Horse glossary
Tack
The equipment used for riding and handling a horse.
In Spanish: Equipo
What it means
Tack is the equipment a horse wears for riding or handling, such as the saddle, saddle pad, girth, bridle, reins, halter, and protective boots. "Tacking up" means putting this gear on, and the tack room is where it is stored and cleaned. English and western riding use different styles of tack.
Why it matters
Tack has to fit the horse and be in good repair. A saddle that pinches can make a horse sore or grumpy, and a worn stitch or cracked strap can break at the worst moment.
Example
Put tack away neatly after riding.
Try this
Each time you tack up, look at stitching, buckles, and the places where leather bends. Wipe off sweat and dirt after riding, clean leather regularly with saddle soap, and hang everything back in its spot.
Common mistake
Borrowing another horse's saddle or bridle because it's handy is a common shortcut. Tack is usually fitted to one horse, so always use the gear labeled for the horse you're riding.