After reflecting on the previous season, we wanted to share with you some of the products and gear that we found most helpful around the farm as we cared for our miniature horses this past winter. These products have been tested and come highly recommended for equestrians and outdoor enthusiast alike.
Classic Seamless Tall Bogs Boot – After countless winters working outdoors in various capacities, these fantastic boots have earned their way to the top of the list. They have a thick and sturdy sole, comfortable footbed, are waterproof, insulated, and they hold up to heavy use incredibly well. These tough and versatile winter boots are well worth the investment.*Consider buying your winter boots a little large to accommodate for thicker wool socks and proper circulation.
Carhartt Fleece Lined Hat – This wool knit stocking cap with a fleece lining is the ultimate winter hat. It has a nice deep fit and covers the ears well. It is incredibly warm and does not ride up on your head.
Thick Wool Socks – If you spend any length of time outdoors in the winter, then you know the importance of keeping your feet warm. Thick wool socks are a must for any outdoor enthusiast no matter what the activity. We have found a variety of brands to be excellent including but not limited to Carhartt, Realtree and Smartwool. Alpaca wool socks are also incredibly soft and very warm.
Thin Wool Socks – Depending on what shoes you are wearing or the temperature of the day, sometimes a thinner wool sock is just the thing. These can be a little harder to find, but Smartwool does make a variety of thicknesses from dress socks to boot socks. Thin wool socks are considerably warmer than cotton or synthetic materials and can be worn with most any type of shoe.
Insulated Coveralls – Some days or events can be especially cold, and you need that extra layer of warmth and or wind protection. This is when insulated coveralls can be your saving grace. They are also fantastic at keeping your lower layers of clothing clean and dry and thoroughly protected from snow, rain or mud. They are quick, easy, and super warm. If you are like me, you might not wear your coveralls all that often, but when you do, you are incredibly glad to have them!
Fuzzy Lined Crocs – Crocs can help your feet relax after countless hours in boots, and they are perfect for stepping outside the house or running errands during the colder months. They are quick and easy to slip on and the fleece lining provides much-appreciated added warmth.
Dublin Tall Boots – Sometimes you find you need a slightly dressier winter boot. This is when I turn to my Dublin tall boots. They are waterproof and have a thick, sturdy sole and comfortable footbed. They are stylish and can be worn with jeans, breeches or even under a dress or skirt. These boots are great for barn work, riding or the casual outing.
Hothands Foot and Toe Warmers – These warmers are a wonderful addition to your winter gear when you know that you will need to be out in the cold for extended periods of time. The toe and full foot warmers combined with wool socks and an insulated boot are game changers.
K&H Stock Tank Deicer – This handy deicer is designed with a cage around the heating element and sits at the bottom of the trough. The 250-watt variety was perfect for our smaller plastic water tubs. It even came with a clip to secure it to the side of the tub/trough and had a cord protector to prevent our inquisitive youngsters from chewing on it! The water never froze over, not even during our coldest stretches, and we were comforted knowing our horses always had access to drinking water.
Small 5 qt. Buckets – These smaller buckets were very helpful for carrying warm water to the horses during our coldest days and nights. These smaller buckets held the perfect amount of water which meant our minis were able to drink up the warm water before the excess began to freeze and solidify at the bottom of the bucket.
Short Nylon Trailer Ties – We found short nylon trailer ties to be very helpful when tying up our buckets of warm water to the fence. This made it quick and easy to swap out the buckets and helped ensure that the horses did not spill the buckets once they had been placed on the ground in the paddock.
We hope you have enjoyed reading about some of our most helpful and favorite winter products and gear. Remember, don’t ever underestimate the importance of staying warm and dry in cold winter temperatures. It can be MISERABLE to be cold!
Stay Warm! Stay Dry! Stay Safe!
