The long winter evenings have been wet and miserable, the impact on your leather tack can be particularly harsh. The dampness in the air and the constant threat of rain can lead to irreversible damage, causing leather to lose its natural oils, become brittle, and, worst of all, succumb to mold and mildew.
However, taking a proactive approach to safeguard your leather belongings during the winter season can make a world of difference. By cleaning, conditioning, and protecting your leather items now, you are essentially gifting your future self well-preserved, supple tack come spring that is ready to use. The effort put into nurturing your leather today serves as a shield against the winter’s unforgiving elements, ensuring that your favourite saddle, boots and bridle remain not only resilient but also maintain reliability for the upcoming season to come and protecting your investment. Proper storage of tack during the winter months is also crucial to maintain its quality and longevity and prevent deterioration of the leather fibres.
Carr & Day & Martin’s leather care products offer a comprehensive solution to ensure your tack remains in optimal condition all year round but especially to care for leather throughout the harsh winter months.
Firstly, it’s essential to clean and condition your leather tack before storing it. Use Belvoir® Step 1 Tack Cleaner Mitts or Spray to remove dirt, sweat, and grime. This will help prevent the build-up of mold and mildew during storage. Inspect your tack for any signs of wear or damage, addressing these issues before putting into storage.
After cleaning, use Belvoir® Tack Conditioner Spray or Bar Soap to nourish and protect the leather fibres. The Belvoir® Leather Care range are formulated to penetrate deep into the leather, keeping it supple and preventing drying or cracking, which is especially important in cold winter conditions.
Applying a final layer of Vanner & Prest Neatsfoot Oil or Ko-Cho-Line leather dressing to provide an extra barrier against the elements. The final step of adding a grease or saddle soap is important as they contain ingredients that inhibit the growth of mold and mildew, protecting your saddle during storage.
Always use a breathable tack cover to shield your leather gear from dust while still allowing air circulation. Choose a cool, dry storage area away from direct sunlight. Avoid areas with extreme temperature fluctuations, as these can harm the leather. Hanging your tack on a bridle rack or using a well-ventilated tack trunk helps maintain its shape and prevents mildew.
Following these simple leather care steps, you’ll ensure that your tack remains supple, durable, and ready for use when the riding season returns.