Wendy Hofstee has a very thick passport. Three hundred thirty-eight trips to 156 countriesand all of those trips were on horseback.Wendy Hofstee on a ride in Costa Rica.Hofstee is the founder and owner of Unicorn Trails, a company that organizes and leads horseback riding vacations around the world. The trips can last from a few days to several weeks.Born in Holland and raised in South Africa, she moved to Britain after qualifying as a veterinarian. A dedicated traveler, she would work for six months, then travel for six months. Whenever possible, shed find a way to work horses into the itinerary.Seed of an IdeaThe idea of turning her passion into a business came in 1999 while on a lengthy riding trek in the Amazon with friends. People often asked about her adventures and were interested in trying something similar. Using her South African connections, Hofstee started arranging riding safaris. Using her dining room table as an office, she soon organized trips to South Africa, Botswana, and Madagascar. She now has a network of nearly 200 employees, partners, and guides. Im very passionate about getting as many people as possible on the back of a horse and exploring, says Hofstee. My philosophy is that if you can persuade a significant proportion of the population to strap two sticks on their feet and throw themselves down a snowy hill, why cant you persuade them to get on the back of a horse?Cultural ExplorationOne of her main goals is learning about the culture of other countries. Horses, she says, are the ideal starting point.You find horse cultures in the most unexpected places, says Hofstee. Who would have thought that the highlands of Ethiopia had a horse culture? When you speak the language of the horse, youve got a common language. You can communicate.I remember riding into a little village in the Amazon, and people immediately came out and started asking questions about our horseshow old they were, what did we pay for them, where did we get the saddles, all sorts of things, she recalls. We always try to ride the local breeds and use the tack and local habits. Those things usually develop that way for a reason, and understanding that is one reason we travel on horseback.Gentle RidingThe notion of a riding vacation can be simultaneously exciting and intimidating. Galloping across the savannah with a herd of zebras sounds thrilling, but also terrifying for people who are nervous on strange horses and in strange surroundings. Hofstee stresses that her trips are designed with that concern in mind.Most rides are taken at a walk, she says. The vast majority are for people who want to have a nice ride on a well-schooled, well-trained horse. Maybe we have a few trots and a gentle canter, but we dont want anyone to feel unsafe or uncertain. I understand that. I dont bounce anymore when I fall, either. Our horses know their jobs and take care of their riders. Someone who is a novice and spends a day or so learning how to handle a horse is often a better rider for these trips than an experienced rider who wants to direct the horse all the time.Out for AdventureHofstee does keep a list of riders who want more adventure. Shell often invite them on scouting tripsinitial rides to see if a new destination will fit her needs. Even if the trip doesnt work out as hoped, the group adapts to the situation and has a unique adventure.Even with planned trips, the unexpected can happen, like the time a herd of elephants casually strolled through their campsite one night. The group had inadvertently stopped on a trail regularly used by the local herd.The horses were on a picket line and panicked, of course, Hofstee recalls. We spent some time tracking them down and getting them back.Her catalog of trips covers the world and is constantly changing.It depends, in part, on our partners, she says. Some guides do many trips, while others specialize in one or two specific experiences. Were subjected to changes as the world changes. One of my favorite trips was to Lake Baikal in Russia, but with the political situation, its not safe to go there now.Her other favorite is Iceland.Personal TouchAt a time when many tour companies use impersonal websites, descriptions, and reviews, Unicorn Trails works one on one with customers. About 40 percent of her customers are return clients.People get very addicted to exploring the world in this way, says Hofstee. A lot of people buy five or six trips a year. Our highly trained people match [customers] up with a trip individually. We make sure that people get the experience they want.A Unicorn Trails ride splashes through the Okavango Delta in Botswana.Hofstee wants the world to appreciate the magic of discovering the world on horseback.Theres a quote that says, Wherever man has left his footprint in the long ascent from barbarism to civilization, we find the hoofprints of a horse beside it.This article about Wendy Hofstee of Unicorn Trails appeared in the January/February 2025 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Wendy Hofstee: Riding Around the World with Unicorn Trails appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Sections Key Points Introduction Dressage is a sport of harmony, balance, and precision. This guide aids seasoned riders in rekindling their interest in dressage. Understanding the Basics - Revise the Dressage Training Scale: Rhythm, Suppleness, Contact, Impulsion, Straightness, Collection. - Each element builds toward the ultimate goal: collection. Preparing Your Horse - Use a snaffle bit for early training and a dressage saddle for effective contact. - Groom meticulously for appearance and comfort. - Use leg protection during training for joint safety. Preparing Yourself - Master rider position and rehearse basic patterns. - Wear dressage-specific attire for a seamless experience. Competing Again - Understand levels of competition and know current rules and regulations. - Practice and patience are vital. Conclusion - Reacquaint yourself with dressage for satisfaction and challenge. - Visit Just Horse Riders for equestrian equipment. Rediscovering the Saddle: Taking the Leap Back into Dressage After a DecadeDressage, often referred to as "ballet on horseback," is a majestic sport requiring substantial harmony, balance, and precision between horse and rider. For those who have left their stirrups behind for quite some time, the pull back to the elegance and skill of dressage can be irresistible. This guide caters to seasoned riders rekindling their equestrian pursuits, providing comprehensive insights to enter dressage with confidence and delight.Understanding the BasicsBefore saddling up again, it's vital to revisit the Dressage Training Scale framework which serves as the cornerstone of dressage education. Consisting of six foundational elements, the Training Pyramid ensures riders and horses progress harmoniously through increasing levels of expertise.Rhythm, for instance, dictates a consistent tempo crucial for fluent horse movement (NC State Extension's Dressage Manual). Building upon that, Suppleness allows mental and physical relaxation, crucial for effective responsiveness to rider aids. Contact establishes harmony between horse and rider, essential for successful rein communication. Progression brings us to Impulsion, the rear-end power thrust needed for advanced moves.Ensuring Straightness further balances the horse as equal hind leg strength emerges. Finally, Collection represents the ultimate aim where the horse exhibits refined power and agility with a light forehand approach. For those longing to recover their long-lost prowess, reviewing these basics is indispensable.Preparing Your HorseReintroducing your horse to dressage requires special attention to equipment and grooming. A gentle snaffle bit supports early training, while a specialized dressage saddle with a long flap ensures effective contact (Farm House Tack's Beginner Guide to Dressage).Moreover, grooming plays an equally crucial role. Part of dressage's allure is the elegance of the horse maintaining their coat, and trimming the mane to an immaculate 4-6 inches enriches both appearance and comfort.Leg protection via wraps or boots is essential during training for joint safety, though not permissible in competition settings. Achieving the delicate balance between taking care of your horse and rediscovering dressage skills allows smoother transitions back into the saddle.Preparing YourselfYour readjustment to dressage demands attention to personal setup and attire. From mastering your rider position, emphasizing alignment from ear to heel, to ensuring judicious control over your movements.Practice patterns in the arena, such as the classic 20-meter circle, bolster rhythm and balance understanding with your horse (Horse & Country's Guide for Beginners).Equally necessary is the adherence to dressage attireopt for a singular color show jacket accompanied by white or light breeches, capped with tall, polished English boots. Equip yourself aptly to ensure a seamless ride into dressage events.Competing AgainThe prospect of returning to dressage competitions can daunt the faint of heart, yet knowledge is power. Dressage comprises various levels of competition from Introductory to Grand Prix, each progressively more demanding.A comprehensive grasp of current rules and regulations, such as apparel guidelines and permissible equipment, is paramount (NC State Extension's Dressage Manual).Remember that practice and patience are your best allies. Prioritize a robust foundational skillset; incrementally complicate routines as your confidence in yourself and your horse solidifies.ConclusionEmbarking once more on your dressage journey offers unmatched satisfaction and challenge. By reacquainting yourself with the essentials, ensuring horse and rider synergy, and embracing competitive arenas with preparation, the world of dressage stands awaiting new stories to be woven.Through devotion and resilience, rediscover the magnificent artistry correlated with dressage. Want to bolster your equestrian toolkit even further? Visit Just Horse Riders for top-notch riding equipment and apparel.From jodhpurs to riding boots, from essential gloves to riding socks. Equip yourself and relive the dance of horse and rider once more.

We have got one bundle of horse books from Quiller Publishing, plus 10 bundles of goodies from Dengie Horse Feed, to give away. All you have to do is enter via the link below and wait to see if you are one of the lucky winners drawn at random in our prize draw.One person will win the bundle of books and Dengie goodies; nine runners-up will receive a Dengie bundle. Entries close at 11.59pm on 27th March, 2025. Good luck!Bundle of horse books from Quiller Publishing, worth 111.93!Your Horsehas joined forces with Quiller Publishingto give one lucky horse lover the chance to add to their equestrian library. The prize contains something for everyone, fromthe autobiography of Anneli Drummond-Hay inMerely aRider, through toBadminton Horse Trials at 75 for eventing fans. For those who want to communicate with their horse more effectively, or to understand the benefits of various taping techniques, there areStraight from the Horses MouthandKinesiology Taping for Horses. Finally, for budding artists, learn from the master Norman Thelwell inHow To Draw Ponies.Find out more about the books atquillerpublishing.comMoney-saving offerFor entrants into our prize draw who arent lucky this time, key in YourHorse20 at the checkout on the Quiller Publishing website to get 20% off the recommended retail price of Quiller books, plus free P&P.Happy reading!10 bales of Dengie Hi-Fi Molasses Free and other goodies!Dengie Hi-Fi Molasses Freeis simply perfect for spring feeding andYour Horsehas teamed up with Dengie to offer 10 lucky readers the chance to win a bale, plus a Dengie weigh tape and an ear warmer. Hi-Fi Molasses Free is low in calories, sugar and starch, but is high in fibre, making it ideal for those who maintain weight with ease.The tasty blend of nutritious alfalfa with high quality cereal straw, plus the inclusion of mint, fenugreek and alfalfa pellets, will be sure to tempt fussy feeders. A light rapeseed oil coating provides slow-release energy and supports healthyskin and coat shine. Dengie Hi-Fi Molasses Free is 100% natural andis free from preservatives andmolasses.Find out more atdengie.comHow to enterFor your chance to win*, enter via the link below:ENTER HERE*UK winners only.Terms and conditions apply and can be found on theentry form page.The post Win a bundle of the latest horsey books and Dengie feed! appeared first on Your Horse.

Your Horse is supported by our audience and when you purchase through links on our site we may earn an affiliate commission.Heres how it worksA quick Google search will tell you that there are few cameras made specifically for equestrians, but crucially there are several available plus plenty of hat and body cams for cyclists and other sportspeople that can be adapted to suit horse riding.Understanding what youre looking for so that you buy the most effective camera within your budget is important, as the quality of the footage you capture could make all the difference should you find yourself reporting any incidents to the police.I think a camera has become as vital as wearing a riding hat when youre hacking a horse and I personally wouldnt be without one. Video footage is the best way to both educate drivers/other road users and provide proof of their actions should you need to.Ive explained the most important criteria to look for in a camera below, plus youll find a selection of the latest cameras and up-to-date prices that Ive found too.ResolutionResolution is the level of detail contained in an image. The higher the resolution the richer the pixel count and the more detail and definition that can be seen.It is one of the most important things to consider when choosing a camera, because quality is very important when you want to capture details like number plates and faces.Imagine being involved in a traffic accident or experiencing road rage or a near-miss, and when you zoom in on the cars number plate to report the driver it is blurred and unrecognisable. It renders your footage virtually useless.Camera angleThe wider the angle of the lens on your camera the better, because its field of vision will be wider and therefore it will capture more when recording.Crucially, this means less will disappear off the side of the screen. At the very least, you need a complete record of what happened on both sides of the road, and as much of the immediate area around you as possible.PriceI was recommended by an industry expert to look for a camera with a resolution of at least 2,000 pixels, as these provide a wider image and more detail. However, the better quality recording does tend to come with a higher price tag and, in my opinion, its better to have something rather than no recording device at all. So if your budget is tight, dont be too quick to dismiss a product that is lower in pixels.200-300Expect to pay somewhere between 200 and 300 for a 2,000-pixel resolution camera, known as Quad HD, which is 2,560 pixels horizontally and 1,440 pixels vertically. This is almost double the resolution of a 1,080-pixel camera and you really can tell the difference, because the added pixels allow for a wider image and more detailing. Also, when you zoom in, a 2,000-pixel image will retain more clarity, which could be vital when giving evidence to the police or an insurance company.300 plusHigher priced cameras offer 4,000-pixel resolution and sometimes more. These offer even greater video clarity and detail. Increased pixel density results in sharper edges and the overall visual experience is more crisp.Can the eye notice the difference? Not really, according to my partner who is far more tech-savvy than I am, unless the video or photo is viewed on a large screen (65in-plus) from 5ft away. 100-200This is the average price bracket for a decent camera and they tend to have a 1,080-pixel resolution, which is also known as Full HD. This means that the image has 1,920 pixels horizontally by 1,080 vertically (1,9201,080). As I have already mentioned, using a lower resolution camera is arguably better than no camera at all, as many police forces require video footage to accompany any reports submitted to them.I have seen footage of riders saying a vehicles numberplate out loud in the event of an incident so that it is heard in the video, which is one way to clarify any blurred number plates. However! Reading a number plate is unlikely to be the first thing you think of should you or your horse be frightened or worse. It also may not stand up in a court of law or be accepted by an insurance company, should it get that far.Camera positionRiders can wear a camera on the front of their body, on the front or on top of their head, or at the side of their head. A camera at the side of your head is the most visual to drivers, which may be a good thing. On top of your head is the best position to capture incidents in full, as there is no risk of the view being blocked when your horse raises their head. You naturally turn your head towards the area of concern when something happens, so your chances of getting the footage you need are better with a hat cam.Dual recordingThe most effective way to capture video footage is with a dual or two-way hat camera, because these record at the front and back at the same time. This could be invaluable for anyone hit from behind while riding on the road. It also increases the amount of footage you have of an incident. Some police forces ask for two minutes of recorded footage either side of the incident itself to be uploaded via Operation Snap. Dual recording will help to fulfil this requirement.Waterproof ratingLook for a camera with a waterproof rating of at least IP66. This test is rated with a 12.5mm multi-directional water jet under high pressure and anything less than IP66 is not good enough for riding in the British weather, which is where I ride. The test also considers exposure to dust and dirt, keeping the camera in excellent working condition if it is stored at the stables, for example.WeightConsider how big and how heavy a camera is, because it needs to be comfortable to wear. Go for a camera thats compact and lightweight, so that youre not bothered by it when youre riding.Battery lifeThis is another key consideration, because you dont want it to stop recording halfway through your ride. Look for a camera with a battery life of several hours at least, and make sure it is quick and easy to charge at the yard.MountCheck whether the camera comes with a mount that will work with your riding hat. Some require a mount to be purchased separately. Harnesses are also available for those who prefer to wear a camera on their chest, but youll need to choose a suitable camera to use with it.Accessing footageMake sure you know how to download footage and transfer it to a phone and/or computer. Some may do this wirelessly via bluetooth or wifi; others will require a cable. You will need to be able to transfer recordings quickly and easily, because any incidents that occur should be reported to the police on the same day. The police have a short timeframe (two weeks from the day of the incident) to investigate.Memory cardFind out if the camera requires a memory card and whether it needs to be purchased separately. Also consider how much storage space it has. The bigger the storage, the more footage it will hold.Loop recordingHaving a loop record function means that once the memory card becomes full, it will loop back around and start recording over the oldest videos so that recording is not interrupted.Shop for a cameraEquisafety OculosPro 2-Way Horse Riding Helmet CameraEquisafetys OculosPro is specifically made for horse riders. It includes a protective camera case, adjustable hat band and 64GB SD card. Has a 2,000-pixel resolution, four-hour battery life and 170-degree camera angle. This camera fixes to the side of a riding hat, records front and back, and weighs 105g.Oculus is Latin for eyes and the cameras creator says wearing one will be like having eyes on the back of your head. It is also the first in the world to be a 2K dual camera with 340-degree recording vision.RRP 239.95Buy NowTechalogic HC-1 Ultra Lightweight Camera for RidingThe Techalogic HC-1 has a 2,000-pixels resolution and was developed in the UK for equestrian use. It is lightweight (48g) and has a 2.5-hour run time.The camera will fit on any style of horse riding helmet using the supplied plain black elasticated head strap. It contains an in-built microphone and a micro SD card (not included) of up to 256gb can be used for up to 20 hours of video and audio recording time. Footage can be viewed and edited on the Wifi App. This camera is IP65 waterproof.Technalogic DC-1 Dual Lens CameraThis dual camera fits on the side of a riding hat and records both front and back. It has a 140-degree lens to provide a wide field of vision when recording. Supports a micro-SD card of up to 128GB (bought separately). IP65 waterproof and weighs 104g. It has a resolution of 1,080p and a battery life of 2.5 hours. There is also the option of purchasing a high vis hat strap.Recall Rider Dual Twin Front & Rear Riding CameraThis two-way camera records front and back with a 1,080-pixel resolution and includes a 128GB micro SD card. It has loop record functionality and multiple mounting options designed to accommodate an external power pack for extended recording time. Connects to mobile phone apps to transfer and view footage.KIMISS Sports Action CameraA 1,080-pixel hat horse riding with a 120-degree ultra-wide angle. In-built battery provides up to six hours of recording when the light-off mode is activated.Also doubles up as an LED headlight. Features loop recording and supports up to a 32GB TF card (bought separately).Techalogic DC-2 Pro Dual Lens CameraThe Techalogic DC-2 builds on the success of the best selling DC-1 (above). This version records front and rear and in 2k pixel-resolution. Equipped with a 140-degree lens to ensure the widest field of vision. Features loop video recording and supports up to a 128gb Micro SD Card. Battery life of up to four hours of dual recording when recording at 1080HD@30fps. This can be extended with a USB C Powerbank. Optional remote control. Weighs 104g. IP67 water rated.Recall Rider 4k Horse Riding CameraHigh-quality 4K video recording capabilities with a 170-degree wide-angle lens. Has an in-built G-Sensor, which means it can be set to automatically save your recording from a heavy knock. The kit comes with a full long-life expansion pack that extends the cameras operating time over seven hours. Various mounting options are included, plus theres a waist pouch for holding the battery pack.Related contentFear for safety has increased: survey finds 75% of riders have been involved in a road incident Incidences of road rage towards riders nearly doubled last year, while 58 horses were killed on UK roadsOperation Snap: what it is and why more horse riders need to use itReport all road incidents to the BHS to make a real difference to horse and rider safetyThe post How to choose the best camera for horse riding, plus seven on the market appeared first on Your Horse.

An independent and impartial database which allows users to search a list of eligible equine fitters has been unveiled.Established by the Saddlers and Loriners Companies, the Equine Fitters Directory allows horse owners to search for and compare professional saddle, bit, bridle and harness fitters.All members of the directory have been validated and have met criteria set out by the Equine Fitters Council (EFC). They must have insurance, pursue continued professional development and agree to abide by the EFC Code of Conduct. The Equine Fitters Council provides voluntary regulation for equine fitters who are professionals who fits saddles, bits, bridles and harnesses to horses, said Roly Owers,chief executive of World Horse Welfare and director of the EFC.All fitters on the Equine Fitters Directory meet the criteria laid down by the council to provide a really easy way for all of us to find trusted professionals.Olympian present at launchThe Equine Fitters Directory was launched at Saddlers Hall in London on Monday 3 February at an event which was attended by Roly as well as former international event rider William Fox-Pitt. During the event, William also presented certificates to 44 recently qualified saddler, bridle and bit fitters, 10 of whom had travelled from overseas to receive them.We know that regularly checked and well fitted tack both improve the welfare of our horses and their overall performance, said William. I can reflect on numerous times in my career when even small alterations to match the ever-changing size and shape of my horse has made a fundamental difference. Having a one stop online directory that lists professional fitters that all riders and horse owners can trust must be the right thing.The directory can be searched by name, specialism or location and the results include profile information and contact details for each fitter.Trustworthy listThe directory stands out due to the highly skilled and experienced team that make up the council and their passion for horse welfare, said equine bitting specialist Olivia Turner.I feel supported and satisfied that those listed are verified carefully, and their qualifications and insurance checked before being included.This gives horse owners and other professionals a trustworthy list to refer to and safeguards our profession in the equine industry.The Equine Fitters Directory, which is free to use, can be viewed here.Main image Your Horse Library/Kelsey Media.Related contentEssential guide to buying a saddleSMS saddle fitter shows you how to check the fit of a saddle *VIDEO*Bridle fit and horse head anatomy: everything you need to know *VIDEO*Six bridle bags to safely store your tackParts of a horse bridle, different styles and useful insight into choosing a nosebandThe post Independent searchable directory of equine tack fitters launched appeared first on Your Horse.

Section Key Points Introduction Equestrian world plagued by horse abuse, hidden by prestigious events and victories. Article explores issues and suggests changes for horse welfare. Understanding Horse Abuse Horse abuse includes overtraining, drugging, and neglect, causing physical and mental trauma, necessitating intervention. Drivers Behind Abuse Pressure to Win: Competitive pressure leads to unethical solutions. Financial Incentives: Success prioritized over ethics due to financial gain. Lack of Regulation: Inadequate oversight permits misuse. Cultural Norms: Historical harsh training undermines reforms. Abuse Across Disciplines Racing: Issues like drugging and injury need reforms. Show Jumping and Hunters: Improper medication harms horses. Western Pleasure and Tennessee Walking Horses: Soring causes suffering for exaggerated movements. Path to Change Regulations: Enforce stringent rules and monitoring. Education: Raise awareness and encourage humane techniques. Judging Standards: Prioritize natural performance. Supporting Whistleblowers: Safe reporting mechanisms. Conclusion Immediate action needed for horse abuse in competitive riding. Promoting ethical practices can create a better equestrian world. When Will Horse Abuse in Competitive Riding Finally Get Addressed? Horse abuse in competitive riding has been a shadow over the equestrian world for too long. Enshrouded by the allure of prestigious events and lucrative victories, abuse often lurks in the background. This article seeks to uncover these issues, investigate what's driving these practices, and suggest positive changes that can ensure the welfare of these majestic creatures. Understanding the Spectrum of Horse Abuse The term "horse abuse" isn't limited to blatant acts of violence. It includes subtle forms like overtraining, drugging, and neglect for the sake of competition. These acts cause both physical and mental trauma to horses, while underlining the need for immediate intervention. The Drivers Behind the Abuse Pressure to Win: The intense competitive pressure compels trainers and riders to resort to quick but unethical solutions to ensure victories, compromising well-being [1]. Financial Incentives: The promise of financial gain leads some to prioritize success over ethics [3]. Lack of Regulation: Inadequate regulatory oversight allows misuse to persist in certain disciplines [2]. Cultural Norms: Historical normalization of harsh training as a necessary evil continues to undermine modern reforms. Abuse Across Equestrian Disciplines Abuse appears in various disciplines, each with its unique challenges: Racing Despite being under public scrutiny, racing still struggles with issues from drugging to injury, highlighting the need for consistent reforms [1]. Show Jumping and Hunters Horses in these events are often medicated improperly to calm or enhance their performance, thus harming them and compromising competitive integrity [2]. Western Pleasure and Tennessee Walking Horses These disciplines face criticism for soringan illegal practice causing immense suffering to horses to achieve exaggerated movements [2]. A Path to Change The solution to horse abuse lies within a comprehensive strategy encompassing several elements: Regulations and Enforcement Implementing stringent regulations and developing monitoring mechanisms are crucial for ensuring compliance across all equestrian activities [2]. Education and Awareness Increasing awareness among trainers, riders, and the public is vital. Encouraging the use of humane training techniques and celebrating ethical practitioners can substantially shift cultural norms [4]. Reforming Judging Standards Judges should prioritize natural performances free from distress, thus reducing incentives for abusive practices [4]. Supporting Whistleblowers A safe mechanism for reporting abuse can encourage whistleblowers to share critical insights without fear of retaliation [3]. Conclusion The issue of horse abuse in competitive riding demands immediate and sustainable action. By understanding these practices, addressing contributing factors, and promoting ethical reforms, we can create a better world for both horses and humans in the equestrian domain. For those passionate about horse riding apparel and supplements, consider supporting brands that prioritize animal welfare, ensuring that the love for riding doesn't come at the expense of these beautiful animals. 2023 Just Horse Riders

Horse Sport Ireland is now inviting applications for the 2025 Pony, Junior, Children On Horses, Young Rider and Under 25 High Performance programmes. If you are aiming for the Youth European Championships, you will need to register for the relevant level. Please use the link to the online form below to send in your expression of interest. Please note there is a non-refundable application fee of 50 for each athlete payable. Apply for the Youth Dressage High Performance Programme 2025 https://forms.horsesportireland.ie/250551825816863 If you have any queries, please contact Susann Tschoerner stschoerner@horsesportireland.ie

Your Horse is supported by our audience and when you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Heres how it worksApollo is my horse of a lifetime. I was gifted him from a hunt yard when he became in need of a quieter life after a tendon injury. This giant and sometimes pushy chestnut of indeterminate breeding (but most likely Irish Draught) was delivered to my home in 2010, and so began a love affair that thankfully has lasted way beyond the two years I thought it would. I doubted if I could keep him sound. But I did and I led my daughters on their ponies from him, picked them up from school on him, visited the local pub for a Coke on him, and went miles and miles with my husband, friends and family on their horses.This then, is the story of Apollo, the tester of the Swish Equestrian 200g Detachable Neck Turnout Rug and it is important to know this about him because one of the reasons I think I have kept him sound for so many years (apart from not riding him that fast very often) is his 24/7 turnout. Last year I kept him outside without a rug despite his advancing years (25-plus) because he had a shed for shelter and it worked really well for weight management (he went into the spring a lot lighter than he had been in the summer). However, this year the outside of his shed became a quagmire and so it had to be roped off, and when the Swish rug arrived for testing it was like manna from heaven and impeccable timing.First impressionsMy first impressions were that the mulberry colour was pretty bright, but actually it has turned out to be a positive because I can spot Apollo all the way from my house, which is a long way. You could say that he stands out from the crowd (even if, as a rather manly chap, he may think that the burgundy or the navy would be more him). The reflective strips are something else, too. Having had to cross his field one night wearing a head torch I could see him a mile away thanks to those dazzlingly bright strips a fantastic safety addition, especially for owners who have to walk their horse down a road to a field.Dazzling bright strips make him easy to spot at all timesThe ultimate testerApollo is probably the ultimate rug tester because he has some of the worst conformation Ive ever seen in a horse, being somewhat lopsided and yes he has been checked by healthcare professionals. This means that in the 15 years Ive had him no rug has ever sat straight on him for very long, especially after a roll and a shake. I was therefore pleasantly surprised that the slip with the Swish, while regular, was very minor, and with just a light pull on the near side the rug would obligingly sit centrally again.VideoWatch the rug in action in our video below:Freedom of movementAdditionally, it offers great freedom at the front, and the manufacturer says: It is designed to sit higher on the neck/shoulders to prevent the rug from slipping back and rubbing. I can certainly confirm that all these claims are true and I have had no slip back or rubbing. In fact, being a lover of 24/7 turnout (me as well as Apollo), he braved Storm Darragh, Storm Eowyn and Storm Herminia in it (has there ever been a stormier January?). Apollo looked perfectly serene the day after the former as though nothing untoward had even happened, although nearby roofs lost tiles and trees crashed to the ground.This rug has served Apollo well all winterFitting and fillingThe 200g of filling is the perfect weight for Apollo, while he hasnt ripped the 1,200 denier outer yet, despite two months of wear and plenty of brambles in the hedges that surround his field. He has always fitted into 7ft rugs, and this one is no different. In fact, I would say that its more generously sized than some brands, but this doesnt mean the need to size down.Detachable neck coverThe detachable neck is wonderfully spacious and fits a treat, and its also a godsend. Im not a fan of rugs that dont offer a detachable option, because there will always be days when a neck simply isnt required but a rug is. I have broken the odd nail, though, separating the Velcro pieces on the rug itself in order to attach one from the neck cover. This isnt a criticism, as without this extraordinary stickability I guess the cover may not stay so robustly in place whatever the horse does.The detachable neck cover fits a treatEasy-access size labelIt may only be a small point, but theres a size label on the outside at the front that is super-easy to access. Having owned several horses over the years, and when struggling to remember sizes for reordering in the autumn (always, as I inevitably fail to write names on storage bags), one of my pet hates is ferreting around and having to take the entire rug out of its bag, turn it over and around and then inside out before that minuscule size label can be located.Value for moneyI could go on and on about the plus points of this rug, but even online reviews have a word count that needs sticking to. Oh, but there is one more thing to mention price point. Actually, 105.99 is excellent value for a class product that has served a bolshy Irish Draught who loves to roll incredibly well so far.Key informationFull name: Swish Equestrian 200g Detachable Neck Turnout RugColour options: Burgundy, orange, navy, violet, red and mulberry.Also available with 100g weight filling.Size options: 4ft 3in 7ft 6inRRP 105.99Buy NowView the full Swish Equestrian medium turnout rangeRelated productsOur team has tried and tested these therapy horse rugs to find which really workExercise sheets tried and tested by the Your Horse teamA Protechmasta Therapy Cooler had a positive effect on my horseAt just 45, this fly rug from AniMac is very good value for moneyThe post This is a class product that has served my bolshy Irish Draught who loves to roll incredibly well appeared first on Your Horse.

Horse Sport Ireland will be holding Irish Sport Horse, Irish Sport Pony and Irish Draught Horse studbook mare inspections throughout the country in March and April 2025. Here are some helpful tips on how to ensure you and your mare are ready for the inspections: All mares are expected to be presented at show standard and must be sufficiently trained and fit to take part in all aspects of the selection (veterinary examination, conformation assessment, in-hand gait assessment, free gait assessment and jumping assessment). Mares must be able to stand correctly and quietly for the inspectors to make their assessment, the animal should be trained to show correctly in-hand, in walk and trot. Mares should also be trained through loose schooling for a number of weeks prior to the inspection. They should also be comfortable the free jumping prior to the inspection. The mare should be in good condition, be []