Author: Carl Gardner

Carl Gardner is a Three Day Eventer & the founder of Four Star Eventing Gear. Carl started Four Star in the beginning of 2013 to address the challenges of finding well priced, high quality Eventing gear.
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Five Star Tack LLC Sponsored Riders

five star tack llc

Five Star Tack LLC Sponsored Riders

Event riders sponsored by Five Star Tack LLC, helping promote the sport of Eventing.

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Stephanie Rhodes – Bosch

Stephanie Rhodes Five Star Tack Bridle Review

Stephanie has excelled at the highest level of international three day eventing. Most notably, she rode on the Canadian Eventing Team at the 2010 World Equestrian Games where Canada won the Silver medal and she finished in ninth place as an individual riding her longtime partner Port Authority. She and Port Authority were also fifth at the 2010 Rolex Kentucky 4 star three day event where they were the youngest rider in the competition. To top it off they received the Best Conditioned Award for the event as well as finishing as the highest place Canadian rider. She recently competed at the prestigious Badminton 4 star in England. Stephanie has trained Port Authority from his first days as an event horse and after being sidelined with an injury, Stephanie is bringing “Ollie” back to competition with hopes of competing in the 2014 World Equestrian Team. Visit her website Stephanie Rhodes Bosh
Stephanie Rhodes Endorses the Five Star Tack Waverly Dressage Bridle

Rebecca Howard

Rebecca Howard Five Star Tack

Rebecca is from British Columbia, Canada and resides in North Carolina. She is the former head trainer at The Fork Farm, home of the Fork CIC*** and now resides in England. She competed as a member of the Canadian Eventing Team at the 2010 World Equestrian Games on Riddle Master. She qualified and rode on the Canadian Eventing Team at the 2011 PanAm Games, earning a team gold medal riding Roquefort and was a member of the Canadian Eventing Team at the London Olympics. Visit her website Rebecca Howard.
Rebecca Howard Endorses the Five Star Tack Waverly Dressage Bridle

Sara Mittleider

Sarah Mittleider FIve Star Tack Review

The story of Sara and her horse El Primero reads like a fairy tale. A failure on the racetrack, the 15.2 hand El Primero a/k/a Tony, was purchased for $300 with the idea that he would be a resale project. Recognizing his talent, she kept him and has competed to the four star level with him finishing as high as 18th at The Rolex Kentucky International Three Day Event. Sara is the youngest rider to ever complete the 4 star event and won the Young Rider award three times. In 2006 she was named team alternate for the World Equestrian Games. Sarah was third in the 2009 World Cup Qualifier at The Event at Rebecca Farms on El Primero. Originally from Idaho, she is currently training in Germany. Visit Sara’s website: Sarah Mittleider
Sara uses the Figure 8 noseband made by Five Star Tack LLC

Doug Payne

Doug Payne Five Star Bridle Review

Doug is a well known three day eventing competitor, trainer, judge and coach. The highlight of Doug’s career to date is a top twenty finish at the 2012 Rolex Kentucky CCI**** riding Running Order in both he and the horse’s first four star horse trials. In 2010 Doug was a member of the 2nd placed team in the Nations Cup at the Boekelo CCI*** (Holland) with Running Order. In 2011 he and “RO” finished third in the Advanced Division at the American Eventing Championships and followed that up with a sixth place in the Fall Three Star Championships. He is a busy rider and can usually be seen competing several horses of all levels in both eventing and show jumping. He is a graduate ‘A’ rated Pony Club member, and donates as much time as possible to teach for his local club. He is based in Pottersville, New Jersey. Visit Doug’s website: Doug Payne Eventing
Doug Payne Endorses the Five Star Tack Ascot Figure 8 Bridle

Caitlin Romeo

Caitlin Romeo Five Star Bridle Review

Caitlin hails from Vermont and came up through the eventing ranks under the tutelage of lengendary coach Denny Emerson. She is one of Five Star Tack’s rising stars, having just moved up to the Advanced level with Spirit of the Outback “Jake”. She also has two other horses that she is bringing up the levels. She rode in the Young Riders Eventing Championship for Area 1 and finished with a team Silver.
Caitlin uses Five Star Tack LLC Bridge Breastplate

Kate Samuels

Kate Samuels Five Star Tack Review

Kate is another one of Five Star Tack’s rising stars. Not long out of Young Riders, she and her horse Nyls du Terrior have an impressive record in eventing. She was a member of the silver medal team at the 2009 Young Riders Championships and won the individual bronze medal. They were named 2009 Young Rider of the Year at the Intermediate Level by the United States Eventing Association and they have twice been named to Eventing’s Developing Riders List. Kate and Nyls have successfully moved up to the Advanced level and their goal is to compete at the Rolex Kentucky International Three Day Event. Kate is based in Charlottesville, Virginia. Visit her website Kate Samuels Eventing.

Kristin Schmolze

Kristin Schmolze Five Star Tack Review

Kristin is a three day eventing rider who competes at the four star level with her long time partner Cavaldi. Kristin was a top young rider, including being named the USEA Young Rider of the Year. She has competed at the Rolex Kentucky CCI 4 Star eventing competition three times as well as the prestigious Burghley three day event in England. She came in third in the 2010 Fall Championships at the Fair Hill International CCI 3 Star. She and her horse Ballylaffin Bracken “Rox” were named Alternates to the PanAm Games Eventing team. She and Rox completed the Fair Hill International Championships at the three star level and is aiming him at a spring four star. She is based in Califon, New Jersey. Visit Kristin’s website: Kristin Schmolze Eventing
Kristin Schmolze Endorses BOTH the Five Star Tack Kingsbury Bridle and the Ascot Figure 8 Bridle
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Checkout our collection of Five Star Tack LLC Products
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Instructions For Using Jack’s Whirlpool Boots For Horses

jacks whirlpool Boots

Instructions For Using Jack’s Whirlpool Boots For Horses

Whirlpool boots for horses come in a box with multiple pieces and with printed instructions. Jack’s Manufacturing wrote this up – if you have ANY questions, we use these boots ourselves and can help you out.

Need spare parts? We carry Spare Parts for Jacks Whirlpool Boots

Download the Jacks Ice Boot Instructions (PDF)

Instructions from Jacks Manufacturing

Jacks Whirlpool Therapy Boots are equipped with check valves to prevent water or solution (such as Sore No More Horse Liniment) from flowing into air lines. These valves are located in the air line coupling attached to the toe of the boot and periodically should be taken out and washed in clean water. Even though this check valve is incorporated, KEEP COMPRESSOR ABOVE WATER LEVEL IN THE BOOT.

In the event the low noise level of the compressor tends to bother a nervous animal, the unit can be set up at a distant point using a regular garden hose between the “Y” connector and the end of the compressor hose. Again, KEEP COMPRESSOR ABOVE WATER LEVEL IN THE BOOT.

In the event bubbling action decreases, check coupling connections for air leaks.

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figure 1 - Whirlpool Boots For Horses

Figure #1 shows method for supporting when two boots are used. Attach suspenders to outside hooks of each boot only.

Figure 2 - Whirlpool Boots For Horses

Figure #2 shows method for supporting when one boot is used. Attach suspender ends to both side hooks of boot. Take “Y” from line and connect air line direct.

figure 3 - Whirlpool Boots For Horses

Figure #3 – The suspenders are adjustable at the following points:

“A” – Figure #2, #3 – To raise or lower breast piece

“B” – Figure #2, #3 – To lengthen or shorten breast piece

“C” – Figure #2, #3 – To take up for support

Care should be taken not to “take up” the suspenders too much. The boots will almost stand erect alone and need only a small amount of assistance from the suspenders.

CAUTION – DO NOT USE WITH HIGH CALKED SHOES

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Roma Ice Wraps Vs. Finn-Tack Ice Wraps

finn-tack-ice-wraps-comparison-to-Roma

Which is the better ice wrap?

In this fantastic world of Equestrian products, it’s sometimes hard to compare the value of products. One of the best examples is in the comparison of ice wraps. We have had relevant experience working with two companies who provide ice wraps: Roma (a brand owned by WeatherBeeta) and Finn-Tack.

The Comparison

Roma “Big Red Ice Wrap” VS. the Finn-Tack Ice Wrap. It simply comes down to your preference of black or red.

Red: Roma Ice Wrap

Black: Finn-Tack Cooling Wrap

Besides the color, they are exactly the same – except for the price.

Even at wholesale prices, Roma’s ice wraps are 33% more expensive. Red ink must be expensive. This is one of the reasons we decided to switch from supplying Roma ice wraps to supplying Finn-Tack ice wraps – and if you have been watching our prices, we passed that 33% savings entirely onto you.

 

roma ice wraps vs. finn tack ice wraps

To be fair, that red Roma ice wrap on the right is actually pretty old and a couple of the cells have been deflated. The black Finn Tack ice wrap on the left is brand new.

finn-tack-ice-wraps-comparison-to-Roma

Now that we have that question solved, how about another one: what is the best way to ice your horse? Our answer – which ever way works for you.

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Ice Horse Big Black Boot Instructions & Polymer Shoe Instructions

Ice Horse Big Black Boot

Ice Horse Big Black Boot Instructions

Application Instructions for Ice Horse Big Black Boot (“BBB”) & Polymer Shoe

These instructions are typically included in the box of Big Black Boots, but in the event you lose the Ice Horse Big Black Boot instructions, here they are (with a bit of side commentary). The following includes really important things like “Leave FirstIce inserts in your freezer overnight for best results”.

The dry cold material is solid coming from the freezer. A simple 10 second massage of re-freezable / reusable bag results in a loose, flexible, cold source that configures to the horse’s leg immediately.

ice horse insert for big black boot

Cross-Tie the horse while applying the system and throughout the duration of the icing process – unless of course your horse doesn’t cross tie well and instead tries to flip over or pull the cross ties down. In this case, good luck.

Apply the BBB in a grooming stall or other area where there is dry footing. Avoid wash racks, mud or similar wet work areas.

Special Conditions:

  • If cold therapy is prescribed by the veterinarian for cooling of the sole or frog area in the presence of Laminitis, the cold packs can be used in the bottom pocket or pouch of the boot if the horse is sedated and unable to stand. 
  • The horse’s shoe(s) should be removed by the farrier and the hoof trimmed to reduce incidence of the hoof puncturing the poly bag when the horse’s weight is placed on the sole pouch. 
  • The bag with the cold contents can be inserted in the hoof pouch under certain conditions so that the breathing membrane is visible and exposed at the back of the hoof, while in the hoof boot. 

The Polymer Shoe:

  • The poly composite shoe provided is attached with the hook and loops system installed on both the composite shoe and the black hoof boot. 
  • It is not recommended to remove and apply the polymer shoe to the boot before or after each use. 
  • If the hook and loop material separates from the shoe, simply re-apply with an acrylic glue type material. 
  • Important!
  • When FirstIce is used as the cold source for hoof sole / frog area treatment, it should be with knowledge that the breathing membrane on the bag could burst due to the weight of the horse when the bag bears the full weight of the animal.
  • To reduce the chance of insert failure, place hand pressure on the flat of the insert and slowly force the air out of the insert via the micro fiber (white dot) on the bag. This procedure sometimes permits an expanded use for the product as a means of cold relief for hoof when applied to the sole or frog.
  • Excess wear of the FirstIce poly bag could cause the bag or the breathing membrane to fail under the weight and pressure of the horse. While trials have been conducted and satisfaction attained, no guarantee for extended FirstIce is implied or intended.

For technical assistance, call Ice Horse at 1800-786-6633 

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Cleaning your MDC Stirrups

cleaning stirrups

Events can be dusty, dirty places.

For Eventers, the MDC Intelligent line of stirrup irons are basically pieces of machinery working in a dirty, sometimes wet environment. Once a year or so, a non-greasy spray lubricant should be applied to the rotating top and exposed screw. Wipe clean after application. The interior of the stirrup can be further cleaned by applying the spray lubricant through the two access holes located under the flex mechanism housing.

You should always check your gear regularly, keeping everything clean and free of debris to guarantee proper wear and movement.

If you notice the top screw of your MDC Stirrups getting loose, discontinue using the stirrups! If you purchased your MDC Stirrups through us, contact us and we’ll work with you and the manufacture to fix the problem.

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Five Star Tack Bridles with Benefits Program

Canter USA

Donate a Bridle, Make a Difference

Do you have a bridle you aren’t using? Did you know that bridle could help another horse? Through Five Star Tack’s “Bridles with Benefits” program, bridles in good used condition are collected and sent to selected charities involved in the training and rehoming of OTTBs. Canter USA, New Vocations and Mid-Atlantic Horse Rescue are just a few of the charities that have received bridles through this program.

For information on how to donate your bridle, please contact Five Star Tack directly for more information.

 

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Eventing Watch Review – Hi-One+

Hi Pique Eventing Watch

Back in April 2013 the Chronicle of the Horse’s editorial staffer Lindsay Berreth posted this review of the Hi-Pique Eventing Watch. After reading her review and getting feedback from our eventing team, we decided to invest in some inventory.

Editor’s Pick – the Hi-Pique Hi-One+ Eventing Watch Review

As an eventer, I require a lot from my equipment. I need my hors’s boots to be sturdy and waterproof, I need a saddle pad that won’t slip, and I need a shirt that keeps me cool and comfortable (and maybe a little bit stylish at the same time).

I also want those same qualities in a cross-country watch, and the new Hi-Pique Hi-One+ Eventing Watch has all those features, plus more.

The last thing I need when galloping on cross-country is to have to squint to read my watch. The Hi-One+ features a large screen with easily readable numbers. The face is square, which took a little bit of getting used to after using my round Optimum Time watch for so long, but I didn’t find it to be any less ergonomic or comfortable.

The watch counts up or down, depending on your preference; for my first event of the season I had it count down. It beeps at each minute marker, then again if you go over the time you’ve set. It then starts counting up so you can see how many seconds over the optimum time you are.

The Hi-One+ comes in either black or white. I have the black model, on which the start/stop button is white, making it easy to find when I glance down to push it as I’m leaving the start box.

I knew whenI got the watch that it was supposedly waterproof, but I wasn’t about to test that theory during my round! But I’ve since doused it pretty good and found that it still functions just fine.

The battery is located on the back of the Hi-One+, and it’s easy to change by using a coin to twist open the latch. You’ll probably have to remove the band to get to the battery compartment, but it’s easily detachable. A warning icon will show on the screen when the battery gets down to 15 percent.

My favorite feature is the interchangeable bands. There are 20 color and pattern combinations to choose from, and I found the perfect red and black one to go with my cross-country colors. They’re easy to change and feature argyle, stars, stripes or dots, but each band costs $13, so it could get expensive if you decide to change it often.

Eventing watches are made to last, (I still have my yellow Optimum Time watch after more than five years of use) and with that durability comes a higher price. The Hi-One+ retails for $99, so it’s definitely an investment, but if you’re in the market for a new watch, it’s great to have this new option on the market.

Review written by Lindsay Berreth, Editorial Staff at the Chronicle of the Horse.

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Leather Care – Caring For Your New Five Star Tack Bridle

Five Star Tack Waverly Dressage Bridle

Now that you own one of the nicest pieces of leather EVER! Let’s do some leather care…

A majority of mistakes that result in radical changes to the leather’s fibrous structure, weakening and distorting it’s substance can be avoided with proper leather care.

  • Don’t misuse your leather – it’s not a toy (duh)
  • Care for it correctly (see below)
  • Don’t dry wet leather near heat source
  • Clean after EVERY use – yes.. really… every time.
  • Avoid cleaning with petroleum distillates and anything that is not natural

When it comes to leather care, this is the most important…

Moisturize & clean your leather with the good stuff –  there is a difference in the quality of various saddle soaps and leather dressings.  When it comes down to it, the best products to condition your new Five Star Tack product contain all natural ingredients with no petroleum distillates. Stay away from any leather care products that are too heavy.

Sedgwick Leather

You may have noticed on the product description, Five Star Tack bridles, leather halters and breastplates are made from Sedgwick leather. That’s a brand name leather company over across the pond in the UK. J&E Sedgwick & CO Ltd is a specialist leather supplier, working with the highest quality equestrian leather, tanned leather and leather saddles since 1900. Sedgwick & CO have rigorous precedures in place to ensure that leather is prepared to the highest standards. They know what they are doing, and that’s why Five Star Tack has decided to work with them.

Sedgwick Leather CareSedgwick has their own conditioner, “Original Leather Dressing” that contains natural ingredients including tallow, oils and beeswax.

This particular leather care conditioner is expensive and hard to import due to restrictions. If you find it, let us know and we’ll see if we can pickup a few boxes.

 

 

Ray Hole’s Saddle Butter

Ray Hole's Saddle ButterWe have looked far and wide to find the best product made right here in the USA. It’s called Ray Hole’s Saddle Butter.

It has the same tallow and fat as what is used in making the Five Star Tack Sedgwick & CO leather.

You can get Ray Hols Saddle Butter from many sources for about $10.

Saddle Butter makes taking care of your Five Star Tack super easy

  • Wipe leather with damp sponge or cloth
  • Let it dry (away from heat source)
  • Apply Saddle Butter leather care sparingly to both the grain and flesh side of leather
  • When dry (about 2 hours), buff leather with soft brushor cloth
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Saratoga Bandages – Care & Description

Saratoga Leg Wraps

Have you even heard of a Saratoga Bandage? They are typically demanded by the most seasoned Three Day Eventers and / or students of veteran three day riders.

There have been a few inquires into how to care for your new Saratoga Bandages so we thought we could help you out with this post.

What is a Saratoga Bandage?

The Saratoga Bandage was developed awhile ago by Saratoga Horseworks, LTD out of Amsterdam, New York, USA. The company developed the product for use as an exercise bandage applied directly to the leg or over appropriate layers – such as a pillow wrap or no bow wrap, creating a great stable or shipping bandage. The Saratoga’s support, fit, security and longevity allow it to outperform any lower leg support device or horse bandage available.

Tested by veterinarians and top trainers, the Saratoga Bandage has proven to be both safe and effective. It is possible to cause harm to  a horse’s leg with any bandage, Four Star Brand and Saratoga Horseworks recommends that anyone who intends to use any lower leg support device or bandage to seek competent training in the use of these items before applying them to a horse’s leg.

Saratoga Wraps Washing Instructions

Feel free to throw your Saratogas into the washing machine.

  • Wash in cool or warm water
  • DO NOT BLEACH
  • Line dry only
  • Wash before use!

Availability

For your convenience, Four Star Brand sells Saratoga Bandages in sets of 2 or 4 in lengths of 9′ & 12′ x 4″ wide. We find that the back legs of warmbloods take up the 12′ bandage and the front legs the 9′. Though it’s possible to use the 9′ all the way around and save some $ IF you’re not putting anything under the Saratoga Bandages.