Most riders like to have easy access to their halters, saddles, pads and bridles, that way you can grab them and go, no looking for misplaced tack. There are a lot of ways to achieve that goal, and I would like to make a few suggestions on how to set up a functional tack room. I realize many riders out there may board their horse or horses, but there are still some products that help you keep everything together.

Saddle Racks

These come in different styles depending on the type of saddle you own and, if you have room, the ones that mount on the wall are a good type to use. Before you decide where to place the racks try sketching out a diagram of the best placement for them. I have the bigger things like my saddles on a back wall, but I keep the area in front clear for easy access when I take them down and put them up. They also have the free standing racks that will hold up to four or five saddles, either western or English. Also they are good for holding your saddle pads it lets the air circulate underneath them.

Bridle Brackets

If you have more than a couple of bridles I suggest mounting these brackets on a solid piece of material and then hang them in a good accessible place. The reason I like the rounded design on the brackets is the fact that they don't crimp at the top of the bridle, and therefore will hold their shape better.

Halter Hooks

First consider how many halters you have, and decide which kind of hook you want to use. The four prong design can hang up over head, on the ceiling of the tack room, but don't block your walking path to your saddles and pads. Decide on a place that will be easy to get to when you need one in a hurry. The wall mounts are another good choice, I also like to snap my lead lines to them so everything stays together.

Utility Hooks and Brackets

Once you start collecting different tack and supplies a person discovers that they need more hooks and brackets for all sorts of items like chaps, extra reins, breast collars, girths and more. Make sure you have the space to keep these items from cluttering up the area. If you are limited on space try condensing the things you use most often into a couple of areas.

Grooming Totes and Bags

A must for keeping all the brushes, combs, sprays and more in one handy place. They are great to have when you are on the go trail riding or showing your horse. A person may want to add a shelf or two along the wall if possible or a cabinet to store extra supplies. Totes come in all sizes and colors so you can collect as many as you need to store your grooming and cleaning products.

There are many things to consider when setting up your supplies and tack for the first time or even adding to what you have. Hopefully this gives some basic suggestions on things to start out with, you can always add or remove things as you need to, but if you take the time to arrange it first you may not have to change it.