At SmartPak, we’re in the envious position of getting to partner with some of the leading brands in the equestrian space. That’s a fancy way of saying we get to work with a lot of smart, fun, creative equestrians. And the folks over at Noble Outfitters™ are no exception. This brand is well known for their product innovation, which makes them a smart partner for us (we <3 innovative solutions). Through working with the team at Noble Outfitters, we’ve discovered our love of innovation isn’t the only thing we have in common. We’re also both tirelessly focused on one thing: YOU! Putting riders first has been at the core of everything we do here at SmartPak, and Noble Outfitters feels the same way. That’s why they host frequent product development meetings with real riders, providing an open environment for discussion on new products, as well as feedback on how their existing gear can get even better. As fans of rider feedback ourselves we of course wanted to know more about these sessions, so we were excited to get an exclusive interview from Ashley, idea creator of the Ashley Performance Shirt. Read on to hear about her experience.
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SmartPak: How long have you been riding?
Ashley: I have been riding Hunter/Jumpers for 21 years in July.
SP: What was it like getting to participate in the Noble Outfitters™ Product Development Meeting?
A: The Product Development process was very fun for me. I had the chance to meet the design team and talk to them about what I liked and didn’t like when it came to products in the equestrian industry. It was nice to have the chance to give my opinion on clothing I have been wearing for years and how I thought it could be improved.
SP: How did the “Ashley” come to life?
A: The Ashley came about after a few back and forths between the team and I. I’d noticed that there were a lot of functional, technical pieces in the competitive apparel space, but not as much in the schooling gear realm. But I spend a lot more time in my practice gear, usually at least 3-5 days a week. I’d noticed some new shirts with vented arms and a slim cut, which I loved, but was never a huge fan of the fabric or the way it showed certain things like sweat or how easy they stained. Being able to give some input on the fabric and way the shirts fell on the body was very exciting.
SP: How did you feel when you saw the final design?
A: The final design was very much what I had in mind. I absolutely love the fabric and the how comfortable it is. I also like that it doesn’t feel too clingy. I like my shirts be fairly fitted but never liked the way some other brands stuck to me.
SP: OK, enough of the technical stuff. Any fun facts you’d like to share about yourself?
A: Hmmm … I have a 5-year-old son. I work for the Stuart family privately; our barn name is Magnolia Farms. And I am excited about the future of our sport and looking forward to getting to help out more with new clothing ideas. There is always room for something new and exciting in our wardrobes!
So there you have it – straight from the horse (owners)’s mouth! We love the idea that someone who lives and breathes horses gets to have the opportunity to share their insight to help create a problem-solving product. After all, that’s why we all love working here – we get to talk healthy horses and happy riders all day long!
If you had the chance to be apart of one of Noble Outfitters’ product development meetings what would your product idea be? Tell us in the comments!
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