The holiday season is fast approaching, and not a moment too soon. We could all use a little seasonal sparkle in our lives right now! 2020 has been a year like no other, so it’s more important than ever to shop locally when ticking items off your holiday shopping list, and to choose products from Canadian companies whenever possible.

Need shopping inspiration? We’ve got you covered in this first instalment of our #BuyCanadian Holiday Shopping Guide, starting with tack and accessories for the most important name on your list – your horse, of course!

Saddles

If a Canadian-made saddle is on your wish list, look no further than Paramount Saddlery. Their exquisite line of saddles and fittings are hand-crafted in southern Ontario and offer uncompromising fit, quality, and attention to detail. Whether shopping for a dressage, jumping, or eventing saddle, you can customize your ride with a variety of colours, materials, textures and other options, all for the same price as many “off the shelf” saddle brands.

 

Founded in 1987, Schleese Saddlery Service Ltd. based in Holland Landing, ON, specializes in gender-specific saddles for all disciplines that are ergonomically designed for balance and comfort. Their new Bi-NateLine® saddles, including this ProLight dressage model, are made on an adjustable lightweight patented AdapTree® that offers an industry-changing extreme close contact to the horse and soft-ride seat. ‘Glamour Options’ include custom tooling, leather colours, welting and stitching.

Bridles

Edmonton-based Solo Equine has become wildly popular among dressage riders both here in Canada and around the globe. And it’s no surprise – Solo’s stunning designs, unparalleled customer service, and budget-friendly pricing make buying a new bridle hard to resist! For the luxury lover on your list, check out the new Solo X line, made entirely of eco-friendly, vegetable tanned premium Italian or English leather and high-grade Austrian crystals.

 

If you’re shopping for someone who believes there’s no such thing as too much bling, then Canadian Custom Bling Browbands can help you stuff their stocking with sparkle this year. Take the matchy-matchy trend to the next level with a pair of Swarovski crystal stud earrings to go with your stunning browband.

Saddle pads

Sure they can be cute and colourful, but saddle pads are also key component to your horse’s comfort and performance. Luckily for Canadian shoppers, two of the best saddle pad brands are proudly made right here at home.

 

For 30 years Eco-Gold has been a leader in saddle pad innovation. A staple in the tack rooms of pleasure riders and Olympians alike, their products are made in Montreal using materials that are exclusively sourced in North America. Hot for the 2020 holiday season is the new Flip Half Pad Matte, a reversible, shimmable half pad that provides superior protection and support to your horse’s back.

 

For a truly personal gift, Ogilvy Equestrian’s popular line of pads for every discipline come in a rainbow of base colours and up to 20 different choices for binding and piping shades. Kick the customization up another notch with an embroidered name, monogram, or logo.

Girths

A great saddle deserves a great girth. And a great girth makes a great gift!

 


Anatomically designed and surrounded by a plush layer of merino sheepskin, the Fluffy Girth from Quebec-based Leveza Equestrian is perfect for horses with sensitive skin.

 

For the ultra-sensitive equine, Guelph, Ontario company Tapestry Equine has patented its unique Comfort Girths. to encourage freer movement, reduce girthiness, and improve performance.

Boots

As the official supplier to the Canadian Eventing Team, Boogaloo Boots are designed with cross-country durability in mind, but are popular with equestrians from every discipline. Each pair of these lightweight, all-purpose protective boots is individually made at their Bradford, Ontario facility. They come in a nearly limitless range of boot / Velcro colour combinations, for those who want to express their individual style or show their Canadian colours with pride.

 

BC company Rebel Equestrian is known for its unique, pretty equestrian designs – from sparkly halters and bridles to rose gold stirrups and spurs. But this “coming soon” collection of elegant damask print brushing boots really stands out. Who wouldn’t want to find a pair under the tree this year?

Quarter sheets

Give the gift of warmth this winter with a cozy custom quarter sheet from Hansen Equestrian. Available in lush velvet or premium wool fabrics, the hybrid design can be worn securely under the saddle, or wrapped around the rider’s legs for an extra layer of warmth on a chilly day.

 

Greenhawk’s own Shedrow line of equine wear is known for combining performance and value, and the Shedrow Newmarket Exercise Sheet is no exception. The stylish Newmarket stripe pattern is available in two different combinations, and the soft fleecy fabric is perfect for before, during, or after a winter ride.

 

Bonnets and fly veils

Looking for a fun gift? FUN Bonnets “For ‘Ur Nag” are handmade from start to finish, so no two are exactly alike. If you have a vision, FUN Bonnets can create it. Available sizes range from mini to draft and options include custom colours, piping, crystals and more. There’s even a seasonal Santa bonnet for the festive friend on your shopping list.

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Coming up: Riding Apparel & Accessories, Grooming & Health Care