9 min read Last updated: January 2026 Battling CPL in a pinkskinned, heavily feathered Gypsy Cob? This warm, practical guide shows you how a simple 3step daily routineclean, dry, protectcombined with smart clipping (keep legs dry 2448 hours postclip) and seasonspecific layers can slash flareups and keep your horse comfortable and working. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Daily CleanDryProtect What To Do: Gently rinse or wipe legs with lukewarm water or mild vetapproved wash, then pat and airdry fully. Apply a light, breathable barrier and check skin under feather daily. Why It Matters: Consistent hygiene reduces moisture, scurf and irritation that trigger CPL flareups. Common Mistake: Scrubbing harshly or rugging/booting damp legs. Area: Feather Clipping Strategy What To Do: Trim and thin feathers to expose pasterns and heels, leaving a light protective veil. Clip when you can keep legs dry for 2448 hours afterwards. Why It Matters: Controlled clipping improves visibility and treatment access without losing all natural protection. Common Mistake: Clipping to the skin right before wet, muddy turnout or a cold snap. Area: Mite Control & Hygiene What To Do: Follow a vetguided mite treatment plan for the whole yard and repeat as advised. Disinfect grooming kit, rugs, boots and stable touchpoints. Why It Matters: Breaking the mite/infection cycle cuts itching, inflammation and secondary infections. Common Mistake: Treating only the affected horse or overusing strong chemicals on pink skin. Area: Exercise & Farriery What To Do: Provide daily movement (turnout, inhand, ridden) and keep trims/shoeing on schedule with careful pastern and heel balance. Manage weight with controlled calories and low sugar/starch. Why It Matters: Movement and balanced feet support lymph flow and comfort, slowing skin thickening. Common Mistake: Boxing up for long periods or letting hoof balance slide. Area: Summer UV Protection What To Do: Use breathable UV fly rugs and highprotection sunblock on pink areas; avoid peak sun on very bright days. Reapply sunblock after washing or sweating. Why It Matters: Preventing sunburn reduces inflammation that worsens CPL. Common Mistake: Relying on sunblock alone without coverage or reapplication. Area: Winter/Wet Management What To Do: Limit deepmud exposure with rotation and hardstanding. Rinse mud off promptly, dry legs completely before stabling, and use breathable layers to aid drying. Why It Matters: Dry skin prevents pastern dermatitis and infection. Common Mistake: Letting mud bake on or trapping moisture under boots/wraps. Area: Nutrition & Supplements What To Do: Feed balanced protein, omega3s, and adequate zinc/copper; keep sugar/starch modest. Add a targeted skin supplement if the base ration is light. Why It Matters: Good nutrition supports a stronger skin barrier and healing. Common Mistake: Overfeeding easy keepers or ignoring trace mineral balance. Area: Vet Check for PPID What To Do: If you see coat changes, laminitis or muscle loss with leg swelling, ask your BEVAregistered vet about PPID testing and treatment. Review CPL and PPID plans together. Why It Matters: Managing PPID can indirectly improve skin health and comfort. Common Mistake: Assuming all signs are from CPL and delaying hormonal assessment. In This Guide What is CPL in Gypsy Cobs? CPL vs PPID (Cushings disease): whats the difference? Why pink skin and heavy feather complicate CPL Day-to-day leg and skin routine that actually works Clipping feathers with CPL: when, how and how much Mites and infection control: stopping the flare cycle Movement, farriery and weight: the unsung essentials Sun, mud and UK season strategy for pink skin If you own a Gypsy Cob with pink skin and plenty of feather, managing leg health can feel like a fulltime job. Chronic Progressive Lymphedema (CPL) is a real challenge in feathered breeds but with a consistent routine and the right kit, you can keep your horse comfortable, active and looking smart yearround.Key takeaway: CPL isnt curable, but a simple, repeatable routine clean, dry, protect will dramatically reduce flareups in pinkskinned, feathered Gypsy Cobs.What is CPL in Gypsy Cobs?CPL (Chronic Progressive Lymphedema) is a lifelong lymphatic disorder that causes swelling, skin thickening and folds, particularly from the fetlocks down in heavy, feathered breeds like Gypsy Cobs. It develops gradually and is worsened by moisture, mites and skin trauma, so management focuses on meticulous skin care, parasite control and supporting circulation.Youll often first notice puffiness around the pasterns, small skin nodules in the feather, scurf and itching. Over time, the skin can become thick and ridged, with recurrent infections and discomfort. While theres no cure, early, consistent management slows progression and keeps horses comfortable and in work.CPL vs PPID (Cushings disease): whats the difference?CPL is a lymphatic and skin condition, whereas PPID (equine Cushings disease) is a hormonal disorder of the pituitary gland; theyre distinct problems, though a horse can have both. If youre seeing long curly coats that dont shed, laminitis, or muscle loss alongside leg swelling, speak to your vet about PPID testing managing hormones can indirectly help skin health too.Think of CPL as a local limb/skin management challenge, and PPID as a wholehorse endocrine issue. Your BEVA-registered vet can help you map out testing, treatment and monitoring so neither condition is missed.Why pink skin and heavy feather complicate CPLPink skin burns more readily and is more reactive, while heavy feather traps moisture, mud and mites together, they create ideal conditions for CPL flareups. Sunburn, mud fever and chorioptic mites all magnify inflammation, making legs itchier, thicker and more difficult to keep clean.In UK summers, UV exposure can be surprisingly strong between late spring and early autumn, and in winters our persistent wet and mud are tough on pasterns. The goal is to protect pink skin from sun, reduce wet/mud contact, and keep the skin visible enough to monitor and treat promptly.Day-to-day leg and skin routine that actually worksThe best daily routine for CPL is simple: cleanse gently, dry thoroughly, moisturise and protect. Repeatable steps beat oneoff deep cleans every time. Rinse or wipe off mud and scurf with lukewarm water or a mild, vetrecommended skin wash; avoid harsh scrubbing. Pat dry with a clean towel and airdry fully; never rug or boot damp legs. Apply a light, breathable moisturiser or barrier to protect pink areas and skin folds. Lift and separate feather to inspect skin daily; remove loose scurf with soft brushes. Introduce a regular mite prevention plan for your yard under veterinary guidance.Quick tip: Build your routine around times you can guarantee drying after riding, late afternoon, or when stabled overnight. Consistency matters more than products. For the tools that make this easy, see our carefully curated grooming collection.For exercise or turnout when the ground is abrasive or you need postwash compression, supportive wraps can help but only on clean, fully dry legs, and for limited periods. Explore soft, breathable options in our horse boots and bandages range.Clipping feathers with CPL: when, how and how muchClip enough feather to see and treat the skin, but avoid taking feathers right down to the skin just before wet turnout or in cold weather. The aim is visibility and hygiene without sacrificing all natural protection.Practical pointers: Start with a hygienic tidy rather than a full close clip: thin and shorten feather to expose the pasterns and heels while leaving a light protective veil. Use clean, sharp blades; clip with the hair grain on sensitive zones and avoid aggressive pressure. Schedule clipping when you can keep legs dry for a day or two afterwards to let micronicks settle. For showing or clinics, clip at least 1014 days beforehand so clip lines soften and any skin reactions calm before you travel. Patch test any postclip products on a small area of pink skin first.If your horse is in hard work or youre battling persistent infections, a more thorough clip may be necessary so medicated washes and treatments reach the skin. Balance that with extra protection (see sun and mud strategies below).Mites and infection control: stopping the flare cycleChorioptic mites thrive in feather and are a major driver of itching and secondary infection in CPL, so treat the whole yard plan, not just the individual horse. Work with your vet on a product and repeattreatment schedule, and decontaminate grooming kit and stable surfaces at the same time.When the skin barrier is compromised, bacteria and yeasts can take hold. A steady rhythm of gentle cleansing and drying beats frequent strong chemicals, which can irritate pink skin. Reserve medicated washes for active flareups as advised by your vet, and always moisturise lightly afterwards to support the barrier.Movement, farriery and weight: the unsung essentialsRegular movement, balanced feet and appropriate body condition all help lymph flow and slow CPL thickening. Daily turnout, inhand walks or ridden work keep the leg pump active and reduce stocking up.Ask your farrier to keep a close eye on pastern and heel balance so skin folds arent aggravated by hoof angles. Hoof care that promotes even loading makes a real difference to comfort when the skin is tender. If your Cob is an easy keeper, controlled calories and low sugar/starch feeds reduce systemic inflammation and laminitis risk particularly important if PPID is on your vets radar.Sun, mud and UK season strategy for pink skinIn summer, protect pink skin from UV with shade, long grass turnout and UV-blocking layers; in winter, minimise prolonged wet and mud contact to avoid pastern dermatitis. Seasonspecific protection prevents the triggers that make CPL spiral.Summer tactics: Use UV-protective layers that breathe well; many modern fly rugs offer excellent coverage for sensitive skin. Apply highprotection equinesafe sunblock to white/pink noses, heels and pasterns; reapply after washing. Avoid turnout during peak sun hours on very bright days.Winter/wet tactics: Manage turnout so legs arent submerged in deep mud for hours on end; rotate fields and use hardstanding where possible. Rinse mud off promptly and dry fully before stabling; never trap damp under boots or wraps. Use breathable turnout layers that keep the body warm so legs dry faster after work or washing.To help with UV and insect defence, browse our lightweight, breathable fly rugs with UV protection. For wet months, quality layering from our turnout rugs and cosy options from our stable rugs range support faster drying and consistent comfort.Nutrition and supplements that support skinA balanced diet with quality protein, essential fatty acids and the right trace minerals supports skin resilience and healing. Look for targeted omega3, zinc and copper support if your base ration is light, and keep overall sugar/starch modest, especially if laminitis or PPID are concerns.At Just Horse Riders, weve seen good results when owners pair a consistent skin routine with a wellchosen supplement. Explore options in our supplements collection, including trusted formulations from NAF.Build a simple CPL care kitA small, consistent kit makes daily care quick and quick is what keeps you doing it. Gentle skin wash and soft sponge or microfibre cloths. Clean, absorbent towels for thorough drying. Light barrier/moisturiser suitable for sensitive, pink skin. Feather comb and soft body brush to lift and check skin without scratching. Clipper with sharp blades for hygienic tidies and postclip soothing spray. Breathable support wraps/boots for travel or short, clean postwash compression. UV-protective fly rug and targeted sunblock for pink areas.Youll find the everyday tools in our grooming range and supportive lowerlimb options in horse boots and bandages. For summer coverage, pick from wellpriced, durable designs in our fly rugs selection.ConclusionCPL management for pinkskinned Gypsy Cobs is all about rhythm: clean, dry, protect every day. Keep feathers tidy enough to see the skin, protect against sun and mud, treat mites across the yard, and support circulation with movement and good farriery. If PPID is a possibility, bring your vet into the plan early.Need help choosing kit for a sensitive horse? Our team is here to help you build a practical routine with products that work. Start with our grooming essentials and add smart seasonal layers from turnout rugs to UV fly rugs.FAQsIs CPL curable?No CPL is a lifelong condition, but you can slow progression and keep your horse comfortable with consistent skin care, mite control, and good movement and farriery. Many Gypsy Cobs live active, happy lives with a solid routine.Should I remove all feather on a Gypsy Cob with CPL?Not always. Clip enough to clearly see and treat the skin, but avoid very close clips right before wet, muddy turnout or in cold snaps. A tidy, shortened feather often strikes the best balance between hygiene and natural protection.When is the best time to clip feathers?Clip when you can keep legs dry for 2448 hours afterwards so the skin can settle. If youre heading to a show, clip at least 1014 days before so lines soften and any irritation resolves before you travel.Are mites the cause of CPL or just a complication?Mites dont cause CPL, but they drive itching and inflammation that make CPL worse. Treat the horse and the environment on a repeat schedule advised by your vet, and maintain strict grooming hygiene.Can I still show a Gypsy Cob with clipped feathers?Check your disciplines rules and show preferences. Health and welfare come first if clipping is needed to manage skin disease, do it, and present your horse clean, comfortable and well turned out.How do I protect pink skin from sunburn?Use UV-protective fly rugs, apply highprotection sunblock to pink areas, and adjust turnout to avoid peak sun. Browse breathable options in our UV fly rug collection.What rugs help in winter for a horse with CPL?Choose breathable turnout layers to speed drying after work or washing, and add stable layers that keep the body warm while legs airdry. See our curated turnout rug and stable rug selections for UK conditions. Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. Shop Grooming KitShop Boots & BandagesShop Fly RugsShop Turnout RugsShop Supplements

Every mile tells a story. For the riders who completed #Hack1000Miles in just one year, the challenge became a journey of perseverance, partnership and unforgettable days in the saddle. Here is the final Wall of Fame to mark the end of this hacking year. All of the incredible riders pictured have successfully hacked 1,000 miles over the past 12 months. Find out more about them belowRiding Sorrem Slim Lindsey Mariner Canon EOS 5D Mark IV f/8 1/1600s 148mm ISO800This is the first year that Lindsey has tipped the 1000-mile marker, riding out four times a week on her Haflinger x Quarter Horse, Sorren. Lindsey has had the 14-year-old since he was four and they enjoy taking part in all the activities put on by their local riding society, Vectis Equestrian Club on the Isle of Wight. The pair managed 600 miles in the challenge a few years ago and Lindsey decided to really tot up the miles this year to help Sorren stay slim.She says: Sorren was getting a little chunky and his chiropractor said I needed to keep his weight down, so weve been trying to get out much more this year. I like to ride out with friends when I can, do pleasure rides and at weekends I go for long rides with my husband Richard on his bike.Miles for the love if it Rosie Martin After endurance rider Rosie managed to hit 1000 miles in five months, she stopped counting officially but accumulated another thousand-plus on Larry the cob and Darty her Arabian.I love to ride and hack every day when Im able, says Rosie, who likes to box her horses up and them out for rides on Salisbury Plain, to the beach at Berrow in Somerset and into the Mendips.Larry and I enjoy pleasure rides and with Darty I do lots of endurance miles, including two-day 80-mile rides. In the winter its just as likely to be a 30-minute ride after work and then if its not horizontal rain three or four hours at the weekend. Its a level that keep my horses happy and nice and calm. Its funny, if we dont get to go out, they get spooky.This cob can and he did Alison Roberts Alison has been a #Hack1000Miles challenger for the past five years and has hit the target three times with Dan the Irish cob.Im a happy hacker. I retired early and now ride every day and although Dan is 18, hes still going strong, she says. I started the challenge to try to keep the weight off Dan and we cover between three and eight miles a day. We also took part in a few pleasure rides the longest of which was 12-and-a-half miles so it proves that you can get the numbers up if you ride a lot.Alison and Dan had to do most of the miles alone, as her hacking buddy has just had a baby, but she enjoys boxing up and exploring new places.Where I am in Spalding, South Lincolnshire, has virtually no bridleways and 90% of our miles have been on the roads, so theres been lots of walking as trotting everywhere would be too hard on Dans legs, adds Alison.Celebrating a hat-trick Claire Wall Its a hattrick for Claire, with the 2025 challenge marking her third time in a row hitting 1000 miles. She did nearly all the miles on 12-year-old Thoroughbred x trotter Bailey.He really belongs to my daughter, but as shes away at university Ive been riding him for the past couple of years, says Claire, who lives in Worcestershire. Bailey has Type 1 Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy (PSSM1) and needs regular exercise to stop him tying up , so a challenge like #Hack1000Miles is perfect for the pair.In the first year we took part he could hardly have a day off for fear of an attack, but with all the riding hes so much better and can have two days off a week but not together, says Claire.Some of the miles were also done on the riders ex-racer, Molly Mai.Claire said it took her longer to accumulate the miles this year as she has a new-found love of dressage and schooling took up a lot of her hacking time. And although shes sure to rack-up the miles next year, she hasnt committed to counting yet.Ive had a ceremonial deleting of my app. Ive much more appreciation of how long my rides are and I dont think I need to track anymore, she smiles.I could do 1000 miles with my eyes closed! Heather Emery Not content with riding just 1000 miles, Heather managed to complete the challenge on two different horses under two different names and achieve an additional 534 and 509 on two further horses under two more names!Riding is all I do, and I could do 1000 miles with my eyes closed, explains Heather. So, I didnt think it was fair to count all my miles on the four horses together. Since retiring, Heather likes to hack out twice a day and has three horses currently, having sold the fourth part way through the year. She completed 1000 miles each on nine-year-old gypsy cob Pagan and 19-year-old Irish Sports horse Kit Kat, with 13hh cob Wizard adding another 500 miles.Taking part in #Hack1000Miles really does focus the mind, as you need to hit 20 miles every week to achieve it. I generally ride 10 miles every day, but if I have two to ride, I take each on my six-mile trot around the block. Hacking out is my thing really!Three horses, one finish line Lynda Addison Hitting 1000 miles was quite an achievement for Lynda this year, as she was forced to swap horses twice. I did the first 500 miles on Lady, who I completed with last year, but she had to have her hocks injected and I realised it was getting a bit much for her, so she went out on loan and I bought Martha the cob.However, Im 64 and Martha grew too wide for me and it was hurting my hip. We did 300 miles together before I sold her on and bought Malibu, whom I did the last 200 miles on.Lynda and 16.1hh Irish Sports Horse Malibu will take part in the challenge again next year.I plan to do it all on her this time, she laughs.Lynda rides every day and likes to achieve six or seven miles each time, but has no bridleways near her so its all on the roads. Im in South Lincolnshire and my nearest bridleway is about a five-mile hack away and goes for about 100 metres. Its pretty rubbish.Addicted to the miles Joanna Lunn This is Joannas second time achieving 1000 miles and she says shes become addicted to it!I ride most days and do about 100 miles a month. Being part of the #Hack1000Miles challenge really makes me want to get out there and do it.Joanna is able to ride straight out onto a bridleway at home in Hampshire and can do 20 miles on the South Downs without crossing a road.She rides New Forest pony Skippy, who was bought off the Forest for her daughter to ride and then sell on, but 17 years later, at age 21, hes still part of the family.We used to do endurance together, but now we just hack out for between five and 10 miles at walk and trot with the occasional canter, adds Joanna. Just in time Pip Mead Pip and Archie completed their third successful #hack1000miles after just missing out last year.Pip said: What a complete superstar this lad is. I love him to pieces. He now gets a months holiday while I start lambing! Age is just a number Liz Roskell Liz and her horse managed to complete their #Hack1000Miles towards the end of March when clocking up a final 6.2 mile hack. It was great riding and fabulous weather to end the challenge, said Liz. We started eight years ago and were still going strong at 24! Who else made it?At the time of going to press, #Hack1000Miles Koren Marner had also achieved 1000 miles and topped the leaderboard on 1,224 miles, but we were unable to get in touch with her. Karan Tett had also galloped through the finish flags, while a further five riders were closing in on the finish line with less than 50 miles to go. They were Zoe Morton and Krissie Jones. Also in the 900s were Helen Chester, Louise Clark and Christine Sutton. Did they make it to 1000 miles before April 1? We hope so!Related contentJoin the Hack 1,000 Miles Facebook group!Sign up now for #Hack1000Miles 2026!22 beautiful and prize-winning through the ears photos taken out hacking including some fabulous storiesA Facebook find, rides on the other side of the world and horses that make days brighter: celebrating the best of #Hack1000Miles They did it! Meet the 2025-26 Hack 1000 Miles finishersThe post They did it! Meet the 2025-26 Hack 1000 Miles finishers appeared first on Your Horse.

Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) has launched the 2026 DAFM Studbook Series for Eventing following the success of the new format in 2025.The league will cover all age/height-appropriate Eventing Ireland-affiliated events nationwide from April 4thto September 19thand the DAFM Studbook Series League is generously supported with a total prize fund over 40,000 by the Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine (DAFM) under National Breeding Services. For the first time, the 2026 series will include ponies provided they are studbook registered with a breed recorded. Horses/ponies with/without a recorded pedigree but with the breed listed UNK are not eligible to participate or be in receipt of any prize funds.To take part in the league you must complete an online application for the horse/pony/rider combination.This league represents an opportune production series for young horses and ponies targeted toward a career in eventing, and participation for Irish studbooks in the World Breeding Federations for Sport Horses (WBFSH) young horse jumping Championships at Le Lion dAngers.In this series riders, breeders, owners and grooms will be rewarded for breeding and production decisions through several league-based prizes. There will be a prize fund of over 40,000 available at the culmination of the league. Breeder and groom prizes will be awarded for leading performance in each category in the league results. There will also be a prize for the top mare and TIH and recognition and support for leading young riders and restricted athletes in the form of league prizes.In addition to the DAFM Studbook Series league, Horse Sport Ireland are delighted to introduce funding for the leading six-year-old and seven-year-old in the CCIYH2*-S at both Millstreet International and Lisgarvan International. More information regarding eligibility for this prize money is available here.Sonja Egan, PhD, Head of Breeding Innovation and Development commented on the launch:We are delighted to launch the return of DAFM Studbook Series for Eventing in a league format. This worked well last year, and we hope that the earlier opening in 2026 provides breeders and producers with a greater opportunity to step their young horses up and produce five of their best runs over the season. Horse Sport Ireland and Eventing Ireland recognised that the former format of the Studbook Series was not well supported, and weather disruptions frequently impacted specific event dates. In addition, HSI have removed the fee for combination applications to the league, combinations are only charged the entry fees directly to the event via Eventing Ireland entry system. This makes the league more accessible and affordable for participants wishing to produce event horses.We have collaborated to develop this league to enable broader participation of young horses, athletes, owners, breeders and event holders to benefit from the value of the National Breeding Services fund provided by the Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine. League standings will be compiled by EquiRatings and available in the Eventing Ireland stats centre after each event. This is another value add for eventing stakeholders and indeed those abroad who are interested in tracking these young horses performance against their peers.Ireland is globally recognised as a leader in the breeding and production of event horses. This league seeks to continue to ensure that production opportunities exist nationally to support the age-appropriate development of young event horses in Ireland.We are very much looking forward to getting the league underway and wish all participants the very best of luckPlease seeDAFM Eventing Studbook Series Leagueterms and conditionsfor more information on league eligibility, terms and conditions.Horse Sport Ireland manages the league applications, which areavailable HERE.Entry to the specific event and class are taken through Eventing Ireland as normal.The post DAFM Studbook Series Eventing League 2026 appeared first on .

10 min read Last updated: January 2026 Battling rodents in the feed room and chewed tack draining your yards time and budget? This friendly, practical guide shows how to set up feral or semiferal cats as reliable pest controlcovering a 36 week confinement plan, twicedaily feeding, weatherproof shelter, and essential neutering and microchippingso your yard stays cleaner, safer, and rodentlight. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Right environment What To Do: Place feral/semiferal cats on rural sites (farms, stables, garden centres) with space ( acre+), low cat density and minimal children/dogs. Why It Matters: They thrive outdoors and deter pests without the stress of close human contact. Common Mistake: Rehoming to houses or busy family yards with dogs and kids. Area: Arrival confinement What To Do: Confine securely for 36 weeks in an escapeproof barn/stable/shed with natural light; set strict, predictable feeding times. Why It Matters: Imprinting prevents bolting and anchors them to your yard. Common Mistake: Releasing early or using spaces with even tiny escape routes. Area: Feeding & water What To Do: Feed twice daily (or small frequent meals) and refresh heavy, stable water bowls every day; never rely on hunting for calories. Why It Matters: Consistent nutrition keeps cats healthy and returning reliably. Common Mistake: Assuming hunting meets needs or letting bowls tip/spill. Area: Shelter setup What To Do: Provide insulated, draughtfree dens raised off the ground with deep straw, hiding spots, vertical perches, and separate litter trays in confinement. Why It Matters: Warm, secure spaces lower stress and weather risk. Common Mistake: Using damp blankets or placing food next to litter. Area: Health & ID What To Do: Neuter, microchip, flea/worm treat and healthcheck before release; vaccinate/screen when handling allows; eartip fully feral adults. For nonplacement ferals, follow TNVR with max 48 hours in captivity. Why It Matters: Prevents breeding, disease spread and misidentification. Common Mistake: Releasing unneutered or unchipped cats. Area: Release & recall What To Do: After acclimatisation, allow phased access via a lockable cat flap at dusk and keep feeding at the same place and time daily. Why It Matters: Predictability builds site fidelity and safer first roams. Common Mistake: Changing feeding locations/times or opening access suddenly in daytime bustle. Area: Pairs & territory What To Do: Keep bonded pairs together; provide two dens and two feeding stations; pick low catdensity sites and monitor early for spats. Why It Matters: Reduces resource guarding and conflict. Common Mistake: One shared bowl/bed or placing pairs in crowded cat areas. Area: Winter care What To Do: Maintain twicedaily feeds, unfrozen water in larger insulated bowls, and fully weatherproof dens with deep straw and windbreaks; step up visual checks. Why It Matters: Cold, wet UK winters raise energy needs and health risks. Common Mistake: Letting water freeze or leaving damp, flattened bedding. In This Guide Are feral cats right for farms and stables? How long should you confine rehomed feral cats? What daily care do farm cats need? What welfare steps are non-negotiable (TNVR, neutering, ID)? How to set up the perfect shelter and release area How to manage pairs, territory and other animals Your UK winter checklist for yard cats Practical kit that helps you and your yard cats Rodents in the feed room, tack chewed, and wiring nibbled many UK yards face the same headache. The right feral or semi-feral cats can be brilliant, low-maintenance pest control for farms, stables and livery yards provided you set them up correctly from day one.Key takeaway: Feral cats thrive on farms and stables, not in homes. Confine them securely for 36 weeks on arrival, feed twice daily with fresh water, provide weatherproof shelter, and ensure neutering, microchipping, parasite control and health checks before release.Are feral cats right for farms and stables?Yes feral and semi-feral cats are best suited to rural environments like farms, stables and garden centres, where they can roam and deter pests.The RSPCAs rehoming teams are clear that feral cats are not house pets, and they do best in outdoor working roles.Feral cats would not be suited to live in a home environment and would be suited to living on a farm or allotment environment or similar and can be a very effective deterrent for pests. RSPCA Brighton & The Heart of SussexFully feral cats often live in colonies around resource-rich sites such as stables and barns. Without other feral company, they can find human contact extremely stressful, so place them where their social structure and distance from people are respected. Charities like Woodside Animal Welfare Trust typically rehome outdoor cats to locations with at least half an acre to explore, offering room to settle into a safe territory.For yards, the benefits are real: consistent scent-marking and presence discourage rodents, while cats hunting behaviour helps reduce infestations without relying solely on chemicals.How long should you confine rehomed feral cats?Confine newly rehomed feral or semi-feral cats securely for 36 weeks so they imprint on your yard as home and dont bolt.Use a secure barn, stable, tack room or shed with natural light and zero escape routes. Cats Protection guidance emphasises a minimum three-week acclimatisation period in-pen to establish a feeding routine and familiarise them with your yards sounds and smells:The cats will need to be kept in a confined area for about 3 weeks to allow them to become acclimatised to their new surroundings, feeding regime, smells and sounds. A barn, stable, tack room or shed with natural light is ideal provided it is entirely secure. Anne Campbell, Feral Cats Coordinator, Cats Protection Bracknell & Wokingham (PDF)Set up the confinement area with hiding places (igloos/crates), cosy bedding, litter trays, and food and water placed consistently. Keep handling to an absolute minimum and stick to predictable feeding times. After 36 weeks, allow controlled outdoor access ideally via a lockable cat flap and maintain the same feeding routine so they reliably return.Quick tip: First free-roam sessions are easiest at dusk when its quieter. Open the cat flap, stay out of sight, and continue to feed at the same time and place daily.What daily care do farm cats need?Provide two meals a day, fresh water, secure shelter, and regular health checks beyond that, maintenance is minimal.Rehoming charities recommend a simple, consistent routine that prioritises welfare without forcing interaction:Food and water: Feed twice daily, or offer smaller portions several times a day. Never rely on hunting to meet calorie needs; hunting is a supplement, not a diet. Keep water dishes heavy and stable so horses or wildlife cant tip them.Shelter: Year-round, cats need warm, dry, draught-free dens, ideally raised off the ground. Insulated igloos or boxes inside a barn/stable provide protection from wind and wet.Health: Regular flea and worm treatments, frequent visual health checks, and vet care for injury or illness. Ensure neutering and microchipping before release; ear-tipping identifies fully feral cats as neutered.Hygiene: Place litter trays during confinement; keep feeding areas clean to avoid attracting other wildlife. Use cat-safe rodent bait stations if needed, and never use poisons that could harm cats or other animals.Records: Keep a simple log of feeding times, sightings, treatments given, and any behaviour changes invaluable for early health intervention.Pro tip: Winter yard rounds often happen in the dark. For safer early feeds, kit yourself with visible, yardproof gear such as sturdy yard and riding boots and hivis layers for lowlight visibility around stables and access roads.What welfare steps are non-negotiable (TNVR, neutering, ID)?For truly feral cats, follow TrapNeuterVaccinateRelease (TNVR) and avoid captivity beyond 48 hours; all outdoor cats should be neutered, microchipped, parasite-treated and healthchecked before rehoming.UK veterinary guidance is clear that prolonged confinement is harmful to truly feral cats who are not being rehomed to a specific site:For truly feral cats, Cats Protection recommends TNVR: trap, neuter, vaccinate, release, without spending more than 48 hours (max) in captivity. Any longer can be seriously detrimental to the cats welfare. Vet Help DirectWhen charities rehome farm cats (feral or semiferal) to specific sites like yards, they typically arrive neutered, microchipped, fleatreated and wormed. Vaccination may be performed where handling allows. Ideally, prerehoming health checks rule out FIV, FeLV and ringworm where feasible. Fully feral adults are often eartipped for easy identification as neutered.If youre working with a local Cats Protection branch, they can advise on whether TNVR or rehoming is the right route for the individual cat and your yards setup.How to set up the perfect shelter and release areaUse a secure, weatherproof barn or stable with natural light for confinement, and create insulated sleeping dens, safe feeding points, and a controlled exit such as a lockable cat flap for release.Start with a completely escapeproof room a tack room, feed store or empty stable works well. Add:Hiding spots: Covered crates, purposebuilt feral cat dens, or igloos positioned in quiet corners.Levels and vantage points: A shelf or pallet stack gives vertical options to reduce stress.Bedding: Deep, dry material (straw is ideal) that you can refresh regularly; avoid blankets that hold damp.Food and water: Keep bowls well away from litter trays; refresh water daily.Litter: One tray per cat plus one spare during confinement; use lowdust litter.Cat flap: Fit a lockable flap for phased access once the acclimatisation period is complete.For the first nights of freedom, open the flap at dusk, keep the yard quiet, and stick to your established feeding schedule. Continue to feed in the same spot so cats anchor to your yard. If youre rehoming a bonded pair, position two sleeping dens and two feeding stations to prevent resource guarding.How to manage pairs, territory and other animalsKeep bonded pairs together and choose low catdensity sites with at least half an acre to reduce conflict; keep children and dogs away, and manage introductions slowly.Rehome bonded cats together in areas with space to settle, especially where neighbouring cat density is low. Provide multiple feeding and sleeping points so one cat cant block access for the other. Monitor for territorial spats during the first weeks of free roaming and step up feeding consistency predictability reduces conflict. Most farm cats coexist well around horses, but ensure horses cant access cat food and that any rodent control measures on site are strictly catsafe.For identification, fully feral cats are commonly eartipped, and all cats should be microchipped. A basic microchip scanner is useful on yards to confirm identity if a cat is injured or goes missing after release.Quick tip: Feral cats are generally not suitable for homes with children or dogs. Yards with steady, predictable routines and few pets work best for welfare and settling.Your UK winter checklist for yard catsProvide insulated, draughtfree shelter with dry bedding and unfrozen water through subzero, wet UK winters; maintain twicedaily feeding and check cats visually every day.Winter weather hits hard on exposed yards. Keep cats comfortable and healthy with these coldseason priorities:Shelter: Fully weatherproof dens inside a barn/stable, raised off the ground, with a windbreak and a small entrance to reduce heat loss.Bedding: Deep straw is best in damp climates and is easy to refresh; replace if wet.Water: Check and refresh at least twice daily; position bowls out of the wind. In freezing conditions, use larger, insulated containers and place off concrete floors.Feeding: Maintain your routine, slightly increasing rations during cold snaps to meet energy needs.Health: Step up visual checks; look for signs of weight loss, limping, or respiratory signs after storms.While you winterproof the cats setup, make sure your horses are equally comfortable: nows the time to audit winter turnout rugs for wet, windy days and stable rugs for dry, draughty nights on the yard.At Just Horse Riders, we recommend planning your cat feeding and horse checks together it creates a consistent yard rhythm that helps semiferal cats settle and keeps rug changes and feed times efficient in bad weather.Practical kit that helps you and your yard catsInsulated cat shelters, automatic feeders, parasite control, microchip ID and catsafe rodent stations make care reliable and humane on busy yards.Consider adding:Insulated shelters/igloos: Weatherproof, raised dens placed in a quiet barn or stable bay.Automatic feeders and heavy water bowls: Support consistent routines when staff rotas vary.Flea and worm treatments: Keep a calendar so outdoor cats arent missed between farrier and vet days.Microchip scanner: Handy if you manage multiple yard cats or support strays on site.Catsafe rodent stations: Complement cats deterrent effect without poisoning risks.For your own yard comfort and safety while doing early and late rounds, choose reliable kit: waterproof yard boots, bright hivis layers for dark winter lanes, and tough yard wear from brands such as Shires. If your horses wardrobe needs an upgrade before the next cold snap, explore proven rug ranges from WeatherBeeta and refresh daily yard essentials with a wellorganised grooming kit that keeps feed and prep areas tidy.Pro tip: Store horse feeds and supplements in sealed, rodentproof bins, keep the feed room swept, and feed cats in a separate, catonly area to reduce competition and contamination.FAQsCan feral cats be rehomed to a farm or stable?Yes feral and semiferal cats typically thrive in rural settings with space (at least half an acre), secure shelter, and a daily feeding routine. Rehome bonded pairs together to reduce stress and maintain their social bond, especially in low catdensity areas.How long should rehomed feral cats be kept in before release?Confine them securely for 36 weeks so they acclimatise and imprint on your yard. A secure stable, tack room or shed with natural light is ideal during this period. After release, continue the same feeding routine to anchor them to your site.What health preparation is needed before rehoming feral cats?Neuter, microchip, and treat for fleas and worms as standard. Where handling allows, vaccinate and screen for FIV/FeLV and ringworm before placement. Fully feral adults are often eartipped to show they are neutered.Are feral cats suitable for homes with children or dogs?No fully feral cats find close human contact stressful and do best in quiet, rural environments without children or dogs. Stables, barns and livery yards are far more suitable than homes.What daily care do farm cats need in the UK?Two meals a day, fresh water, weatherproof shelter, and regular parasite control and health checks. Even excellent hunters must be fed; hunting should never be their primary food source.Is TNVR better than rehoming for some feral cats?For truly feral cats not suited to placement on a specific site, follow TNVR (trap, neuter, vaccinate, release) and avoid holding them for more than 48 hours, as longer captivity can harm welfare. Work with local Cats Protection branches for guidance.How do I help bonded feral cats settle on my yard?Rehome the pair together, confine them 36 weeks, feed at consistent times, provide two sleeping dens and two feeding stations, and allow gradual night-time access via a cat flap. Monitor early for territorial issues and maintain a predictable routine.For expert welfare advice and practical support, consult RSPCA guidance, your local Cats Protection branch (e.g., Bracknell & Wokingham PDF), the veterinary team at Vet Help Direct, and rehoming criteria from sanctuaries like Woodside Animal Welfare Trust. At Just Horse Riders, our team is here to help you keep the whole yard comfortable from your cats sleeping spot to your horses rug rack so your setup works smoothly all year. Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. Shop Hi-Vis GearShop Riding BootsShop Turnout RugsShop Stable RugsShop Grooming Kit

Who doesnt love to take a photo whilst hacking their horse? Whether youre capturing beautiful scenery, have been on an epic adventure, or just want a new photo of your favourite ears, we love to see the pictures you take while out and about participating in the mighty #Hack1000Miles challenge.To celebrate this, each month from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026, we picked our favourite photos shared in the Hack 1,000 Miles Facebook group.Take a look through the gallery of winners and check out the incredible sights and amazing adventures some of our riders have been on in the last year and in the years before tooWinning photos of 2025SleepyheadMelanie Grant and Xander the Highland live in the Cairngorms and enjoy lots of scenic hacking when Xander is in the mood.Aprils mini heatwave meant that Xander was more interested in snoozing in the sun than going out for exercise, so Melanie made herself a cuppa and sat down to enjoy the spring sun with him.I wasnt going anywhere until Sleepyhead woke, so it was nice just being next to him with a coffee watching him dream, she says.Making a holiday of itLiz Roskell and Bracken were the first paying guests of the year at Rawlinshaw Farm in the Yorkshire Dales where they spent four days exploring the local highways and byways.Liz says: Five-and-a-half miles added during a stay in North Yorkshire. What lovely weather to help us up the hills that boast some fabulous views. We walked down the steep hills, but Bracken coped really well on the whole.A few days off for the old lad, but he was amazing even having a canter around the field in the night while I was trying to sleep.A view to die forPretty as a picture: Jane Taylor and Cassie put themselves in the frame at Holme Moss in West Yorkshire on a glorious summers day.Jane says: What a fantastic day to pass our 300-mile mark with perfect weather and views to die for.Lifes a beachA British beach in mid-summer, what could be better? In July last year, Martina Diehl took her horse Gin and pony Peanut (pictured) on holiday to Robin Hoods Bay in North Yorkshire, with her friend Erica Richardson and her horse Echo. They rode 46 miles over three days and visited some of the jewels of the East Coast Ravenscar, Robin Hoods Bay beach and had an ice cream in Whitby.They made a super trio and we are very proud of them all for trusting us, trusting each other, making us laugh and allowing us to take in all these tremendous views, said Martina.Spotted at the castleThis great picture was taken by Linda Joseph, between the ears of Foxy, at Lowther Castle, near Penrith, in Cumbria. As well as spotty Foxy who is an Appaloosa Linda also has a matchy-matchy Dalmatian dog and she enjoys taking the pair out together when its safe to do so around the Lake District, where she lives.Im so glad my boys get on well together my previous mare used to try to stamp on dogs with her front feet! said Linda.Luscious landscapeLiving in Brittany, Karen Arkle and Tanx see different crops growing in local fields from those we are used to the in the UK. Harvesting is in full swing around us at the moment. It struck me as we ambled along just how productive this little corner of north-west France is, said Karen.This picture shows the green and violet of artichokes, but other fields are orange with pumpkins, blue with flax or green with beans. A landscape so good you could eat it!Posing for a prescient photoJane Taylors photo of Cass was strangely prescient as their ride ended with a journey in the air ambulance.Cass got spooked by a bird on a narrow path, shied into a hedge and we got caught up in the bushes. I got pulled off over her shoulder as she backed up trying to get us free, then she jumped me and stood on my chest/abdomen as she landed, recalls Jane. Luckily, the pair were found by a dog walker, who called for emergency help.Jane will be off riding for six months and in true #Hack1000Miles style is most annoyed that she will not hit her riding target.We had only 181.78 miles to go, with 25 weeks to do it in. By my reckoning it was definitely doable. Get well soon, Jane!Living the American dreamWhats riding with friends about if not having fun? Graham Allan and his riding buddies from Butterywells Farm, Aberdeenshire, showed that with a Halloween hack. Graham channelled his seven-year-old self and was dressed as a native American. He was joined by an evil clown, Stitch, a giant pumpkin and a blow-up unicorn.Why grow up? asked Graham and we can only agree.On the horizonLow light and a December sunset make this image taken by Paula Needham magical. Paula has had Charlie for 17 years and took on Cassie last year. They ride out in Gloucestershire and had 225 miles on their joint #Hack1000Miles clock at the time of writing.Cassie may be 16, but her ridden experience is as a four-year-old and sometimes she has to think about new things. After having a steady Eddie for so many years, this is still new to me, too, but Im pleased with how she is progressing, said Paula.The day I forgot my riding clothesThe judges chose Angela Bartley as the January winner, because #Hack1000Miles celebrates any miles walked in-hand as well as under saddle. In this image, Angela is leading her coloured mare Pippa. This was the day that Angela arrived at the yard without a change of clothes, so she led Pippa and her other horse Willow out for a one-mile walk wearing a dress, tights, riding boots anda jumper that she happened to have in the car. Thats dedication!They [the horses] didnt care, said Angela. We managed to catch a little daylight while exercising.Winning photos of 2024Beautiful Ben NevisSharon Dykes snapped this shot overlooking Ben Nevis from the back of her 14-year-old Anglo Arab mare, Wishes. Its a local ride for the duo who live in Fort William.Im incredibly lucky to have such beautiful countryside to ride in with the mountains and lochs, says Sharon, 45. Wishes loves it too. Shes never in too much of a hurry to get anywhere.Sharon, who works in the customer protection team at a bank, has recently made the transition to bitless with Wishes.This photo was taken on our first ride without a bit. I found it really relieved her tension, shares Sharon. It was quite a remarkable day for us.Incredible UllswaterThe enthusiastic ears of 18-year-old Irish sport horse Clippy can be spotted in the foreground of this stunning shot captured by the mares owner Ann Smith. The pair are overlooking Ullswater, which was one of the destinations on their epic 12-day hacking holiday.I think the highlight of the trip was that I did it myself. Clippy and I trundled up the motorway, settled into the accommodation, and rode in new places not knowing anybody, says Ann, 58. Clippy was brilliant. She took it all in her stride; I knew she was good but she really blew me away. Shes hands down the best horse Ive ever had.Amazing AberdeenshireThis photo captures one of Aberdeenshire-based Marion Wills regular hacking routes. Shes riding her 22-year-old Norwegian Fjord mare Este, whom shes owned for 10 years.I lived in Norway for a few years, where I got to know the breed and fell in love with them, says Marion, 59. When I moved back to Scotland I knew I wanted to have one.Marion signed up for #Hack1000Miles after learning about it from a friend, and hasnt looked back.We normally hack out three or four times per week, and love riding through the forests or going to the beach, shares Marion, who works as an art teacher. We have some beautiful hacking here, and #Hack1000Miles really makes you want to ride more to get your miles up.Wonderful WiltshireThis beautiful track was the envy of many other riders in the Hack 1,000 Miles Facebook group. Heather Emery took the snap from aboard her Irish sports horse Kit-Kat.Its a route we ride regularly but its quite long, so we only go when we have plenty of time and the weather is kind, says Heather, 59. Im retired now so I get to play ponies all day.Heather has owned now 16-year-old Kit-Kat since he was five years old.Weve been together so long that we know each other inside out, but that doesnt necessarily mean he will do what I want him to when I want him to do it, shares Heather, who is based in Wiltshire. Hes mellowed a bit as hes got older, but his favourite thing in the whole world is galloping.Eye-catching ExmoorKt English-Baillie took this photo during a fun ride on Exmoor. Her 13-year-old cob Dougals ears are at full attention as he watches the wild ponies.We kept our distance as there was a foal and a stallion there, so scooted around them, recalls Kt, 30, who was on the fun ride with her mum. They were really unbothered by us. I think theyre so used to people riding through.The mother-daughter duo ended up biting off a little more than they could chew when they got the route mixed up.We dont do much riding on the moors as we dont know our way around, so fun rides are a great way to get out and not get lost, says Kt, who is a vet. Although we did get a little lost and we did an extra 4 miles. We were only supposed to ride 12 but actually did 16.Fantastic FarndaleSheep farmer Pip Mead snapped this picture in a dale of the North York Moors while riding her Dales pony, Archie.Its part of an 11-mile route that I regularly ride in summer, although in winter it sadly becomes too wet to ride, says Pip, whosigned up for #Hack1000Miles after a health scare. She has since crossed the 1,000-mile finish line and has set her sights on doing so again.I was diagnosed and treated for breast cancer in 2020/21, and afterwards I decided it was the time to go for it, adds Pip, 58. Archie and I really enjoy the challenge and are very lucky to have such a wonderful area to ride in.Superb ShropshireThis photo was taken by Amanda Barker from the top of Mortimer Forest in Shropshire, just above Ludlow Castle.This ride is about six miles, and is one I do on a regular basis as the view of Ludlow the Cree and the Long Mynd are so lovely, says Amanda, 55.Amanda is riding 27-year-old Welsh section D gelding Ben in the picture, whom she was gifted after he retired from his job at a riding school.He came to me to hack in the forest so I could accompany my youngest son George when my other three children went off to university, as he had no one to ride with, says Amanda. Ive owned him now since he was 19. I re-learned how to canter on him when I did BHS Take Back the Reins after years of not riding.Beautiful Balmedie BeachJackie Corsie snapped this shot on Balmedie Beach in Aberdeenshire aboard her 13-year-old Highland pony Orchid.I took this photo on a 10-mile ride. I live locally, so its right on my doorstep, says the retired swimming coach. I live in a beautiful part of Scotland, and signed up to #Hack1000Miles to get us out more. Its been a great way to meet other hacking folk and see the countryside.Jackie, 64, has owned 13.2hh Orchid for eight years, and the duo have successfully completed the challenge by hacking 1,000 miles together.Orchid is very forwards and brave; she loves hacking, says Jackie.Golden hour in GoldsithneyThis stunning sunset shot was captured by Claire Harper near Goldsithney in Cornwall.It was a lovely yet chilly short late-afternoon ride, which was much needed on the tenth anniversary of my dad passing, says the 42-year-old rider. Riding helps my mental health so much. Im lucky to have horses in my life; theyve helped me so much.Claire is a finance clerk and took the photo aboard her 13-year-old cob Ernie, whom shes owned for five years.I love tracking how many miles I ride and seeing if I can beat my previous years total. I dont have my own transport to go out to shows, so this gives me a goal to aim for each year, says Claire.Perfect weather in the Peak DistrictSacha Furlong captured this photo in the Peak District aboard her ex-racehorse Lily on a rare clear day in January. The duo were on a seven-mile ride they regularly do as part of their endurance training, which they are taking part in for the first time this year. The Thoroughbred mare had a difficult time before coming into Sachas care, but is now flourishing.Ive owned Lily since June 2023. Shed just lost her foal in a field accident and I took her on as a slightly thin, very depressed horse, but I saw something special in her, says Sacha, 30. Lilys story was very sad, but she is doing so well now and loves life. Shes incredibly special and one-of-a-kind; Im so lucky to have her.Water woes in WorcestershireTaken by Sarah Walton, this photo captures the moment that her mare Dora (right) appears to deliberate with Ben (left) about whether their owners will ride them through the flood water.The ford is usually shallow enough to ride through, but on this occasion we would have had to swim it was a good five feet deep, recalls Sarah, a charity worker. Its been like that for a while due to the particularly soggy weather. Its a fast-flowing stream so its not safe to go through when its like that, plus I like to keep dry!Sarah, 58, and her friend Toni, aboard Ben, regularly ride the route in Kempsey, Worcestershire.Its usually a lovely ride as the bells are often ringing in the church nearby, says Sarah.Cracking Easter egg hunts in KentShauna Fowles shared this adorable snap taken on her familys annual Easter tradition of an egg hunt on horseback. Pictured is seven-year-old Fletcher, his dad Davie, and Welsh section C Thunder Pants. Fletchers twin Milo, his older brother Woody, age nine, and the familys other pony Wren are off camera.The egg hunts have been a tradition since Woody, my eldest son, was tiny, says Shauna, 39. The ponies always love a little adventure hack as they get to stop and eat a lot.The family often hacks out together regularly, and the two ponies are shared between Kent-based Shauna and her three sons. Thunder Pants is 22 years old and has been in the family for 19 years, whilst Shauna has owned Hackney cross Wren, aged 27, for 22 years.The boys usually ride once a week each with me; we do more in the holidays as we all ride and walk out together, says the full-time mum. Ill ride them both, but we all swap and change. The boys have been learning on Wren, but she is just a little fast sometimes.Related contentJoin the Hack 1,000 Miles Facebook group! Sign up now for #Hack1000Miles 2026! 22 beautiful and prize-winning through the ears photos taken out hacking including some fabulous stories A Facebook find, rides on the other side of the world and horses that make days brighter: celebrating the best of #Hack1000Miles They did it! Meet the 2025-26 Hack 1000 Miles finishersThe post 22 beautiful and prize-winning through the ears photos taken out hacking including some fabulous stories appeared first on Your Horse.

As a new #Hack1000Miles year is about to get underway, lets take a moment to celebrate some of the stand-out stories of 2025.This annual challenge celebrates the joy that hacking a horse can give any rider and every single mile deserves a cheer. Most of the following challengers won a prize from long-term #Hack1000Miles sponsor Wintec theres one prize up for grabs every month between April and October.Here are the incredible tales that caught our attention Making a holiday of it Planning a riding holiday, but cant decide which of two ponies to take? Then take both, says Angie Coulson. Angie goes away regularly with her 13-year-olds Elle and Ozzy (pictured here with skewbald Puzzle, who belongs to Angies friend Sally), leading Ozzy in a halter.Last year she took the pair to the Cairngorms, and this picture is from Wales this spring.I run Ullswater Saddleback Horse Trails, so I like to see what other people offer, says Angie. Having two horses with me is great because I have an adapted cub saddle and Ozzy carries the packed lunch and our waterproofs.They are normally very good, although Elle does tell Ozzy off and sometimes the temptation of grass gets too much for him, and I have to drop the rope, but all he does is stick his head down.Achieving results on the other side of the world While British equestrians were beginning to enjoy longer, sunnier days and shorter nights, Andrew Norab and his horses were plunging into New Zealands winter. As a nurse who works long hours he often has to rely on night time outings. Andrew has three horses: the 25-year-old former polo pony Sky; the nine-year-old unridden ex-racer Boy Horse; and the Standardbred Squeeze.I ride both Sky and Squeeze at night and use the Polite set up, with a vest, horse cover and lights, says Andy. In New Zealand horses are classified as vehicles, so we need lights on at night. Mine wear tail and leg reflectors as well.The driving standards are quite shocking here sometimes. I get some drivers beeping their horns and revving engines as they go past, but thankfully not too much. On the whole, I dont feel unsafe on the roads, but it could always be better.Something a little different Fjord horses are the perfect breed as far as Marion Wills is concerned. She has ridden these diminutive but stocky equines for around 20 years.I lived in Norway for two years and rode them there, so when I got home I bought Finn. I lost him 11 years ago, but had acquired Esta the year before. I purchased Gaia earlier this year as Esta is now 24 and is going into phased retirement.I do a few endurance rides on them, but I mostly hack. Theyre very happy to be ridden and I take them to the mountains, the beach and the forest. They love going out together so I have friends who join me. He always knows when Im feeling sad Billy-Jo Howe and her pony Shetland Pumpkin are a great example of how Hack1000miles can be fun for any rider. The pair have 663 miles under their girth at time of going to press. The combination hack out most days from their yard in Somerset, covering up to 20 miles, all on foot.Billy-Jo also enjoys turning Pumpkin out to his best advantage for her social media pages and the pair have many sponsors and win numerous online competitions for their fancy dress efforts. They also regularly raise money for charity, coming ninth in the country out of people raising money for the BHS Ride Out UK challenge this year. Pumpkin is my hero, says Billy-Jo, who has autism. Hes an absolute superstar. He always knows when Im feeling sad and struggling with my mental health, plus he is the most loving caring Shetland pony ever.The thrill of riding behind houndsBloodhounding is a fun and exciting way to get out and about with your horse, and Shauna Fowles enjoys going out with the Coakham pack in Kent and Sussex. A days hunting with the bloodhounds usually means a good three hours in the saddle, with the thrill of riding behind a driving pack of hounds, jumping a range of fences from huge hedges to ditches and fixed timber or taking the non-jumping route.Bloodhounds are trained to hunt the clean boot that is the scent of a runner and can cover around 20 miles in a day. Shauna posted this image of one of the bloodhounds in the Hack 1000 Miles group, writing: Out clocking up some speedy miles with Thunderpants today. Puppy hunt with the Coakham bloodhounds. Fab day!She will not be left behind Samantha Ogden and her pony Misty have enjoyed a year of riding with pleasure ride group Amber Valley Riders (AVR). The pair attended 10 out of a possible 13 rides across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, earning themselves a silver award.AVR organises monthly rides from March to December each year. A particular highlight of their calendar is the Chatsworth ride, where members get to ride through the grounds of the fabulous stately home.Samantha says: Little Misty at 27 years does so well keeping up with the big horses she will not be left behind. The pair have managed to clock up 223 miles towards their Hack1000Miles tally so far this year.A spur of the moment beach ride in Florida A chance Facebook post led to an experience of a lifetime and a new friend for Ali Shiels, who lives in Northern Ireland.I was scrolling through Facebook, when I noticed a post from a lady, riding along a beach, taken between the ears of her horse. What caught my attention was that she was riding past my friends house in Ponte Vedra, Jacksonville, Florida, says Ali. I made a spur of the moment decision to fly to Florida to be with my friend and I messaged the lady and said to her that if she was riding past the house at any time, that Id love to walk down and meet her. This total stranger said she would love to bring her horses to the beach and take me for a ride. I was stunned!A few days later on my birthday I met up with the most kind and generous lady called Crystal, and she took me for an incredible 2.5-hour ride along the beach on her Tennessee Walking horse Marshmallow. We had the most utterly perfect day and now she is planning a trip to Northern Ireland to come riding with me here.Our favourite stories from 2024 From the terminal cancer patient ticking off her equine living list to the rider who cancelled her horses euthanasia appointment when he spoke to her in a dream, plus the Haflinger mare who is ridden without a bridle on and the Shetland pony with dwarfism trekking two miles a day. Cob with a fear of mounting blocks Patience and consistency are helping Wilma Wallace to deal with traditional cob Bows fear of mounting blocks. Bow, now 14, was anxious about mounting when Wilma bought him six years ago, and it took a while before she was able to use a block. Then, when Wilma was forced to take 10 months out of the saddle following cardiac surgery, he regressed to his former self.I experienced supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) and it happened one day when I was riding Bow. I had to negotiate my way back to the yard and keep really calm, but he obviously could feel how anxious I was and I think this created a problem for him, says Wilma.When he came back into work after my recovery, he refused to stand at the mounting block and kept shooting off.Wilma says that she has tried a variety of different mounting blocks to see if any are acceptable to Bow, and hes finally starting to get used to a plastic three-step block again.We go and hang out there, with me sitting on it and him standing there and hes starting to improve, she says. Hell now allow me to get off at the block, so Im hoping it wont be too long before I can get on from there too.Initially we did in-hand work, as I wasnt nimble enough to get on from the ground, but thankfully I can now. Destined to die until his rider had a dreamKate Duffield, from Guernsey, is counting her blessings with her Irish Sport Horse, Indy, whose return to work and good health are nothing short of a miracle. Nine years ago, at the age of nine, Indy developed traumatic arthritis and bone spurs in his right knee. While recuperating after surgery he caught his heel in a haynet and tore a hole in his shoulder, which led to tendonitis.All of this meant about 18 months of in-hand work before he was sound again, says Kate. But then, just a few months later, he couldnt weight-bear on that leg. X-rays showed nothing.Kate took the sad decision to have Indy euthanised.It sounds a bit weird, but the night before the vet was coming to put him to sleep I had a dream. Indy turned to me and said: Dont give up on me, Mum.The vet was great when I told her that I was going to give Indy another chance. He had 12 months of field rest, followed by six months walking in the field with his saddle on.Today, the 18-year-old Indys body has adjusted to his knee injury. He isnt lame and hes hacked out regularly.Hes quite stoic, but I dont think his knee bothers him at all, says Kate.This Haflinger doesnt need a bridleWhen Ali Shiels bought Ella seven years ago, the Haflinger mare was seven years old but unbroken. Ali knew that she wanted to ride her in as natural a way as possible and ended up bridleless.I hardly need to use the bridle as Ella really listens and engages with me, says Ali. I was out in the forest where we ride a lot just plodding along and I reached over and pulled off the bridle. I gently squeezed and she walked on and I thought, OK, shes really listening here, and so I asked her for a trot and then a canter that turned into a gallop. But when I softened and said whoa, she immediately came back to me and I realised that we could do this.Now, whenever they go to the forest, Ali rides Ella without a bridle, but she never goes bridleless on a road and she always keeps the bridle with her just in case.Cancer patients equine living listKathryn and Matt on the beach in IcelandA trip of a lifetime to ride Icelandic ponies at the tolt is one of the experiences ticked off Kathryn Hullands equine living list.Over a six-day visit to Iceland, Kathryn and her brother, Matt (who doesnt usually ride) enjoyed three excursions in a lupinfield, on a glacier and on a volcanic lava beach. Since she was diagnosed with terminal breast cancer 18 months ago, Kathryn has ticked off a number of horsey wishes, including riding with Matt in Lanzarote and Salamanca (where he lives) and in the New Forest. She also learned to carriage drive, thanks to the Willberrys Wishes charity, and she rode on the beach on the Isle of Lewis with her daughter, Grace. Kathryn has also brought her pony, Tigger, back into work after a 10-year hiatus.I have chemo every week and my energy levels are a bit lacking, but horses have always been my thing and I decided that I wanted to get out and do as much as I can while I can, she says.Also on the list is riding a Suffolk Punch at the Cumbrian Heavy Horse centre, trying horse combat, plus a trip to swim with horses in Cornwall.My list keeps expanding, says Kathryn. Every time one of my friends mentions something it goes on the list. I have this idea that Im not allowed to die until the list is complete and if the list is never completeShes just under 26in of pure sassArya is small is size but huge in personalityArya may be the smallest of my three ponies, but she causes more trouble than the others put together, says Karen Musilov with a smile about her tiny skewbald pony who is potentially the smallest of our equine challengers.Named after a character in Game of Thrones, little Arya the Shetland isnt letting dwarfism stand in the way of her taking part in #Hack1000Miles.At just under 26in of pure sass or 6.2hh in horsey measurements Arya is given an in-hand walk of up to two miles each day by owner Karen Musilov.Arya is eight and Ive had her since she was two, says Karen. The lady who bred her wanted her to go to someone who would care for her and so she gave her to me. Initially she was stiff and her left hind would dislocate and pop out at the hip joint. However, the daily walks seem to have built up her muscle and that doesnt happen any more.Arya has achondroplasia, the mildest form of dwarfism, which means that she has very short legs but a long body.She may be the smallest of my three ponies, but she causes more trouble than the others put together, adds Karen. Shes very clever and has enough attitude for a 16 hander.Tent in the back of a trailerLiz Roskell took full advantage of her trip to the Rawfoot Farm Ride in Penrith on 26 May by arriving with Barney the day before and camping in her trailer.What a fabulous weekend, she says. We went the night before and rode the bridleways and then took part in the farm ride the following day. I rode in the dry, but slept in heavy rain. Thank goodness for my tent in a trailer its a game-changer!In all, we added 13.8 stunning miles over that weekend and Barney still had gas left in his tank for a canter back to the trailer. The memories will last forever.Back in the saddle after hip surgeryAt the start of the #Hack1000Miles year (1st April), Amanda Farley and her horse Buddy clocked up their first miles and final hack before the rider underwent a second hip replacement. Twelve weeks later and Amanda was back in the saddle and raring to go.I had my left hip replaced this time, so once Id built up my muscles to be able to stand on one leg which happened during the 12 weeks I didnt have any problems getting on and off, she says. However, when I had my right hip replaced two years ago I found it harder. It was fine to mount, but I needed someone to push my leg back over when it came to dismounting.Now the pair is contesting their first year of the challenge despite a brief unscheduled break for Covid.Its fantastic to be back in the saddle. I dont think a hip replacement should hold me back, adds Amanda, who credits her recovery to Pilates and painkillers.Winners of 2023The following #Hack1000Miles challengers received prizes from Wintec after their inspiring stories were picked as our winners of the month between April and October 2023. Mel Beale reportsHelping each other through griefSadie and Kite (right) with Tessa and PeachesThree months into Sadie Earle Seymour owning Kite, the gelding got peritonitis from impaction colic, which resulted in further complications of colitis and prolapse. The vets didnt think hed survive, but he did. It took a lot of work, says Sadie. Once he had recovered, she decided to re-start the challenge, alongside Tessa Lewis, who had just moved her horse Peaches to the same livery yard. We really went for it, and spent lots of hours riding together. We became really good friends, says Sadie.Tessa completed the 1,000 miles first, with Sadie finishing it the following month. They decided to give it another go when Tessa found out that her cancer, which had been in remission, had come back. The doctors gave her a year. There was nothing anyone could do. Shed asked me before if Id have Peaches if she left him to me in her will, and I said yes. She passed away in August. The livery yard banded together to support Sadie with both Kite and Peaches. Three months later, on New Years Eve, Kite came down with colic again. The vets had told me he wouldnt pull through it because of the scarring, so I had to have him put down. It was like we switched. Tessa has Kite and I have Peaches now. The pair helped each other through their grief, and in April when the #Hack1000Miles challenge was re-launched, Sadie signed up. The universe knew Tessa and Kite were going to go, and put me and Peaches together. I was so grateful to have Peaches, as Im sure Tessas grateful for me taking him rather than her family having to put him up for sale. Our rides are never boringBecky and BlueLife has dealt one-eyed cob Blue a difficult hand. But that hasnt held his owner Becky back in realising his passion for hacking, and theyve overcome all his difficulties together, including broken vertebrae and a polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM) diagnosis. In fact, Blue takes great joy in whizzing around the countryside, and despite his exuberant bucking unseating her at times, Becky says it hasnt dented her confidence.Sometimes Ill ask for trot but get a buck and gallop. I can usually sit it if I see it coming. Hes had me off when its come out of nowhere; he broke my nose once! says Becky, who lives in Staffordshire. It might sound strange, but I love that hes like that. Hes been through a lot, so feeling like he wants to go and he loves life is great.Knowing that his bucks come from excitement rather than spookiness or fear helps Becky stay confident. Hes the most unflappable pony Ive ever sat on, even though he only has one eye, she says. Hes only little, so I know hes never going to go that far! Im happy hes whizzy our rides are never boring. Read Becky and Blues story hereI was advised to put Kobi downHannah Leslies view from Kobis back in the Man v Horse raceHannah Leslie took part in the Man v Horse race for the second time this year with her 15-year-old Knabbstrupper cross Kobi, and reflects that he might not have been here because of his previous behaviour. He was labelled dangerous and I was told to put him down when I bought him. His previous owner was scared of him because he napped a lot, says Northamptonshire-based Hannah. I thought that if I could just hack him, that would be brilliant. It took her a year to get him hacking out confidently, as Hannah broke her ankle and was restricted to taking him out in hand for the first six months. Fast forward seven years, and the pair have completed one of the trickiest long-distance competitions in the UK. The Man v Horse race, held in Powys, saw 52 horses and over 1,000 runners start. Runners and riders take slightly different routes that converge at various points with separate finish lines. It was a really exciting, electric atmosphere. We trotted through the town centre to a heroes welcome everyone was clapping and cheering for us, recalls the 31-year-old senior care home assistant. We were the 17th horse to cross the line. I took it steady I wanted to bring a sound horse home. Freedom from my ill healthME sufferer Rebecca Coy feels her best when ridingRebecca Coy has been doing Hack 1,000 Miles for the last few years, and is currently undertaking the challenge with her nine-year-old Connemara Harper. The pair have recently given Endurance GB pleasure rides a try this year with the thought of trying some graded events next year. Its been a massive learning curve, but Ive loved every minute of it, says Rebecca, who lives in Essex. Harper loves it too. Its a good community as well, which makes it easier. Training for long distance rides is something that Rebecca struggles with, as she has a condition called myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), also know as chronic fatigue syndrome. When I ride Im in pain from the moment my foot is in the stirrup until the moment I dismount. Its hard to explain because my symptoms arent the same everyday, but itll take me a couple of days to recover before Im able to ride again. Rebeccas symptoms range from muscle aches, numbness and lack of balance to migraines and brain fog. It impacts her daily life, but having horses keeps her going. I probably shouldnt ride or have horses, but its my freedom from my ill health, explains Rebecca, 26. Just getting out of bed in the morning is really difficult, but knowing Im going to the horses and they need me is my motivation. I dont have horses to ride and compete, although it is amazing and I feel privileged at the moment with my health that Im able to, but just having them and carrying for them makes me happy.Ive got past the mental blockMandi Ackerman on Mavis (left) and her daughter, Hannah, on MerlinMandi Ackerman has owned now nine-year-old Merlin since he was just nine months old, and says hes always had an anxious personality. Hes always been a nervous horse, but he never worried me until he reared and I fell off. I ended up in an ambulance as it caused me to have a seizure, recalls Mandi. I stopped riding him and my daughter Hannah took him out shes more confident and rode him through it. However when Mandi had to retire her other ridden horse Mavis, she knew shed have to find a way to regain her confidence with Merlin if she wanted to continue to ride. The cob takes confidence from a handler on the ground, so Mandi used this to her advantage. We started with short one-mile rides, and now are up to 4.5 miles. When he gets unsure about something now, rather than turn back like I used to, I get off, walk past and get back on. Were doing that less and less now, says Mandi, 51. He still stops and spooks, but he doesnt rear anymore. My confidence is improving. Im happier when Im riding with a friend; on my own I wont go as far, but Ive gotten past the the mental block I once had, she adds. She makes me believe in my own abilityPaula and CheyennePaula Robinson first signed up for the Hack 1,000 Miles challenge three years ago with 16.2hh Irish sports horse mare Cheyenne in hope that it would get her back in the saddle after losing her confidence. Rather than build on rides where nothing happened, I let my worst fears and doubts get bigger and bigger until I was worried just getting on her, says Durham-based Paula. It was something I created, not the horse. Paula noticed that on the days when her confidence is lower, Cheyenne picked up on this. I suffer with anxiety and sometimes I think she also feeds off me if Im having a bad day. When I give her the opinion that Im good enough, she agrees and theres no silliness. But when Im het up, she wont do things shes a good leveller. Shes shown me its all about confidence, says Paula. Shes teaching me to shake that off at the door, so I can handle her without being on edge.She makes me step up and believe in my own ability. I cant allow my fears to win.I didnt think Id ride againBlue has helped keep Jess positive through surgeryWhen Jess Mylroie took on 13.3hh traditional cob Blue, she admits he was quite the project. Id had him on loan and he wasnt in good condition he was five years old, still a stallion and I dont think hed ever had his teeth or feet done. I invested a lot of time and money into him, and then managed to persuade his owner to let me buy him, recalls Jess, who lives in Blackpool. Ive owned him for seven years now, and weve come on leaps and bounds we rescued each other. Since birth, Jess has suffered from a rare condition called Klippel-Trenaunay-Weber syndrome, which has caused numerous tumours and left her with severe arthritis aged just 45. Shes had over 300 surgeries in her life to tackle it, including a mastectomy, hysterectomy, and gall bladder removal. Most recently, she nearly lost her arm. I had my wrist fused because I had such severe arthritis. I developed compartment syndrome, and came very close to losing my arm. When I realised how close it came, it was a huge shock. Jess had to stay in hospital for three weeks with two 18-inch incisions open in her forearm to let them heal naturally. Four months after the surgery, she was back in the saddle. I was desperate to get back on Blue, says the retired special needs teacher. It was the best feeling ever, and I just sobbed. I didnt think Id ride again. Im more cautious now, because Im terrified of falling off and knocking my arm but Im trying not to let it hold me back. I dont want to give up riding its not in me to do that. This content is brought to you in partnership with #Hack1000Miles supporter Wintec Saddles, durable, comfortable, easy-care, weather-proof saddles for everyone.Related content Join the Hack 1,000 Miles Facebook group!Sign up now for #Hack1000Miles 2026!22 beautiful and prize-winning through the ears photos taken out hacking including some fabulous storiesA Facebook find, rides on the other side of the world and horses that make days brighter: celebrating the best of #Hack1000MilesThey did it! Meet the 2025-26 Hack 1000 Miles finishersThe post A Facebook find, rides on the other side of the world and horses that make days brighter: celebrating the best of #Hack1000Miles appeared first on Your Horse.

One of the all-time eventing greats, Mary King, has announced her full retirement from eventing after a career that has spanned 46 years. Mary, who is 64 years old, broke the news via a statement on her Facebook page, which said: The time has come I have decided to hang up my boots. I started my 46th year of eventing this year and rode at Tweseldown and Moreton (finished second on Barry), and have now decided its time to stop competing and to send my last event horses to Emily to continue their career.I have loved my eventing life, and feel so lucky to have had so many amazing horses, and have wonderful memories which will stay close to my heart forever.Since the London Olympics Ive loved producing my homebreds and competing up to three-star.I will be busy with my breeding programme and producing the young stock, plus will be supporting Emily [her daughter] more. I can now go on holiday and not feel guilty about the horses I should be riding!Thank you so much to my family, friends, owners, grooms, sponsors, vets, farriers and wonderful supporters that have made this journey, over the many years, so incredibly special. Mary won Badminton in both 1992 and 2000, Burghley in 1996 and Kentucky in 2011. In addition, she represented Great Britain at six consecutive Olympic Games between 1992 and 2012, winning team silver in Athens in 2004 and at London in 2012, and a team bronze at the 2008 Beijing Games. She also won team gold at the 1994 and 2010 World Equestrian Games and team silver in 2006, plus four team golds and one team bronze at the European Eventing Championships, also winning individual bronze in 1995 and individual silver in 2007. Mary last competed at four-star level in 2019 and her last five-star start was in 2015, and she has since focused on competing her homebreds at the lower levels. Image: Liz KnowlerRelated contentRos Canters grid exercise to slow a keen or strong horse when youre jumpingFive gears a confident cross-country horse needs to haveStrengthen your horse with Mary Kings 30-minute gridwork routineTop tips to prepare you and your horse for competing outdoorsThe post Eventing legend Mary King announces retirement appeared first on Your Horse.

11 min read Last updated: January 2026 Struggling with tall boots that swamp short legs or slide on narrow calves? Here youll learn the simple, brand-savvy sizing steps for a close, comfortable fitlike adding 11.5 inches for leather dropso your boots sit neatly at the back of your knee and hug your calf securely. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Seated Measurements What To Do: Sit on a chair, knees at 90, feet flat; wearing your usual breeches and socks, measure floortoknee crease and the widest calf with a snug tape. Measure both legs, use the larger, and record in centimetres plus your UK foot size. Why It Matters: Accurate readings ensure the boot height and calf match your leg for a close, comfy fit. Common Mistake: Measuring standing or over bare legs, leading to boots that rub or gape. Area: Add Drop Allowance What To Do: Add 11.5 inches (2.54 cm) to your kneecrease height for leather drop; field boots drop more than dress boots. If between heights, choose the taller. Why It Matters: It lets the boot settle without cutting behind the knee. Common Mistake: Ordering to exact knee height with no drop allowance. Area: Use Brand Charts What To Do: Match your cm calf/height and UK shoe size to each brands chart; for Ariat add +1 inch to height before reading. If between sizes, pick the smaller calf and taller height. Why It Matters: Brands size differently, so chart-matching avoids gaping or strain. Common Mistake: Assuming regular is universal or sizing only by foot size. Area: Width Then Height What To Do: Choose calf width first (extra slim to wide), then height (short/regular/tall) using knee height plus drop. Aim for a close wrap without pinching. Why It Matters: Securing the calf makes the height feel right as the boot drops. Common Mistake: Picking height first and ending up with loose or overtight calves. Area: Field vs Dress What To Do: Choose field boots for jumping, hacking and flexibility; choose dress boots for a straighter, supportive leg in schooling and dressage. For narrow legs, seek extraslim calves and rear zips. Why It Matters: Style affects drop, movement and support on short or slim legs. Common Mistake: Using stiff dress boots for heavy mileage on short legs. Area: BreakIn Plan What To Do: Wear boots indoors 2040 minutes in your riding kit for several days, then do light yard jobs before riding. Keep leather dry, avoid overoiling, flex ankles, and use a temporary heel lift if needed. Why It Matters: Gradual wear lets leather soften and drop 12 inches without rubs. Common Mistake: Soaking boots or riding long sessions on day one. Area: Protect Zips What To Do: Choose a rearzip calf equal to or slightly above your measurement and fasten without forcing. Clean and condition zips regularly, especially in damp weather. Why It Matters: Prevents zip failure and extends boot life. Common Mistake: Ordering a smaller calf than measured and yanking the zip. Area: Troubleshoot Fit What To Do: For gaping, go narrower; for cutting, confirm drop; for ankle bagging, try stiffer leather or less height next time. Add insoles for roomy feet and size to the larger calf if legs differ. Why It Matters: Quick tweaks solve most comfort and performance issues. Common Mistake: Ignoring early discomfort and persisting with a poor fit. In This Guide The right measurements for a perfect tall boot fit How much height to add for leather drop Choosing between field and dressage boots on short or narrow legs Brand size charts: use them, not guesswork How to break in tall leather boots comfortably Common fit problems on short or narrow legsand fixes What to wear and when to shop in the UK Recommended gear and help from Just Horse Riders Short legs or narrow calves shouldnt mean compromising on fit or comfort. With the right measurements, drop allowance, and brand-specific sizing, you can get tall riding boots that sit perfectly at the back of your knee and hug your calf securely.Key takeaway: For a close, comfortable fit, measure seated from floor to knee crease and at the widest calf in your usual riding gear, then add 11.5 inches (2.54cm) for leather drop before choosing your size.The right measurements for a perfect tall boot fitMeasure your boot height from the floor to the crease behind your knee while seated at 90, and your calf at its widest point with a snug tape, wearing your normal riding breeches and socks.Set yourself up on a straight-backed chair, feet flat, knees bent at 90, back upright. Wearing the breeches/tights and socks you typically ride in (not jeans or bare legs), take two key measurements: Height: From the floor to the back of your knee (the knee crease). This is your knee bend height. Calf: Around the widest part of your calf, keeping the tape snug but not tight.Shires Equestrians UK fitting guidance aligns with this method: "Sit on a chair with your feet flat on the ground and your legs at a 90-degree angle. Then, using a measuring tape, measure from the floor to the back of the knee." Shires Equestrian Fitting GuideRecord in centimetres and UK foot sizes (for example: Calf: 33cm, Height: 43cm, Foot: UK 5), and measure both calves, using the larger one. For rear-zip boots, pick a calf size close to or slightly above your measurement to avoid zips straining. If youre shopping, youll find UK size charts on our tall riding boots collection, and it helps to measure while wearing your go-to breeches browse breathable, supportive options in our womens jodhpurs and breeches range.Pro tip: Ask a helper to run the tape along the curve of your leg when measuring height it gives a precise line from knee to floor that tall boots will follow.How much height to add for leather dropAdd 11.5 inches (2.54cm) to your knee crease height to allow for leather drop; field boots typically drop 1.52 inches and dress boots about 0.751 inch, depending on leather stiffness.All tall leather boots drop as they break in, settling down from the back of the knee to a finished height that shouldnt cut in. Ariats UK guidance is clear: "Wear breeches/tights and socks that are similar to what you ride in... measure up to the bend in your knee. If sizing for Ariat boots, add 1 inch to this number for drop allowance." Ariat InternationalShorter legs often feel tightness initially behind the knee; thats expected if youve added the correct drop. Field boots, with softer leather and laces for flexion, drop more (1.52 inches), which helps them settle off the crease. Dress boots, built stiffer for a straighter leg, drop less (0.751 inch). Aim for the boot back to sit at the high back of the knee on day one, without digging sharply, knowing it will ease by up to 2 inches depending on style and leather.Quick tip: If youre between heights, go taller boots that start a touch high will soften and drop into a custom fit.Choosing between field and dressage boots on short or narrow legsField boots suit short legs by dropping more for movement and yard-to-field mileage, while dress boots offer a minimal drop and a straighter, supportive leg for arena and dressage work.If you jump, hack, or spend time in the elements, field boots with their flexible ankle and 1.52 inch drop feel forgiving on shorter legs and adapt quickly in the UKs wet autumn/winter. For indoor schooling and precise lower-leg stability, dressage boots in stiffer leather drop less and hold shape, avoiding excess slouching on narrow calves. For narrow legs, look for extra-slim calf options and rear zips for a very close wrap without gaping. Where legs are both short and slim, some riders consider custom heights; many brands now offer multiple height/calf combinations to dial in a perfect back-of-knee finish without cutting.At Just Horse Riders, we recommend starting with width first (extra slim, slim, regular, full, wide), then choosing height (short, regular, tall) according to your measured knee height plus drop allowance. Youll find a wide range of options in our curated tall riding boots selection.Brand size charts: use them, not guessworkEach boot brand uses its own calf and height chart, so always match your centimetre measurements and UK shoe size to that specific brands guide.Dont assume regular will be the same from brand to brand. Shires, Ariat, and others publish UK-specific charts follow them exactly. For Ariat tall boots, add 1 inch to your knee bend height before reading the chart; for field versus dress boots, remember the different drop ranges above. If your measurements land between two sizes, choose the smaller calf and taller height for a closer fit that will soften and drop with wear. For rear-zip styles, avoid choosing a calf smaller than your actual measurement to protect the zip in damp UK yard conditions.Revisit the expert guidance as you compare charts: Shires Equestrian: follow the seated 90 method and measure to the knee crease (guide here). Ariat International: wear riding gear and add 1 inch to knee height for drop (full instructions). Equus: allow an extra inch or two for break-in, as leather stretches (expert tip).Measure in the clothing you ride in and compare while wearing it. If you need to update your kit, our womens breeches collection and childrens jodhpurs & breeches include supportive, non-bulky fabrics that wont skew measurements.How to break in tall leather boots comfortablyBreak in new tall boots by wearing them indoors for short sessions before riding, allowing the leather to soften and drop 12 inches without rubbing.Plan a gentle break-in over several days: Wear the boots at home for 2040 minutes at a time with your regular breeches and socks. Use a thin, cushioned insole if the foot feels roomy; thicker socks can help initially on narrow feet. Avoid soaking or over-oiling from day one; let the leather mould naturally to your leg shape. Start with light yard jobs before your first ride; flex your ankles and walk stairs to ease the drop.As Equus puts it: "Allow an extra inch or two of height for the boots to drop and break in, because leather does stretch." EquusIn the UKs damp months, keep new leather out of deep mud and rain during the first few wears to avoid waterlogging and stiff salt lines. Once theyre settled, maintain them with gentle cleaning and conditioning youll minimise rubs and keep zips running smoothly.Quick tip: If the back of the knee feels sharp on day one, a temporary heel lift can reduce pressure until the boot drops.Common fit problems on short or narrow legsand fixesIf your boots gape at the calf or bag at the ankle, switch to a narrower calf and ensure you allowed for the correct leather drop and break-in time.Heres how to troubleshoot quickly: Gaping at the calf: Choose an extra-slim or slim calf. Re-check your measurement in riding breeches. Rear zips can help the boot hug in without straining. Cutting behind the knee: Confirm you added 11.5 inches of drop. Field boots drop more (1.52 inches), which can help short legs settle comfortably. Bagging at the ankle (drop puddle): Expected in the first days, but excessive bagging suggests too much height or very soft leather; consider a slightly stiffer model or a shorter height next time. Zip strain or stuck zip: Never force a zip over a calf smaller than the chart suggests. Select a calf size equal to or just above your measured cm, especially in damp conditions. Foot feels roomy: Add a cushioned insole or wear a slightly thicker sock initially; many narrow-calf riders also benefit from a snug footbed. One leg tighter than the other: Normal measure both and size to the larger calf; the other will shape during break-in.Pro tip: The boot back should sit at the high back of your knee without digging; discomfort that eases after a few wears is typical as leather drops into place.What to wear and when to shop in the UKMeasure and try on boots in your usual breeches and socks, and buy ahead of the UKs wet autumn/winter so you can break them in before long, muddy yard days.Base layers and breeches influence how snugly a tall boot fits. Slim, seam-free riding tights or close-contact breeches offer the most consistent readings. If you update your kit, take new measurements even a slightly thicker winter sock can change your calf reading by a few millimetres.Consider your seasonal routine too. For UK riders hacking after work in shorter daylight, rear-zip boots speed up changes at the yard, and good visibility is essential. Team your boots with effective rider hi-vis for dark lanes and dreich evenings, and dont forget head protection that suits your discipline when you head to schooling or competitions explore our BHS-standard riding helmets.Families sizing up fast-growing riders should re-measure each season. Our childrens breeches include stretchy options that sit smoothly under long boots and half chaps.Recommended gear and help from Just Horse RidersChoose tall boots with extra-slim calf options, reliable rear zips, and UK-specific size charts, and well help you match your measurements to the right model.At Just Horse Riders, our customers with short or narrow legs usually succeed fastest when they: Pick boots offering multiple calf/height combinations (extra slim to wide; short to tall). Allow for brand-specific drop (for example, +1 inch on Ariat charts) and choose the taller option if between heights. Break in at home first and keep zips clean and conditioned.Start your search in our horse riding boots collection, explore UK-favourite brands like Shires, and, if youre competing, pair your tall boots with polished showwear from our womens competition clothing. On a budget? Check the latest treasures in our Secret Tack Room clearance perfect for snagging premium fit options at sharper prices.Need sizing advice? Send us your measurements (Calf cm, Height cm, Foot UK) and intended use (jumping, hacking, dressage). Well recommend the best width/height pairing and share tips to get that made-to-measure feel without the custom price tag.Conclusion: Get the fit right the first timeMeasure seated at 90, add the correct drop, and use the brands UK size chart thats the formula for tall boots that love short or narrow legs. Prioritise width first, then height; choose taller/tighter if between sizes; and break in gently before big winter rides. With that, your boots will sit elegantly at the back of the knee, secure and supportive all season.FAQsHow much extra height should I add for short legs to avoid cutting behind the knee?Add 11.5 inches (2.54cm) to your floor-to-knee-crease measurement to allow for leather drop. Field boots usually drop 1.52 inches, while dress boots drop about 0.751 inch depending on leather stiffness.Do I measure sitting or standing for tall boots?Measure seated on a straight-backed chair, feet flat, knees at 90 for both height and calf. If a helper is available, you can also confirm height standing with a slight knee bend, following the legs curve to the floor.What if my calves are very narrow will standard boots fit?Yes. Choose extra-slim or slim calf options on the brand chart and measure in your normal riding breeches and socks for accuracy. Rear-zip styles often give the closest wrap on narrow calves.Why dont my boots fit despite ordering my usual UK foot size?Because calf and height dictate the fit of tall boots more than shoe size. Each brands chart is unique; match your centimetre calf and height to that brand rather than assuming a generic regular.Should I size up or down if Im between calf or height sizes?Choose the smaller calf and taller height for a close, contoured fit that softens and drops with wear. For rear zips, keep the calf at or just above your measurement to avoid zip stress.How do I break in tall boots without discomfort on narrow legs?Wear them indoors for short sessions before riding, use thin cushioned insoles or slightly thicker socks if the foot feels roomy, and consider a temporary heel lift to reduce knee-back pressure until they drop.Can one leg be narrower or shorter than the other and how do I size for that?Yes, its common. Measure both calves and use the larger one for sizing. Leather will adapt to the smaller leg during break-in; lace or rear-zip models can fine-tune the wrap. Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. Shop Riding BootsShop Jodhpurs & BreechesShop ShiresShop Clearance DealsShop Riding Helmets

Two horses in Dane County, Wisconsin, have tested positive for equine influenza. One of the horses tested positive on March 31 after developing a fever, cough, and nasal discharge on March 23. There are currently no details on the second horse.One additional horse is suspected to be positive, and four horses have been exposed. The sick horses are quarantined.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.About Equine InfluenzaEquine influenzais a highly contagious respiratory disease that infects horses, ponies, and other equids, such as donkeys, mules, and zebras. The virus that causes it is spread via saliva and respiratory secretions from infected horses. Horses are commonly exposed via horse-to-horse contact; aerosol transmission from coughing and sneezing; and contact with humans contaminated hands, shoes, or clothes or contaminated tack, buckets, or other equipment.Clinical signs of equine influenza infection can include a high fever (up to 106F); a dry, hacking cough; depression; weakness; anorexia; serous (watery) nasal discharge; and slightly enlarged lymph nodes. Consider monitoring your horses health at shows by taking his temperature daily, which can help you pick up on signs of infection early and take appropriate measures to reduce disease spread.Vaccinationis an important and inexpensive way to protect your horse. US Equestrian requires proof that horses have had an equine influenza vaccination within the six months prior to attending organization-sanctioned competitions or events. Your veterinarian can help you determine what other vaccines your horse might benefit from.In addition to vaccinating, following strictbiosecurity protocolscan help reduce your horses chance of infection and disease. Such measures include quarantining new equine arrivals at barns, disinfecting buckets and equipment, and preventing nose-to-nose contact between horses.