08/19/2026
🐴 Support Our Local Tack Stores! 🐴
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The equestrian world took a massive hit recently with Dover Saddlery closing its doors. If a retail giant can go out of business, it shows just how vulnerable our beloved local tack stores are right now. So many small shops are fighting to stay open, and they need our horse community to step up and support them!
Here is why shopping small and local matters so much for us and our horses:
* The Saddle Trial Lifeline: Finding the right saddle is incredibly hard, and we have very few spaces left in our area to buy used gear. We are incredibly lucky to have options like Mary’s Tack and Feed in San Diego, Stirrup Saddle and Tack in Murrieta, and Thrifty Horse in Norco. These are the only three major consignment shops around! They allow us to take a saddle on a crucial four-day trial to try it on our horses before we commit. If we don't support them, this vital service completely disappears.
* A True Cross-Discipline Gem: Among our remaining shops, Stirrup Saddle and Tack in Murrieta stands out as the only local saddle and tack store that offers both English and Western saddles and tack. Whether you ride in a dressage saddle or a western reining saddle, they bridge the gap for our entire diverse community under one roof.
* Real Safety, Real Warranties: When you buy safety gear like helmets online from massive sites like Amazon, you truly do not know what you are getting. Counterfeits are a real danger, and online purchases often lack a manufacturer warranty. Buying in-store means you get certified, genuine gear and a professional fit to keep you safe in the saddle.
* The Heartbeat of Our Shows: Online algorithms don't support our community. Our local tack stores are the ones sponsoring our horse shows, funding local events, and donating raffle prizes to support our clubs and youth riders. Without them, our competitive and social circles vanish.
* The Invisible Investment: Local shop owners buy all their inventory upfront. They put out massive amounts of their own money to fill those shelves with the specific supplements, bits, and breeches we need. They have already paid for the items you see.
* Discounts Hurt Small Business: When a small shop offers a discount, they are not just lowering a price—they are essentially losing money out of their own pockets. Paying full price helps ensure they can pay their bills and keep ordering supplies.
* Expertise and Connection: You cannot get expert, hands-on advice online. Local stores employ people who understand saddle fitting, know what gear works best for our climate, and keep our community thriving and connected.
These three consignment shops and our other local retailers need your utmost support right now. Let's protect the businesses that keep our riders safe and our community alive. Next time you need fly spray, a new halter, or grooming supplies, skip the online cart. Drive out to your local tack store, say hello, and buy it in person.
