The Pink Equine Blog
The Pink Equine Blog – Help and advice on all aspects of Horses, Horse Health, Horse Riding, Equestrian Disciplines and Horse Tack.
Why Cheap Riding Whips Don’t Last | What Actually Matters
Why Cheap Riding Whips Don’t Last Cheap riding whips are easy to buy and easy to justify. They’re often treated as consumables rather
Why Most Riders Choose the Wrong Whip Length
Choosing a whip length often feels like a small decision, but it has a disproportionate effect on how a whip feels to use.
Why a longer whip isn’t always better
Why a Longer Whip Isn’t Always Better When riders struggle with reach or feel, the most common instinct is to go longer. It’s
Why One Good Horse Whip Is Better Than Owning Five
Why One Good Horse Whip Is Better Than Owning Five Many riders gradually accumulate whips without ever really intending to. One for schooling,
Why You Can’t Quite Reach With Your Whip
Why You Can’t Quite Reach With Your Whip (and What Helps) Many riders experience a moment where using a whip feels slightly off.
Why Your Whip Feels Awkward to Use (and What Helps)
Why Your Whip Feels Awkward to Use (and What Helps) Many riders assume that if a whip feels awkward or uncomfortable to use,
Do You Really Need a Different Whip for Each Discipline?
Do You Really Need a Different Whip for Each Discipline? It’s a question many riders quietly ask themselves, often after seeing long equipment
Is a Fleck Whip worth the money?
Is a Fleck Whip Worth the Money? It’s a fair question. Fleck whips are rarely the cheapest option, and when riders first compare
The Fleck Whip Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Fleck Whip for Your Riding
Introduction: Choosing a Fleck Whip Is About Feel, Not Just Type Choosing a riding whip isn’t really about choosing a “model” or a
Whip Popper vs Keeper Explained
Introduction The end of a whip plays a critical role in how it functions, yet it is often misunderstood. Riders frequently ask about
Why Dressage Whips are longer
Introduction Many riders wonder why dressage whips are significantly longer than standard riding whips or crops. The difference is deliberate and rooted in
Why different Countries use different whip styles
Introduction Riding whip styles vary noticeably from country to country, and these differences are rarely accidental. Tradition, riding culture, discipline focus and welfare
Driving Whips Explained
Introduction Driving whips are very different from riding whips. Designed for use from a carriage or vehicle, they allow the driver to communicate
History of the riding whip
Introduction The riding whip has been part of horsemanship for centuries, evolving alongside changes in riding styles, training methods, and attitudes toward horse
How to choose the right whip for your discipline
Introduction Choosing the right whip for your discipline is about far more than personal preference. Different disciplines place different demands on the rider,
How many whips does a rider need?
Introduction Many riders wonder how many whips they really need. It’s a fair question, tack rooms can quickly fill with equipment, and it’s
Which whip should I use for my discipline
Introduction Riders often ask which whip they should use for their discipline, especially when moving between schooling, competition and different types of riding.
Choosing the right whip for your horses temperament
Introduction Choosing the right whip isn’t just about rider preference or discipline, your horse’s temperament plays an equally important role. A whip that
Short vs Long Riding Whips
Introduction One of the most common questions riders ask is whether a short or long riding whip is better for everyday use. Both
Whips for Beginners : A No Nonsense Guide
Introduction For many riders, choosing a first riding whip can feel unnecessarily complicated. Beginners often worry about using the wrong type, upsetting their
When to replace a riding whip
Introduction Knowing when to replace a riding whip is just as important as choosing the right one in the first place. While a
How to choose a durable horse riding whip
Introduction Knowing how to choose a durable riding whip is important for any rider who wants reliable, consistent equipment that stands up to
How to replace a horse whip lash: Step by Step Guide
Introduction Knowing how to replace a horse whip lash can be useful for riders who use their whips regularly, particularly for groundwork, lunging,
How to clean a riding whip handle
Introduction Knowing how to clean and maintain a leather or gel grip whip handle is often overlooked, yet it plays a key role
How to store a riding whip
Introduction Many riders don’t give much thought to how they store a whip, but poor storage is one of the most common reasons
How to build horse confidence without a whip
Introduction Many riders searching for ways to build horse confidence without a whip are not really looking to remove it entirely, but more
Why horses become whip sour
Introduction A horse that reacts negatively to a whip is often described as “whip-sour”. This can show up as tension, tail swishing, rushing,
Common riding whip mistakes
Introduction Most riding whip problems do not come from bad intentions. They come from small, repeated mistakes that creep into everyday riding without
When not to use a riding whip
Introduction A riding whip is intended to be a subtle communication aid, not a tool of force. While much advice focuses on how
Are Riding Whips Cruel
Introduction The question “are riding whips cruel?” is one of the most common, and most emotionally charged, topics in equestrian sport. For riders,
How to Introduce a Whip to a Young horse or one that is Sensitive Safely
Introduction Introducing a whip to a young or sensitive horse should never be about correction or force. When done correctly, a whip becomes
How to use a riding crop
Introduction This is a guide on how to use a riding crop. A riding crop is a helpful tool, but only when used
How to use a jumping bat
Introduction A jumping bat is one of the most misunderstood training aids in showjumping. When used correctly, it provides light, clear reinforcement to
How to use a dressage whip
Introduction A dressage whip is not simply an extension of the rider’s arm. When used correctly, it becomes a subtle communication tool that
Equestrian Vaulting Whips and how to use them
Introduction Equestrian Vaulting is one of the most technically demanding equestrian disciplines, combining gymnastic skill with precise control of the horse’s movement. The
Whips for young horses: How to introduce them
Introduction Introducing a whip to a young horse can feel like a big step. Used correctly, a whip for young horses are not
In Hand Schooling whips
Introduction In hand schooling whips are an invaluable way to develop balance, straightness, engagement and understanding from the ground. Whether you're teaching lateral
Lunge whips how to hold and use them
Introduction Lunging is one of the most valuable training tools in groundwork, helping riders develop their horses rhythm, suppleness, connection and obedience from
Groundwork Whips When and how to use them
Introduction A groundwork whip is a useful training aid when used calmly and correctly. It improves communication, reinforces your body language, and helps
How to switch a riding whip safely and correctly
Introduction Being able to switch a riding whip smoothly from one hand to the other is a useful skill for any rider. It
Horse Whip Aids Explained
Introduction Horse Whip aids are one of the most misunderstood elements of horse riding. When used well, they create quiet, precise communication that
How to use a horse whip correctly
Introduction How to use a horse whip correctly is all about timing, clarity and fairness. A whip should never create fear or tension.
Horse Whip Balance Flex and Weight Explained
Introduction The way a whip feels in your hand depends on more than just its length or material. The balance, flex and weight
How to hold a horse whip (step by step guide)
Introduction Holding a riding whip correctly is one of those small skills that makes a huge difference to your riding. A correctly held
Horse Whip Anatomy Explained
Introduction Horse Whip Anatomy Explained: Every whip is made up of several parts that work together to create its feel, balance and performance.
Whip handle types compared (2025 Guide)
Introduction The handle of a whip influences comfort, balance, control and how easily you can maintain a steady contact without disturbing your reins.
Horse Whip Materials Explained 2025 guide
Introduction Modern horse whips are available in a huge range of materials, from lightweight carbon fibre to traditional leather and nylon braids. Each
Whip Rules in Warm Up: Whats allowed
1. Introduction Sometimes warm-up arenas can feel busier and more pressured than the competition ring, and that’s exactly why most whip-related warnings and
Breed Society and Showing Whip Rules UK
Breed Society and Showing Whip Rules: What you need to know Introduction Showing has its own culture, traditions and unspoken rules, and the
British Eventing whip rules 2025
Introduction British Eventing whip rules 2025 are far more detailed than many riders realise, and the consequences for getting them wrong can be
Horse Whip Sizes A complete guide for all disciplines
Horse Whip Sizes "What length whip do I need?" Choosing the right whip length makes a big difference to how effective, safe and
Showjumping Whip Rules 2025 BS & FEI
1. Introduction Showjumping whip rules are stricter than many riders realise. Both British Showjumping (BS) and the FEI set clear limits on whip
Dressage Whip Rules BD & FEI Explained
1. Introduction Dressage whip rules can be confusing, especially as the regulations change depending on whether you’re riding in the warm-up arena or
The Complete guide to horse riding whips
A horse riding whip is one of the most familiar tools in the equestrian world, but it’s also one of the most misunderstood.
What is a riding crop and how to use one
Introduction Riding crops are a common sight in arenas, warm-up rings and out hacking, but many riders are not entirely sure what they
The Ultimate Guide to Dressage Whip Length
Mastering Dressage: The Ultimate Guide to Dressage Whip Length 2025 Dressage, a sport known for its elegance and precision, requires a variety of
Best Girths for Slipping Saddles: Real Solutions That Work
Introduction Few things are more frustrating, or potentially dangerous, than a saddle that won’t stay in place. Whether it’s slipping forward, sliding sideways,
What Is an Anatomical Girth? Benefits, Fit Advice & Top Girths for Your Horse
Introduction The right girth can transform your horse’s comfort and performance, yet it’s often one of the most misunderstood pieces of tack. For
Custom Equestrian Embroidery A Showcase in Team Branding
Introduction When a client from Chile approached us with a bold vision, to create a fully coordinated set of tack and accessories for
Trump Tariffs and our US customers
Trump’s Tariffs and What They Mean for Our U.S. Customers In the last few months, President Donald Trump introduced a number of tariffs
The Pink Equine Story
The Pink Equine Story I’m Denise, the founder of Pink Equine, and I wanted to personally welcome you and share a little about
Best Horse Girths: A Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide
1. Introduction Let’s face it, the horse girth isn’t the most glamorous piece of tack. It’s often overlooked, yet it plays a crucial
Best Girth for Sensitive Horses | Expert picks + Guide
Best girth for sensitive horses At Pink Equine, we’ve helped hundreds of riders solve girth discomfort, rubbing or sensitive skin, and saddle slipping
Best Bridle for Horse with Sensitive Ears?
The Best Bridle for Horses with Sensitive Ears (And Why Most Riders Overlook This Problem) Finding the best bridle for horse with sensitive
The advantages of using bamboo whips for horses
Why riders choose bamboo whips for horses Bamboo whips for horses are chosen by riders who prefer a lighter, more responsive feel and
Pink Equine Sponsors Mounted Games Team USA
Pink Equine Sponsor USA International Teams of the United States Mounted Games Association (USMGA) We are thrilled to announce our sponsorship of the
A comprehensive guide to all types of horse whips
A Guide to All Types of Horse Whips Whips are essential tools in equestrian disciplines, each designed for specific purposes to aid in
Premium Leather Riding Whips | Our 6 top choices
Premium leather riding whips appeal to riders who value traditional materials, refined finishes, and a distinctive feel in the hand. While leather whips
8 Most Popular Equestrian Whips
Choosing a riding whip doesn’t need to be complicated. Most riders aren’t looking for something unusual or experimental, they simply want a whip
Affordable Horse Riding Whips
Looking for an affordable riding whip doesn’t mean you have to compromise on balance, feel, or reliability. Many riders simply want a whip
6 Best Fleck Dressage Whips
6 Best Fleck Dressage Whips Fleck produce a wide range of dressage whips, and on paper many of them can look very similar.
Pink Equine Sponsored Rider Lucy Mills
Pink Equine welcomes our newest sponsored rider Lucy Mills and her horses Noodle, Tigger and Cyril. Lucy is a 30 year old human
The Fascinating History of Horse Tack
Embark on a fascinating journey through the history of horse tack. From ancient civilizations to modern times, we'll explore the evolution of essential
How to put a bridle together – Video
https://youtu.be/9BgKWLG0fXc How to put a bridle together in 6 easy steps video Whilst most bridles arrive already complete, requiring only the addition of
How to Cut Horse Stall Mats
Horse Stall Mats are commonly used in horse stables to prevent the animals’ hooves from slipping or being damaged on the hard floor
Exploring parts of a bridle | A Guide to Bridle Anatomy and Customisation
Are you intrigued by the intricate components of a bridle and their significance in horse riding? Choosing the right bridle for your horse
A guide to different types of bridles?
In our latest guide, we're diving into the wonderful world of bridles. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting out, understanding the
10 best bits for horses with fussy mouths
Why do we get a saddler for saddles, but hardly anyone gets a bit person to check their horse's bit? It's a pretty
Pink Equine Equestrian Shop Now Open
Pink Equine a trusted online brand for quality horse tack and horse riding accessories since 2007 are thrilled to announce the opening of
Pink Equine Sponsored Rider Charlotte Fricker
Pink Equine welcomes Dressage rider Charlotte Fricker and her horse Flynn. Charlotte is a 26-year-old equine veterinary nurse who started riding horses when
Our top 10 picks of the best bridles for horses
It doesn't matter if you are a leisure rider or a competition rider, bridles are an essential piece of equipment for horseback riding.
Mattes Saddle Pads and Girths NOW IN STOCK
Mattes keep a standard range of saddle pads and horse girths in their warehouse and these are now available for immediate purchase. Many
AVAILABLE NOW Mattes Diamante saddle pads in any style!
For those of you who love Diamante Saddle Pads, you can now choose any style of Mattes saddle pad with the diamante trim.
How to clean saddle pads in 6 easy steps
How to clean saddle pads - Introduction As a retailer specialising in premium Mattes sheepskin saddle pads, numnahs, and half pads, including those
Which British Dressage Membership is right for you?
If you are excited about dressage and thinking about competing in dressage competitions, you will more than likely need British Dressage Membership, but
British Dressage Rules the changes for 2023
Each year British Dressage rules are updated and communicated via the "Members Handbook" and this year is no exception with amended rules and
What is the role of British Dressage in Equestrian Sports
If you are truly passionate about the equestrian sport of dressage, then it is important to know the role that British Dressage (BD)
What are the FEI rules for dressage?
Riders that are contemplating making the leap from advanced levels of dressage (level 4 in the US) to Prix St George, will need
Who are the FEI and what is their role in equestrian sports?
The plethora of National and International Federations and Governing Bodies, not to mention the myriad of rules, regulations, and codes of conduct in
The Regulatory Structure and Hierarchy of Equestrian Organisations
With such a large number of National and International Equestrian Organisations, sometimes it can be extremely confusing over the regulatory structure and hierarchy.
A history of dressage. Ancient Greeks to a 21st-Century Sport
The rudiments of dressage began around 430 BC but did not really develop further until the 14th Century. Read about the important figures
Dressage Rider Training and the top 10 best programs
Dressage Rider Training - Introduction There's a plethora of information available online discussing the intricacies of training a dressage horse, spanning from groundwork
The Essential Guide to Dressage
"The allure of watching horse and rider dancing together are truly spellbinding!" Introduction This compendium is the perfect introduction to the equestrian sport
How to measure a horse bit
As manufacturers of custom horse bridles, we understand the importance of selecting the right horse bits to complement our products. Investing in a
2 ways to ensure your horse bit fits properly
Introduction In the world of equestrianism, we readily invest in a qualified saddle fitter to ensure our horses' comfort and performance. But what
How much does a saddle weigh?
The simple answer to the question how much does a saddle weigh? is as follows. English saddles can weigh anywhere between 5 -
The Launch of Pink Equine’s Redesigned Website
After six months of hard work behind the scenes, we are proud to announce the launch of the newly redesigned Pink Equine website.
How long after mowing can horses graze?
With the warmer weather and longer daylight hours in the spring and summer, many horse owners look forward to being able to turn
How to measure a horse – A height and weight guide
Updated by: Denise on 24/03/2023 How to measure a horse Height and Weight Just like humans, no two equine animals are the same.
E. A. Mattes Equestrian what they sell and why you should buy
Interested in buying an E A Mattes Equestrian product and want to know why you should buy? Well here are 5 great reasons