Hot Takes

You Don’t Have To Ride To Be An Equestrian

 The identity crisis. Most riders at some point in their lives for one reason or another take…

Pulling Manes Is An Archaic Practice

 Turnout matters. Keeping your horse clean and well groomed isn’t just about making them look pretty.…

Mare stereotypes are bull****

The funny thing about mares is that often times when we slow down and take…

I Admit It: I’m Not Qualified To Wear Spurs. 

The issue: I ride an enormous Thoroughbred gelding. He flunked out of his first job before…

Horses Are Hard, Don’t Give Up: The Chestnut Mare Of All Chestnut Mares

Editor’s Note: This story originally published in the Heels Down Spark newsletter in May 2021,…

The Tired, Old Social Influencer Amateur Debate

This hot take first appeared in the Heels Down Spark on September 28, 2021. Sign…

The Great Blanketing Debate

The dilemma: Every year I tell myself I’m going to try not to body clip…

The Anti-GirlBoss: The Work-Life Balance Advice We All Need Right Now

Tired of the “Boss Babe” or “Boss Mare” or “Girl Boss” monikers? We are too.…

Looking For A New Horse? Don’t Do These Things

Justine Dutton sells a lot of horses. The eventer-turned show jumper imports horses from England…

Saying My Thoroughbred Looks Like A Warmblood Is Not A Compliment

My horse was cooled out, munching hay in his stall while I was in the…