Working as a Stable Hand

[ihorse]

Hey guys, some exciting things happening in my neck of the woods lately! Some of you may remember I worked at a tack store - Columbia River - for several months, which was awesome and I really appreciated the discounts I got! Well, unfortunately the store closed and the owners moved back to their hometown in Oregon, so I lost my job with them back

Comments

[megfuzzle]

I'd invest in a pair of Bogs/MuckCo. Boots for mucking. They're easy to put on over breeches/slip off for riding boots, can look stylish (come in colors, or tall black etc etc), and keep your expensive footwear clean. They're typically waterproof which means you don't have to worry when you accidentally slosh water down your leg/foot, or have to run through the mud for something. They also are less dangerous for ankles than cleaning in clogs (I know from a friend's tough experience). Clogs/etc are fine for non-stall cleaning time though.

I managed a private high-end dressage stable in college. I wore Kerrits full-seat tights most of the time in summer, because they were lightweight, and non-invasive as far as need-to-go-from-cleaning-stalls-to-hopping-on-horse. Some full seats are stiff and awkward for all-day-wear. I had nicer pairs of breeches for lessons/clients/clinics, but comfy and flexible is the name of the game for mucking and chores.

For fall, I loved the Kerrits, or Ariat long sleeve riding shirts (I also worked in a tack store at the same time, so I was always trying out clothes!) with a nice vest over the top.

I think someone above pointed out belts. Yes. I didn't wear them every single day, but often. You'll just have to gauge your barn. Some are more relaxed (no belts are fine), or allow really fun and wild colors (I am a fan of my crazy belts when not clinic or showing).

Buy some polo shirts for most every day. I'd go for gray, green etc etc, white ones look awesome, but get dirty fast if you're doing chores. Go on ebay and order some Kerrits/Irideon riding tanks (the ones with modest cut and collar, but sleeveless) for the godawful hot days. They still look nice and professional, but are a tank top.

INVEST IN GOOD TALL/RIDING SOCKS. You'll be living in them. Same goes for a good sports bra, and a few good pairs of no-ride-up, breathable underwear. I hate to say it. But those things will help more than anything. =)