As temperatures warm up and you begin to look forward to riding again, be sure to not overlook the importance of caring for your leather tack. Leather has pores in it, just like your skin. These pores gather dirt, sweat, and moisture that rob it of flexibility, causing cracks rendering the piece useless. The winter cold can also inflict considerable damage to condition of your leather tack.
Begin by brushing the leather with a soft brush to remove all the dirt from the cracks and crevices. This can also be done by a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment. It is important to remove all the dirt before oiling to prevent buildup. If need be, use a toothbrush to get into the smallest spaces.
Next, apply a cleaner with a damp sponge. When choosing a cleaner, look for one that will clean without drying the leather. You also want to avoid cleaners containing wax because it will darken your leather. Wipe off any residue that will dry and crack the leather and then wait ten minutes before oiling your tack. Be sure you allow the leather to dry naturally. Do not use heat.
Apply conditioner to slightly damp leather with a soft cloth or sponge. As with cleaning, apply conditioner to both sides of the leather to get maximum absorption. If the tack seems to absorb the oil relatively fast, apply a second coat. Use only 100 % neatsfoot oil for conditioning. Following these tips can extend the life and wear of your leather tack. For more information, check out http://www.rodeohaven.com/tack
