Making Strides: Equine Sustainability

In recent years, sustainability has become a growing concern shared by many as they look for sustainable swaps that they can incorporate into their everyday life. Being an equestrian means that we’re often more connected with mother nature than many as we’re out in the elements every day. Protecting it is a big job and one that has been embraced by some equestrian brands.

In this blog, we look at the sustainability efforts within the equine community and focus on brands that are making a positive impact as early adopters of this new but important trend.

Early Adopters

Two of the equestrian industry's biggest names have added this important consideration to their product innovation process.

For winter 2020, Weatherbeeta launched its Green-Tec rug range. Recycled plastics are used for the outer fabric and lining and each rug saves over 340 plastic bottles from going into landfill or the ocean.

However, this is not the only reason why this range is a better choice for the environment. It takes over 50% less energy to produce the fabric than a traditional rug. Plus, it’s packaged in recyclable packaging that is also made from PCR (post-consumer recyclable plastic), further reducing the environmental impact of the Green-Tec range.

More recently, Weatherbeeta extended the Green-Tec range to include dog coats as well, so you can keep you canine warm and dry with the same low level of environmental impact. 

Ariat have also put a number of initiatives in place to ensure they look after our planet. A number of their keynote products are made using recycled polyester and allow them to divert plastic water bottles from landfills, helping to cut down on soil contamination along with air and water pollution.

Once again recycled polyester takes a lot less energy to produce, so in turn reduces their carbon footprint.

It's a Good Sign!

An increasing number of equestrian brands are looking into sustainable practices as well as fabrics. Ariat, for example, have worked with BLUESIGN, a system that provides safer and more sustainable environments for people to work and live in. 

BLUESIGN traces each material's path along the manufacturing process, improving every stage from the factory floor to the finished product, creating sustainable and responsible processes and changing the environmental impact of textile production for good, without compromising on performance. 

For drier days, Ariat have created the Ariat Byron Hoodie, a stylish grey sweater with a cosy hood and a full-length front two-way riding zip for a comfortable seat in the saddle. 

LeMieux have teamed with Ecologi so that every time someone purchases from the Earth range, LeMieux commits to planting a tree. Buy one, plant one tree. The LeMieux Earth Range also is made from recycled plastic bottles while the outer badge is crafted from recycled rubber. 

Vegan Footwear. Really?

When the word "vegan” is used, most of us are likely to think of all things green, meat-free etc. Rarely do we associate this term with feet?!!

However, those riders who care about living a cruelty-free lifestyle still need footwear. Consequently, the requirement for “vegan leather” has paved the way for animal-friendly alternatives even in equestrian footwear.

Vegan riding boots are made from 100% synthetic, man-made PU (polyurethane) or faux leather. They contain no animal products, but often give the appearance of real leather. Being durable yet comfortable makes them a great choice.

While these alternatives are certainly not without their own environmental concerns, they avoid the greenhouse gas emissions associated with animal agriculture along with the use of energy and water consumption by tanneries, allowing for brands to reduce their overall impact on the planet when they stay away from leather altogether. Brogini are forerunners in the area of vegan footwear - their Modena Riding Boots (above) have provided a synthetic alternative to long leather riding boots for several years and are incredibly popular. The Dublin Altitude Zip Paddock Boots are suitable for vegans who prefer a short riding boot - every part of their manufacturing process is vegan-friendly. 

Don't forget the packaging!

Many brands have already tackled the issue about packaging by using recycled, plastic-free or biodegradable materials. Shires Equestrian have gone one step further and have a long list of products that no longer come in any sort of bag. 

Parting Thoughts

Overall, the equine industry is making great strides towards sustainability and an environmentally-friendly future. Look out for our next blog where we look at what small things we can do as riders and horse owners.