It’s summer and it’s hot. Keeping up with barn chores is a challenge enough, let alone finding the time and energy to ride.
Luckily there are some products out there that make those hot days a little more bearable. Fly spray, bug spray, sunglasses, sunscreen and lots of water are a given.
But there are a few other supplies that could be useful in your tack box or wardrobe during the hottest months of the year. Here are our top picks for summer:
Eques Pante Performance Underwear
In 2018, the hosts of the Heels Down Happy Hour Podcast set out to find the answer to the longstanding question rocking equestrian sport: which style of underwear is best to ride in? The analysis was inconclusive. The answer, it seems, is complicated.
But on a hot and sweaty day, I never regret wearing Eques Pante. The Eques Pantes wicks sweat and dries fast. There are no panty lines or bunching to gawk at under tight breeches. There’s a seamless crotch made for added comfort (really, they thought of everything) and the underwear comes in cool color combos that never show under a pair of white breeches. What I like best about the the Eques Pantes is they are supportive and stylish enough to wear as just straight workout shorts. Even better, the Eques Pantes are made of sustainably-sourced materials.
The Eques Pantes knickers resemble the “bike short” look and feel with sleek, soft and stretchy material that covers the waist, buttocks and thighs generously. You can read our full review here.
Kinetic Vet Equishield FG Fly Guard Roll On & DermaCloths
Fly spray is dang expensive right now. But gosh, we can’t live without it. I love adding the Equishield Fly Guard Roll On to my de-bug tool kit this time of year. Any time my horse isn’t wearing a fly mask, I use this roller around his eyes and ears to help keep those annoying bugs out of his face, so he can concentrate on our rides or just not be hassled in the barn or the field. A little goes a long way and lasts all day.
In addition to fly control, I love the DermaCloths from Kinetic Vet. Think baby wipes but thicker and more durable. They are great for touch ups ring side or for horses with sensitive skin along the face during the hottest, sweatiest months. I also use them reguarly around the hooves and legs. And if I’m truly being honest, I’ve used them on myself! It’s one of the products you don’t think about until you need it, and I’m always grateful when I have them in my tack trunk.
EquiVisor
The EquiVisor is a wide-brim extension that fits over any helmet. When I first got my Equivisor, it took some getting used to. Now I can’t ride without it. It keeps my face and chest covered from the sun and I don’t have to squint down the line on a bright day to find my distance. There are several brands who make great visor extensions to helmets these days – some are fancier than others. But the traditional EquiVisor really gets the job done.
Mane ‘n Tail Mineral Ice
This is one of my favorite old school products. It’s easy to apply after a tough work out and like traditional liniment, it offers a soothing cool flash, providing relief for aching muscles and joints. I coat my horse’s legs and haunches in it after a grueling early morning jump session in the summer months. It retails for $13.99 a pound at Walmart. But I bought a smaller bottle for $8 at my local feed store. Absorbine makes a similar liniment gel product that can be a little more expensive.
Belt It Out Goods in Willow Blue
Last year, we introduced to you a brand that’s quickly become one of our favorite fashion staples in our riding wardrobe: Belt It Out Goods. On Episode 136 of the Heels Down Happy Hour Podcast, we reviewed the latest collection of new colors and patterns from this women-owned business.
Our favorite color from this collection is Willow Blue, an understated, gorgeous color that compliments a variety of other hues and outfit choices. The soft, stretchable fabric is easy to wear and the gorgeous, durable hardware can work with any summer riding outfit. The last thing I want to feel is “too restricted” on a hot riding day. And even on a humid or wet day, these belts are easy to keep clean (I put mine directly in the washer). You can read our full review here.
Looking for more tips and items to help through the summer? Don’t miss:
- Summer Survival Guide: Must Have Products To Beat The Heat
- Top 5 Show Ready Must-Haves For The Season
- Product Review: 5 Must-Haves In Your Grooming Tote