Favorite Gear & Tack
This page is a running list of tack and gear I actually use. No hype. No pretty things that sit in a tack room. If it is here, it has held up in the cold, the dust, the chaos, and the long days when horses and riders both need support. Some links help support this site, all opinions are my own. Buy what works for you, leave the rest.
Troxel Helmets
Safety is not optional in my barn. Troxel helmets are what my riders and I wear every day because they fit real heads, hold up to real riding, and do not cut corners where it matters.
If you are shopping for a new helmet, you can use my code WHITNEYW10 for 10% off your purchase directly through Troxel.
Shop here: https://www.troxelhelmets.com/
Pretty Polos by Jessie
Pretty Polos by Jessie is one of our favorite local stops for show-ready pieces that still feel wearable. These are the polos we reach for when we want to look polished without sacrificing comfort or movement. Thoughtfully made, rider-owned, and rooted in the equestrian community. She ships all over! You can also find her at a local, regional or state event!
Shop here: https://prettypolosbyjessie.com/
Klu Bits
Klu Bits are in my rotation because they are thoughtfully designed and horse-first. They offer clear communication without being heavy-handed, which matters when you are building softness, trust, and consistency. She also runs drawings on her Facebook page for some incredible bit packages, which is just another reason to follow along and support a maker who truly gives back to the horse community.
Shop here: https://klubits.com/
Follow the drawings here: https://www.facebook.com/klubits/
Circle H Western Store
Circle H is one of our go-to western stores. From boots and denim to hats and everyday western wear, this is a place we trust for pieces that hold up and feel right. Their customer service is outstanding, including custom boot fitting, which makes a real difference. Quality gear, real help, and a store that still does things the right way.
Shop here: https://circlehwestern.com/
Tyler Shupe Leather
Tyler Shupe Leather is one of our favorite leather workers. Everything is handmade, and the tack is just as beautiful as it is functional. Real works of art that are built to be used, not just admired. The quality is high, the craftsmanship is consistent, and the pricing stays refreshingly affordable for custom leather.
Shop here: https://tylershupeleather.com/
SPH Gear
SPH Gear makes one of my favorite saddle pads. The coupe and square skirt cutouts allows for maximum leg contact without extra bulk, which makes a real difference in feel and communication. They lay flat, stay put, and do not get in the way. Affordable, durable, and available in a wide range of colors, these pads are easy to use and easy to keep in rotation.
Shop here: https://sphgear.com/
AMAZON
Easy. Simple. Fast.
This list exists for convenience. These are everyday tack and gear items I reorder, replace, or keep multiples of because they work and they are easy to get quickly. I use affiliate links for each item, which helps support this site at no extra cost to you. Everything linked here is something I actually use.
Leg Protection
Open Front Splint Boots
Wandrola Splint Boots
We love these boots. They are lightweight, super cooling, and more protective than they look. Easy to clean, easy to put on, and they hold up to real work days. We recommend the set with both front and back boots. Horses hit themselves more than most people realize, especially when they are trying hard and giving everything they have. These boots help protect them while they do exactly that.
Recovery/Warmth
Fleece Rug
Horse Fleece Blanket / Cooler
This fleece blanket is a barn staple for us. We use it as a cooler after rides and as an extra layer under winter blankets when temperatures drop. It is affordable, easy to wash, and easy to replace when horses do what horses do and rip things up. Nothing fancy, just functional gear that earns its keep.
Rider Comfort
Full Seat Breeches
Riding Breeches
These breeches are a favorite for long ride days. The grip is solid without feeling sticky, and the fabric is comfortable enough to move, sit, and ride without fighting you. They stay put, breathe well, and hold up to real barn work. Easy to wear, easy to trust.
Instructor Comfort
HEATED Jacket
Heated Jacket
I cannot live without this jacket in the winter. It takes the bitter edge off cold days without feeling bulky, which matters when you are teaching and moving nonstop. If you are even a little cold-sensitive, this is one of those pieces that makes winter riding and lessons manageable instead of miserable.
Instructor Comfort
Ariat Paddock Boots
Ariat Terrain Boots
I have owned four pairs of Ariat Terrain boots. I have worn them since the beginning of the lesson program, including stretches of nearly thirty hours a week on my feet. They broke in well, held up through real barn work, and stayed comfortable and rideable the whole time. The laces wore out long before the boots ever did, which says a lot.
Tools of the Trade
Rope Halters
Halter with Four Pressure Points
These halters are outstanding, and Knotty Girlz makes some of our favorites. The four pressure points offer clear communication without being harsh, and the stiffness and structure are just right. They hold their shape, do not collapse, and stand up to daily use without falling apart. Well-made tack like this makes handling and groundwork simpler and safer.