Leather tack is the backbone of equestrian sports—bridles, halters, martingales, and breastplates aren’t just tools; they’re an investment. But when it comes to leather care, misinformation can lead to costly mistakes. Have you ever been told to “oil your tack every week” or “store it in an airtight box to protect it?” If so, you’re not alone.

In this blog, we’ll bust some of the most common myths about leather care and share expert-backed tips to keep your gear looking stunning and performing perfectly.

The: “Oil your tack frequently for best results.”

Truth: Over-oiling is a recipe for disaster. It can saturate the leather, weakening its fibers and shortening its lifespan.

What You Should Do: Oil sparingly. High-use gear like York Bridles and Derby Breastplates only need conditioning every 2–3 months unless exposed to harsh conditions. Stick to lightweight oils and conditioners specifically made for equestrian leather.

Myth #2: “Water won’t harm leather—it’s tough!”

Truth: While leather is durable, water is its kryptonite. Prolonged exposure can cause stiffening, cracking, or even mold.

What You Should Do: After a sweaty ride or rainy day, wipe down your tack gently with a damp (not wet) cloth, then air-dry it naturally. Avoid sunlight or heat, which can make damage worse. Even the most resilient products, like Juls Halters, will last longer with this care.

Myth #3: “If leather cracks, it’s game over.”

Truth: Cracked leather isn’t the end of the road. Minor cracks can often be restored with the right treatment.

What You Should Do: Use a quality leather balm to repair small cracks. For heavily used items like The Martingale, catching damage early is key. Deep cracks may require professional repair, but regular conditioning can prevent this altogether.

Myth #4: “Store your leather tack in airtight containers to protect it.”

Truth: Leather needs to breathe. Airtight storage traps moisture, creating a breeding ground for mold.

What You Should Do: Store your tack in a cool, dry, and ventilated area. A breathable cover will protect it from dust without suffocating the leather. This applies to everything from York Halters to breastplates.

Myth #5: “All leather is the same, so care routines don’t vary.”

Truth: Different types of leather have different needs. For example, the supple leather in Juls Bridles may require more frequent conditioning than the sturdier material used in some halters.

What You Should Do: Tailor your care routine to the specific leather type. Always follow manufacturer recommendations for best results.

Leather Care Tips You Can Count On

Here are a few golden rules to ensure your leather tack stays in great shape:

• Clean after every ride: Use a leather-safe cleaner or glycerin soap to remove dirt and sweat.

• Condition thoughtfully: When your leather feels dry or stiff, apply a light coat of conditioner.

• Avoid extreme conditions: Sunlight, humidity, or freezing weather can weaken leather over time.

• Inspect regularly: Look for signs of wear, especially on stitched areas and buckles on high-use items like breastplates or martingales

Why Care Matters

At The Ashva, we understand that your tack isn’t just gear—it’s a part of your equestrian journey. From the elegance of a Derby Bridle to the strength of a York Breastplate, properly cared-for leather doesn’t just last longer—it performs better and looks stunning every step of the way.

Investing in quality tack is only half the battle; the other half is maintaining it with care and precision.

Conclusion

Leather care isn’t complicated—it’s about being consistent and mindful. By avoiding these common myths, you can extend the life of your tack and keep it in peak condition for years to come. Whether you’re training, competing, or simply enjoying a ride, well-cared-for leather ensures both you and your horse perform at your best.

Want to explore premium leather tack that blends tradition with innovation? Visit The Ashva to browse our collection of bridles, halters, martingales, and more, along with helpful guides for maintaining your gear.

Click here to learn more and join our community of equestrian enthusiasts!