Ahh, fall is in the air. The humidity and rain that was the summer of 2021 is fading to a distant, sweaty memory, and crispness is once again in the air. The geese are honking, and boy is it getting dark early! But let’s focus on the positives – gorgeous riding weather is upon us! So of course, a new season means a new season of goodies, and here are some items I’m most excited about.

1. Merlot-colored layers:
   
   I love warm, burgundy/wine colors and this is one of the colors of the season, so I’m beyond thrilled. Naturally, I’ll need to try out the Piper Winter Essentials Baselayer Mock Neck Long Sleeve Top by SmartPak (Item 33364) for my barn days, and the Ariat Berber Pullover Sweatshirt in Windsor Wine (Item 33402) for the cozy post barn time on the couch.

2. New training tools:

My favorite addition to my training tools, I love how the Equicore Complete Equiband® System (Item 34295) helps me build my horse’s hind end. Two sets of straps for both the abdomen and haunches means I don’t have to adjust the straps between my two horses which is a huge timesaver (since they vary quite a bit in size!). I also love that I can use this longlining, and this is my go-to way of getting my horses fit.

3. Saddle pads:

Okay so I love saddle pads and I’m dying to get my hands on our new SmartPak Luxe Collection (Item 33396). The only trouble is – which color? Grey, Ocean, and Navy all will look spectacular on my bay boys. Also, to fit in with my burgundy/merlot/wine theme, LeMieux’s new Rioja in both Suede (Item 33641) and Loire (Item 33261).

4. Discipline dilemma:

Along with what color of the Luxe saddle pad to try, what about discipline? Although I am mainly English these days, Circle Y’s new collection of Cacti-inspired headstalls and breast collars is calling me right back to my Arizona roots. What to do, what to do! I’m especially fond of the Cactus Country line (Headstall, Item 33873 and Breast Collar, Item 33872).

I’ll look forward to this crisp weather getting my horse in shape, rocking my base layer and cozy layers, and deciding what discipline to do! What are your fall plans?

Happy Riding!
— SmartPaker Rebekah