Summer Survival Guide: Must Have Products To Beat The Heat

It’s that time of year again. The heat index is climbing, threatening to reach sweltering digits already in Florida. I think that officially means we’ve entered the worst season of the year (if you live in the Sunshine State). But no matter where you live, the heat, the rain and the humidity of summer can put a damper on your riding routine if you’re not prepared for it.

Fly spray, bug spray, sunglasses, sunscreen and lots of water are a given. But there are a few other items that could be useful in your tack box or wardrobe during the hottest months of the year.

Here’s a list of my top 10 must-have products to help rider and horse beat the heat this summer.

Mane ‘n Tail Mineral Ice

This is one of my favorite 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.

SWAT Fly Ointment

This is absolutely a must-have in Florida. Horses can’t be in the stall or out in the pasture without flies, noseeums and mosquitoes hovering around. Traditional fly sprays work OK, but I use SWAT ointment around my horse’s eyes and in her ears to keep the pesky bugs out of her face when she’s not wearing a fly mask. A small jar usually costs less than $12. Choose the clear formula or have some fun with the bright pink ointment.

EQyss MicroTek Spray

Monsoon rains and muddy arenas quickly lead to rain rot on your horse’s legs. This is my new favorite product to help keep my horse fungus-free in the summer. For just $14.99, it fights most skin issues in just one or two treatments. It’s gentle enough to coat ouchy and sensitive areas. For heavy duty treatment, buy the MicroTek medicated shampoo.

Himalayan Salt Block

This is the perfect, cheap summer treat for your horse, which helps replenish iron, potassium, and magnesium often lost in sweat during workouts. It’s easy to hang in the stall. 

Keratex Hoof Gel

After dealing with white line disease, stone bruises and abscesses last summer due to flooded pastures from record rains, Keratex’s fleet of hoof products have become my go-to to keep my horse’s hooves strong and healthy during the wet season. Hoof gel is applied just a few times a week and helps keep hooves protected in wet conditions. It can be used on horses with or without shoes. For extra protection, buy the hoof hardener.

Leather Cleaner Wipes

Sweat and rain is not a good mix for your leather tack. Keep some leather cleaner wipes in your tack box for a quick way to wipe down bridles and breastplates after a really sweaty ride. (They make conditioning ones, too.)

EIS COOL Shirt

I don’t know about you, but I hate my crazy barn lady tan lines. EIS’ line of sun-stopping shirts are not only brilliant, but they keep you cool and covered while riding. Not to mention they’re made of breathable, moisture-wicking, UV-protecting material. Pick up some fresh new colors and patterns.  

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.

HyperKewl Riding Vest

Strap on one of these babies to feel immediate, cooling relief while you ride under the sun. There are a couple of different options at different price points, but most vests offer up to 10 hours of cooling relief. HyperKewel uses fabric that absorbs and releases water while you sweat. It won’t get your clothes wet underneath it. Try one for $56.96 or go all out on an upgraded model with a hydration system.

CamelBak Backpack

So I stole this idea from my brother. He’s an avid snowboarder and never hits the slopes without a slim CamelBak backpack filled with Gatorade. The lightweight, breathable backpacks are perfect to wear on a long trail ride. They carry a couple ounces of liquid and a long straw is fastened over your shoulder, so it’s easy to drink from. They come in various sizes and at different prices – I recommend getting the one with the hip strap to keep it from bouncing on your back while riding.