All about Waltrap

Among the obligatory equipping of the horse, equestrian enthusiasts always distinguish timbers and sweatshirts - bedding, which are fixed under the saddle and are responsible for sweating, preventing the formation of namin on the surface of the back. In addition, models with fillers can have an additional cushioning effect in the distribution of loads. The lining is fixed on the surface of the back under the saddle, has special mounts to avoid its displacement. With the right selection and use, formal and everyday jack-ups help ensure maximum comfort for both the rider and the horse.

Mastering riding skills, horse owners are forced to learn a lot of new information. Valtrap for a horse - what is it? This textile product is made in a two-layer quilted design, with or without filling. The shape of the turban is oval, rectangular or square; it is usually visible from under the saddle. Sweatshirts are also used - more dense cloth or felt linings that remove the sweat of the animal.

The main functions of a waltrap in horse equipment are:

• protection of the back surface from mechanical friction and irritation while working with the horse;
• the formation of a buffer cushioning layer between the saddle and the back of the animal;
• softening the shock load when the rider’s body position is incorrect, weight imbalance;
• prevention of diaper rash on the skin;
• removal and removal of sweat.

The choice of slides made by different manufacturers is quite wide. Among the popular brands, the following can be distinguished:

• Eskadron - a German manufacturer that manufactures some of the most popular models in the world of saddles, there are different design options and colors;
• Anky PS of Sweden - a Swedish company that produces solid versions of equipment, practical and wear-resistant;
• Equestrian Stockholm - a Swedish company that creates stylish and modern premium-style jack-tops with an excellent level of performance;
• LeMieux is an English brand that manufactures products of a convenient shape, durable and high-quality, resistant to wear;
• Decathlon is a French manufacturer, famous for affordable prices and a wide selection of products; there are series with mesh, anti-slip coating.

Of course, this list is not limited to the selection of slides. Moreover, on sale you can find individual tailoring products and products of domestic brands. But in comparison with high-tech premium solutions, they certainly lose.

All types of slides can be divided according to their purpose.

• Anatomical version Suitable for most saddles - triathlon, universal.
• Competitive models suitable directly for saddles used in jumping. They are smaller than those used for dressage, can have a variable shape - oval, square, often used as universal.
• For a pony Separate models are produced, repeating the forms of large versions, but in miniature design.
• Dressage Wrap focused on dressage use. In this category, models have a diverse design and shape, a stylistic solution can also be almost anything.
• Waltrap Shamrock - one of the simplest options, repeats the shape of the saddle, but is made of woven materials.
• Another option is the sweatshirt, part of equipment for cavalry and western saddles. They are made of wool or half-wool with waterproof leather or synthetic coating.
• Half-Wraps have more compact dimensions, from under the saddle they are practically not visible. They are made from natural sheepskin or modern materials - neoprene, gel polymer.

One of the main parameters of a wraprap is its size. There is an officially established international classification that allows you to navigate when selecting the optimal solution. According to it, all sweaters used in equestrian sports are divided:

• Extra Full - for the largest horse breeds;
• Full - a universal option, suitable for most standard animals without features in size;
• Cob - models for compact, miniature views;
• Pony - version for the pony;
• Shetty - for the smallest horses, including shetty.

How much do you need filler for a wraprap? The absence of a dense layer leads to the fact that the hygroscopicity and heat-insulating properties of the product tend to zero. Multilayer products with a gasket in the form of a filler solve this problem. The most commonly used felt pad - natural material to ensure good breathability of the lining. Upon contact with hot water during washing, shrinkage occurs, otherwise this option is quite good.

The batting requires a small stitch, otherwise it stitches into lumps. With independent sewing, the filler material is pre-soaked in hot water, it shrinks only once. It is recommended to select additional sweatshirts for thin wrap-ups to eliminate their insufficient cushioning and improve air exchange between the saddle and the skin of the animal.

The outer cover of a modern wallrap can be almost any - there are velor options, durable cotton fabric is used. You can choose an elegant option - beautiful models have original prints, can be decorated with logos of a stable or club.

As for the filler, it is mainly to choose from such materials.

• Sheepskin. From it make sweatshirts and half-ladders. The material is environmentally friendly, breathable, hypoallergenic, aesthetic enough for use in competitions.
• Neoprene Waterproof material based on rubber, characterized by high elasticity, breathable. The saddle on it holds well, there are no problems with cleaning.
• Gel. The option of a saddle-head with increased depreciation is for horses with a problem back. Helps distribute loads evenly across the surface. Not hygroscopic, requires the use of an additional breathable layer.
• Fiber or foam. There are models with a material memory effect that take a certain shape. They are distinguished by breathability and good cushioning properties. Universal option for equestrian and dressage.

When choosing a saddle strap for a horse, it is extremely important to ensure that its tailoring matches the design of the saddle, height, and anatomical features of the animal. Owner’s mistakes can lead to the fact that the animal will have problems with the distribution of load on the back muscles, overheating or overcooling will occur, and chafing will appear.

To make the right choice, you should pay attention to the following nuances.

• Workmanship. It is better to choose good products of famous brands. Curved seams and other defects in the design of the sling will rub the surface of the skin, leading to hair loss.
• Lining thickness. Felt and sheepskin options should be used if enough space is left under the saddle.
• Convenience of slops. The best option would be Velcro loops - with them, fastening the Valtrap to the ammunition is faster and easier.
• Conformity of purpose and labeling. It is worthwhile to study the classification of products in advance, to take into account the features and dimensions of the saddle.

Waltrap intensively absorbs horse sweat and needs proper care. To extend its service life, after each use, carefully dry this part of the harness. Valtrapi and sweatshops after scattering are hung upside down to remove excess moisture from the material. Experienced horsemen also recommend the use of car washes with high water pressure, without detergents. Intensive fluid flow easily removes dirt and wool without causing deformation of the filler.

When using a washing machine, it is necessary to use the most delicate and low-temperature mode, with an extraction speed of up to 600 revolutions. When using a powder, it is worth choosing hypoallergenic options for baby clothes. After washing, the wet trap should be stretched and fixed to prevent deformation. Dry in vivo.

You can make a simple sweatshirt or wraprap yourself. How to sew on the patterns and can it be done seamlessly? Actually, most homemade options are trying to make it all-cut to prevent friction of the skin, from felt or sheepskin. Training - competitive or dressage option - will have to be sewn, supplemented with a more dense layer to maintain shape.

First, a pattern is made from the finished product, an allowance of 0.5 cm is added to the seams and by the thickness of the inserted layer. Further, a wrap-around is formed, is drawn up. The part is stitched along the edge, then around the perimeter, forming squares that exclude the displacement of the layers. The edge of the product is processed with a decorative edging, straps are sewn on the side sections for attaching to the girth and other elements of the harness.

For information on how to sew a diaper yourself, see the next video.