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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
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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.
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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).
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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
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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
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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.
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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
focus on... Tack & Equipment
www.tradetalkonline.co.uk TRADE talk equestrian directory 15
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.
focus on... Tack & Equipment
www.tradetalkonline.co.ukTRADE talk equestrian directory16
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
www.tradetalkonline.co.uk TRADE talk equestrian directory 17
Contact Detailsfocus on... Tack & Equipment
focus on... Tack & Equipment
www.tradetalkonline.co.ukTRADE talk equestrian directory18
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
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