Trinkets for the Trail; Important Accessories and More!

Curious about what you might find when riding on our trials or on trails of your own? Here are some important accessories you need to know about! 

Happy June, everyone! Let's continue to get back in the saddle one day at a time. When joining us for your next trail ride, there might be a few needed accessories that you might not know what they are or what they do. Don't worry! We are here to help guide you. Also, everything you need for your next visit with us will be provided. We are taking very serious steps to keep our guests and employees very safe. Everything you touch and come in contact with will be very safe and clean. But as you prepare to come to visit us, we wanted to share some information about some important trail riding accessories. This information is also great for those who want to explore trails out in the wild or who might want to invest in their trail riding equipment. Don't forget, our historic trail rides are open and available to the public. You don't want to miss this beautiful and unique experience this summer! 

Each of the items we will be talking about today makes riding and any experience on or with a horse much more prepared, easier, and comfortable for both parties involved. They help keep the quality of the ride enjoyable and can come in handy to keep you safe and protected in any situation. 

• Saddle Bags

These are found on either side of your horse's saddle and they are used for storage. They are the exact size, on both sides of the saddle, to make sure your horse stays balanced. They come with plenty of straps to avoid accidents or damage to you, your horse, or what you're carrying inside. They are ideal for long trail rides or if you're riding your horse out for a weekend of camping. They are great for carrying supplies like food, water, and first aid. They are centrally located, so you can access them easily while riding and can see what you're doing. They come in multiple sizes depending on the length of your ride. They can also be insulated, depending on what you need to carry. They come in many different styles, colors, and fabrics for both English and Western-style riding. They have been made for style and endurance purposes. 

• Feed Bags

These are for our horse companions to enjoy a little snack or dinner on the road. They are great for situations where a horse might compete for food with other horses. They also make group feedings out in the pasture easier for both you and your horse. It makes eating away from their stable much easier, too. You don't have to carry a giant trough with you on your next ride. Feed bags also help prevent your horse from over-eating, eating someone else's dinner, and minimizes the amount of wasted feed. 

• Bits

These will be found on almost every ride you take. These are the metal pieces, or bits, that fit perfectly within a horse's mouth. They come in all colors, designs, and materials and are measured to fit perfectly within a horse's mouth and over their muzzle. This is done to avoid discomfort or pinching. They are attached to the reins that the rider holds and controls. Bits play a huge part in communication between the rider and their horse. Some riders don't like bits and use something called a hackamore, a biteless bridle. In no way should bits ever be used to punish a horse. They are used to tell a horse what direction to turn, to change their speed and gait, to move in different directions, and to stop. Using a light hand when using a bit is key. 

• Halters

Not to be confused with a popular cut and fit of tops and dresses, this is lovingly referred to as a horse collar. It can be used as an alternative to a bit. A halter is placed onto a horse's head and is used to lead them around and to secure them while they are not being ridden. They are used to retrieve and hold your horses, too. It helps promote the safety of you and your horse, which is key when out and about in an unknown area. Always use a halter, and make sure to use it properly when riding and tie it securely when you're not riding. 

Have you seen or used some of these accessories before? Or are they all new to you? We are excited to help continue and nurture any education when it comes to our beautiful horses and everything it takes to ride them safely and properly. The trails are calling you, so what are you waiting for? Until you join us for your next ride, please continue to stay safe! We are Charleston's premier horseback riding trail, dedicated to keeping you safe while exploring the beauty of the Lowcountry.