The British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) Innovation Awards results were announced yesterday (Monday 16 February) at the BETA International trade show in Birmingham. The awards take into account safety, versatility and marketability of products in a range of categories.
The winner in the rider clothing category was the Equitector New Classic Long Riding Boots, with a climate control feature, multi-fit leg system and Hoof Proof toe protection system. The runner-up in this category was the Toggi Apache Ladies Riding Jacket, designed with Pippa Funnell’s full input to its technical features, style and wearability.
Thorowgood’s concept of the Griffin GP Saddle with Fish won the innovation award for saddlery and tack. This saddle has been designed to take into account how horses change in shape during the year, and allows you to accommodate these weight fluctuations by means of easy-fit “fish-shaped” inserts. The Vespucci Bridle with integrated headpiece was highly commended in this category.
The safety and security award was won by Equitag Equestrian Security, which has developed a radio frequency ID tagging system. With the help of a range of saddle-makers, most new tack is being tagged, which will make it increasingly difficult to sell on stolen goods in the future. Highly commended in this category was Horseware’s Cheeky Chums Safety Pack, making safety fun for younger riders.
The horse care and equipment award also went to Horseware Ireland, this time for its Rambo Horse Walker Rug, which keeps horses warm on the walker while eliminating the problem of rubbed shoulders.
Quay Equestrian’s Daily Hoof Supplement and total hoof care concept took the Feed and Veterinary award, and Grangers International’s NT odour Eliminator Spray won the award in the ‘Other’ category.
The New Product gallery at the fair showed an impressive range of innovation and technology soon to hit the equestrian market. Items on show ranged from the equistocking, a versatile elastic support suitable for remedial bandaging and use while competing, to Wahl’s Avalon Horseline cordless clippers.
At BETA, the British equestrian world has proved, once again, that it remains at the forefront of the industry.
