Price no object 
The John Whitaker EX3 close-contact jumping saddle is among the most technically advanced saddles on the market and would make the ultimate Christmas present for any show jumper. The saddle is built on an injection-moulded elasticated nylon tree, which allows for the horse’s back movement. It also has memory latex panels for unrivalled comfort for horse and rider over fences. The saddle is produced in burgundy calf skin with a black seat and knee rolls in narrow, medium and wide fittings and a 17″ and 18″ seat. And you don’t need to be worried that the saddle might not fit as John Whitaker International offers to adjust saddles in house for difficult to fit horses. Costs around £1,500. Contact (tel: 01706 340500) or visit: www.johnwhitakerintltd.com |
Feeling flush 
If getting hot under the collar while competing is a problem for a show jumping friend, then a new hat from Pikeur’s GPA range of Titium riding helmets should be top of their Christmas list. The GPA Extreme Helmet combines safety with a smart appearance and high levels of comfort thanks to the GPA’s ventilated strip, which helps riders keep a cool head, whatever the weather conditions. The Extreme also has a rubber-proofed outer, which is water repellant and easy to care for. The helmet costs around £220 and is available from all good retailers. Contact Belstane (tel: 01335 372600) or visit: www.belstane.com |
Something special 
Unwrapping a new show jacket on Christmas morning will undoubtedly bring a smile to the face of any budding show jumper. The Mears Show Plus jacket would help anyone make a stylish impression on a busy showground, whatever their performance in the ring. This navy jacket is beautifully cut and comes with a gold-trimmed burgundy velvet collar, gold pocket trims and gold buttons. It is reasonably priced at just under £100, but will help someone look like a million dollars. For more details contact RH Mears (tel: 01922 476930) or visit: www.rhmears.co.uk |
Beat the budget 
Lets face it, tatty brushing boots just don’t cut the mustard when it comes to the show jumping arena, with everything from 12.2hh novice ponies to 17.2hh Grade As wearing matching tendon and fetlock boots as standard. As a result Westgate’s new Norton Pro Tendon and Fetlock Boots set makes an ideal present without breaking the bank. The boots in this smart set have a robust synthetic outer shell, neoprene lining and wide hook and loop fastenings for a secure fit. Norton Pro Boots are available in a choice of colours and sizes for under £40. Contact Westgate (tel: 01303 872277) for stockists. |
Counting the pennies 
The SimiLeath Flycap from Eurostar is an ideal gift for any rider who finds that their horse has trouble concentrating while jumping during the summer months due to irritating flies. The cap is made from close-mesh polyester fabric to prevent the horse from over heating, and has solid ears. The front of the cap is made from a soft leather-look easy-care fabric called Simileath, which can be embroidered. The cap is completed with stylish two-tone piping. Available in a choice of Camel with Black or Graphite with Black in large only, the Flycap is available from www.olneysaddlery.co.uk, priced £15. |
