Things I Love: Part Two

Earlier I made a post about things that I considered “must haves”.  As I said at the time, it’s kind of ‘my thing’ to constantly be giving unsolicited reviews of products.  Some of my friends may say that I tend to force these reviews upon them.. but I’d counter that they are always happy with any product I suggest (read: shove down their throat).  What can I say?  I admit to being hard on most items and I am rather particular;  Elvis follows suit.

So, being that I’m stuck inside on this beautiful day I thought I’d share my thoughts on a few winter must-haves.

The Clip
I’m editing this post to add The Clip; I can’t believe I forgot to include it earlier this morning!  I’ve known about The Clip for a while, but I purchased my own recently.  I consider it a must-have for trailering, especially since I prefer to use rope halters.  I just love this item, even more than the Blocker Tie ring.  I don’t like that the blocker takes time to use, and you can’t take it with you.  The Clip is strong and light, and I keep it threaded onto my lead towards the end, and adjust it’s placement when I’m ready to tie.  I just clip it where I need it!  It’s perfect for horses like Elvis, who would become pullers if given the chance (he’s just too smart for his own good).

Schneiders Blankets: (comparatively) Cheap and Likely Elvis-Proof
They aren’t as attractive as my olive tartan plaid Rhino turnout, but let’s face it… 1200 denier nylon is simply child’s play!  Schneiders offers many turnouts in 1680 denier, and some in 1800 denier ripstop nylon!  I am itching to order one of their blankets, as Elvis has already ripped the exterior and interior of his Rhino, and destroyed one of the T-buckles on the front.  I’m praying it hangs in there for a bit longer..

Ariat Mudbuster
My mother bought me a pair of Ariat rubber muck boots at least a decade ago.  I’m not exaggerating when I say that they are as good as new, and that I’ve worn them 1000x more in the past year than I have in the past decade.  I lived such a sheltered life in Florida, where there is no mud.. Ariats are not only made well (although I hear some of their products are now being manufactured in China, and showing less quality), they offer eight thousand size combinations.  Perfect for a tall girl like me with less than dainty feet, and very long lower legs.

Himalayan Salt Licks
Everyone and their mother probably knew about these before I did, but I’ll include them.  I love them so much, andElvis truly does prefer them to the generic and mass manufactured blocs.  Likely, because they make him feel less like livestock and more like the (brat) Prince that he is.

Poly-Copper by Uckele
If you don’t know why I absolutely adore this product, you should read this blog more often!

Kerrits Powerstretch Fleece Breeches
Where would I be without these synthetic wonders?!  My mother gave me a “stay warm while riding” themed gift box for Christmas, and these were included (as well as the similar products forthcoming).  They have saved my bum more than once during this very cold winter.  Kudos to Kerrits for providing hard-wearing products in LONG lengths and with NON GAPING Flowrise waist bands!

SSG Soft Touch Winter Riding Gloves
By far, the nicest riding gloves I’ve ever owned.  I’m a long time fan of their everyday riding gloves (which have lasted me decades a piece), but these are simply wonderful.  Thin, supple, well-fitting, non bulky, and WARM.  Thanks, Mom!

The Buff!
I don’t even know how to describe this thing, other than it’s strangely wonderful.  Yes, I admit to wearing it in nearly every way possible.  Perfect for cold weather, but ideal for warm weather too.  If you don’t have a buff, get one!

Salmon Supa Grooma
My life will not be the same after finding this brush.  Why?  Well, I’ll no longer be covered in cat/dog/horse hair for one thing.  This brush is for your horse’s face or for “removing hair from rugs”.  I have no idea if the UK-based company has yet discovered that this brush also excels at removing hair for your person.. even if you regularly sport polarfleece garments!  This small brush is a definite must-have.  I even gave them as Christmas gifts to my animal loving friends this year!  I’ve not located them for sale on any US websites, but I did buy mine in a Dover store.

Small Mesh Hay Net
A simple thing, but it keeps Elvis busy for hours.  I’m working on a way to securely tie it without excess rope hanging about, and letting him kick it around his paddock.  The mesh holes are half the size of my fist, so they shouldn’t pose an issue for a horse’s hoof.

These products all have made my life a little easier in the recent months.  I hope that you find something here which will do the same for you!  Feel free to add any items which may be helping you this season, and you consider “must haves”!

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