We have compiled a list of questions either asked by customers or that we think may be useful. Please use this page to find answers to common questions. The answers here can save you time and the cost of a call!

• Q. If I buy the wrong item can I change it?
  
  A. Yes just return it unused and unmarked and we will allow full credit for the item against any other item. Please note we do not refund post and packing fees.
  
  
• Q. Can I bring my horse for a saddle or rug fitting?
  
  A. Yes - we probably need 24 hrs notice, though. Give us a ring and bring your horse or pony along and we will fit whatever you require.
  
  
• Q. What size saddle do I need?
  
  A. You really need to sit on a friend's saddle and use the size of that as a starting point. Sit on the saddle in the deepest part of the seat and you should be able to place your hand behind you flat on the back of the seat. Your knees should sit comfortably behind the knee rolls and you should be sitting up.
  
  
• Q. How do I measure a Saddle?
  
  A. The traditional way to measure a saddle is to place a tape measure between the centre of the stud at the front of the saddle and the centre of the cantle at the back. When measuring the width of a saddle it is now common the measure between the two D's at the front of the saddle.
  
  
• Q. How do I care for my Saddle and Bridle?
  
  A.
  Saddles, Bridles and General Leatherwork:

  Leather is a living breathing product and needs to be "fed" in order to retain its supple nurtured texture. Leather care is a satisfying chore that pays off ten fold if done regularly and thoroughly.

  New Leather

  Time spent preparing new leather items is time well spent, you items will last much, much longer and be much nicer to handle and use. The first operation is to apply copious amounts of a liquid leather preparation such as Neatsfoot Oil, Mars Oil or Mink Oil all these preparations are available from any good saddler. Apply the oil with a new clean paint brush and be sure to get the oil into all the nooks and crannies and really soak the leather and the stitching. Apply the oil in a warm environment and allow it to soak in and dry before applying the next coat. When you have applied three or four coats wipe the item clean with a dry, lint free cloth such as an old tea towel. Next use the item in order to work the oil into the centre of the leather. Be sure to wear old clothes when riding in a saddle that has recently been oiled, don't wear your best new beige jods or chaps!

  Repeat the operation twice and then the next time you clean your saddle or bridle use a proprietary saddle soap preferably containing lanolin. Buff the surface up with your lint free cloth and you will end up with a rich rewarding shine that shows you that you have done the very best for your valuable saddlery.

  
  
  
• Q. What Rugs do I need?
  
  A. Rugs can be divided into 5 main groups. Day Rugs, Night Rugs (Stabled), Turnout Rugs, Sweat Rugs/Fly Sheets and Exercise Rugs and Sheets.

  Day Rugs:

  For horses that are stabled when it is warmer in the daytime that at night time, normally a fleece or a woollen material these rugs keep the draughts and dust of the horses and can be used under the night rugs for extra warmth at night or when the daytime temperature really drops. These rugs normally have straps at the front, cross surcingles and a fillet string at the back.

  Night Rugs:

  Traditionally made of Jute this material has now been superseded by more modern fabrics. Choose a lined rug and decide if you are going to use an under rug or a blanket. Normally these would have strap or straps at the front, cross surcingles and a fillet string at the rear.

  Turnout Rugs:

  These used to made of a waterproofed canvas but are now more likely to be made from a material such as "Cordura" they need to be waterproof and if they are to stay on for days and days they should ideally be made of a "breathable" material. They should have sturdy front straps, leg straps and cross surcingles with a fillet string and suitable tail guard.

  Sweat Rugs/Fly Sheets:

  Made of a fine mesh material these rugs would be used to aid the cooling of your horse after work, the "drying" period after being washed or when standing in the stable or horse box to keep the flies off.

  Exercise Rugs and Sheets:

  Normally a half rug or a rug with a suitable cut out for the saddle. These rugs can be made of either a woollen based cloth or a reflective and waterproof material so as to be seen by motorists when exercising out.

  
  
  
• Q. Can I get Rugs cleaned and repaired?
  
  A. Yes rugs can and should be cleaned and repaired. We send our rugs off at least once a year for cleaning and repair. Rugs are expensive so should be looked after, cleaning also clears the rugs of skin parasites etc. We do accept rugs for cleaning and repairs so if you can't find a firm locally then telephone or e-mail us for a quotation.