask is available in several sizes, ensuring a great fit.
$8.00; www.etsy.com/shop/WoofandHoofStore

Milton Menasco Pony Face Mask

This chic pony print mask features a design collaboration between Street & Saddle and Alli Addison of Milton Menasco. This horse-themed face mask is nicely tailored to offer a snug fit with adorable rearing silhouettes.
$17.00; www.streetandsaddle.com

U.S. Equestrian Face Mask

Sport the U.S. Equestrian mask from the national governing body of equestrian sport in blue with its logo printed in white. The mask comes with three disposable filter inserts and soft comfortable fitting straps.
$15.00; www.shopusef.org

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Horsescents Organic Lavender Aromatherapy

Deliver calming organic lavender aromatherapy with this innovative scent pack (halter not included). Leather ScentStrap with lavender-filled ScentSac:
$85; www.horsescentsinc.com

Heritage Performance Glove

Jazz up training rides with stretchy super grip gloves in the newest shade of jade. $26.95; www.heritagegloves.com

Noble Equestrian Horseplay Backpack

If your motto is “work hard, play hard,” this barn bag is for you. Versatile backpack has a helmet compartment and crop holder, plus room for your laptop or tablet. $59.95; www.nobleequestrian.com

Hunt Seat Paper Company Pony Pins

Stocking stuffers that make a statement, for equestrians with attitude.
$10.50 each; www.huntseatpaperco.com

5 Star Equine Leather Coasters

Choose the color and pattern for a perfect gift. A custom brand can
also be added. Set of four starting at $20; www.5starequineproducts.com

Kerrits Warm Up Fleece Jacket

Sporty bomber-style jacket has cozy fleece inside, with smooth exterior to shed hay, dirt and horse hair. Generous zip pockets hold treats and more. Shown in Ash Blue. $99; www.kerrits.com

Back on Track Nights Collection

Rich color and elegant details are combined with therapeutic Welltex technology. Fleece blanket, $169. Saddle pad, $79. Coordinating fleece polo wraps (without Welltex), $41; www.backontrackproducts.com

5 Star Equine Handcrafted Mohair Halter

Enjoy retro rodeo style that’s handmade in the USA, featuring 100% all-natural mohair. Priced from $149.95; www.5starequineproducts.com

Professional’s Choice Boho Collection

Up your horse’s style game with matching gear in this limited edition print. Ballistic overreach bell boots, $31.95. VenTech Elite Sports Medicine boots, $93.95. Slow Feeder Hay Bag, $56.95. Tack Tote, $30.95. www.profchoice.com

This article on equestrian gift ideas originally appeared in the December 2019 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Have a Very Horsey Holiday with These Equestrian Gift Ideas appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Redingote Coverall

Waterproof, breathable and insulated; designed to fit over riding clothes. $278; www.redingoteequestrian.com

Kerrits Sit Tight Windpro Knee Patch Tight

Polartec Wind Pro shell keeps weather out, while fleece lining fights chill with cozy softness. $119; www.kerrits.com

Piper Down Jacket By SmartPak

Lightweight down fill to keep warm and cozy, with water-resistant outer shell for wet weather. $89.95; www.smartpakequine.com

ADA Quilted Fleece Lined Winter Boot by SmartPak

Water-resistant and stylish with memory foam footbed. Reinforced calf for riding. $129.95; www.smartpakequine.com

Carhartt Ladies Quilt Lined Washed Duck Bib Overall

Thinsulate-lined legs for warmth with stretch panels on the side for greater range of motion. $99.99; www.carhartt.com

Outback Trading Company Devonport Jacket

Saddle print microsuede shell with berber lining for warmth. $109.99; www.outbacktrading.com

Horseware Ireland Knitted Hat and Snood

Chunky knit is on-trend with matching infinity scarf. $39.95; www.shop.horseware.com

Noble Equestrian Stable Ready Canvas Jacket

Water-repellent finish with 40 grams of insulation. Soft faux fur lining in collar and hood. $119.95; www.nobleequestrian.com

Dublin Teddington Boot

Waterproof and breathable full-grain leather with adjustable laces and side zip. $239.99; www.dublinclothing.com

Dublin Naomi Puffer Jacket

Stylish puffer with polyfill and warm poly lining. Vented back for riding. $94.99; www.dublinclothing.com

This article on winter equestrian barn apparel originally appeared in the December 2019 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

Further Reading

• Getting Started With Riding: Riding Apparel
• Equi Style: Best Vests
• 40 Years of Equestrian Fashion
• The Unwritten Barn Dress Code

The post Gear: Winter Warmth With Winter Equestrian Barn Apparel appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Elayne Vest

Asmar Equestrian’s Elayne vest is both elegant and athletic. The slimming silhouette adds warmth without bulk, while the high collar blocks winter drafts. Available in plum, black and Gibraltar blue.
$228.00; asmarequestrian.com

Retro Western Print Vest

The Retro Western vest from Ariat offers a cowgirl-pleasing print along with core-warming comfort. Style with a turtleneck or button-down shirt for city or country chic.
$79.95; ariat.com

Mesa Vest

Embrace Southwest style with the Mesa Vest from fashion-forward western brand STS Ranchwear. This denim design features Aztec embroidery, a single-point yoke, and a snap closure. The light blue hue pairs perfectly with dark or light jeans for a versatile look that’s ready for the barn, but stylish enough for casual wear.
$104.99; stsranchwear.com

Shadow Pasture Vest

Playful ponies gallop across the Shadow Pasture print vest from Ariat. Lightly quilted so you can layer it under a jacket or over a heavier sweater.
$79.95; ariat.com

Totem Salvaged Vintage Puffy Vests

Rock a one-of-a-kind vest by TOTeM Salvaged. A cozy puffy vest is dressed up with unique western and equestrian-inspired prints. Designer Stephanie incorporates vintage materials into her pieces, making original apparel and accessories you can’t find anywhere else.
Prices vary; totemsalvaged.com

Unbridled Horse Quilted Vest

Galloping horse detail provides quilt insulation for core warmth without the bulk. Cut specifically for riding with a two-way zipper and soft fleece interior. Stretch panels provide a feminine fit. Two hand-warming front zip pockets.
$99.00; kerrits.com

Ona Hybrid Vest

The ideal mid-season or layering piece for the rider looking for performance. Windproof and thermoregulating, the Ona is made of technical stretch softshell with padded front panels and soft-touch nylon side panels. Machine washable.
$79.95; shop.horseware.com

This article about equestrian vests originally appeared in the November 2019 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Equi Style: Best Vests appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.