As the summer showing season winds down and colder, wetter weather sets in, your tack deserves some extra attention. Leather is a natural material that needs proper care to withstand the seasonal shift. Without the right routine, saddles, bridles, and boots can dry out, crack, or grow mould during storage.
With Carr & Day & Martin’s comprehensive range of leather care products, you can protect your tack through the autumn and winter months, ensuring it’s show-ring ready come spring. Here’s a step-by-step guide to transitioning your leather care routine from summer to winter.
1. Deep Clean After Summer Showing
After months of dust, sweat, and frequent use, your tack needs a thorough clean before storage. Leaving grime behind can damage leather fibres over time.
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Recommended Product: Belvoir Tack Cleaner Spray
This pH-neutral formula lifts dirt, grease, and sweat build-up without stripping the leather’s natural oils. It’s ideal for preparing your tack before conditioning.
🧡CDM Tip: Try our Belvoir Tack Cleaner Mitts for quick and effective cleaning, making it easy to reach stitching and those hard-to-clean areas where sweat often collects
2. Restore and Condition
Cold, dry air in winter can cause leather to stiffen and crack. Restoring suppleness is key to preventing long-term damage.
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Recommended Product: Belvoir Step 2 Tack Conditioner Spray or Belvoir Leather Balsam
The Belvoir Conditioner spray is quick and easy for everyday use, while the balsam provides a deep, nourishing treatment—perfect before long-term storage.
🧡CDM Tip: Apply conditioner evenly, allowing the leather to absorb it overnight for maximum hydration.
3. Protect During Long-Term Storage
When tack is stored for extended periods, leather can dry out or lose its suppleness if not treated correctly.
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Recommended Product: Ko-Cho-Line Leather Dressing
This heavy-duty formula is ideal for long-term storage. It conditions deeply while providing a protective layer against damp and humidity, keeping leather soft and flexible until you’re ready to use it again.
🧡CDM Tip: Apply Ko-Cho-Line generously before putting saddles, bridles, or boots away for winter to ensure they emerge nourished and ready for the next season.
4. Store Tack Correctly
Even with the best cleaning and conditioning, improper storage can undo your efforts.
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Store leather in a dry, cool environment with good ventilation.
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Use breathable tack covers rather than plastic bags, which can trap moisture.
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Hang bridles and saddles properly to maintain their shape.
🧡CDM Tip: Place moisture-absorbing sachets or natural dehumidifiers in tack lockers to keep dampness at bay.
5. Don’t Forget Regular Winter Checks
Even when not in use, tack benefits from occasional attention. Every few weeks, inspect your leather for dryness, mould, or stiffening. A quick clean and light condition will keep it supple all winter long.
Transitioning from summer showing to winter storage doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right products and a little extra attention, your leather tack can thrive through the colder months. Trust Carr & Day & Martin to care for your leather—season after season.
Explore the CDM Leather Care Range today and prepare your tack for winter
