( FOCUS ON SADDLING ) Absorbine Leather Care Tips
I
t’s undoubtable that the correct care and maintenance of leather equipment helps to ensure its longevity. Looking aſter your tack not only helps you and your horse look your best, but also ensures your
well-being. Regular checks of stitching, leather condition and correct fitting are all essential for safety, so getting into a routine makes for good practice. We’ve put together some cleaning, maintenance and storage tips for a
fuss-free approach to help preserve your tack. Look aſter your leather and your leather will look aſter you.
Cleaning and Maintenance It is good practice to clean saddles and bridles aſter every use to remove salt and grime found in sweat, all of which can damage leatherwork by cracking and discolouring. Furthermore, warm and supple leather is much easier to clean than hard, dry leather and any accumulated dirt will be easier to remove. Whilst it may be tempting to clean your bridle in one piece, dismantle it
into separate parts to ensure a thorough clean and to check that all fastenings and attachments are in working order. Pay particular attention to the condition of the leather on your reins, as this is likely to become worn more quickly than other areas on the bridle, especially if you do not use rubber grips. Ensure girth straps and stirrup leathers are fit for purpose check for
cracking and stretching. Stitched leather can oſten last longer than standard leather, as it does not stretch in the same way. Where possible, always mount from a block rather than from the ground to minimise stretching of leathers, alongside avoiding damage to your horse’s back. Girths should regularly be inspected for any signs of wear and tear. Clean regularly alongside your saddle and bridle to help keep it soſt and supple and reduce the risk of rubbing or chaffing. Fluctuations in temperature or weather patterns can wreak havoc on leather, causing it to dry out, crack and become brittle, so keep an eye on the forecast. Always allow leather to dry out if has becomes wet during use, then remove mud, grime and sweat with warm water and cleaner before allowing it to dry clean, away from direct heat.
88 JULY/AUGUST 2019
Storage Storing your tack properly is vital to maintaining its appearance and condition. Sit your saddle on a saddle rack above ground level to help preserve its shape and always hang your bridle from a peg. Always remove your girth from both sides of the saddle to avoid stretching and minimising damage to buckles and straps. This practice will also help to avoid permanent creasing to leatherwork. Saddle covers and bridle bags are a practical investment as they protect
from dust, debris and scratches. Choose natural fabrics which will allow the leather to breathe, rather than plastic sheeting which may cause it to sweat. Avoid damp atmospheres for storing tack as this will encourage the
growth of mildew. Mould can wreak havoc on your tack so regular cleaning will help minimise this risk. If you do find evidence of mould, clean all items outside to avoid spores circulating your tack room. Similarly, keep all leatherwork out of direct sunlight to avoid drying out and colour fading.
It’s perfect for treating leather before storage to minimise mould and mildew build up and will not darken leather or harm stitching. Horseman’s One Step Leather Cleaner and Conditioner is a convenient, one-step leather cleaning and conditioning cream. It removes dirt and sweat, provides suppleness and a delivers a natural shine in one easy step, no water required.
Products Absorbine Leather Therapy Wash is an advanced leather cleansing formula for both natural and synthetic leathers. It cleans gently but thoroughly, liſting embedded dirt, sweat and grime with- out leaving any surface residue. Follow with Absorbine Leather Therapy Restorer & Conditioner, which comprises a blend of rich, replenishing oils to soſten and maintain both old and new leather.
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