Winter Leather Care

 of desiccant crystals (silica chips) about the room to help maintain an arid environment.

Avoid using vinegar, bleach, alcohol, or commercially available disinfectants to clean moldy tack. While they will kill the mold spores, they will also wear down the leather fibres, even when diluted. You should also steer clear of glycerin-based leather cleaners as the glycerin acts as a humectant, holding on to moisture and inviting further fungus growth.

Instead, use a soft, damp cloth or rag to remove any mildew or mold on the surface of the leather. When the cloth is dirty, throw it away or wash with bleach rather than rinsing and re-using it. If the mold becomes a recurring problem, you may need to resort to stronger measures and consult a saddler or leather repair professional.

Prevent mold from growing on your tack in the first place by wiping your leather gear down after every ride with a soft cloth and lukewarm water. You should also clean and condition your leather tack weekly with a pH-neutral product intended for use on saddlery. Look for a conditioner containing a natural oil, such as neatsfoot oil, and avoid petroleum-based products. Remember to apply the oil sparingly, as a too liberal application can result in sticky tack that will attract and trap mold spores. Buff the leather afterward with a lint-free cloth.

If you do happen to ride in the rain, take extra care in drying out your tack; it can be a bit of a process. Slowly dry your saddle and bridle by gently dabbing the leather with a clean towel. Then, rub in a pH-neutral, fungicidal leather cleaner. Damp tack will need to absorb natural oils to replace those washed out by rainfall, so be sure to massage in pure mink or neatsfoot oil.

As with mold, prevention is the ticket, and there are a number of waterproofing products on the market.

Grease-based dressings form an effective physical barrier between the water and your leather, but can be quite sticky, often have a strong odour, and cannot be used on suede leather.

Silicone sprays are a convenient way to repel water, but can result in slippery tack. While water-based silicones can be used on suede finishes, oil-based silicones may stain them. Additionally, silicone can be somewhat drying to leather so overuse should be avoided.

Acrylic copolymer is a chemical that creates a microscopic coating over your tack, preventing water molecules from entering the pores of the leather. It is safe to use on suede, will not alter the colour of your leather tack, and is not slippery.

Guarding your leather gear from winter weather is easy if you follow a few simple practices. Remember to be proactive; properly caring for your saddles, bridles, and other investments on a regular basis will prevent many winter leather woes, leaving you to enjoy your tack for years to come.