A five-minute safety check before mounting can prevent serious accidents. Tack failure is rarely sudden — it usually follows gradual wear, unnoticed damage, or poor fitting.
Every ride should begin with a systematic inspection. This is not excessive caution — it is responsible horsemanship.
This guide explains what to check before riding, why it matters, and the most commonly overlooked risks.
Why Pre-Ride Checks Matter
Tack failure can result in:
- Loss of control
- Falls
- Girth slippage
- Bit breakage
- Stirrup failure
- Horse injury
- Rider injury
Leather weakens, stitching deteriorates, and metal fatigues over time. Regular checks detect issues before they fail under load.
The 5-Minute Pre-Ride Safety Routine
Develop a consistent system so nothing is missed.
1. Saddle Inspection
Check the Tree and Structure
Before placing the saddle on:
- Lift and gently flex
- Check for unusual movement
- Ensure panels are even
A broken tree may not always be obvious but can cause instability and discomfort.
Inspect Stitching
Examine:
- Stirrup bars
- Girth straps
- Flap stitching
- Panel seams
Loose or frayed stitching is a failure risk — never ignore weakening thread.
Check Girth Straps (Billets)
Billets take significant tension. Look for:
- Cracks
- Stretching
- Weak holes
- Dry splitting
Billet failure during mounting can cause saddle rotation.
2. Girth Check
Before fastening:
- Inspect stitching
- Check elastic for overstretching
- Ensure buckles move freely
After fastening:
- Tighten gradually
- Recheck after walking
- Confirm even tension
Uneven girths increase saddle movement and discomfort.
3. Bridle and Bit Inspection
Leather Condition
Check:
- Cheekpieces
- Reins
- Noseband straps
- Throatlash
Look for:
- Fine cracking
- Stretching
- Dryness
Reins are critical safety components — weak reins are dangerous.
Stitching and Buckles
Inspect all buckle points. Small stitch failures can escalate quickly under pressure.
Bit Condition
Ensure:
- No sharp edges
- No rust
- No cracks
- Joints move smoothly
Damaged bits can injure the horse’s mouth.
4. Stirrup and Leather Check
Stirrup leathers endure repetitive strain. Inspect for:
- Thinning near the buckle
- Stretching
- Cracking at fold points
Check stirrup irons for:
- Frame cracks
- Loose or worn treads
- Sharp edges
A broken stirrup during faster work poses serious risk.
5. Saddle Fit Assessment
Before mounting, assess:
- Saddle sits level
- No bridging
- Adequate wither clearance
- No rocking
Poor fit compromises balance and comfort. Behavioural resistance often begins with tack discomfort.
6. After Mounting Re-Check
Once mounted:
- Walk briefly
- Halt
- Re-check girth tightness
- Adjust stirrups evenly
Horses often relax their abdomen after initial tightening — always re-check.
7. Post-Ride Inspection
Safety checks continue after riding.
- Observe sweat patterns for signs of uneven pressure
- Inspect for new wear points
- Clean and wipe down leather
Post-ride checks help detect issues early.
High-Risk Warning Signs
Do not ride if you notice:
- Deep cracks in leather
- Severely stretched billets
- Loose stitching at load-bearing points
- Twisted or damaged girth
- Faulty stirrup bar
Replacing worn parts is far safer than risking an accident.
Frequency of Deeper Inspections
In addition to daily checks:
Monthly:
- Thorough leather inspection
- Saddle balance review
Every 6–12 months:
- Professional saddle fitting assessment
Preventative maintenance reduces risk.
Common Mistakes
- Riding with “slightly worn” stitching
- Ignoring minor cracks
- Not checking new tack thoroughly
- Forgetting to re-tighten girth
- Sharing tack without reassessing fit
Small oversights can lead to serious consequences.
The Core Principle
Pre-ride tack checks protect:
- Rider safety
- Horse comfort
- Equipment lifespan
A structured five-minute inspection:
- Prevents accidents
- Reduces long-term costs
- Supports high standards of horsemanship
Safe riding begins before you mount.
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Knowledge Hub: https://jsm-equestrian-supplies.co.uk/knowledge-hub/
Category: https://jsm-equestrian-supplies.co.uk/category/tack-knowledge/
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