Ocala, FL The penultimate day of the Orange Blossom Classic featured a full slate of highlight classes, including the $50,000 NSBA Maiden 3-Year-Old & Over Open & Limited Open Western Pleasure, $10,000 NSBA Senior Ranch Riding, $5,000 NSBA Junior Open & Limited Trail, $5,000 NSBA Amateur Non-Pro & Limited Trail, $5,000 NSBA Select Non-Pro & Limited Trail, $4,000 NSBA Amateur Ranch Riding and the[...]Read MoreThe post Orange Blossom Classic; Saturday, April 19 Featured Class Highlights appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

Californias Santa Anita Park where famous racehorse Seabiscuit won his last race has been announced as the venue of the equestrian events for the Los Angeles Olympic Games (15-30 July 2028).The announcement comes less than a week after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) confirmed that all three of the Olympic equestrian disciplines showjumping, dressage and eventing will be a part of the 2028 Games.Santa Anita Park is a horse racing venue and it previously hosted the equestrian events for the 1984 Olympics. It is located close to LA city around 25 miles from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).Santa Anita Park will be a spectacular venue for the LA28 Olympic equestrian events, said FEI President Ingmar De Vos.The FEI has very fond memories of Santa Anita, which had hosted the equestrian events at the 1984 Olympic Games.The venue is set to offer a breathtaking stage for all the Olympic equestrian competitions and the proximity to LA City will undoubtedly attract many spectators to Santa Anita. We look forward to continuing our cooperation with LA28 to deliver spectacular equestrian events at the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.About the venueSanta Anita Park is a Thoroughbred racetrack in Arcadia that hosts several prominent horse racing events in the United States, including the Santa Anita Derby, the Santa Anita Handicap, and the Breeders Cup. The famous racehorse Seabiscuit won his last race there in 1940. The park also hosts showjumping events, including a CSI3* and a FEI Jumping World Cup Qualifier CSI5*-W, which will take place in November.The venue has an on-course veterinary clinic and covers 320 acres, including a grandstand that seats 26,000 spectators.A track infield area, which is said to resemble a park with picnic tables and large trees, can accommodate a crowd of 50,000, while 61 barns can stable more than 2,000 horses.Concerns about the futureAfter serious concern about the future of equestrian events within the Olympics, it was confirmed last week (9 April) that showjumping, dressage and eventing will be a part of the 2028 Games.The equestrian programme will consist of six medal events: a team and an individual medal in each discipline. Equestrian retains the 200 quota places it had in Paris in 2024 and the breakdown by discipline remains unchanged: 75 for jumping, 60 for dressage, and 65 for eventing.The decision was taken by the executive board of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).We are extremely pleased with [the] IOC decision, said Ingmar De Vos.The Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games were a historic success for equestrian sport, which proved very popular with the live crowds and TV and online viewers worldwide. Its a great news that our numbers remain unchanged and we are looking forward to delivering exciting sport at the same level of excellence.ParalympicsThe venue for the para equestrian events will be announced at a later date following the review and approval of the International Paralympic Committee Governing Board.The Paralympics will take place from 15 to 27 August 2028.Main image ShutterstockRelated contentUltimate guide to equestrian sport at the OlympicsWe brought it home: Britain wins historic fifth team eventing goldGold! Team GB showjumpers outstanding and ice cool in Paris 2024 victoryNine course-walking tips from Olympic champion Ben MaherThe post Park where Seabiscuit won his last race is confirmed as equestrian venue for 2028 Olympics appeared first on Your Horse.

Key Point Details Hay Feeders Reduces waste by around 6% for small square bales and 38 percentage points for round bales using feeders like the Tombstone or ring feeders. OptiMizers and Slow Feeding Systems Designed to curb waste to less than 1%, by mimicking natural grazing habits, resulting in less trampling and hay rejection. Proper Storage Practices Store hay in dry and well-ventilated spaces, use UV-resistant tarps or hay sheds, and perform regular checks to keep hay in top condition. Hay Selection and Hygiene Use quality hay from reputable suppliers, match hay with horses' nutritional needs, and maintain a clean feeding area to reduce waste. Pasture Feeding and Rotation Encourages natural grazing to reduce hay reliance, and rotating pastures keeps soil fertile, supporting grass growth. Composting Hay Waste Turns hay waste into nutrient-rich compost for use in pastures, reducing the need for purchased fertilizers. Conclusion Emphasizes saving resources, creating sustainability, and building a harmonious relationship with the environment and horses. Creative Solutions for Reducing Hay Waste in Horse Stables: Beyond HaynetsIs your stable starting to look more like a hay brawl than a horse haven? Reducing hay waste not only saves money but also contributes to a more sustainable equestrian lifestyle. While haynets are a staple in the quest against waste, why limit yourself when there's so much more you can do? Let's delve into innovative approaches to minimize hay wastage without the nets, setting you on a greener, leaner path.Hay Feeders: Your New Best Friend?Straw isn't straw away with feeders that know the drill. **Hay feeders** are a top-tier choice for reducing waste. When feeding from the floor, horses can waste a significant portion of hay. Yet, with feeders, misuse drops dramaticallyby around 6% for small square bales. And the magic doesn't stop there; with round bales, you can see wastage cut by an astonishing 38 percentage points with feeders like the Tombstone or ring feeders.OptiMizers and Slow Feeding Systems: The Slow and Steady Win the RaceNot quite a magic trick, but closeOptiMizers: are specialized slow feeders designed to curb waste to less than 1%. Thats right, less than 1%! These feeders encourage healthy eating habits by slowing down the munching to mimic natural grazing. The result? Less trampling and less rejection of hay. Why trot when you can canter, right?Proper Storage Practices: Protecting the PreciousProper storage can prevent your hay from turning into a soggy mess. Store your hay in dry and well-ventilated places to keep it safe from moisture and pests. If outside storage is necessary, a UV-resistant tarp or a custom-built hay shed will be your best allies. Regular checks can nip any issues in the bud, ensuring your hay remains top-tier for your needs.Hay Selection and Hygiene: Quality Over QuantityWhen it comes to hay quality, don't skimp. Using a reputable supplier ensures you're getting the crme de la crme of hay. Quality hay is less likely to be rejected by horses. Match your hay type with the nutritional requirements and preferences of your horses to cut down on waste. Maintaining a clean feeding area additionally wards off any unwelcome organisms that could render the hay unpalatable.Pasture Feeding and Rotation: Let Nature WorkMore greens, less waste. Incorporating pasture feeding can substantially reduce the reliance on hay. During lush periods, horses can graze naturally, allowing for a greener feeding alternative. Additionally, rotating pastures ensures the earth remains fertile and well-nourished, supporting the growth of nutrient-rich grass.Composting Hay Waste: From Waste to WonderNeed a composting plan thats all about giving back? Turn hay waste into nutrient-rich compost. By hooking up your hay scraps with manure management systems, youre crafting a fantastic fertilizer source. Use it on pastures to bolster your natural grazing practices, effectively reducing fertilizer purchases.Conclusion: A Brighter, Greener FutureReducing hay waste isnt just about saving resources; its about building a more sustainable and harmonious relationship with the earth and your hooved partners. Embrace innovative methods beyond haynetsbe it through feeders, pasture management, or compostingand watch as your stable becomes both a paragon of efficiency and a nod to our planets longevity.For those enamored with promoting a sustainable equestrian lifestyle, spreading the word is just as important as practicing what you preach. Heres to a waste-free, worry-free stable life!```html```

Key Point Details Average Annual Salary of Horse Grooms 27,463 or 13 per hour Average Annual Salary of Dog Grooms 31,170 or 15 per hour Salary Range for Grooms 23,970 to 36,000 based on experience or specialization Bonuses Average bonus of 288 Types of Grooming Jobs Show grooms, Eventing and dressage grooms, Stud grooms, Race and hunt grooms, Yard/barn managers, and Various riding grooms Work Environment Includes daily care activities like grooming, feeding, and stable management; physical demands; early mornings or long hours Skill Development Opportunities in horse care, stable management, horse riding, and training Cultural Experience Exposure to Belgium's equestrian community and diverse European cultures Additional Considerations Salary discrepancies based on stable reputation; necessity to learn local languages; adherence to Belgian labor laws Conclusion Career growth potential, competitive salaries, and international exposure are key benefits of being a groom in Belgium What to Expect as a Working Groom in Belgium: Salary Insights and Experiences If you've ever wondered what life is like as a working groom in Belgium, you're in the right place. This vibrant nation is renowned for its robust equestrian culture, offering a range of opportunities for those passionate about horse care. Whether you're new to the field or considering a geographic change, this guide aims to equip you with the insights needed to navigate your career path with confidence. Salary Insights for Working Grooms in Belgium Belgium offers an enticing working environment, complemented by competitive salaries that vary based on experience, location, and job role. To help you understand what to expect, let's dive into the numbers: Average Salary The average groom earns around 27,463 annually, breaking down to about 13 per hour. This figure can slightly fluctuate depending on the region, with areas like Heist-op-den-Berg showing a marginal increase [1][2]. Dog Grooms vs. Horse Grooms While this article focuses on horse grooms, it's interesting to note that dog groomers in Belgium earn a bit more, averaging 31,170 annually or 15 per hour [3]. This comparative insight could influence career decisions within the grooming sector. Salary Range Entry-level grooms can expect salaries on the lower scale, around 23,970, while those with more experience or specialization may earn up to 36,000 annually [3]. These figures illustrate that career progression and skill development can significantly impact earnings. Bonuses and Perks Bonuses are common in the equestrian sector, with many grooms receiving an average bonus of 288. The exact figures can widely vary depending on the employer and your particular job [1]. Types of Grooming Jobs Available Belgium's equestrian landscape offers diverse roles, allowing individuals to specialize based on their interests and skills. Common roles include: Show grooms Eventing and dressage grooms Stud grooms Race and hunt grooms Yard/barn managers and assistant managers Various riding grooms including English, Western, and jumper riders [4] The opportunity for career growth in these roles is significant, offering pathways tailored to individual aspirations. What You Can Expect from the Work Experience Work Environment The beauty of working as a groom is the hands-on experience including daily care activities such as feeding, mucking out stables, grooming, and sometimes handling tasks like riding or training assistance. Its a job that demands physical diligence and sometimes requires early mornings or long hours, particularly during competition seasons. Skill Development On-the-job learning is immense. Over time, many grooms enhance their skills in horse care and stable management. Some advance to horse riding or training, providing fruitful avenues for career advancement. Cultural Experience Belgiums equestrian community is steeped in tradition and international exposure. Working here increases your professional network and interaction with diverse cultures across Europe, undoubtedly enriching your professional journey. Employee Insights and Additional Considerations Insights gathered from equestrian forums indicate salary discrepancies based on stable size and reputation, with some prestigious establishments offering better pay and conditions [5]. Potential grooms should be aware of the necessity to familiarize themselves with local languages (Dutch, French, or German) and adhere to Belgian labor laws related to work hours and contracts. Conclusion Deciding to work as a groom in Belgium can open up an exciting and fulfilling career. With salary expectations ranging from 24,000 to 36,000, this role offers not only financial reward but also professional growth through specialization within the myriad roles available. Despite the physical demands, the real-world experience and cultural exposure are invaluable. For those driven by passion for horses and seeking an international work experience, consider Belgium as your next destination. To excel, always research current salary data and explore job listings on reputable platforms for the best employment conditions [1][4].

If you live in a hot, dry climate, preventing a dry mane and tail and coat can be challenging. | Photo: iStockQ: This time of year, my horses mane and tail get very dry, and even his coat seems dry. I use coat conditioners when I bathe him, but Im wondering what I could do nutritionally that might help?A: If you live in a hot, dry climate, preventing a dry mane and tail and coat can be challenging. I find this to be especially true of horses living in dry lots or with dirt runs where they are basically rolling in dust.Other than using topical products to try to maintain coat quality, the best you can do is to give the horses skin and coat a fighting chance by ensuring youre feeding all the building blocks needed to maintain skin and coat health.MineralsKey nutritional players in this arena are zinc, copper, fatty acids, and biotin. Zinc is vitally important to a number of enzymes in skin. Epithelial cells that make up skin require zinc for reproduction, maintenance, and repair. Additionally the synthesis of keratins (proteins that protect epithelial cells and that are found in hair) and other associated proteins rely on zinc for proper function. While zinc is found in forages, the amounts present might not meet your horses needs.Copper is generally in even shorter supply in forages than zinc. Copper is necessary for the enzyme lysyl oxidase, which in turn is required to maintain the structural integrity of the cross-linkages that provide strength to collagen in the skin.Together copper and zinc impact melanin, the protein responsible for hair pigmentation. Therefore, inadequate copper and zinc status might not only impact the keratinization of hair but also its color. Hair is at greater risk of oxidative damage if melanin is inadequate.If youre just feeding forage, consider adding a source of copper and zinc that provides about half of the National Research Councils daily requirement, which for a 1,100-pound horse is 50 milligrams of copper and 200 milligrams of zinc. My preferred method is using one of the quality ration balancing feeds and supplements available on the market because they also supply other essential nutrients that might be missing in a forage-based diet.If youre already feeding a commercial feed, make sure that youre following the feeding directions and offering adequate amounts, otherwise your horse might have deficiencies in nutrients key to coat quality.FatThe cell membrane layers that connect the cells that make up hair contain large amounts of fatty acids. The fat in the cuticle cells make them hydrophobic, meaning they dont attract water. This acts to make them waterproof but also keeps moisture in. Cuticle cells should lie flat like shingles on a roof, but if they become damaged, they peel away from the hair allowing internal moisture to escape.Therefore, ensuring adequate amounts of essential fatty acids in the diet might help improve coat quality. I particularly like sources of supplemental fats that provide more omega-3 fatty acids than omega-6, such as flax or camelina. For coat improvement purposes, I find plant-based sources to be more than adequate, and about 4 ounces of flax seed or 2 ounces of the oils should be enough for you to see an improvement in an average-sized horse.BiotinWhile we typically think of biotin in relation to hoof health, biotin also plays a role in skin and coat. Biotin is a B vitamin that is actually made by the bacteria in the horses hindgut making biotin deficiency unlikely.However, in other species inadequate biotin results in poor quality skin and coat. This makes sense when you consider that biotin involved in fatty acid synthesis, amino acid metabolism, and a range of other metabolic pathways. While there are no guidelines for how much biotin to supplement to see improvement in coat quality, research suggests 20 to 30 milligrams for and average-sized horse to aid in hoof quality and we can assume similar levels are necessary to see coat improvements.Take-Home MessageEnsuring that your horse has the building blocks necessary to create a healthy coat from the inside is your best way to defend against a dry coat. However, make sure that you are not shampooing your horse too frequently as this can remove naturally occurring oils. Additionally, look for simple shampoos that contain few detergents and avoid those with alcohol as these can strip the oils from a horses coat.

Section Key Points Challenges of Shipping Saddles Ensure sturdy packaging for items weighing 20-50 pounds; comparable to shipping mini furniture. Insurance and Liability Insure saddles during transit to protect high-value investments from losses or damages. Courier Services UPS and FedEx offer tracking and cater to heavy-duty packages. Costs approximately $75 with full insurance. Specialized Tack Shipping Services Provide bespoke packaging and handle equestrian equipment expertly. Some offer consignment services. Online Marketplaces Platforms like eBay require understanding of postage policies. Sellers might share shipping costs with buyers. Effective Packaging Use bubble wrap for protection and a strong, double-walled box. Emphasizing Insurance Ensure full insurance for shipments to guarantee investment safety and reimbursement. Tracking the Journey Choose services with easy tracking to provide security and transparency for both parties. Keeping Communication Lines Open Regular updates keep buyers informed, reducing anxiety and improving the purchasing experience. Conclusion Selecting the right postage options is vital. Use solid packaging, insurance, and strategic shipping methods to reduce risks and enhance satisfaction. Choosing the Best Postage Options for Selling Saddles Online Selling saddles online can truly expand your market reach, delivering quality equestrian gear to eager horse riders across the globe. However, one of the largest hurdles to jump is ensuring the safe arrival of these bulky, valuable items to their final destination. This guide delves into the best postage options for selling saddles online, examining vital factors and strategies necessary to guarantee a seamless experience for both the seller and the buyer. Understanding the Challenges of Shipping Saddles Shipping saddles isn't your typical packaging task. With saddles weighing anywhere from 20 to 50 pounds and showcasing considerable size, they are akin to shipping mini furniture. The need for sturdy packaging is paramount to safeguard against damages. The Importance of Insurance and Liability Saddles aren't just heavy; they're also a high-value investment. Ensuring they are adequately insured during transit is a non-negotiable aspect to protect against losses or damage, benefiting both parties in the transaction. Postage Options for Saddles Courier Services Opting for reliable services like UPS and FedEx is often an excellent choice for shipping saddles. They not only offer tracking options but also cater to heavy-duty packages, which is a prerequisite for something as robust as a saddle. However, brace yourself for the costs, which can spiral around $75 including full insurance. Specialized Tack Shipping Services Some specialized companies provide bespoke packaging options and expertise in handling equestrian equipment, significantly reducing the risk of mishandling during transit. Furthermore, some even offer consignment services [source]. Online Marketplaces and Their Shipping Options Platforms like eBay are popular spots for selling saddles. Understanding and navigating their postage policies and fees is crucial. Sellers might end up sharing the costs with buyers [source]. Tips for Successful Saddle Shipping Effective Packaging Embrace the mantra: Bubble wrap is your friend! It offers a snug fit and unrivaled protection. A strong, double-walled box is your go-to for peace of mind [source]. Emphasizing Insurance Fully insuring the shipment is a precautionary tale you won't regret. It keeps your investment safe and sound, ensuring full reimbursement in untoward scenarios. Tracking the Journey Opt for services that offer easy tracking. This approach allows both parties insight into the delivery journey, cultivating a sense of security and transparency. Keeping Communication Lines Open A simple update can do wonders. Keeping your buyers abreast of the timeline and potential delays can ward off unnecessary anxiety and ensure a positive purchasing experience. Conclusion While the logistics may seem daunting, selecting the right postage options is pivotal for selling saddles online. Whether sidling up to specialized courier services or tapping into consignment programs, a well-planned shipping logistics strategy ensures smooth sailing. From bulking up on solid packaging to embracing full insurance, these steps guarantee reduced risks of damage and enhanced buyer satisfaction. Whether your journey involves international leaps or short trots around the block, ensure the safety of your saddle, delivering joy to horse riders far and wide. For more equestrian necessities, explore our comprehensive range of Jodhpur Collection, Horse Riding Boots, and Riding Gloves.

Ocala, FL The final day of the 2025 Orange Blossom Classic wrapped up with the $25,000 NSBA Non-Pro Open Trail Challenge, capping off a fantastic week of competition. Quarter Horse competition will continue next week with A Sudden Impulse, running April 22-26 at WEC Ocala. On Easter Sunday, 25 entries gathered under the lights of the WEC Grand Arena to compete in the[...]Read MoreThe post Orange Blossom Classic; Sunday, April 20 Featured Class Highlights appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

MARS Badminton Horse Trials, which takes place 7-11 May 2025 in Gloucestershire, has relaunched its popular mobile app for iOS and Android phones and it includes two new features.Users of Badminton 2.0 will be able to follow their favourite riders and receive timely reminders about their progress through the CCI5* competition, such as a 30-minute warning that their favourite rider is about to start their dressage test.Badminton app users can also have a go at being an armchair judge for the dressage phase, which takes places on Thursday and Friday. The new Score My Test feature allows users to score a riders dressage test while watching live from the main arena or the comfort of their sofa at home while watching Badminton TV. On cross-country day (Saturday), users will be able to follow riders progress around the cross-country live with the apps Live XC Fence Analysis feature.The Badminton app returns with all of its previous features too, including live scores and access to a wealth of information about the competition, and what to see, plus where to shop.The previous app was so popular we wanted to resurrect it and bring more engagement features into the app, said event director Jane Tuckwell. Its already proving popular, with over a thousand downloads in the first 30 minutes of being posted on our website. I really think users will love the new features.Apple users can download the Badminton app here from the iOS app storeAndroid phone users can download the Badminton app here from the Android storeMain image (stock) ShutterstockRelated contentOlympic stars head strong Badminton CCI5* entry listNew streaming provider for Badminton TV this yearTop 10 in pictures: Caroline Powell clinches first Badminton titleLeMieux announces sponsorship of Badminton grassrootsWilliam Fox-Pitt champions Badmintons new charity of the yearThe post Now you can be a Badminton dressage judge! Event relaunches popular app with new features appeared first on Your Horse.

```html Storage Solution Key Features Plastic Storage Bins Durable, pest protection, may require sturdy base or dollies for ease of stacking/movement. Old Deep Freezes Economical, ideal for hanging/stacking rugs, good pest protection, requires thoughtful positioning. Used Feed Bins Dual-purpose, stores rugs and other essentials, streamlines stable environment. Garden Storage Boxes Good for lighter rugs, versatile, suitable for outdoors, ideal for space-limited stables. Vacuum Storage Bags Space-saving, ideal for long-term storage, compresses rugs to minimize bulk. Outdoor Storage Boxes Weather-resistant, excellent for clean rugs, frees up indoor space, keeps system tidy. Custom Racking Systems Great for larger stables, practical storage, keeps rugs dry and damage-free. ``````html Creative and Practical Rug Storage Solutions for Your Stable Space Maintaining a well-organized stable space is essential for horse owners. Efficient rug storage not only extends the lifespan of your rugs but also contributes to a clutter-free environment, making it more accessible and comfortable for you and your horse. Here, we'll delve into some innovative and practical solutions for optimizing your rug storage, fostering a more effective and harmonious stable environment. Introduction to Horse Rug Storage A proper storage system for horse rugs is crucial. It enhances protection against dust, moisture, and pests, while also optimizing space and ensuring easy access. A well-planned storage strategy can reduce wear and tear, ultimately leading to cost savings over time. Practical Rug Storage Ideas 1. Plastic Storage Bins Plastic storage bins offer a durable and clean solution for storing horse rugs. They keep rugs safe from pests such as mice and spiders. However, stacking them may become unwieldy, so placing them on a sturdy base or using dollies for movement could ease handling. 2. Old Deep Freezes Repurposing old deep freezers can be both a smart and economical choice. Their tall stature is ideal for hanging or neatly stacking rugs, thus saving space and offering excellent pest protection. Position them thoughtfully to maximize space [source]. 3. Used Feed Bins Feed bins, already a common feature in stables, provide a dual-purpose storage solution. Apart from storing rugs, they can also house other essentials like feed or bedding, thus streamlining and tidying up the stable environment. 4. Garden Storage Boxes These boxes cater well to lighter rugs. Their versatility allows them to be placed outdoors if needed, an advantage for space-limited stables. Keeping lighter or less frequently used items in these will help maintain an uncluttered area [source]. 5. Vacuum Storage Bags To save space efficiently, vacuum storage bags compress rugs to minimize bulk. This method is ideal for long-term storage, especially in tightly packed storage rooms where space conservation is key [source]. 6. Outdoor Storage Boxes Weather-resistant boxes designed for outdoor use can serve as excellent storage solutions for clean rugs. This frees up indoor stable space and keeps your storage system tidy and organized. 7. Custom Racking Systems Larger stables might consider custom racking systems. These systems, akin to those used for carpets, allow for practical storage of multiple rugs, while ensuring they are kept dry and damage-free [source]. Tips for Implementing These Solutions Assess Your Needs: Before selecting storage methods, inventory your rugs and measure available space. Customized solutions will vary based on these factors. Maintain Cleanliness: Regularly dust and clean stored rugs to prevent mold and ensure longevity. This also contributes to a healthier stable environment. Organize by Type: Group rugs by typefor instance, store turnout rugs togethersimplifying selection and reducing retrieval time. Label Containers: Clearly label all storage containers. This eliminates guesswork when youre in a hurry to find the right rug. Conclusion Implementing a well-thought-out horse rug storage solution can significantly enhance the ease of managing your stable area. The aforementioned methods not only prolong rug life but also create an efficient and visually appealing space. By taking these practical steps, you are investing in a happier, healthier environment for your horses and yourself. Whether you're interested in checking out our stable rugs or need the latest in horse supplements, visit Just Horse Riders and transform the way you manage your equestrian needs!``````html```

Ive known Connie DeMaio and Allison Malenfant, the two co-founders behind Redingote equestrian coveralls, for years. In fact, I was the first to preorder when we met at Jersey Fresh International 2017. Since then, Ive watched these women grow an empire. They are boss babes in every sense of the word. I recently sat down with Malenfant for a deep dive into how they manage it all.Allison Malenfant (left) and Connie De Maio (right), founders of Redingote. Photo by Tara MooreHeather Wallace: Tell me about the first time you and Connie met.Allison Malenfant: Our husbands work in the New York entertainment industry and often collaborate. We met occasionally, and Connie told me about her equestrian background. I always wanted to ride, but had no exposure. Connie agreed to teach me, and we became friends through weekly lessons in Brooklyn. And double dates!HW: Were horses a childhood obsession or an adult passion?AM: I took one lesson a week while working a corporate job in the athletic retail industry. Once I left to start Redingote, I increased my riding two days a week. Its a slippery slope, of course. I bought my first horse in 2020 and now have two. I hunter pace and fox hunt, but also travel and compete. It has become a lifestyle.Connie has horses in her blood. Her father was a Standardbred trainer in Monmouth County, New Jersey. She started hunter/jumper lessons and eventually had her own horses at home. She was very successful in riding and competing by age 16. She now owns and runs a small private facility in Colts Neck, N.J. HW: What sparked the idea of Redingote?AM: Connie owned a vintage mens insulated coverall she found at a yard sale. She loved the functionality of a one-piece. She could wear it while teaching or working in the barn, and then take it off to ride. However, it lacked waterproofing and enough pockets. Plus, the mens shape didnt flatter.People asked her about it wherever she went, loving the practicality or thinking she looked like a mechanic. There was an untapped market for a similar product that was warm, waterproof, and designed for a womans body. She shared her idea with me. I knew about the retail industry and the development of products, so I suggested a partnership.HW: How did you come up with the name Redingote for your business?AM: A redingote is a fitted outer coat with a cutaway front. Its a French derivative of the English phrase riding coat from the 18th century. We came across this word while trying to name our brand, and it was a perfect fit, since we were reinventing the riding coat for the 21st century rider!HW: What was the first step in launching your brand?AM: Nailing a product we believed in was the first step. There was no brand if the idea didnt work!We started working on the idea in early 2017, sourcing an outerwear manufacturer that would work with a niche startup brand and develop prototypes for a year. There were many changes with the focus on flattering style but offering warmth and movement. We tested several levels of insulation to find the happy place between staying warm without bulk.HW: What is the biggest challenge youve had to overcome?AM: The horse industry is traditional, and people are skeptical about new products. A technical performance coverall for women was a completely new idea.We are a small, self-funded business. Marketing was and is very grassroots. We wear our jumpsuits, driving to barns and horse shows to pass out flyers. It was fun to see the idea catching on. Wed sell one to somebody in one barn, and then their barn mates would order.Marketing a business our size in a niche market is still a challenge, but our brand recognition has grown wonderfully!HW: How do you work as successful partners?AM: Business partnerships are like marriages, and each person has different strengths. I think this has been the foundation of our partnership. Were very different. I am hyper-organized with a retail background. Connie is a dreamer with an equestrian background. I am better at project management. Connie has a sales and marketing brain. We agree with a lot of things, but we navigate any disagreements. I think weve learned a lot about each other over the yearsjust like a marriage!HW: Have the challenges changed over the years?AM: They just get bigger! I say that with a sense of humor, but its true. The bigger the business, the bigger the challenges. The challenges stay the same (i.e. marketing, staying competitive in a growing industry, funding, supply chain, et cetera) but the scale grows.HW: How has your business evolved?AM: Its amazing to look back on the way Redingote has grown. Our winter insulated jumpsuit is still our No. 1 product, and new customers are discovering it all the time. We are always innovating. Redingote has launched winter outerwear separates, a schooling collection, rainwear, and our signature one-piece for men and kids. We have a new scrim jacket coming out this spring so we can stay protected in the summer while still enjoying short sleeves.Weve even added another brand to our portfolio, acquiring FITS Riding, a beloved breeches company, in November 2022.HW: Where do you see Redingote going?AM: We have a big vision! Our highest concentration of customers is the Northeast U.S. English market, where we live. Ultimately, we have some exciting projects and collaborations in development. We plan to expand across all equestrian disciplines, markets, locations, and into other sportswe have many clients who use our outerwear for skiing, sailing, fishing, hiking, camping and more.This article about Redingote appeared in the May 2024 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Meet the Founders of Redingote appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.