All the gear, no idea?!

teazle

Well-Known Member
Joined
11 July 2010
Messages
125
Visit site
Sadly, I have fallen into this trap.

Having come into a lump sum of money, I've been treating myself (and my horse) to a very nice new saddle, new expensive boots, new riding hat etc. We look wonderful, until we take a step forwards and then the image all falls apart!

I've got so concerned about it I'm considering sending The Pony for some intensive dressage schooling with some more of the money so that the difference between looks and performance isn't quite as extreme.

Anyone else think they fall into this category?
 
My definition isn't someone who has the money for nice things, more someone who has a load of expensive stuff but goes without more important stuff like hoofcare, feed, etc & won't pay for lessons/help when they need it. It's your money, enjoy it!
 
lol, I think we are the same!
I like my mare to have lovely stuff, but our schooling level leaves a little to be desired! I must admit I don't really care what people think, she has good quality comfortable things and I think that there is a benefit - her saddle and bridle must be nicer for her I think? So long as I'm not in debt with it and it affects no one else I don't see the harm.
Enjoy your horse and what ever you decide to buy for him!
 
I think we should see pictures of your shopping! :D
We don't care, we just like to see you happy! If it is lessons you feel you would benefit from, then lessons it is! But most of the time I benefit most from small internet shopping sessions.. ;)
 
I think you should definately post pictures of your new fancy gear :D
Personally I'd prioritise lessons (but that's because I'm ridiculously competitive and always looking to improve) but there's no reason why you can't splash out on some new stuff and maybe book in for a couple of extra lessons too?
 
Me and the yellow pony are like that. I dont care I work hard and when I get a bit of extra cash I dont see the problem with buying something nice for the pony. I have pretty high ambitions for him but having only recently found an instructor that works for us and is happy to push us further I havnt had any lessons to be able to spend on. When we do well I like to get us a little treat mainly for me but it keeps me happy so I dont care what any one else thinks.

Dont worry what others think if you are happy when your horse looks smart then thats all that matters as long as your horse is well cared for.
 
Me and Fergs are definitely all the gear and no idea! I spend most of my life just clinging on and hoping for the best, especially when jumping...

At least we look good while we're failing though :D
 
Thanks everyone, good that I've got some fellow people out there! I'll definitely be getting some more lessons etc - part of the money is going on trailer lessons so I'll soon be able to get out and about under my own steam and go to my instructor more than about once every two months.

I haven't got pictures of my new pretties but I can tell you what I got:

A Prestige Meredith Jump Saddle

An Ariat coat

Ariat Volant long boots (didn't want to buy them but are sooooooo comfy I couldn't resist)

And a Charles Owen Gr8 hat

And some other cheaper stuff that I haven't included but were also indulgences.

Now I'm sitting on my hands and being sensible so no more treats for me!!!
 
Nothing wrong with treating yourself to nice things, why not have the best if you can afford to, it shouldnt reflect on your riding ability, as in why should it matter if for example a 'novice' type rider or plain old happy hacker type of horse has good quality gear that fits well, doesn't make it a waste of money, so long as your both happy n enjoying what you do.

I fall into the 'no gear n still no' category! lol but if you can afford it why hell not, always nice to look smart no matter what you do.
 
Nothing wrong with treating yourself to nice things, why not have the best if you can afford to, it shouldnt reflect on your riding ability, as in why should it matter if for example a 'novice' type rider or plain old happy hacker type of horse has good quality gear that fits well, doesn't make it a waste of money, so long as your both happy n enjoying what you do.

I fall into the 'no gear n still no' category! lol but if you can afford it why hell not, always nice to look smart no matter what you do.

^^^^ this ^^^^

I also fall into the all the gear and no idea category. :D And why not if that's what you want to spend your money on. I have weekly lessons but also have a bad internet shopping habit and a shiny new pony that's needs some kit :D
 
If you have the money to buy nice things I think there's no reason you shouldn't!

"All the gear and no idea" IMO is when people think that nice gear will make them a good rider, or buying naughty horses to make themselves look good, things like that.

Just because they have all the posh fancy gear will not make them any better a rider and buying tack and accessories to make the horse look "proffessional" and to fit in, I personally think is ridiculous and stupid!

:)
 
Top