How To Clean Cowboy Boots

If you want to keep your cowboy boots looking clean and in great condition, then you should be cleaning them regularly. By cleaning the boots, not only will they last longer but they will look a lot better too.

How To Clean Cowboy Boots

Most boots are made with leather material, so if you are new to owning cowboy boots you may not know the correct way to clean them that wouldn’t cause any damage or harm to the fabric of the boot.

We have researched and found the best method to safely and effectively clean your cowboy boots so that they look brand new!

It is important to follow a guide when you go to clean your boots because you don’t want to cause any accidental damage to the leather. Before we begin with the step-by-step guide, you are going to need the following:

  • Your Dirty Boots (Of Course!)
  • Damp Towel
  • Soft Bristled Brush (For Scuff Marks), alternatively you could use a Dry Erase Marker
  • A Dry Cloth or Sponge
  • Leather Conditioner
  • Leather Polish (If you need to shine your boots)

It is also important that you use a leather conditioner that is specifically made for the type of leather your boot is made from. Different kinds of leathers will need different conditioners so be sure to research and check which will be the best for your boots in particular. 

Step-By-Step Cleaning Method

Step 1: Preparation

Before you begin to clean your boots, make sure you are well prepared in advance. It’s no use being in the middle of the cleaning process and then realizing you don’t have a utensil you desperately need!

Make sure you have ticked off every item from the checklist and have prepared some items in advance.

Dampen the towel you are going to use, gather the other supplies (brush, dry cloth/sponge, conditioner, etc) and set it out ready for you to use.

How To Clean Cowboy Boots

Step 2: Boot Cleaning

This is a very important step in the cleaning process for obvious reasons! To ensure you are cleaning the boots properly, first make sure to brush off any excess dirt such as dried mud with your hands.

Once you’ve done this, take your damp cloth and gently remove any mud or dirt from the bottom of the boot.

The dampness of the cloth will help the dirt to come off quicker. If you find there are still small parts of dirt and mud that are too stubborn to come off with just the damp cloth, try taking an old toothbrush and brushing in between all the nooks and crannies that the cloth may not be able to get to.

Once you have cleaned the bottom of the shoe, take a soft-bristled brush to remove any scuffs that may be on the leather. If you don’t have a soft-bristled brush you can also use a dry-eraser for the same effect!

 How To Clean Cowboy Boots

Step 3: Boot Drying

Never use heat to dry your boots. This is because heat may cause the leather of the boot to crack or to become discolored. Heat will damage the boots so it is best to simply leave them to dry in natural air. Although this may take longer, it is certainly better than having damaged boots.

You can also remove the insole of the boot and use a paper towel to gently pat the inside of the boot to remove any excess moisture.

This will help the boots to dry quicker and to avoid any water damage. Make sure that your boots are entirely dry before moving on to the next step.

 How To Clean Cowboy Boots

Step 4: Boot Conditioning

Once you have cleaned your boots from any mud or dirt, it is time to condition them. Conditioning leather is an incredibly important part of this process as without the leather it can become dry which can then lead to cracking and flaking.

Make sure that you are using a leather conditioner that is suitable for the type of leather your boots are made from and use a dry cloth or sponge. Dab the cloth or sponge into the conditioner and then, starting at the bottom section of the shoe, rub in the product in small circular motions.

Take your time doing this to ensure every inch of leather has been treated with the product. Make sure that the conditioner has been fully absorbed by the boot, and if it still feels dry, apply a second coat of the conditioner until they feel soft and moisturized.

 How To Clean Cowboy Boots

Step 5: Boot Polishing

The final step to cleaning your boots is to polish them up so they look shiny and brand new! Not all cowboy boots need polishing, again it depends on the kind of leather they are made from.

For some though, use a dry cloth and apply the polish to the boot in small circular motions, just like you did with the conditioner. Make sure the polish has been applied to every part of the boot and absorbed!

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, after taking these steps, your boots look as new as the day they did when you first bought them! It is important to take good care of your cowboy boots if you want them to last a long time.

The more time, effort and care you put into preserving the boots, the longer you will be able to wear them.

Looking after your boots will help to protect the leather from any damage such as cracking, flaking, or discoloration.

You can also follow these same steps for boots made from most exotic materials such as ostrich skin – just be sure to make sure that your leather conditioner and polish are suitable for the fabric.

It is also recommended that the conditioner and polish that you use be non-oil-based. This is because non-oil-based products have a creamier texture and are easier to use and provide a better outcome for the boot.

Although by polishing your boots you are adding an extra layer of protection, you don’t need to polish them every time. Of course, if you do they will probably last you a lot longer!

How To Measure A Horse

Measuring your horse is important for several reasons. Firstly, measurements of your horse’s height and weight will help you to plan an appropriate diet and exercise regimen. This also applies to any medicine your horse might need to take.

How To Measure A Horse

Knowing a horse’s height and weight is also necessary when deciding whether you can safely ride them. This is information you’ll need to have on hand if you’re planning on selling or rehoming your horse at any point in the future. 

Read on to find out how to accurately measure the height, body length, heart girth, and weight of your horse in the correct units of measurement. 

Units Of Measurement For Horses 

Traditionally, horses’ heights are measured in units of measurement called hands. This unit of measurement is no longer used by the International Federation of Equestrian Sports,

but it’s still in use almost all over the world with the exception of Europe, where centimeters and meters are the standard units for horse measurements. 

One hand is equivalent to four inches. This means that you can also easily measure your horse’s height in inches and translate the measurement to hands. For example, a horse that is 60 inches in height is 15 hands tall. 

Measuring A Horse’s Height

One of the most important measurements you will take of your horse is its height. 

To start, you’ll need to gather all the essential tools. You can use a simple tape measure, but alternatively, there are specific horse height measuring tapes available on the market that double as weight measurement tapes.

You can also find horse height sticks but these are much more expensive, although they’re definitely the quickest to use.

Make sure that your horse is standing on a level surface before you take the height measurement. They should be standing square, with their front and back legs level with each other. If possible, have someone hold onto your horse’s lead rope while you measure them, just in case something spooks them. 

Now you’re ready to take the height measurement. You’ll need to measure from the ground next to one of your horse’s hooves up to the withers. The withers is the point at the base of your horse’s neck, and it’s the highest point that stays consistent even when the horse lowers its head. 

If you want to be extra sure that your measurement is accurate, lay a straight, lightweight object across the horse’s withers and take your measurement at the point where the tape or stick meets it at a right angle.

Measuring A Horse’s Body Length 

While you’re taking your horse’s height, it’s a good time to measure their body length as well. You can actually use the body length measurement, combined with other measurements, to calculate your horse’s weight if you don’t have large veterinary scales available to you.

Take your tape measure and lay it as flat as you can against your horse’s body, from the front of their shoulder to the furthest point of their hip.

The line formed by the tape measure should be slightly diagonal, pointing upwards at your horse’s hip and downward at the shoulder. You should take this measurement in inches.

How To Measure A Horse

Measuring A Horse’s Heart Girth

The heart girth is another measurement you will need if you have to calculate your horse’s weight without scales. This measurement goes from the base of the withers and around the horse’s body, right behind the front legs. 

It helps if you can have someone standing on the other side of the horse to pass you the measuring tape under the horse’s belly to avoid you having to reach too far.

Measuring A Horse’s Weight 

In theory, weighing a horse should be easy if you have large enough scales. However, getting a pair of scales large enough to weigh a horse simply isn’t feasible for most people. 

Luckily, there is a simple calculation you can do using your horse’s heart girth and body length that will give you an approximate indication of the horse’s weight. 

First, multiply your horse’s heart girth by itself. If a horse’s heart girth is 70 inches, multiply 70 by 70, resulting in 4,900. 

Then, take the product of the previous calculation and multiply it by the horse’s body length. If the body is 60 inches, do 4,900 x 60 = 249,000. 

Divide the last number by 300. So, in our example, 249,000 / 300 = 980. You then need to add 50 to this. 980 + 50 = 1,030. The horse’s weight, in this case, would be 1,030 lbs. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How Many Hands Is The Minimum For A Horse?

A horse can only be considered a horse if it is at least 14.5 hands tall, measured from the ground to its withers. If it is smaller than 14.5 hands, it is technically a pony. 

Why Do We Measure Horses In Hands?

The hands unit of measurement is thought to have originated in Ancient Egypt when traders needed to measure how tall their horses were before selling them. The most convenient tools for measuring were their own hands, so that is what they used.

What Is The Healthy Weight Limit For A Horse?

There is no one healthy weight limit for a horse because calculating a healthy weight range relies heavily on the height of the horse. A taller horse can be healthy at a heavier weight than a shorter horse.

A healthy weight for a horse, depending on their height, can be anywhere between 900 and 2,000 lbs. 

Final Thoughts 

Using the methods provided above, you can easily get accurate measurements and reliable estimations of your horse’s height, heart girth, body length, and weight. 

To measure your horse’s height, measure from the ground at its front foot up to the withers. For the body length, measure from the front shoulder to the hip.

The heart girth is determined by measuring from the back of the withers around the horse’s body behind the front legs.

Remember, if you don’t have veterinary scales, you can calculate an estimate of your horse’s weight by multiplying the heart girth by itself, multiplying the result by the body length, dividing by 300, and adding 50.

How To Get Rid Of Horse Flies

How To Get Rid Of Horse Flies

If you keep horses, then horse flies are a pest that you need to keep on top of.

They are a dangerous type of pest that can seriously hurt your horses, so just how do you get rid of them? 

Well, we have found some of the most effective methods of killing horse flies to help keep your horses safe. Check them out down below and hopefully, you will find the answer that you need to get rid of your horse fly plague. 

What Are Horse Flies?

Horse flies are an aggressive breed of flies that are infamous for their biting. 

They attack large and dark moving objects, tearing and cutting flesh with their large mandibles. Their bites are very painful and irritating as their mandibles are shaped like scissors and easily cut flesh and skin.

Their mandibles also have small hooks that let them lock on and feed from the skin they have bitten. 

Horse flies are distinctive from house flies and other kinds of flies as they are generally quite large (around 1 inch long). They are also yellow-brownish or black in color, so they resemble honey bees although horse flies only have one pair of wings. 

These pests can usually be found in pastures near bodies of waters like creeks or streams as this is where they tend to breed. They are drawn to damp and warm climates and anywhere they can find a steady food source – like barns and stables. 

Horse flies are especially known for being a nuisance for livestock and cattle, constantly biting and drawing blood from all kinds of animals. Although their bite is painful, it is not generally not harmful – unless you are a horse. 

Horse Flies And Swamp Fever

Horse flies are notorious for carrying diseases that affect horses. One life threatening disease is called equine infectious anemia, also known as swamp fever or EIA. 

If a horse is infected with swamp fever, they will start with a fever before hemorrhaging and falling seriously ill. This can then lead to weight loss and anemia, or kill a horse. Although not all horses experience any symptoms, they can still carry the disease and infect other horses. 

Swamp fever can also affect ponies, mules and donkeys. 

This is why it is so important for you to reduce the number of horse flies that pester your horses as if you ignore the problem, you could end up with a potentially very ill or dead horse. 

So How Do You Get Rid Of Them? 

Well, there are quite a few methods of getting rid of horse flies. Finding the most successful one for you can sometimes take some trial and error, but here are the most common methods a lot of horse owners use to get rid of any horse flies that are plaguing their stables.

How To Get Rid Of Horse Flies

Fly Traps 

Setting up a few fly traps around your stables should capture a fair amount, if not all, of the horse flies in the area. There are a few different types of fly traps that you can choose from. 

One type is the disposable fly trap that uses fly tapes or papers to hang from a ceiling or beam. They contain an attractant that activates with sunlight and water, creating a chemical that will lure horse flies to it.

Once the horse fly steps onto the paper, they will stick to it and be unable to escape until they die.

These kinds of fly traps can catch around 20,000 flies during a few weeks so stock up on a few and keep replacing them when they get too full. 

You can also use mechanical traps where the horse flies will travel through a one way cone into a plastic bag where they cannot move. They are once again lured in by an attractant that is activated by water.

Eventually, the horse flies will drown – so all you need to do is set up a few of these around your stable and add some water. 

Fly traps are one of the most effective ways to get rid of horse flies as it attracts them easily and kills them.

As the flies cannot escape, they are doomed from the moment they either enter the cone or land on the sticky paper. Plus, these traps are harmless to humans and animals so they are safe to hang around the infected areas.

How To Get Rid Of Horse Flies

Bug Zappers And Lamps

Just like with all other kinds of flies, horse flies are attracted to light and ultraviolet light so if you set up a few bug zappers around your stable, they are sure to fly into the light and be killed with electrical metal grids.  

There are also lamps that you can set up that also attract and electrocute horse flies. The flies cannot escape once they enter the lamp’s construction, so they are trapped there until they are electrocuted and die. 

While this is definitely an efficient way to kill horse flies, it does come with a few negatives that the fly traps do not. 

Bug zappers and lamps require regular cleaning once they have killed a certain number of horse flies, so that will be a chore for you to do.

Plus they require electricity to work and can release an unpleasant smell when they have electrocuted a horse fly. The smell does not linger and is only momentary, but still unpleasant nonetheless.

How To Get Rid Of Horse Flies

Fly Repellents 

Using fly repellents can be tricky. 

On one hand they are very effective against horse flies but the chemicals they contain can sometimes be harmful to your animals and environment.

There are commercial fly repellents out there that you may be able to use but it is always best to consult with your vet first. 

You can also make your own homemade repellents using white vinegar, water and eucalyptus oil that can be sprayed directly onto your horses’ skin to repel horse flies. Of course, this is not a guaranteed solution and requires constant reapplication.

The same goes for any lavender oil repellents or soap sprays you may be tempted to use. 

You can also spray these repellents onto the horse flies themselves and see an instant reaction. It should be able to kill them instantly so this method is definitely a good option for those looking for a cost effective way to treat their horse fly infestation. 

Conclusion

So there you have it! These are a few of the most effective methods to use when it comes to killing horse flies. 

We recommend that you set up a few horse fly traps, either disposable or mechanical, as either are very effective and only need replacing once they have killed so many horse flies. A fly zap is also a good option, although it can be a pain to clean.

You can also spray your horses with homemade repellents to keep horse flies from biting and infecting them until you have the situation under control.

How To Ride A Horse

Horse riding is one of the most enjoyable sports you can do. It’s great for both your physical and mental health, provides unrivaled companionship, and lets you experience the beauty of nature.

But you should know that it takes a lot of training to learn how to ride a horse the correct way.

You’ll need to learn how to mount yourself and position yourself properly, communicate with your horse through different signals, and steer your horse correctly. You should learn how to train your horse and practice groundwork before taking it out for a ride.

How to ride a horse

Practicing groundwork calms the horse down and establishes your authority over them before you go out riding. So, if you would like to learn how to ride a horse properly, start by reading our handy guide.

Mount The Horse

How to ride a horse

First, you’ll need to complete groundwork with your horse. Then, you’ll want to learn how to mount your horse properly. Make sure to stay calm when mounting your horse so that the horse stays calm too. You can use a mounting block to help you if you’re a beginner.

Ask someone else to hold the head still while you mount the horse. From the left near side of the horse, mount carefully by putting your left foot into the left stirrup and pushing your body weight up and over the horse’s back.

Slowly place your right leg over the back of the horse and place your right foot into the right stirrup. You should pick a horse that has been properly trained if you’re just starting out, because they tend to stay calm and cooperate with their rider better than horses that haven’t been fully trained.

Get Into The Correct Sitting Position

How to ride a horse

After you’ve mounted the horse, it’s important that you take a little time to get yourself into the correct sitting position ready for a well-balanced riding session. You should sit straight up with your back and shoulders straight, with your body weight sitting evenly on your buttocks.

You should feel balanced and in control. Next, you’ll need to make sure your legs are in the right position too. Have your heels positioned straight under your hips with your legs facing inward.

It may feel more comfortable, especially as a beginner, to have your legs facing outward, but you should ensure that your legs are facing inward for proper balance and control of the horse.

It should feel as though you’re lightly squeezing the horse with your legs, but take care not to squeeze tightly. The toes of your feet should be placed higher up than your heels are.

Next, make sure you are holding the horse’s reins correctly by forming a fist and feeding the reins through the fist so the reins’ loop is facing up.

Take your two littlest fingers away from your fist and put them outside the reins. Put your thumbs on the top of the reins and keep them secure.

Riding The Horse

How to ride a horse

Now you have correctly mounted the horse and established a proper sitting position for balance, it’s time for the fun part – riding!

If you’re new to riding horses, take your time and practice until you feel comfortable with your control of the horse. Don’t try to do anything you’re not ready for, as this can be dangerous. 

Signaling To Your Horse

How to ride a horse

Learning how to signal your horse to move is very important. There are lots of different signals you need to learn in order to ride a horse correctly. To get your horse to begin walking, squeeze its side gently with both legs. Sometimes, a horse might not respond to this signal.

If this is the case, give it a light kick with your heels, but take care not to kick it too hard as this can cause the horse pain. Some horses also respond to verbal signals, such as tongue clicking, which you can find out by asking its trainer. As the horse begins to walk, follow the rhythm of its head movements with your arms and hands.

Steering Your Horse

How to ride a horse

Steering is a fundamental skill you need to learn in order to ride a horse. If you want to turn right, lightly pull the reins back with your right hand. To turn left, lightly pull them back with your left hand.

You can increase the pull on the reins if your horse doesn’t respond to light pulls, but make sure to do this gradually. If you make sure to look in the direction you want to move, your body will follow suit, which helps you to steer the horse.

Squeezing your legs also helps with signalling because the horse will move in the opposite direction of the pressure.

Trotting

How to ride a horse

Once you’ve figured out how to signal and steer, you can begin learning to trot. Make sure to practice walking before trotting. Place yourself deep in the horse’s saddle and relax your elbows. Rise from the saddle when the horse’s shoulder moves forward, then carefully sit back into the saddle.

Cantering

How to ride a horse

After you’ve mastered trotting, it’s time to start cantering. Move your outside leg back and squeeze the horse’s sides with your legs to canter. As you are cantering, the saddle will roll along with the beat of the canter. You should keep the position you usually ride in.

You should work with your horse to keep the natural three-beat rhythm of a canter. It might help new riders to hold the saddle or neck strap as they ride to keep their balance. To slow your horse to a trot, pull the outside rein gently.

Galloping 

How to ride a horse

You should only learn to gallop when you are confident with everything else in this guide. To gallop, lean forward while cantering with your body lifted up from the saddle slightly.

Squeeze your legs gently to increase the horse’s speed. Use your knees to keep balance, and hold the reins in one hand between your thumb and finger.

Release a short amount of the reins across the horse’s neck and hold them in the thumb and finger of your other hand. Keep your hands on the horse’s neck. To slow the horse’s speed, use your reins and return to sitting position. Keep sitting straight and gradually steer the horse into smaller circles until it comes to a stop.

Summary

Riding a horse is a great experience and a fun sport for adults and kids alike. But, riding a horse can be dangerous and can cause injury if you haven’t trained properly and lose your balance or control of the horse. That’s why it’s important to master all of the skills required of horse riding one by one.

The best way to become an accomplished horse rider is to take lessons at your local stables. The instructors will be experts in horse riding and will be able to show you the best tactics and how to make the most out of your amazing horse riding experience. 

How To Tie A Rope Halter

Rope halters are a simple, yet essential piece of equipment that every horse owner should learn how to use.

When you own a horse, it’s important to learn how to tie a rope halter to ensure that your horse won’t slip out of their halter easily. If you’re wondering how to tie a rope halter, you’ve come to the right place.

 How to tie a rope halter

In this article, I will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to tie a rope halter.

Let’s get started.

Rope halters don’t have buckles and rings like you would expect a traditional halter to have. This makes them lightweight and incredibly easy to use once you know your way around one!

However, despite the fact that these types of halters are a tack room essential, there’s no getting away from the fact that they can be a little confusing to begin with.

That being said, don’t let the rope halter intimidate you. It may take a few tries to learn, but with a little persistence, you’ll get there in the end.

So, how do you tie a rope halter?

A Guide On How To Tie A Rope Halter 

Step One – Position The halter 

Before you place the rope halter over your horse’s head, you will need to first take a look at it to figure out how it fits your horse.

In short, there should be two longer straps for your horse’s cheeks, a smaller loop where your horse’s nose will go and a larger loop that extends up over their ears.

If you still can’t figure out which way is up, you should look for the distinctive knots that should sit below the horse’s jaw and under their nose.

Step Two – Place The Halter Over Your Horses Head

Once you have figured out which way to hold the rope halter, it’s time to place the halter over your horse’s head. There should be an open loop that will sit beside your horse’s ear.

You will need to make sure to pull the loose end of the rope over your horse’s ears and through the hole.

Step Three – Tighten The End Rope

Following this, you will need to tighten the end rope. Begin by holding the end rope in your dominant hand and take the loophole in your other hand.

Following this, pull the end rope toward your horse’s eye, but make sure you do this in a downwards motion.

Note: Be careful not to pull upward during this step, as this can lead the halter becoming tight and uncomfortable for the horse, and you don’t want to be in a position whereby you can’t loosen the knot once it has been tied.

Step Four – Tie The End Rope

Next, you will need to tie the end rope. You will need to ensure that you pull the rope backwards when securing it, as you want it to be facing the horse’s hindquarters as opposed to being dangerously close to their eyes.

When you observe the last knot, it will need to have a tail pointing backward.

It should be secured with a simple knot just behind the horse’s ear and above the permanent knot where the lower jaw rope and the cheek rope meet in the middle.

Step Five – Check The Rope Is Secure

Once you have finished and the end rope is tied, make sure that you check that the rope is secure.

 How to tie a rope halter

Tips For Using Rope Halters 

You Get What You Pay For 

While it can be tempting to pick up a cheap rope halter, you truly get what you pay for. Not all rope halters are made equally,

and you want to ensure that you invest in a high quality rope that doesn’t stretch out and deteriorate or fray sooner than you anticipate. 

It’s also important to note that many cheap halters aren’t measured and made correctly. If the proportions of the halter are off, this means that it will never quite fit your horse’s face properly, and will lead to their discomfort when wearing it.

Never Turn A Horse Out When It Is Wearing A Rope Halter

For your horse’s safety, and your own peace of mind, you should never, ever turn a horse out wearing a rope halter.

When you opt for a good quality rope, it’s not likely to come loose if you’ve tied it properly. Bearing this in mind, a horse turned out in a rope halter could catch it on something and hurt itself if you’re not mindful of this fact.

This could lead to your horse becoming spooked or panicked, and could result in them seriously injuring themselves in an attempt to break free. Bearing this in mind, you should always remove the rope halter before you turn it out.

Always Adjust The Halter Before Putting It On Your Horse

You should always make sure that you adjust the halter before putting it on your horse. This is especially true if you have multiple horses that you use the same rope halter with.

The importance of this comes down to the fact that a rope halter that doesn’t fit properly or is hanging too low can result in your horse feeling discomfort if it rubs their soft nose.

In addition to this, if the noseband was so loose that the horse could get their foot in the gap, it could really hurt your horse if they got their foot stuck and panicked as a result of this.

As a result, you should always make sure that you adjust the rope halter beforehand to ensure that it fits the horse properly before you attempt to put it over their head.

In Summary 

So, there you have it! Hopefully after reading this article you have a better understanding of how to tie a rope halter.

Always make sure that you practise tying and removing the knots a few times before you place the rope halter over your horse’s head.

Good luck learning how to tie a rope halter.

How To Make A Lasso

A cowboy’s lasso is one of his most trusty companions. A cowboy would never want to be caught dead without a trustworthy lasso by his side.

Lassos are perfect for rangling in cattle, or for breaking in a new horse. It allows a cowboy to grab onto objects in the distance, even while in motion. And all it requires is one simple rope!

how to make a lasso

The trouble is, how do you actually go about tieing a lasso? How do you create the perfect lasso shape that can also be tightened remotely,

to capture targets from afar? What kind of rope should you use? And how do you throw a lasso once you have made one? 

These are all questions asked by cowboy enthusiasts and ordinary people alike. Who hasn’t ever wanted to have a go on a lasso, to see what it feels like?

Luckily, our guide below can give you everything you need to make your cowboy fantasies come true right before your eyes. 

Now grab a good length of trusty rope, stretch your fingers, and prepare to follow us, as we’re going to show you exactly how you can make a lasso of your own!

How Do You Tie A Lasso?

Tieing a lasso can be quite difficult. A lasso needs to be durable and strong, to wrap around whatever you target with it, but it also needs to be just loose enough to be able to tighten around your target once you’ve wrangled them. 

There are only a few steps necessary to create the perfect lasso, but they can be quite difficult, so make sure to follow our steps carefully. Without further ado, let’s jump right into step 1.

Step 1 – Get Your Rope

If you want to make a lasso that you can count on in a pinch, then you will need to ensure that you are grabbing a high-quality rope that will stand up to a strong force.

Choose one with strong threading and high-quality materials. You should also make sure that your rope is suitably flexible and adaptable, so that it can easily be tied, and tightened in use. 

Once you’ve chosen your rope, cut it down to around 30 feet in length. This is the perfect length to create the right knotting and to create a lasso that will stand up to the strain. 

Step 2 – Make A Basic Knot

This is quite n easy first step, but it is very much crucial. Take your rope and create a small loop with it. Then, take one end of your rope and pull it through the loop to create a knot. 

Don’t tighten the knot all of the way, as you need it to be loose so that there is some slack, and so that you can tighten it later on.

You will know that you have done this right because the rope will have taken on a slight ‘O’ shape, with the loop at the very center.

Step 3 – Create The Next Loop

Now it may start to become a little more complex, so make sure to take your time. Grab the shortest tail end of your loop and insert it through the ‘O’-shaped loop that you created. Pull it through slightly until it pokes out through the center of the ‘O’. 

By doing this you will have created a second loop that sits directly next to the first loop.

Step 4 – Tighten The First Loop

Now that you’ve pulled the short tail end through the first loop you made, simply tighten up the first loop that you made. This will cause the first loop to tighten around the tail end that you passed through it, which should create a very firm lasso loop.

At this point, your lasso should begin to look very familiar and will look exactly how you imagine a stereotypical lasso to look. 

This type of knot is actually referred to as a ‘Honda Knot’. It is not clear what the origins of the knot are, but it has proven very useful for many centuries!

Step 5 – Create A Slack End

Take a look at the lasso loop you created. Grab the small bit of the rope that you had tightened it around, and then pull it softly.

This will cause the loop of the lasso to become slightly smaller. By doing this, you can adjust the lasso to be a perfect size or shape for whatever you plan to wrangle with it. 

This also gives the rope that tightening function that allows you to pull on the lasso to tighten it around whatever you have grabbed with it. This is perhaps one of the most crucial steps to creating a truly functional and classically styled lasso!

There you have it, your lasso is now complete!

how to make a lasso

How Do You Throw A Lasso

In order to throw your lasso, simply grab the rope just short of the loop and begin to swing it over the top of your head. Eventually, a good amount of momentum will be created. 

In order for the lasso to travel, simply let go of your grip at the last second, when the lasso is swinging forward and it will continue to travel onward. 

Throwing a lasso is nothing like throwing a ball, so it does take some getting used to, but make sure to stick with it! You’ll get there eventually.

Conclusion

Making a lasso isn’t easy, to start with, but with enough discipline and practice, you’ll be rounding up herds of cattle in no time.

All it takes is a few simple knots, but getting those knots exactly right is the tough part. If you’re having trouble with creating your lasso, don’t worry, just be patient and stick with it, because you will definitely get there in the end!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Rodeo Ropes Made Of?

Rodeo Ropes (AKA Lassos) are most commonly made from braided nylon. This is the perfect material for the job as it is very strong but is also very adaptable, so it is strong in use, but also easy to make lassos with.

How Do I Teach My Child To Lasso?

Simply use our guide above, and be sure to guide your child through each step. Be patient with your child, as they will likely make many mistakes, to begin with. 

We recommend that you use a slightly shorter amount of rope to make a child’s lasso.

How Far Can You Throw A Lasso?

Lassos can reach a truly incredible distance to allow cowboys some incredible range when out on the field. An average lasso can usually reach a distance of around 30 feet! Which is seriously incredible.

How To Measure Saddle Gullet

The gullet of a saddle is the central section that separates the two padded panels on the underside of the seat,

but the term refers more to the open space between the bars of a saddle than it does the physical leather strip running from front to back.

How To Measure Saddle Gullet

Some mistakenly think that a gullet is fitted to suit the rider in some way, but that’s not the case. While a well-fitted saddle can make the rider feel more stable up there,

the gullet is actually measured to make a saddle more comfortable for the horse.

The purpose of the gullet (combined with the padding) is to elevate the central section of the saddle so the weight of the rider (and saddle) isn’t exerted directly onto the spine of the horse, rather, the strong lateral muscles to the side of the back at the base of the ribs.

If a gullet is too wide, there will be no supportive gap between the spine and the saddle, which will be painful for your horse.

If the gullet is too narrow, the gap will be there, but the panels will be too tight against their body, especially when forced down by the rider’s weight.

Measuring Your Horse For A Gullet

The easiest way to measure your horse’s gullet is to use a gullet gauge and a piece of chalk, but don’t worry if you don’t have them, because I’m going to tell you how you can do this with things you’ll have lying around the house, as well.

Step 1

Feel for your horse’s shoulder. Once you’ve located it, trace from the top of the joint backwards, towards the ribs. The muscle of the shoulder will guide your hand.

This muscle line may be less distinct on plumper horses, but whatever you do, try not to press too hard, as this will cause discomfort.

Step 2

Once you reach the end of the shoulder joint and muscle, pause right where you are. With your hand still on your horse,

measure three fingers from the end of the shoulder, then take your chalk in your other hand, and mark a line following your third finger straight up towards the spine.

Step 3

The chalk line you’ve just made is the guide you’ll use to position your gullet gauge on your horse, as this line is precisely where the forks of your saddle are going to rest.

Bend your gullet gauge in the center a little, then place it over your horse’s spine, and firmly press it against their sides until it’s bent into the shape of their form. Do this on both sides, to get a precise tracing of your horse’s shape.

Step 4

Remove the gullet gauge, and voilà; you’ve just measured your horse’s gullet. The forks will splay at the exact width shown by the gauge, and the padding of the panels will lift the gullet above your horse’s spine.

How To Measure Saddle Gullet

How To Measure A Horse’s Gullet Without A Gullet Gauge

To measure your horse’s gullet without a gullet measuring tool, you’ll need three things:

  1. A basic wire hanger
  1. A Sharpie (or some other permanent marker)
  1. A measuring tape. I prefer retractable tapes, but if you’re more of a loose, fabric kind of person, then stick to your guns.

Step 1

Bend the center of the hanger’s bottom wire up to make a V shape.

Step 2

Find the sweet spot using the shoulder technique mentioned earlier.

Step 3

Use the hangar the same way you’d use the gullet gauge, but don’t press it quite as hard into their body, as the rounded edges may cause discomfort. As such, there will be a bit of a gap between the zenith of the central bend and your horse’s spine.

Step 4

Take your Sharpie and mark the exact point of the hanger where the wire makes first contact with the side of your horse.

Step 5

Use your tape measure to measure across from your marked point to the other side of the hanger, and that’s your gullet measurement.

How To Measure Saddle Gullet

How To Measure the Gullet Of A Finished Saddle

I think we can both agree that saddles aren’t cheap, and a great way to save a significant amount of money is to buy second-hand, but herein lies a problem. How do you know if the gullet is the right size for your horse?

Well, it’s actually not that hard to figure out. All you have to do is measure from bar to bar, but make sure you measure below the bars rather than in front or on top of them, otherwise, your measurements will be way off.

How To Test If A Gullet Is Suitable For A Horse

If you’re wondering how you would test a new saddle to see if the gullet has been correctly sized, or perhaps you’re wondering if an old saddle will fit a new horse, there’s a handy little trick you can use.

All you have to do is place the prospective saddle on your house, then see if you can fit three fingers vertically between the withers of the horse and the front lip of the saddle.

If you can fit three fingers in the gap, the saddle is generally considered a good fit. If you have to force your fingers into the gap or perhaps there’s enough space to fit a fourth finger,  then the gullet hasn’t been measured correctly.

A second test you can do if you’re still unsure of the fit is to slide your hand under the panel of the saddle. If it’s a good fit, you should be able to reach under the panel with ease.

If you find it difficult to slide your fingers under, or it feels too tight against your hand, the saddle is not appropriate for your horse.

Final Thoughts

And that’s really all there is to it. Now you can measure the gullet of your horse or a saddle with confidence; however,

I’d still recommend consulting a horse chiropractor to double-check everything is A-okay, and that your horse feels comfortable wearing their new saddle before your ride.

How To Make A Saddle

How would you go about making a saddle? What materials should you use? And how long does it take?

How To Make a Saddle

The saddle is a piece of equipment that helps horses move around easily. If you want to ride a horse, then you’ll need to get a good quality saddle.

There are various types of saddles, each designed for a specific purpose. For example, there are racing saddles, dressage saddles, and western saddles. Each type has its own unique features.

The most common type is for horses, however, there are saddles for oxen, camels, and other animals that can be ridden! 

Where Did The First Saddle Come From?

The first saddle most likely was a blanket of some sort attached to a girth, as it is not known exactly when the very first saddle came into existence. This was of course followed by the padded designs and models to support the body better!

What Is A Saddle Made Out Of?

A saddle is usually made out of leather or a combination of leather and synthetic material. There are also composite saddles, which combine both natural and man-made materials.

It’s all a matter of preference, and what you would prefer to use for your own horse riding purposes.

Saddles come in different sizes depending on what they’re used for. They range from small to large, with a wide variety of shapes and styles.

You may have seen pictures of Western-style saddles or English-style saddles. These are just two examples of the many varieties of saddles available.

Saddles can vary in price, but they don’t necessarily cost more than other equestrian items such as bridles and halters. However, if you want a high-quality saddle that will last for years, you may find that it’s worth paying extra money.

How To Make a Saddle

Types Of Sidesaddle

Side Saddle

Most people think of a side-saddle when they hear “saddle.” It is generally smaller than a regular saddle and is often used by children. This smaller version of a saddle is sometimes referred to as a kid’s saddle.

Saddle Tree

A saddle tree is an attachment that goes between the pommel of a saddle. A saddle tree keeps your horse’s back straight and allows them to stand up straight.

Saddle Tree Types

Horse Back Saddle Trees – Horseback riding requires the rider to sit upright and keep his back straight. A horseback rider needs a well-balanced seat. This means that he must have a proper balance of weight distribution on his hips and shoulders.
Pommel Saddle Trees – Pommel trees are commonly found on English saddles because they were originally designed for this type of riding. Most horse riding competitions in England required the horse to trot rather than run.
Western Saddle Trees – Most modern western saddles feature western saddle trees. These are similar to pommel trees.
Cantle Saddle Trees – Cantle trees are a type of saddle tree that attach to the front of the saddle. This type of saddle tree is primarily used for dressage and jumping competitions.

The Making Of A Saddle

Saddles are used as a means of transportation for horses. A horse’s back is divided into two parts by a saddle. The front half of the saddle contains the seat and the back half contains the pommel. This is why we need to cut out the saddle correctly.

We start by covering the gullet, then cantle, then rigging. The edges are then carefully skimmed thin and the leather is soaked in a solution to help it stretch. The rigging is carefully fitted to make sure the pull is right for this particular tree.

Ground seats come after saddles. They allow riders to sit closer to horses. Sanding evens out rough spots on the saddle. Skirts cover the swells on each side of the saddle.

How To Make a Saddle

Jockeys are fitted to trees to make sure they fit perfectly. Skirts are sewn into place to prevent them from curling up. Saddles are made to be perfect by cutting them parallel to the skirt.

The seat is centered on the ground as well as on the leather, and the jockey’s position is carefully considered.

Seat lines are drawn, so the back jockey is straight with the front jockey, then cut out, and the seat is pulled down with a strap over top, then rubbed into position.

The cantle is carved out, then stitched together, and the stitching is recessed into the cantle binding leather, so the stitches aren’t easily worn out. 

Saddles are made by hand, giving them a distinctive look.

Horns are made by covering a solid piece of wood with skin, and then they’re shaped and trimmed. They are stitched together and attached to the head. The glue is applied to the surface of the horn and the edge is rubbed smooth.

Saddles are made by cutting pieces of leather into shapes and sewing them together. Skirts are attached to saddles before being glued onto the tree. Jockeys are added after the skirt is attached to the tree. 

Billets are also placed inside the tree and secured with screws or nails, and the carriers are added to hold the saddle in place. A horse’s back is covered with sheepskin, then the oil is used to protect the saddle.

Saddles are made from different materials such as horsehide, sheepskin, and cowhide. Each material has different characteristics and uses. 

A saddle should be comfortable and durable. Leather saddles are usually expensive because of the labor involved in making them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Some Types Of Saddles Available?

If you’re a rider who rides western style, you’ll have had your fair share of saddles that were not comfortable at all. Saddles should fit you comfortably, but not too tightly. This allows you to be able to move around without feeling like you’re about to fall off.

Final Thoughts

We hope you’ve found some closure to the question, How To Make a Saddle. It’s certainly more complicated than one would first think, and we didn’t know there could be so many types of saddles! 

Their designs can be complicated, or simple, depending on the riders’ preference, really. If you’d prefer something more personalized to your horse or riding experience, perhaps consider the materials used and choose something more unique!

How To Measure A Horse For A Blanket

 Getting the perfect fit for your horse’s blanket is a crucial thing to get right. If your horse’s blanket is too loose, it will fall off and cause a potential hazard for your horse by getting tangled up in their legs.

How to measure a horse for a blanket

If the blanket is too small, then it will rub and chafe, being very uncomfortable for your horse. But if you’ve never had to measure a blanket for your horse before, it can be confusing knowing where to get started.

So how do you measure a horse for a blanket?

Today, we’re going to cover everything you need to know about fitting a horse blanket for your horse, so that you can find the right blanket size for your needs.

How To Measure Your Horse For A Horse Blanket

The first thing that you will need to do to measure your horse for a blanket is to decide where you want the horse blanket to sit on your animal.

There are two main blanket styles of fit that you can choose from. You can either have the horse blanket to stop just before your horse’s tail, or you can choose a horse blanket that slightly covers the tail.

It will be important to choose a well-fitting blanket so that it will keep your horse warm.

Next, you will need to stand your horse on a level area of ground so that you can accurately measure them. You will need to use a soft tape measure to get the measurements that you need.

Start by measuring from the front of your horse’s chest, then take the soft measuring tape along their shoulder, their flank, up to where you would like the horse blanket to sit.

Make sure to select a soft tape measure that works in inch increments. This will allow you to find the best size horse blanket for your needs.

Once you have measured your horse, you will need to add an extra 2 inches onto each measurement. For example, if you measured your horse at 20 inches, you will need to add 22 inches onto this number.

This will ensure that your horse has enough space to move around comfortably without having any part of their body rubbing against the blanket.

When you are ready to purchase your horse blanket, make sure that you buy one that fits snugly but not tightly. A tight fit could cause discomfort and even start to chafe along your horse’s body, causing injury.

It will be best to give your horse these extra 2 inches so as to avoid choosing an ill-fitting blanket.

How to measure a horse for a blanket

How Should A Blanket Fit A Horse?

To get the right fit for your horse, you will need to ensure that their blanket fits snugly, but doesn’t cut too deeply into their skin. You should be able to comfortably run your finger between the blanket and your horse’s flank.

The most important thing to note when it comes to fitting your horse with a new blanket is that it properly covers their shoulders and withers.

This will allow your horse to have the proper freedom of movement that they need to walk and canter comfortably when out in their field. You will need to make sure that the buckles and straps can easily be adjusted to help you get the perfect fit for your horse.

As long as you can comfortably slide your hand down the neck of your horse’s new blanket, and it isn’t strapped too tight, you can rest assured that you’ve found the correct size for your horse.

This can help you to avoid any blanket slippage from a model that’s too loose, as well as any chafing from a blanket that’s too tight.

Do You Need A Horse Blanket?

During the colder months, your horse will definitely need a blanket to keep them warm. This should help to give your horse an extra layer of insulation against the cold, which will be especially handy if they will be out in the cold during all kinds of temperatures and weather.

Your horse will really appreciate the extra layer on a really chilly winter day!

It will be important to note that during the warmer months, your horse will need to wear a more appropriate blanket for the time of year. They won’t want to be sweltering under their usual winter blanket if you have a bout of cool weather.

How to measure a horse for a blanket

Why Is Horse Blanket Fit Important?

It will be crucial to get the correct fit for your horse’s blanket. If the horse blanket is too tight, this will start to rub at their withers and shoulders.

This will be incredibly uncomfortable for your horse, and could even cause sores to develop. It will be key to choose a horse blanket that gives your horse a range of natural movement.

A horse blanket that is too loose won’t give your horse the right amount of insulation that they need to stay warm. This could even fall off when your horse is out in their pasture.

If you are concerned about getting the right fit for your horse, make sure that you select a model that comes with adjustable straps. This typically features chest straps as well as adjustable straps around the gullet so that you can find the fit that works for your horse.

In Summary

So there you have it! You now know all there is to know about getting the correct fit for your horse’s blanket. You will need to ensure that you use a soft measuring tape so that you can find the correct size for your horse.

By opting for a measuring tape that comes with increments in inches, you can get a better idea of what size blanket they will need.

Once you have measured your horse from the center of their chest, you will then need to add an additional 2 inches onto this.

This will give your horse the natural range of movement that they need to stay comfortable when out in their field. It will be important to select a blanket that isn’t too tight or too loose.

You can assess the fit of your horse’s new blanket by running a hand down their neck. If you are able to do this comfortably, you will know you have found the perfect fit.

How To Measure A Horse Saddle

Everything to do with horseback riding is so expensive, isn’t it? That’s one of the reasons why quality second-hand equestrian gear is so widely bought and sold.

How to Measure a Horse Saddle

It can save you hundreds of dollars if you’re trying to buy large ticket items like saddles if you buy second-hand. The only problem is that,

just like us, horses come in all different shapes and sizes and we love them for it, but saddles are not a one size fits all kind of item. In order to save yourself time and possibly money,

we’ve put together this handy guide to show you how to accurately measure a saddle to see if it will fit your horse and be comfortable for you.

Let’s start with English saddles, as these are very popular in modern equestrian sports and activities. 

How To Measure An English Saddle

It’s best practice when buying or selling a saddle to measure the seat, but to also measure the flap length and the tree width. This gives the best chance of the buyer getting a saddle that fits their horse comfortably. 

Before you start measuring, you’ll need a couple of things to hand. Firstly, you will need a tape measure with inch increments and a pad and pen or some other way to record the measurements. 

Step One: Put the saddle on a saddle rack or similar apparatus with the seat facing upwards. Now, locate the pommel which is the raised bump at the front of the saddle.

On either side of this, there should be two nailheads. Depending on the brand of the saddle, the nailheads might have a crest or brand name engraved into them. 

Step Two: Put the zero end of your measuring tape on one of the nailheads and then measure in a straight line to the center of the cantle which is the raised back of the saddle.

This measurement should be accurate to the closest half-inch and can be referred to as the seat size.

Make sure you are measuring in a straight line and not bending the tape measure to follow the curve of the seat of the saddle. 

Step Three: Lift the leather skirt of your saddle until you can access the stirrup bar, which is a narrow strip of metal at the front of the saddle.

Find the center of the stirrup bar. Now measure from there to the bottom of the saddle flap and record the number as the saddle flap length. 

Step four: Laying the saddle on its back so the cantle is touching the ground, look at the underside of your saddle.

The gullet is the leather strip that runs down the center of the saddle from back to front. To the side of the gullet, you should find the panels of the saddle.

At the front of each of these panels, you should be able to find four felt dots. Measure the distance between the two dots closest to the gullet for the “dot-to-dot” length. 

These three measurements should help you get the right saddle size for your horse or find a suitable buyer for one you want to sell.

How to Measure a Horse Saddle

How To Measure A Western Saddle

You can measure a Western Saddle in the same way as an English saddle but with a tweak or two. When you measure the seat of a Western saddle you should measure form the base of the horn at the front of the saddle to the edge of the cantle.

Alternatively, if you know the measurements of an English saddle that fits you and your horse then you can take the seat measurement from that English saddle and subtract two inches to find the size of Western saddle you may need. 

Another key difference between measuring an English saddle and a Western one is that you will need to measure the skirt length as well as the other measurments.

To measure the skirt you simply need to measure form the front of the skirt to the back in a straight line. The skirt length does matter for Western saddles because it helps to distribute the weight of the rider over a greater area.

If the skirt goes over the point of the horses hip, this can become uncomfortable for the horse as it will rub, so you’ll need a shorter skirt.

If you have a short-backed breed of horse or a pony, they will likely need a short skirt for a Western saddle. 

How Do I Know If My Saddle Fits Me? 

As a rule of thumb…well, hand, you should be able to fit one hand between you and the highest point of the pommel and one hand again between you and the cantle at the back of the saddle.

Measuring by “hands” is a usual method of measuring distance when it comes to all things horse-related.

A hand is otherwise known as four inches so that may help you to work out if you’re sat in the right sized saddle for you.

As a general rule, young and petite riders might fit a 15 inch English saddle, an average sized female rider might fit a 16 inch and larger or taller adults might need a 17 inch saddle.

Measurements for Western saddles are as follows, Youth riders may fit a 12” or 13” saddle, a petitie adult might fit a 14” and the average adult will ride in a 15” western saddle. 

You’ll also need to think about the size of the horse you intend to saddle. Different sizes and breeds will need different widths of gullets depending on their bone structure. 

A heplful hint to consider when choosing a saddle that will accommodate you is that when you sit in the saddle with your feet in stirrups, your knee should not be protruding past the saddle flap edge.

Ideally there should be two or three fingers width between your knee and the edge of the saddle flap. If there isn’t, then you might need to adjust the stirrups and possibly try a bigger saddle. 

Final Thoughts

When measuring for a new or second-hand saddle, it’s vital that your measurements are accurate and adhere to the industry standards which we have outlined in this article.

Hopefully, with our help, you will now be able to measure a saddle accurately whether it is a Western or a traditional English saddle. 

The best advice we could give you regarding purchasing a saddle, is to try it out before you buy it. It’s often not possible,

due to transportation logistics but it’s even better if you can try it with your horse and yourself in the saddle to check it’s going to suit you and your steed.

We haven’t mentioned much about how to tell what width of gullet you will need because thats a whole other guide, but you will need to consider the width of your saddle,

which is determined by the width of the gullet based on the build of your horse. When all is said and done,

if your saddle seat doesn’t protrude past your horse’s last rib and the sides of the saddle and flaps are flush against your horses sides with no visible gaps, then you’re probably on the right track.