Monday, October 18, 2010

Bargain Basement

Horses are expensive. Bottom Line. Even after factoring in the cost of board, vet, worming, and the farrier (you know, the bare necessities) you still have riding lessons, tack, brushes, supplements, blankets, riding apparel, riding boots, helmets, show clothes, saddle pads, etc. etc.

My bank account can attest to the fact that my horse’s have cost me more than my college loans and three years of car payments combined. So what is a poor horse owner to do? Shop around! Use the internet. Never, ever buy things from those nifty tack trailers at the horse shows. Buy used if you can. Ebay is a favorite of mine. So is Craigslist. Don’t get hung up on brand names, especially if you can’t afford it.

Because today was my half day I spent a little time shopping online for some bargains, keeping in mind that winter will be here before we know it. So without further ado, check out what I found:

Saxon 600D Turnout sheet by Stateline. No fill, but I can attest to the fact that this is a hardy little waterproof blanket. Both of my horses are wearing them now. And you absolutely cannot beat the price tag of $39.99

Devon-Aire Pull on Dress Boot. A dress boot with laces and the look of real leather for only $51.99? Yes please! These may not be the best choice for anything other than low level schooling shows, but they would be perfect for riding around the barn.

English saddle pad. I absolutely LOVE these $10 saddle pads from Dover. Not only do they come in sixteen great colors, but they are high quality too! I already have four and am planning to buy two more for Christmas.

Heavy Weight Rider Turnout. A heavyweight turnout blanket for under $100? Sounds good to me.

Troxel Helmet. For someone just starting out or as an extra schooling helmet to keep at the barn, this is perfect. It doesn’t have a dial system fit like some of the pricier models and only comes in black and white, but you really can’t beat the $27.90 price. It is ASTM-SEI approved.

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