Trade Talk July 2011

focus on... Tack & Equipment

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Welcome ContentsWhether supplying basic

everyday essentials, complicated training aids or

high-end competition leatherwear, most equestrian retailers stock tack of some description. This issue of Trade Talk will help you make the decisions on the best type of tack for your store.

Tack might be a very traditional term, but this is an area of the market that is constantly changing as research and development brings new ideas to the fore. Leading competition riders from across the disciplines work with manufacturers and saddle fitters to produce and test new equipment and designs, and specialist organisations such as the Society of Master Saddlers and Saddle Research Trust collect valuable scientific data to advance our knowledge of how certain pieces of tack perform. Keeping your customers aware of the latest theories and products – whether by information pinned on a notice board, an attractive new display or simply by word of mouth. It might just be the thing that persuades the customer to change or update their existing equipment. Be aware also of any clinics or studies being carried out in your local area, and make the most of it!Displaying tack correctly is as ever of crucial importance. It should be easy for the customer to see examples of the tack you stock, and be on hand with advice on what type of equipment might suit their particular horse and chosen discipline. With tack perhaps more than anything else, you get what you pay for, and customers should try to purchase the very highest quality tack they can afford. It is worth it in the long run.

Trade Talk provides some insight into the many aspects of tack, and profiles some of the most renowned manufacturers of equipment for the horse, to enable you to plan your sales.

EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY

Contact usT: +44 (0)1953 850678F: +44 (0)1953 851936E: [email protected]

DisClAimERWhilst every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained in this directory is both accurate and up-to-date, Trade Talk accepts no liability to any party for loss or damage incurred by reliance on the information contained in this publication or through omission or errors, howsoever caused.

4 Saddles - then and now

6 Lunging and training aids

8 Leather processing

9 Abbey England Aerborn UK Ltd

10 EquiAmi Ltd Griffin NuuMed Ltd

11 PolyPads and Libbys Tagg Equestrian

12 Bridle matters

14 Market leaders in design

16 Treeless saddles

17 Directory


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By Pat Crawford for the society of master saddlersSaddles aren’t a recent

invention – they have been

in existence for thousands of

years. One of the fascinating facts

in their history relates to the ‘design’ of

the earliest known saddles. ‘Design’ in parenthesis

because, of course, the Scythians didn’t sit around

discussing the conformation of their horses and

how to produce a saddle that mitigated unwanted

interference. Presumably it is by chance that their

saddles employed what today’s saddle-makers,

saddle fitters, physiotherapists, equine vets – and

all others involved in equine wellbeing – regard as

the two most important features of all: large bearing

surfaces and freedom from pressure along the

spine.

In the years between then and now the efficacy

of saddle design has varied enormously. Today

we take for granted that considerations for the

welfare, safety and performance of horse and rider

are implicit in saddle design, manufacture and

fitting. Throughout the centuries – when horses

were the main means of transport – this was far

from so. Indeed, some of the classical civilisations

– even those renowned for their contributions to

horsemanship – failed to pay meaningful attention

to the importance of equipping horses with well

fitting saddles. The comfort of the rider was

all – and over many generations, little account

was taken of what today we regard as the basic

principles of designing, making and fitting a saddle.

Different demandsThe demands made on horses by the modern

equestrian disciplines and sports are different

from those that were made on army horses

right up to the first quarter of the twentieth

century. It may be apocryphal, but the

Duke of Wellington is reported to have

ridden Copenhagen – standing a fraction

over 15 hands – for 39 hours between 16th

and 18th June at the Battle of Waterloo. The

day after the battle concluded, Copenhagen

was ridden to Brussels where, apparently, he

still had sufficient energy to break away from his

groom and gallop around the town. No doubt he

was seeking a viable escape route!

The standard of horsemanship exhibited in the

armies of the past varied – it was sometimes

exemplary – but more often, it was very bad.

During the Boer War, 326,000 horses were lost, a

saddles – then and now

”“Today, considerations

for welfare, safety and performance are

implicit in saddle design



tiny minority of them as a result of enemy action.

The remainder apparently had to be shot on

compassionate grounds – mostly as a result of

the hideous state of their backs.

After that, things improved in

the British army, and went

on improving. Right up to

the time tanks replaced

the cavalry, greater

attention was given to

riding standards. However,

the German and French

armies continued to lose

horses on a horrific scale up to

the time of the First World War. This

appalling record clearly demonstrates

the influence exerted by the standard

of riding, seriously inadequate saddles and poor

horse management.

modern advancesThings have moved on since then – a lot. Most

influential of all, the vast majority of today’s riders

are passionate about the welfare of their horses

and will spend a lot of time, effort and money

in relation to their general management. Saddle

design, boosted by considerable research and

development, has come a very long way, and

saddle fitting has been revolutionised:

- Different materials continue to be investigated.

Huge advances have occurred in the production of

synthetic saddles and accessories, and whereas

all trees were traditionally made of wood and steel

– and many still are – today far more are produced

from strong synthetic materials.

- Adjustable trees that enable the width fitting to

be altered are valuable additions – arguably with

one big stumbling block; riders’ assumptions that

they are able to make adequate adjustments to

the width themselves. Most riders – very sensibly

– elect to use the services of an SMS qualified

saddle fitter.

- Adjustable gullet plates have also made a very

useful addition to saddle design –

but again - few riders are able

to judge which plate to select.

Nor are they able to evaluate,

and take into account, the way the

overall fit will be influenced.

- A few years ago, manufacturers put a

great deal of time into researching air-

filled panels. These saddles now have a

considerable following, especially those

that can be adjusted in accordance with

the horse’s changing shape.

- Traditional flocking materials – wool and

felt – have been largely overtaken by wool/

synthetic mixes or synthetics in entirety.

- Little more than a couple of generations ago,

the choice of saddles was

very limited – hunting,

polo, general

purpose.

Today’s riders

have the

choice of a

multiplicity

of designs,

and elite

riders

continue

to work with

saddle makers

and fitters to produce

saddles with innovations.

- Some four years ago, the SMS and the British

Equestrian Federation invested

in a Pliance system which monitors the dynamic

interaction between horse, saddle and rider and

the pressure distribution under the saddle. The

system is a valuable tool and is being used

by saddle makers and fitters.

Information about the membership criteria of the

Society of Master saddlers can be obtained on the

website www.mastersaddlers.co.uk or telephone

(01449) 711642.


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The term ‘tack’ doesn’t just encompass the traditional saddle and bridle. lunging a horse can be a hugely beneficial part of fitness and training, and retailers should at least have the basic equipment to hand plus knowledge of how to operate it.

lunging equipment

According to Dr Hilary

Bentley of EquiAmi: “Whilst

no figures are available in

terms of numbers of people

lunging it is noted that more

and more people are becoming aware of the

importance of helping the horse to work through

its back to improve topline, strength and balance

and prevent problems. The increased use of

manèges and schools has facilitated an upsurge

in both flatwork and groundwork of all types for

professional, competition and leisure riders alike.”

The basic lunging equipment necessary to stock

includes lunge cavessons, lunge lines, side reins,

lunge whips and rollers, and some manufacturers

sell lunging sets to help get people started.

Advise that a cavesson should be used instead

of a traditional headcollar, which is likely to slide

around, or a bridle, as attaching the reins to the bit

can cause the horse to tilt its head. The cavesson

also allows for greater control, and can be used

with side reins to encourage the horse to work in

an outline.

A roller fastens around the horse in similar fashion

to a girth (although not as tightly), and is usually

padded on either side of the withers to keep it

clear of the spine. It is recommended a saddle

pad be worn under the roller when lunging. For

customers unsure of which size of roller their horse

needs, advise them to measure their horse’s belly

first, although it is better to get one that is a little

on the large side than too small.

Training aids

There are many different types of training aid. Like

bits, some are thought to have a more ‘severe’

action than others, but it is in fact the rider’s

hands that determine the amount of force or

pressure that is applied. Customers should be

encouraged to seek professional advice before

fitting one of these aids for the first time. Below

are some of the more common types:

Chambon

The chambon clips on to the top of the snaffle

ring, passes through rings near the ears and is

fastened to the girth like a martingale. The horse

is therefore encouraged not to carry its head too

high, as otherwise pressure is applied to the poll. It

also helps to relax the horse and enable it to move

more freely.

De Gogue

The De Gogue applies pressure to the poll, mouth

and tongue to encourage a horse to work in the

correct outline and use its muscles correctly. It

also helps relieve tension from the head and neck.

lunging and training aids

”“A lunge cavesson should

be used instead of a traditional headcollar,

which is likely to slide around


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image courtesy of EquiAmi

It has two settings – one for lunging and one for

riding. De Gogue reins should be used for riding,

which also have different settings.

market Harborough

Similar to a running martingale, the Market

Harborough exerts pressure on the bit and corners

of the mouth if the horse raises its head too high. It

can be used for improving acceptance of contact,

creating a rounder online, improving suppleness

and developing top line. The Market Harborough

should only be used in with a snaffle bit.

Trade Talk spoke to Dr Hilary Bentley to find out more about the development of the EquiAmi lunging aid and how it can benefit horses during training.

QHow did the EquiAmi lunging training

aid come about, and what development

processes did you go through before it hit the

shelves?

AThe EquiAmi lunging

aid was developed

specifically for one lovely

mare who, despite

treatment, couldn’t be

persuaded to use her

previously painful back.

She wouldn’t have liked

the restriction of other

aids and could lean on most

other things. I endeavoured to

make something that moved with

her and prevented leaning.

Initially baler twine was used but when I realised

I had made something really good, we enlisted

the help of a Walsall saddler to make prototypes

in better materials. The prototypes went through

several steps then field trials at busy yards and

therapy centres, followed by a final refining

stage before we considered it was good enough

functionally, aesthetically and in performance for

retail.

QWhat is the ideal scenario for lunging in terms

of how the horse works, and how do training

aids such as the EquiAmi help in this repect?

ALunging a horse is like an athlete doing

a workout in the gym. You are trying to

develop specific muscle groups that will then

enhance its athletic performance whatever the

discipline. The EquiAmi lunging aid encourages

the horse to step under from behind and swing

through its back whilst at the same time it invites

a soft, equal contact and lifting of the shoulders,

developing balance, self-carriage and improving

the paces and topline. The EquiAmi lunging

aid is especially beneficial to horses that dislike

restriction and restraint and those who try to

lean, as it discourages this. It has been used on

horses of all ages and types with great success,

including rehabilitation cases, ex-racehorses and

competition horses.

QDo you have any top sales or

display tips for retailers stocking

training aids?

AIt is always beneficial if staff

have first hand experience

of using the products so they

can offer help and advice. Many

of our retailers use one of our

aids themselves so they are very

knowledgeable when it comes to advising

customers and explaining the simplicity and

benefits of the aid. It is also useful to have a wide

range of lunging equipment, as many customers

require the whole kit: roller, cavesson, lunge rein,

lunge whip and training aid. Brushing boots and

gloves are also recommended so should be

positioned prominently.





leather processingDespite the development of synthetic tack, leather is still the most common and popular material used. Trade Talk looks at how this remarkable natural substance can be turned into tack.Leather is a living substance with qualities that

cannot be reproduced in synthetic materials,

making it irreplaceable as a strong, flexible and

durable material for equine equipment. The

vast majority of the leather used in saddlery is

derived from cows, more specifically made from

the animal’s hide, so it is of no surprise that, like

skin, full grain leather (one of the highest quality

and most breathable types of leather available)

comprises three layers.

The thin surface layer is made up of pores,

which are breathable but also allow dirt in and

the natural oils in leather to escape – which can

make the leather dry and brittle if not replenished.

The second layer or ‘corium’ is made up of long,

interlocking protein strands that form the leather’s

strength. They are also flexible, but under constant

friction can break down, causing the leather to

soften. The final layer is the ‘rough’, which helps

heat and sweat to escape, but like the grain it

forms an entry point for dirt.

Proper care of leather tack it therefore vital to

keep it strong, supple and useable, but how is

leather made in the first place? There is a long

line of processes that are required to transform

the natural hide into usable leather. Tanning helps

to prevent the hide from rotting and seals and

preserves the leather, which if looked after will last

for decades.

Tanning process

The hides are first washed in water.•These clean hides are then soaked in a •solution of limewater, which loosens hair

so that it can easily be removed.

The hides are then immersed in ‘liquors’ •(a solution of tannic acid made from

vegetable matter such as oak bark) of

varying strengths so that the leather is

tanned right through. An alternative to

vegetable tanning is chrome tanning,

using a basic chromium sulfate.

Chrome-tanned leather tends to be

softer and more flexible, and takes less

time to produce.

The hides then go through the currying •(dressing) process. This involves the

tanned hides being cleansed in a

revolving drum of acid and then dried.

The leather is then finished with an •application of oils – usually from marine

sources – and tallows (animal fat).


What to look for in a good piece of leather

Good substance •(thickness)

Flesh side (inside) is •smooth with no rough or

loose fibres

Leather should feel slightly •greasy, not dry

It should be firm to touch•When bent, neither side •should show bubbles on

the skin



Aerborn UK ltd

Abbey England

Aerolite is a breathable, lightweight and more technically advanced than the run of the mill gel or foam pad. The non-absorbing, inner pressure relieving material is ideal for a horse with sensitive backs, cold backed, or to aid the fit of a saddle. Its pressure relieving, impact and friction absorbing proper-ties help to elevate bruising, saddle sores and dissipates the weight and pressure distribution under the saddle without reducing saddle stability. Using a high-grade cotton outer means your customers can machine wash their Aerolite time and time again whilst remaining looking as good as new! This versatile relief pad with additional removable shims in both the front and the rear aimed at adjusting the balance and fit of the saddle. Ideal for use on young developing or rehabilitating horses, large yards where one saddle would be used on numerous horses or for just general condition change through the seasons. Offering all the advantages of an Aerolite relief pad, this version has the added bonus!Available in Large Combi-Riser to fit 17”+ saddle trees and Small Combi-Riser designed to fit up 16 1/2” saddle trees. All models are in black.

Founded in 1982, Abbey England has been built on honest, reliable and rapid service. Supplying high quality British made materials and tools, Abbey is one of the market leaders amongst equestrian wholesale suppliers. Not content with just supplying saddlers, harness and rug makers, Abbey also supplies specialist metal work for the fashion, motor and refrigeration markets.Abbey also manufactures quality bits to meet demand in the UK and overseas. The vast range includes snaffles, gags, pelhams, double bridles, driving bits, hackamores, sweet irons and a variety of rubber and vulcanite bits.Abbey currently exports to more than 52 different countries, with export customers looking to Abbey to provide the traditional qualities the company offers. In providing only the best quality, British made products it has gained a reputation for being reliable and niche. If you want something that is hard to find – call Abbey England and it will be able to help!The extensive catalogue is available by post or online.

CONTACTs: Address: Units 4 Lindum Business Park, Station Road, North Hykeham, Lincoln LN6 3QX Tel: +44 (0)1522 694439 Email: [email protected] www.aerborn.co.uk

CONTACTs: Address: Abbey England, Abbey House, Haig Road, Parkgate Industrial Estate, Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 8DX Tel: +44(0)1565 650343 Email: [email protected] www.abbeyengland.com, www.ridingbitz.com


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Griffin NuuMed LtdAll Griffin NuuMed’s 40 plus styles of saddlepads and numnahs are made in its factory in Somerset by a skilled team of cutters, machinists and finishers. As a result, the company knows the quality, consistency and longevity of NuuMed products is unrivalled – and the best of British numnahs will be on show at the 2012 London Olympics and Paralympics when NuuMed saddlepads will be worn by all our equestrian teams.The company puts customer service at the top of its agenda and prides itself on its service to retailers in terms of trying to ensure all goods are delivered on time, offering advice on which products to stock and supporting the NuuMed brand through marketing activity.Although best known for its ranges of saddlepads made using British wool, the company also produces a very popular anti-slip range, the ProPad selection, various specialist pads and a wide choice of a accessories.

CONTACTs: Address: Pipers Farm, Ashcott, Somerset TA7 9QN Tel: +44 (0)1458 210324 Fax: +44 (0)1458 210396 Email: [email protected] www.nuumed.com

EquiAmi ltdApart from promoting engagement, developing top line and enabling a horse to work through its back in balance and self-carriage, EquiAmi training aids are very simple to fit, use and adjust. The EquiAmi lunging aid can be fitted to a horse prepared for lunging in under two minutes; saving time for professionals and simplifying lunging for novices. The aids self-centre needing no adjustment for rein changes. The horse is always working in a soft, equal contact and the operator doesn’t need to adjust for bend. The kit comes in a hessian bag with illustrated booklet and DVD showing how to fit and use these novel and brilliant aidsEquiAmi aids are used and endorsed by top riders, trainers and therapists for groundwork and rehabilitation and have full UK & US patents therefore not a copy of anything else. Lunging, riding and Combi aids now available with good margins, support and service.

CONTACTs: Address: The Little Down, Crumps Brook, Hopton Wafers, Kidderminster, Worcs DY14 0ET Tel: +44 (0)1584 891049 Fax: +44 (0)1584 890121 Email: [email protected] www.equiami.com


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PolyPads and Libbys

CONTACTS: Address: 1 Kelvin Place, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 3RR Tel: +44 (0)1842 752020 Email: [email protected] www.polypads.co.uk www.libbys-tack.com

Tagg Equestrian Funnell Cross Country Boots

Developed with leading event rider Pippa Funnell, the cross country boots offer complete, full-length protection for both the front and hind legs, using a quality leather outer and compressed neoprene lining. They have an innovative strapping system which is quick and easy to secure to the leg, using no elastic, preventing stretching and slippage when wet.

Funnell Open Front Tendon and Fetlock Boots

Developed with both William and Pippa Funnell, the tendon boots offer substantial protection for any jumping discipline. The quality leather outer is reinforced at the fetlock and the compressed neoprene lining has moulded tendon support. The fastening is completely secure with a full-length hook and loop fastening. The Fetlock boots, also in quality leather, have additional outer protection with a compressed neoprene outer. The sturdy leather fastening strap secures the boots safely to prevent any rotation.

The entire range is hardwearing and easy to clean, built to last and available in Havana in full size only.

When it comes to first-class British manufacturing PolyPads is one of the best-known names in the business. PolyPads’ innovative range of equestrian saddle pads, leg protectors and pet beds are designed and manufactured exclusively in the UK, using the highest quality materials available. PolyPads products not only look good but are made to last far longer than imported budget brands and the brand is one of the most recognisable in the industry.PolyPads is able to fulfil fluctuating requirements, market trends, and keep tight quality control by manufacturing only on-site in Norfolk. PolyPads stocks a wide range of colours, and can deal easily with non-standard sizing requests and custom embroidery within the range. This flexibility extends to the recently acquired Libbys range of top quality, easy care synthetic equine tack, equipment and dog leads. Made in the same Norfolk factory from high quality materials, the Libbys range includes webbing bridles, martingales and schooling aids as well as the BETA Innovation Award-winning RS-tor safety aid.

CONTACTS: Address: Home Farm Barn, Winkburn, Newark, Nottinghamshire NG22 8PQ Tel: +44 (0)1636 636135 Fax: +44 (0)1636 636643 Email: [email protected] www.taggequestrian.co.uk

Bridle matters

The bridle is an important tool of communication and control, and can also help to show off a horse’s conformation to greater effect. Trade Talk looks at bridle design and some of the various styles available.

Bridles come in three main sizes - pony, cob and

full. However, these sizes are not necessarily the

same between manufacturers, and some horses

may need certain parts of the bridle in a larger size

than others. Recommend customers measure their

horse’s head prior to purchase, and have some

sizing charts to hand to help them choose what

they need.

In terms of style, raised leather bridles with

stitching look smart on most horses – usually in

black for dressage and brown for jumping. Wider

straps are best for larger headed horses, for

example those on the hunting field, whilst finer

horses such as Arabs are shown off best in a

finer bridle. As an alternative to leather, synthetic

and nylon webbing bridles are becoming more

common – usually available in a greater range of

colours, they are generally less expensive, easy

to clean and very durable. In fact, nylon is virtually

unbreakable – a potential problem if a horse

becomes entangled unless the bridle is designed

with breaking points. Some synthetic bridles are

vinyl covered to give them the appearance of

leather.

Even if the customer is not wishing to purchase a

new bridle in the entirety, it does not necessarily

mean that money cannot be made. Nosebands

and browbands – particularly browbands – can

be great little stand-alone items that allow the

customer to customise the look of their bridle

relatively inexpensively. They also can be used to

improve a horse’s appearance – for example, a

white browband attracts the eye to a horse with no





white markings and a wide noseband breaks up

the large white area on a horse with a wide blaze.

Nosebands

The cavesson is the most simple style of

noseband, and is the only style that should be

used with a double bridle, unless a crank (also

known as a cinchback) noseband is used instead.

The crank is similar to a cavesson, but designed

to fasten more tightly to prevent a horse from

crossing its jaw – popular with dressage riders or

for use on horses unable to wear nosebands that

fasten below the bit.

The latter styles of noseband include the drop,

flash and Grakle. Drop nosebands have fallen out

of fashion with riders of today, mainly as many do

not like the appearance it gives to the horse’s face.

If fitted to low it can restrict the horse’s breathing.

The flash noseband meanwhile remains popular

with many riders. The advantage of the flash is

that, unlike with a drop noseband, it can be used

with a standing martingale.

A Grakle noseband stops the horse from opening

its mouth or crossing its jaw. It is thought that this

design allows the nostrils to better expand during

fast work, and so Grakle nosebands are often seen

on eventers or racehorses (they are not allowed

for dressage). In fact, the Grakle is named after the

winner of the 1931 Grand National, which is when

this style suddenly rose to prominence.

Other styles include the unusual looking Kineton –

which has a more severe action for harder pullers.

It does not have a chin strap but instead has

two metal loops that sit under the bit rings. This

should only be used in the hands of more mild and

experienced riders.

Browbands

The function of the browband simply to keep the

bridle from sliding backwards. It is also the part of

the bridle that riders can ‘customise’ – although

browband fashion is always something that splits

opinion! Some people prefer plain, raised or

stitched leather, others velvet coloured ribbon, and

others favour more embellished styles. Browbands

with ‘bling’ have risen to popularity over recent

years, and are available decorated with beads,

stones or even Swarovski crystals.

Even the dressage superstar Totilas has been

seen sporting a sparkling browband, fuelling the

trend further, and these are particularly popular

with dressage riders. Waved – again as worn by

Totilas – or v-shaped browbands have also gained

in popularity and are designed to accentuate head

carriage.

It’s best to stock a range of browband styles to

take individual taste into account, but don’t go

overboard – few happy hackers will be willing to

shell out the £40.00 plus for a luxury diamond

browband, so if this is your main client base, stick

to more simple styles.

Bitless bridles

Certain horses object to being, or are unable to be

ridden in a traditional bitted bridle. Some people

also extol the more natural, ‘kinder’ element of

using a bitless bridle, although they are not to be

recommended for inexperienced riders or those

with a heavy hand.

Bitless bridles are designed to control the horse

using pressure on the poll, cheek and nose, and

manufacturers purport they encourage a more

natural position of the head and neck and help

the horse to be less heavy on the forehand. These

bridles may also be good for horses that fight the

bit, headshakers and those that constantly get

their tongue over the bit, although they are not

necessarily a quick-fix solution. The customer

should be reminded that there might be other

issues – such as dental problems – that are behind

such behaviour.



Griffin NuuMed is one of those increasingly rare companies – a UK manufacturer as well as world leader in the design, development and production of numnahs and saddlepads, and one that specialises in using natural fabrics as far as possible. As managing director Rosie Pocock explains, the company prides itself on its flexibility, accessibility, accountability and quality control, with all products hand finished and checked before dispatch.

Located in the village of Ashcott, Somerset, the

NuuMed team is made up of highly skilled cutters,

machinists and finishers, many of whom have been

with us for years and who actively contribute their

ideas on improving and creating products. On the

end of the phone are people

able to offer advice

and assistance on

a whole range

of queries.

The efficient

stock

control

system and

production

team mean

that NuuMed

is proud to say

that the majority

of orders can be

completed and sent

out within five working days

from the day the order is placed or overnight if the

product is in stock.

The company keeps the top 400 items in stock

and carry increasingly high levels of raw material to

ensure any one of the 1800+ SKU’s in their range

can be made up to order.

Some retailers comment that we offer too much

choice, but we are a specialised saddlepad

producer selling a ‘little of a lot’ – or relatively small

numbers of a wide rage of products –

and it is this that makes us very

different to companies which

mass produce just a few lines.

New designs

NuuMed has always been a

market leader in the design

and development of numnahs

and saddlepads, working with

saddle fitters, equine physiotherapists, rider and

owners to create products which work effectively

with a whole range of saddles. NuuMed was the

first company to develop HiWither numnahs and

saddlepads – a design unique to NuuMed, which

follow the contours of a horse’s back. Many have

copied the concept, but NuuMed’s original design

remains one of the best fitting.

Over the years we have designed a range of

numnahs and saddlepads to fit most saddles,

which means that whatever your customer’s area

of equestrianism – hacking, dressage, eventing,

hunting, endurance, racing, and western – there is

a NuuMed numnah or saddlepad to suit.

Natural materials

Best known for the range of wool lined products,

NuuMed is proud to use only top quality British

Market leaders in design



wool, which is specially selected,

mixed and knitted onto cotton

yarn (as opposed to using

sheep’s skin). This gives all

the benefits of wool and

none of the disadvantages

of the skin. The cotton yarn

backing is easier to look after,

doesn’t get heavy when wet,

doesn’t disintegrate and has not been

through lots of chemical processes to make

it usable.

Over the years, wool has proven time and time

again the benefits it offers a horse. However, when

used still on the sheep’s skin, it can be uneven and

of differing weights, as

naturally the

wool

grows in

varying

lengths

and

thicknesses

depending on

where the skin

is from. For the

wool material

NuuMed uses,

the wool is carefully

selected and mixed to be an optimum weight

for use in saddlepads. This is then knitted on to

the cotton yarn (a process called sliverknit) and

then the material

is shorn to the

length specified by

NuuMed. This means

that we can make

sure that there is a

consistent level of

thickness and thus

protection, which is

important to for a horses comfort.

The variety of material

used in numnahs and

saddlepads is almost as

extensive as the different

styles now available –

confusing not only for

the consumer but for the

retailer as well. But British

wool has stood the test of

time and we firmly believe it

is still the best material to have next to

a horses skin.

Made to measure

With such a vast array of saddles on the market,

it is not always possible to find a numnah or

saddlepad that fits properly, but because NuuMed

design and make all products at its Somerset

factory, the company is able offer a ‘made to

measure’ service – a service NuuMed can offer

through retailers or direct to their customers.

NuuMed also offers an embroidery service on the

range of products, be it initials, a single name or a

detailed logo. Examples of embroidery customers

include: sponsors, equestrian colleges, school

teams, race yards, individual riders, riding clubs,

pony clubs, the Mounted Police Divisions, retailers,

saddle makers and saddle fitters. We can supply

embroidery on single or multiple items and there is

no minimum order.



Treeless saddles are gaining in popularity, but the thinking behind the development of the treeless concept remains controversial. Trade Talk investigates.

Traditionalists argue that a saddle needs an inbuilt

tree in order to protect the spine. Advocates of

treeless saddles – which instead use pads or

panels to cushion the back – say they allow the

saddle to flex with horse, giving greater freedom of

movement. Others say that no one style is better

than the other, and it is simply down to personal

preference as to which style of saddle is chosen.

Some manufacturers push the advantage that

without a tree, the saddle will fit several different

horses, and is more likely to fit those with ‘difficult’

conformation, such as high withers or uneven

shoulders. However it is important to emphasise

that all saddles, whether treeless, part-treed

or treed, should always be properly fitted,

remembering also that treeless saddles may also

mould to the shape of the horse over time.

An advantage with many treeless and part-treed

saddles though is that they can be adjusted using

shimming and/or padding, rather than having

to return the saddle for alteration. The fit of the

saddle is particularly important in young horses or

other horses that change shape on a regular basis

due to changing condition or fitness levels. Horse

owners should seek advice as soon as they notice

any changes, before their horse develops any

soreness or telltale patches of white hair.

Freedom of movement

A horse that is ridden on a loose rein with high

head carriage will hollow its back. When the horse

is ridden correctly on the bit or long and low the

angle of the back will change and the spine will

look less hollowed. Any horse can lift its back in

the saddle position about 5cm depending on the

engagement of different muscle groups and dorsal

ligament. The argument for treeless saddles is that,

not being rigid, they are better able to adapt to this

changing posture.

Rider balance

Another advantage of treeless saddles is that

they allow the rider to have closer contact with

the horse. However, this means that a treeless

saddle may be less suitable for inexperienced,

unbalanced or ‘heavy’ riders. Some riders may

not be suited also to the wider seat of a treeless

saddle compared to that of a traditional model.

When buying a treeless saddle, it is important

to bear in mind any weight restrictions – some

saddles are not suitable for very heavy riders or

require extra padding to be used. Various styles

are available on the market, with differing designs

and features, and thus the customer should try

several different makes of treeless saddle in order

find the one that they find most comfortable and

best suited to their requirements.

Treeless saddles

Certain horses may benefit from a treeless saddle. Image from The Saddle Research Trust

Abbey Saddlery+44 (0)1565 650343www.abbeysaddlery.co.uk

About Tack Ltd +44 (0)800 634 7377www.abouttack.com

Aerborn +44 (0)1522 694439www.aerborn.co.uk

Albion Saddlemakers Co. Ltd+44 (0)1922 646210www.albionsaddlemakers.co.uk

Aqueos+44 (0)1672 562007www.aqueos.co.uk

Black Country Saddles Ltd+44 (0)1543 578 243www.blackcountrysaddles.co.uk

Chestfields+ 44 (0)1227 276129www.chestfields.com

Clarendon Equestrian Ltd+44 (0)1825 733361www.clarendon-equestrian.com

Classic Showjumps+44 (0)1617 652010www.classicshowjumps.com

EquiAmi Ltd+44 (0)1584 891049www.equiami.com

Equigene+44 (0)8452 223344www.medi-mark.co.uk

Equilibrium Products+44 (0)1442 879115 www.EquilibriumProducts.com

Equine Management+44 (0)1825 840002www.equineman.com

Flexalan+44 (0)1829 760397www.flexalan.com

Flexi-Works+44 (0)1745 222623www.flexiworksequine.co.uk

Fly Away Ltd+44 (0)1384 877857www.flyaway.ltd.uk

Frank Baines Saddlery Ltd+44 (0)1922 640847www.frankbaines.com

Gallop Equestrian+44 (0)1902 454771www.gallopequestrian.com

GFS Riding Limited+44 (0)1922 638094www.gfsriding.co.uk

Griffin Nuumed+44 (0)1458 210324www.nuumed.com

Horseware Ireland+353 42 9389000 www.horseware.com

IV Horse Ltd+44 (0)1888 544261www.4horse.co.uk

Jabez Cliff & Co Ltd+44 (0)1922 621676www.barnsby.com

Jaguar Equestrian+44 (0)1922 612238www.jaguarequestrian.com

Kate Negus Saddlery+44 (0)1249 740590www.katenegus.com

Keith Bryan Saddlery Co+44 (0)1922 628325www.keithbryansaddlery.com

Kemp Controller+ 44 (0)7957 867559www.kempcontroller.com

Kieffer UK+44 (0)1536 742364 www.kieffer.co.uk


Contact Detailsfocus on... Tack & Equipment



Contact DetailsLegacy Equestrian+44 (0))1494 714527www.legacyequestrian.co.uk

LS Sales (Farnam) Ltd+44 (0)1608 683855www.lesliesutcliffe.com

Naf+44 (0)800 373106www.naf-uk.com

Neue Schule+44 (0)8446 644600 www.nsbits.com

New Equine Wear+44 (0)1172 303700www.newequinewear.co.uk

Novel (pliance)+44 (0)1159 622622www.novel.de

Polypads and Libby’s+44 (0)1842 752020www.polypads.co.uk

Prestige Italia+39 0445 490300www.prestigeitaly.com

Professional’s Choice+1 619 8731100www.profchoice.com

Ryder Saddles+44 (0)1922 616578 www.rydersaddles.com

Sabre Leather Company Limited+44 (0)1922 629925www.sabreleather.co.uk

Shires Equestrian Products+44 (0)1568 613600www.shiresequestrian.com

Snowhill Saddlery Ltd+44 (0)1243 672323www.snowhilltradesaddlery.co.uk

Solution Saddles+44 (0)7738 711099www.solution-saddles.co.uk

Tagg Equestrian +44 (0)1636 636135www.taggequestrian.co.uk

The English Gaiter Compay.+44 (0)1604 880605www.english-gaiter.co.uk

The Society of Master Saddlers (UK) Ltd+44 (0)1449 711642www.mastersaddlers.co.uk

Thorowgood Ltd+44 (0)1922 711676www.thorowgood.com

Trelawne Equine+44 (0)8442 578585www.trelawneequine.co.uk

UK Saddles Ltd44 (0)1922 615015www.uksaddlesltd.com

Waldhausen GmbH & Co KG+44 (0)1392 881880www.waldhausen.com

Weatherbeeta Ltd+44 (0)1295 226900www.weatherbeeta.com

Westgate EFI Ltd+44 (0)1303 872277 www.wefi.co.uk

Westropp Horse Boots+44 (0)1476 870489www.westropphorseboots.co.uk

Woof Wear Ltd+44 (0)1208 265920www.woofwear.com

WOW Saddles (FTE Ltd)+44 (0)1942 681002www.wowsaddles.com

Chips4Tack+44 (0)1323 460887www.chips4tack.com

Your Gift Horse Ltd (Leather Therapy)+44 (0)1454 202033 www.yghtrade.com

aerborn

Trade Talk July 2011

Documents

Transcript of Trade Talk July 2011