Can you believe it’s the last day of the year?? Seems like only yesterday we were all making grand plans for 2020 and the idea of a global lockdown was something only feasible in a sci-fi horror movie. Well, here we are. Between starting a new business, general pandemic stress/anxiety/depression, unexpectedly losing my heart horse Cheers, and selling Quinn, blogging has taken a deep backseat. That being said, I’ve gotten to try a ton of awesome new things this year. Normally I would have given individual attention and a blog post for each of these things, but alas, nothing is normal this year. So here is my “catch up” post on my favorite new & noteworthy things this year, along with some old stand-by’s that I wanted to highlight!
Hope you enjoy this post, and here’s to a better 2021. XO, Karina
Products with * have been previously reviewed. Click on the asterisks to read!
APPAREL & ACCESSORIES
SHIRTS
Solid Citizen Haley Sun Shirt ($65)
This shirt has sold out multiple times since it’s launch just a few months ago for a reason! With ultra-flattering seams and a lightweight fabric that holds you in, Haley has become my go-to base layer.
Fit Details: Second-skin fit, true to size. I wear a large in this shirt.
Criniere Sophie Schooling Shirt ($105)
I’ve never gotten more compliments or questions about a shirt than I do when wearing this! The color blocking is so fun, flattering and chic.
Fit Details: Second-skin, true to size. I wear a large in this shirt.
Bit & Bloom Stella Top ($85-$88)
Bit & Bloom knocked it out of the park with their launch this year with their cute patterns and feminine details.
Fit Details: Regular/semi-relaxed fit. Runs one size big (similar to Ariat). I wear a medium in this shirt.
TKEQ Chloe High Collar Technical Top ($80 CAD – Use code THEHUNT for $10 off)
TKEQ totally upped their shirt game this year! I have this in the suede color which is a beautiful taupey-purpley-grey, and love the mesh accents at the shoulders. I’m all about a high neck these days as I try to avoid any sun exposure to my neck, and the fabric is ultra-soft.
Fit Details: Second-skin fit, runs small. I wear an XL in this shirt.
Horse Pilot Design Shirt ($185)
This shirt is aptly named the “Design Shirt” and I couldn’t think of a better descriptor. I love that Horse Pilot is constantly upping the ante when it comes to riding apparel. The technical fabric is lightweight but doesn’t wrinkle and looks crisp. The cut of the shirt is beautifully flowy while looking like a professional show shirt (and has the cutest collar). This style looks great fully tucked or with a french tuck.
Fit Details: Relaxed fit. I have a large in this shirt, but could probably size down to a medium.
BREECHES
Calverro Equestrian Schooling Breeches ($125)
These breeches are never leaving my closet. They are probably the most comfortable breeches in existence – yes, more comfortable than even leggings.
Fit Details: High-rise, true to size but ultra stretchy so you can also size down. I wear a size 30 in these breeches.
Dublin Pro Form Gel Knee Patch Breeches ($69.95)
These breeches honestly blew me away. Dublin was never a brand that I sought out until I tried these breeches, and now have multiple pieces in my closet. The fabric feels similar to Tailored Sportsman, but doesn’t bag out or pucker, and the fit is WAY better. With the addition of durable silicone knee patches, these breeches feel more like a high-end breech than a pair that costs $70.
Fit Details: High-rise, true to size. I wear a size 30 in these breeches.
Kerrits Affinity Ice Fil Breeches ($139)
I’ve found myself reaching for these over and over this year. The best word I can use to describe these breeches is “easy.” I don’t ever have to think about whether a tighter fitting top will look good with them or not, if they’ll match, or if I’ll have enough grip for the horse I’m riding. They’re what I reach for when I’m getting dressed in the dark and have never done me wrong.
Fit Details: High-rise, run smaller than the Crossover style. I wear a large in these breeches, but the legs are a little loose – I wear a medium in the crossovers.
Horse Pilot X-Design Breeches ($290)
Horse Pilot’s 2020 breeches are some of my all-time favorites. You can tell a lot of thought went into designing these breeches. The waistband is unique and has a stretch insert at the back to eliminate gapping while being comfortable, and the cut of the waistband hugs your body in the right places while eliminating bulk at the front.
Fit Details: Unique hybrid rise. True to size – runs a bit smaller than the X-Pure but larger than the X-Balance. I wear a large in these breeches.
OUTERWEAR & ACCESSORIES
TKEQ EZ Packable Down Vest ($115 CAD – Use code THEHUNT for $10 off)
I can’t even count how many times I’ve worn this vest this season! It adds the perfect amount of warmth, yet really thin and lightweight which makes it perfect for layering over shirts or under jackets.
Fit Details: Slim fit, true to size. I wear a large in this vest.
Solid Citizen Equestrian Kennedy Bomber Jacket ($140)
As you can probably tell, I love Solid Citizen. This bomber looks like a million bucks and feels like it too. The stretchy arms paired with the faux-down body makes it so comfortable, and I love the convertible collar – you can pop it up for extra protection or tuck it in for a true bomber collar.
Fit Details: Easy, slightly boxy fit. I wear a medium in this jacket but a large worked for me as well, I just decided I liked the more fitted look better.
The Salt Ranch El Rincon Hat ($90)
Earlier this year, I got to visit The Salt Ranch’s studio, where I got my very own custom shaped hat and it’s one of my most prized accessories. These hats are made to withstand the elements and meant be lived in.
Solid Citizen x Lovely Bird Barn Hat ($140)
Along with my Salt Ranch hat, this one has been a staple this year. These hats are so chic and well-made, and provide great sun-protection while adding a ton of cool-girl style.
Street & Saddle x Milton Menasco Wild & West Belt ($120 CAD)
Everything from this collab has been incredible, but these belts are at the top of my list. They feature vintage hardware, can be stamped with your initials, and can be made in custom sizes too!
TACK
Winderen Back Protect Solution Half Pad ($272.62)
This half pad is one of my favorite things of the year. I’m not going into too much detail here since I’ll be doing a full review on it (and the stirrups below), but it’s truly the best half pad I’ve tried.
Free Jump Soft’Up Classic Stirrup Irons ($370)
Super grippy with enough cushion for my terrible joints, plus the added safety of being quick release.
FOOTWEAR
Ariat Kendron Pro Paddock Boots ($169.95 – Use code THEHUNT10 for 10% off at Calabasas Saddlery)
These are the first pair of paddock boots I’ve purchased in YEARS. I immediately fell in love with the design (they look so cute with jeans too) and they’ve been as durable and comfortable as all my trusty Ariats before.
Romitelli Custom* (Price varies – photo below is of a custom boot that is not mine)
I am obsessed with my Romitelli boots! I’ve posted some stories about them, but I can’t wait to share the photos I recently got along with a post on my full experience from getting measured to breaking them in. Stay tuned – this review will be coming really soon 🙂
Boot Conditioner: Allie & Ilia Leather Balm ($10-$34)
This conditioner can be used on all your leather goods, but it’s my favorite for boots. The formula is gentle and conditions boot leather without being heavy or sticky. It also helps to protect from water damage, and makes my boots super shiny – I don’t even use polish on them anymore! The peppermint scent is my favorite.
GROOMING PRODUCTS
StripHair Gentle Groomer Original ($38.95)
I swear this thing is magic. It has so many uses and works so well, yet is gentle enough to use on the entire horse – even the face and legs.
Leovet 5 Star Detangler ($19.95 – Use code THEHUNT10 for 10% off at Calabasas Saddlery)
I’ve tried a lot of detanglers in my horse-owning life, and I’ve never loved one as much as I love this one. It’s pretty much perfect in my opinion – detangles like a dream, repels dirt, conditions the hair and doesn’t make it dry and brittle over time, and smells SO good. Truly, it’s a 5 star detangler.
STILL OBSESSED WITH…
Everything Two Bits Equestrian. I think I have more pieces from this brand than any other in my entire closet. That says something! Annie’s designs are just so wearable and the bamboo fabric makes looking chic comfortable too.
Struck Breeches ($299.95)
Fit Details: Mid-rise, very true to size. I wear a 29 in these breeches.
Horse Pilot Airbag Safety Vest ($825)*
Myst Equine Dry Shampoo ($24)*
Dreamers & Schemers Boot Socks ($13.95-$16.95)*
EquiFit D-Teq Boots ($229 – Use code THEHUNT10 for 10% off at Calabasas Saddlery)
I’ve tried almost every high-end boot out there, but these have stayed my favorite for a few reasons – they’re neoprene-free, the liners are removable/washable/replaceable, they have great impact protection, and the straps are secure without impeding movement.
Centaur Climate Control Polo Wraps ($19.95/pair)
I love the moisture-wicking liner these have built in! They take a little practice to wrap, but it’s worth it. I also have the much more expensive Eskadron version of these, but I actually prefer the Centaur ones – the liner is wider and easier to wrap.
EyeOn Equine Care Far Infrared Wraps ($94.25/pair)*
PS – I also like the Incrediwear Circulation Exercise Bandages, which have the added benefit of cold therapy, but I find the EyeOn wraps easier to wrap and more aesthetically pleasing.
CWD Conditioner ($30)
Yes, I’m a Voltaire girl, but this is still my favorite conditioner for saddles, girths, and bridles. It conditions so well and makes leather feel like butter without leaving a ton of waxy residue.
Pony Suds Ringside Tin ($10 – Peppermint is my fave)
This cleaner just works so well. It easily cleans the dirtiest tack without ever leaving it stripped of moisture.
Let me know your favorites below – and if you need sizing help or want to chat in more detail about anything on this list, send me a DM on Instagram!
Upcoming things to keep your eye on:
- Solid Citizen Equestrian Capsule II
- Schulz Collection (especially the Groom Bag)