United States Eventing Association

11 Tack Trunk Essentials from USEA Members Around the Country

A horse person is only as good as all of the tools they store in their tack trunk! Let's face it, as eventers we never know what we might need and when we might need it, so having everything prepared for whatever life might throw at us each day is essential. Needing some help deciding what items to stock up on as you prep for the rest of your 2022 show season? We asked USEA members to share their favorite go-to items that they can't live without in their tack trunk to help inspire you for things you might need to snag the next time you are at the tack store.

Charlotte N: "Avocado spray! It smells so good and leaves the BEST shiny coat. Vinous it also helps bring out my horses dapples."

Audrea D: "Electrical tape. For securing velcro on horse boots; temporary fix for bridle keepers; taping down pinny numbers to prevent flapping; securing helmet cover when rubber band breaks; colored tape in your signature colors to label buckets, tubs, boxes, scrapers, hoof picks, etc."

Isabelle W: "Effax boot shiner sponges, makes it so quick and easy to clean my boots."

Ashley E: "Zip ties for hanging cross ties, buckets, hay nets, stall guards, name plaques at shows, and reattaching halter name plates when the Chicago screws fall out! They break easily like bailing twine but more efficient to use."

Caroline A: "First aid kit always. Number one thing I make sure to have checked off any time I travel!"

Ellie T: "Wipes! For humans, for the horse, for literally everything. Especially when my horse decides to poop on herself the morning of the show."

Brynna G: "Gatorade Thirst Quencher Powder packets. Has saved me from getting heat sick at every single horse trial I have ever attended in the midwest between June and September!"

Lauren H: "My Epona Tigers Tongue sponge and rag! I use it for everything- last minute grooming, cleaning bits, wiping out hooves, and so many other things."

Jeanine A: "Stick-em, the sticky stuff that you put on your boots/saddle to stick yourself to the saddle. Put on the seat of the saddle with an X - X marks the spot."

Becky L: "Washcloths. I use them for wiping down my boots, cleaning my horse's face, my face when I'm sweating, cleaning my shirt or jacket off before stepping in the ring, and more. Super handy and something no one thinks about until you need it."

Jill P: "Spares! As a former pony clubber and 4-H member, I bring extra pieces of tack, clothing, snacks (for me and my horse), water, etc. I've broken my own stirrup leather and have had someone forget pants for dressage."