We know cleaning tack isn’t the favorite activity of the average Joe. That’s ok. And it’s

not something we want to do for hours on end either. That’s sort of how the idea was

conceived for Healthy Leather. There are important reasons to keep clean and

conditioned tack that have nothing to do with stuffiness or picky. Here are just handful

to help inspire you.

1. SAFETY

Safety should always be at the top of this list. Check the condition and strength of your

stitching. Horse sweat and saliva can break down stitching over time. Especially when

it isn’t at least wiped clean between uses. Pay particular attention to cheek pieces, reins,

girth/cinch, billets and stirrup leathers. If anything looks questionable or is starting to

fray or unstitch, remove it from use immediately. If you’ve been good to your tack, it’s

probably going to be just fine after a re-stitching by a leather/tack professional.

2. FEEL

Different types of leathers vary in feel and cut, but generally even leathers farther down

the quality roster benefit from a consistent tack care program. Stiff and rough not only

feels awful on your body, horses don’t love it either. Some horses have developed rubs,

sores and chaffing. Adding occasional deep conditioning day to your daily routine will

insure your leather stays soft, pliable and strong. Not only will your tack look and feel

better, it will last longer too.

Leather is expensive. I consider it an investment. It’s important to note that leather tack

in good used condition retains a solid resale value, so caring for it correctly makes a lot

of sense, especially when saddles often cost as much as a used car. Treat it like the

investment it is.

By giving your tack a quick wipe down after use, you are saving yourself the time and

headache involved with saving your care for a few days a year. With the use of the right

product, daily cleaning and care can take moments, and dirt and sweat slide right off

with a damp rag or sponge.

We’ll be posting both videos and blogs to walk you through the many ways you can use

Healthy Leather. Because there are a ton. My favorite is as an ALL IN ONE product.

That’s right, I said it. Healthy Leather has been used and loved for almost 35 years.

There’s really not a wrong way, other than the dreaded suede, nubuck and roughout.

Have you used it in a unique or off-label way? Let us know in comments.

Chin up,

Jill