Spring is finally on its way — show schedules are out, bridleways are drying off, fields are beginning to turn green. Longer and brighter days are on their way and its the perfect time to refresh your stables and tackle those jobs that have been building up over winter – I know I have a few on my to-do list.

To help make your tidy up easier and a bit more affordable, the Amazon Spring Deals sale has discounts on practical products for equestrians. Whether you’re looking for heavy-duty storage, time-saving cleaning tools or clever yard essentials, such as one of the best yard brooms, there are plenty of deals to help give your yard a freshen up and organised for the season ahead.

We’ve rounded up some products to help you finish the jobs faster so you have more time to ride and enjoy your horse.

Best Amazon Spring Deals on time-saving tools for horse owners

• For unlimited access to the latest deals, product news, buying guides and reviews, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You might also like:

Amazon’s Spring Deals on solar-powered ‘no-WiFi’ cameras for yards and stables

13 ways to save money on horse costs without compromising on care

Get swept up in our pick of the best yard brooms

7 ‘wheelie good’ barrows for horse owners that won’t let you down

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

A recurring question I see from horse owners on social media is for recommendations on cameras that work for yards and stables where there is no WiFi, or access to mains electric so I’ve pulled together the best Amazon Spring Deals on no WiFi cameras to help you find one in your budget.

If you’ve been on the fence about purchasing one of the best stable cameras, the Amazon spring sale is a great opportunity to save some money. I’ve rounded up my favourite deals below to help you choose.

Georgia previously kept her horse at a field with no WiFi or electric, but thanks to a the Reolink Go PT Ultra camera and solar panel (currently 20% off), she could keep an eye on her horses from anywhere. It’s now on its second year of being out in the field in all weathers.

She says: “The features I really like are the colour night even in total darkness and two-way audio. I have found the solar panel has provided sufficient power all-year round. It’s an upgrade of the Reolink Go PT Plus and for the extra £16 you get an excellent panning angle (355°), more tilt (140°) and an even better image (4K). It also auto-tracks and can send you alerts to your phone.

“I didn’t know I needed it, and now I can’t imagine being without it.”

We’ve reviewed a couple of Reolink cameras at H&H, and we’ve awarded them H&H Approved status. That said, plenty of other camera brands enable surveillance without mains electric and Wi-Fi – and these are some of the best stable cameras I see recommended regularly on social media. They all have slightly different features, but the key thing is they can all be set up to work in remote fields and stables – and they’re all discounted right now for the Amazon Spring Deals sale.

Best Amazon Spring deals for field/stable cameras

What we love about field and stable cameras

These solar-powered cameras that run off a SIM card are becoming a game-changer for horse owners wanting to keep a closer eye on their horses. They allow you to check up on your horse while they’re eating, sleeping or – if they are anything like mine – you can use the camera to find out which one escaped first.

Whether your primary use is to help improve your horse’s wellbeing in the stable, keep an eye on a horse you’re worried about, or check how well your fencing is holding up, these cameras can give you peace of mind and save you many unnecessary extra trips to the yard.

You can choose between battery and solar-power options – solar powered setups are more expensive initially, but this pays off in the long-run as it’s rare that you’ll need to take the camera home for extra charge.

• For unlimited access to the latest deals, product news, buying guides and reviews, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You might also like:

11 stable cameras that allow you to keep an eye on your horse 24/7

Reolink Go PT Plus outdoor camera *H&H Approved*

£245.99

7 pairs of the best wellies we’ve tried, tested and approved

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

If you can get your hands on one of the best wheelbarrows for horses, you’re on to a winner – especially if your horse is stabled and you’re mucking out every day or you’ve got a lot of poo picking to keep on top of.

Wheelbarrows are an essential piece of equipment for every stable yard – and a temperamental barrow can make yard work a real chore, while the best wheelbarrows make transporting muck, forage and yard equipment an absolute breeze. And when you’ve found the right wheelbarrow, we’ve also found the best shavings forks and best yard brooms to help you get set for all your mucking out needs.

Best wheelbarrows for horses

Plastic vs metal wheelbarrows

Wheelbarrows have steel or plastic/polyethylene tubs. Steel tubs handle heavier loads but are heavier and harder to maneuver. Plastic tubs are lighter but you’ll want to be careful not to overload them.

Is a one or two wheeled wheelbarrow better?

One-wheeled wheelbarrows offer superior manoeuvrability for tight spaces, ideal if you have good balance. Two-wheeled models are more stable and keep the tub level but require more room to turn.

What’s the difference between a pneumatic and a puncture-proof tyre?

Pneumatic tyres, filled with air, offer a smoother ride, especially on uneven terrain, and their adjustable pressure helps with heavy loads. Puncture-proof tyres are solid, usually polyurethane, and are best for smooth surfaces.

• For unlimited access to expert advice on how best to care for your horse, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You might also like:

Get swept up in our pick of the best yard brooms

16 time-saving horse care tips to speed things up around the yard this winter

Here are a few time saving horse care tips to make life at the yard run that little bit more

Electric fencing for horses – everything you need for a temporary setup or strip-grazing

How to keep stabled horses happy and healthy

Horsey chores we all love to hate: which would you choose?

Would you rather muck out 15 stables or sweep the yard 60 times? Bath five horses or plait seven manes?

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Having the best outdoor brooms on your yard can make all the difference – and it’s the same with the best wheelbarrows and best shavings forks. To the untrained sweeper a broom is just a broom, but to anyone who has spent even a small amount of time sweeping a yard with a sub-standard outdoor broom knows this is far from the truth.

Every equestrian has an idea of what they consider to be the best outdoor broom, but quick and efficient is what we’re all after. Whether you’re sweeping bedding, mud or hay, we’ll help you choose a broom that makes light work of sweeping your outdoor space, wherever it is.

Best outdoor brooms for yard use

You might also like:

Protect your hands this winter with these yard gloves

13 hacks and tips to make winter horse care easier

7 ‘wheelie good’ barrows for horse owners that won’t let you down

7 pairs of winter riding boots designed to keep your toes warm

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

• For unlimited access to advice on how best to care for your horse, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

This year one of questions I’ve seen horse owners ask again and again on Facebook is for recommendations of cameras that work for yards and stables where there is no access to WiFi, so I’ve pulled together the best Black Friday deals on these cameras to help you find the right deal.

If you’ve been on the fence about purchasing one of these cameras, Black Friday is a great opportunity as there’s always a wide range of discounts. Reolink is a trusted brand already used by many equestrians they are running up to 55% off for their Black Friday event, which you can find on Amazon – but I’ve rounded up my favourite Reolink deals below to help you choose.

Georgia previously kept her horse at a field with no WiFi or electric, but thanks to a the Reolink Go PT Ultra camera and solar panel (currently 30% off), she could keep an eye on her horses from anywhere. It’s now on its second year of being out in the field in all weathers.

She says: “The features I really like are the colour night even in total darkness and two-way audio. I have found the solar panel has provided sufficient power all-year round. It’s an upgrade of the Reolink Go PT Plus and for the extra £14 you get an excellent panning angle (355°), more tilt (140°) and an even better image (4K). It also auto-tracks and can send you alerts to your phone.

“I didn’t know I needed it, and now I can’t imagine being without it.”

We’ve reviewed a couple of Reolink cameras at H&H, and we’ve awarded them H&H Approved status. That said, plenty of other camera brands enable surveillance without mains electric and Wi-Fi – and these are some of the best stable cameras I see recommended regularly on social media. They all have slightly different features, but the key thing is they can all be set up to work in remote fields and stables – and they’re all discounted right now for Black Friday.

Reolink Black Friday field/stable camera deals

Other Black Friday field/stable camera deals

What we love about field and stable cameras

These solar-powered cameras that run off a SIM card are becoming a game-changer for horse owners wanting to keep a closer eye on their horses. They allow you to check up on your horse while they’re eating, sleeping or – if they are anything like mine – you can use the camera to find out which one escaped first.

Whether your primary use is to help improve your horse’s wellbeing in the stable, keep an eye on a horse you’re worried about, or check how well your fencing is holding up, these cameras can give you peace of mind and save you many unnecessary extra trips to the yard.

You can choose between battery and solar-power options – solar powered setups are more expensive initially, but this pays off in the long-run as it’s rare that you’ll need to take the camera home for extra charge.

You might also like:

Best Cyber Monday equestrian deals 2025, 50 hand-picked deals by our experts and horse owners

11 stable cameras that allow you to keep an eye on your horse 24/7

Best horse riding robes: 5 popular brands, tested and reviewed

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

There are many reasons that you might want to add one of the best stable guards to your home or travel kit. They are a simple way to keep your stabled horse happy and healthy because they allow you to keep your stable door open, improving airflow and letting your horse see more, while providing some level of security and keeping your horse in.

The simpler stable chains also make it easier for you to get in and out of the stable, while some stable guard designs can be personalised, which is great for advertising or showing that you’re part of a team. Here’s a selection to choose from.

Best stall guards and stable chains

WeatherBeeta 1200D Stall Guard

Colours: Navy/grey

Made from a strong 1200D triple weave nylon, this guard is adjustable at the side to fit most door frames and has four trigger clips for easy attachment.

LeMieux Pro Stable Guard

Colours: Navy or black

With an ideal design for bespoke embroidery, this stable guard adds a touch of class to your stable. The straps are adjustable and have strong clips to ensure a safe fit. The top is also padded to prevent rubbing.

KM Elite Stall Guard

Colours: Black or navy

Made with heavy duty nylon webbing, this canvas stall guard is fully adjustable.

Hy Equestrian Stable Guard Plus

Colours: Black

This smart stall guard is complete with four trigger clips to hold it in place. It features coloured piping around the edge and embroidery in one corner. The only downside to this guard is that it’s not adjustable – measures 60 x 95cm.

Elico Stall Guard

Colours: Navy

This width-adjustable guard is fitted with six trigger clips. Will fit doorways of 94–117cm.

Shires Ezi-Kit Stall Chain

Colours: Black, blue, green, red, purple, pink or grey

With a standard clip on one end and a quick-release panic clip on the other, this covered chain measures 133cm.

Hy Equestrian Stable Chain

Colours: Black, blue or pink

This chain has a quick-release panic clip at one end.

Roma Rubber Stall Guard

Colours: Black, blue, green, red or purple

This stall guard has a rubber centre and comes with a quick-release clip on one end and a standard clip on the other.

KM Elite Stall Chain

Colours: 11 options

This chain is fitted with an extra-tough aircraft cord centre and is supplied with a clip on each end for easy fitting. Measures 130cm.

How to choose a stable guard

When choosing the best stable guard for you, look out for strong hooks made of steel and galvanised to protect them against the weather. Decide whether your horse and needs would suit a stable guard or a stall chain, and check whether the size will fit your door – or whether they are width adjustable.

Stable guard vs stall chain

Nylon guards are strong, and generally a solid construction is best as holes increase the risk of your horse getting a foot caught – bear in mind that when using two or more clips on each side, this also creates holes but provides a more secure attachment. Most stable guards are width-adjustable, which means they fit most doors whether you’re at home or away.

Stable guards are popular at stay-away shows where horses are unfamiliar with their surroundings as they typically allow your horse to see more, which usually helps to calm stressed horses. Some designs can also be personalised, which is great for sponsors or showing that you’re part of a team.

Stall chains are safe when used by themselves as there’s a low risk of anything becoming caught. They don’t give much of a visual presence to your horse, however, so are often best for quieter horses who are less likely to challenge a seemingly smaller barrier. Some come with a quick-release clip on one end, which is an added safety element.

You might also like:

11 small-holed haynets and slow feeders to extend eating time and reduce wastage

9 therapeutic rugs your horse will thank you for

10 stable rugs your horse will thank you for

How to keep horses cool in a heatwave with helpful tips for instant results

7 smart show rugs sure to stand out from the crowd

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

I have no electric or Wi-Fi at my pony’s field, but thanks to a the Reolink Go PT Ultra camera and solar panel, I can keep an eye on him from the comfort of my sofa. It’s powered by a solar panel and uses a 4G SIM card to show live and recorded footage – and it’s currently 30% off thanks to Amazon Prime Day.

We’ve reviewed a couple of Reolink cameras at H&H, and we’ve awarded them H&H Approved status. That said, plenty of other camera brands enable surveillance without mains electric and Wi-Fi – and these are some of the best stable cameras I see recommended regularly on social media. They all have slightly different features, but the key thing is they can all be set up to work in remote fields and stables – and they’re all discounted for Prime Day (8–11 July).

Other Amazon Prime Day field camera deals

How does it work?

My solar panel provides enough power to use all year round, but you can also charge the devices up at home if you need more in a particularly dark winter. I ran it off a cheap SIM deal – £6/month provided me with 5GB data and this was plenty.

You might also like:

It’s your last chance to score Amazon Prime Day deals for equestrians – here are ones worth buying

11 stable cameras that allow you to keep an eye on your horse 24/7

Pivo just discounted its entire equestrian range for Prime Day – if you’ve ever wanted to record your rides hands-free, now’s your chance!

Dreading the heat? These Amazon Prime Day deals will keep you and your horse cool

Forget Airpods, these headphones are much safer to wear at the yard – and they’re up to 46% off for Prime Day 2025

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

The energiser is the heart of the electric fencing system and the best electric fence energisers for horses depend on your available power supply, the output required and the length of your fence. If you’ve got permanent electric fencing for horses and mains power nearby, a mains-powered energiser is the best option. A cable takes the power from the energiser to the fence – all you need to do is plug it in and switch it on. If your field is more remote and you don’t have access to mains, then a battery or solar energiser is your best option.

When selecting the best electric fence energisers for horses to meet your needs, it’s best to choose the most powerful energiser (highest Joules) you can afford for consistent power. And it’s best to err on the side of buying a more powerful unit than you initially think you need, keeping in mind that advertised power distances are based on ideal conditions and don’t account for vegetation reducing output. Calculate total fence length by multiplying the number of tape lines by the fence length (for example, a 1km fence with four tape lines is 4km of fencing).

Jump to:

• Mains powered electric fence energisers for horses
• Battery powered electric fence energisers for horses
• Solar powered electric fence energisers for horses

Best electric fence energisers for horses: mains, battery and solar

Mains powered energisers

Gallagher M120 Mains Fence Energiser

Distance powered: 8km

Power source: mains

Warranty: 5 years

Reasons to buy

• Easy to install
• Integrated lightning protection
• Indicator light on/off
• Possibility to add a back up 12V battery

Reasons to avoid

• If you are looking for a larger distance look at other models in the Gallagher range

This easy-to-install, entry-level, mains-powered energiser comes with a kit to attach it to a wall and has a pulse energy of 0.47J. It’s easy to use, has built-in lightning protection to prevent short circuits and can have a 12V battery attached to it as a back up – which is useful for yards with unsecured power supply.

XStop EL90 230v Mains Powered Energiser

Distance powered: 10km

Power source: mains

Reasons to buy

• Easy to use
• Weather resistant
• Great value
• Ideal for small to medium sized fields

Reasons to avoid

• Not the smartest looking unit

This weatherproof energiser kit can power up to 10km of fencing tape with 0.5J where mains power is available – just plug it in and off you go. It’s ideal for small to medium electric fence requirements, such as strip grazing. This is a complete kit that includes an earth stake, earth lead, fence connection clip, fence lead and mains lead.

Hotline Super Eagle Energiser

Distance powered: up to 30km

Power source: mains

Warranty: 5 years

Reasons to buy

• High and low power options
• Wall mount included
• LED fence performance monitor
• Can purchase a 12v battery for backup

Reasons to avoid

• Added expense of 12v battery for reliability during power shortages

This energiser is a powerful and reliable choice. It features dual output terminals, including high (2.4J) and low (0.7J) power options, which gives you flexibility.

It features a visual LED fence performance monitor and a 12V battery backup input for increased reliability during power failures (battery sold separately). It also includes a dual earth template for improved efficiency and a wall mount for simple installation. Backed by a 5-year warranty, this energiser ensures long-lasting performance and dependability.

Battery powered energisers

Fenceman B420 9V Energiser

Distance powered: 3km

Power source: battery

Warranty: 3 years

Reasons to buy

• Highly portable
• Ideal for strip grazing
• Complete kit

Reasons to avoid

• Non-rechargeable battery might not suit your needs

This 9V battery-powered energiser is good for smaller enclosures and has a battery-saving mode, which reduces the power but helps it last longer. Although the battery isn’t rechargeable, it’s easy to move around, which makes it good for strip grazing, and is also covered by a warranty.

Fenceman DP350B Energiser

Distance powered: Up to 3.5km

Power source: battery

Warranty: 2 years

Reasons to buy

• Integrated earth stake and stand
• LED indication light
• Can run off D-cell batteries (included) or a 12V battery
• Great for short fences and small areas

Reasons to avoid

• If you are looking for an energiser for bigger areas

This energiser can be powered by either 4 D-cell batteries or an external 12v rechargeable battery. It will power up to 3.5km on 12V (1km on 6V) and the pulse rate can be adjusted between 20–60 pulses/min. There is an LED indication light that blinks on every pulse and flashes rapidly when the battery is running low so you’ll never run out of power. It’s ideal for smaller paddocks and strip grazing.

H&H’s Georgia Guerin has been using this energiser for a number of years. She says: “I mostly use this for strip grazing, but I’ve also used it to electrify smaller individual paddocks within my three acre plot. I’ve use a 12V battery that is charged by a solar panel and kept in a box to make sure it’s watertight and easy to carry. The energiser is small and easy to move around when I need to, and I love how easy it is to change the pulse frequency.”

ShockRite SB120 Battery Powered Energiser

Distance powered: 6km

Power source: battery

Warranty: 3 years

Reasons to buy

• Complete setup with clips and earth stake
• Low battery indicator warning
• Built-in lightning protection

Reasons to avoid

• More crocodile clips to connect it up than others

This 1.5kg 1.2J energiser can power up to 6km of fencing tape. It has a low battery indicator and is made for permanent outdoor use with a special weatherproof membrane that protects the on/off switch. It has a three-year warranty.

T-Mech Electric Fence Energiser

Distance powered: 10km

Power source: battery

Warranty: 1 year

Reasons to buy

• Earth stake provided
• Compact size
• Powered by 12v battery

Reasons to avoid

• You want to use D-cell batteries

This energiser is powered by a 12V car or leisure battery, has a pulse energy of 1J and can cover larger, or multi-wire paddocks – up to 10km. It’s easy to set up and can be mounted on a fence or wall, it’s waterproof and has built-in lightning protection. It also only weighs 1.2kg, so it’s easy to move and set up in a new location.

XStop BA100 12V Battery Powered Energiser

Distance powered: Up to 20km

Power source: battery

Reasons to buy

• Easy to use
• Complete kit
• LED battery monitor

Reasons to avoid

• If you need a high energy output for your horse to respect the fence

This kit has everything you need to get started if you’re looking to power a medium-sized fence (up to 20km) from a battery. It’s easy to move around (weighing just 0.6kg) so is a great option for strip grazing, but it only delivers 1J so might not be strong enough to deter the most determined horses in all scenarios.

It has a multifunction LED that flashes green to indicate that the unit is operating correctly and flashes red when your battery is running low.

Solar powered energisers

Agrifence S16 Solar Powered Fence Energiser

Distance powered: 1.5km

Power source: solar

Warranty: 3 years

Reasons to buy

• No need to manually recharge
• Ready to use straight from box
• Pulse light
• Built in solar panel

Reasons to avoid

• Not mains rechargeable

The S16 is an ideal low-maintenance electric fence solution for smaller paddocks and dividing fences. The built in solar panel recharges the 6V internal battery allowing the energiser to operate without the need to manually recharge.

Supplied ready to use out of the box the energiser includes all you need to get started with a two-piece earth stake/mount post and connection leads. Complete with three-year warranty.

XStop Solar 0040 Solar & Battery Powered Energiser

Distance powered: 2km

Power source: solar and battery

Reasons to buy

• Complete kit with earth stake, leads and USB charging cable
• Low maintenance
• Durable
• Can top up charge with mains charge if and when needed

Reasons to avoid

• If you need to power a larger area

This weatherproof solar-powered energiser kit can power up to 2km of fencing with 0.4J. It’s also rechargeable via USB if a manual charge is required in times of very dark weather.

Wolsely SX300 Solar Energiser

Distance powered: Up to 20km

Power source: solar

Warranty: 2 years

Reasons to buy

• Combines solar and battery for continuous operating
• Indicator light for solar and battery
• Economical to run

Reasons to avoid

• Earth stake is not supplied with energiser you have to purchase this separately

The SX300 seamlessly combines solar power, rechargeable batteries, and backup “C” cell batteries to ensure continuous operation, even at night and on cloudy days.

With its ability to power up to 20km of fence line and run economically for 12 months without changing the C-cell batteries, it is an efficient and reliable choice. Key features include nighttime energy saving, indicator lights for solar output and battery condition, and a robust two-year warranty.

Power sources energisers: the specifics

Mains powered energisers

Pros

• Reliable power source with no battery concerns
• Stronger output
• Suitable for larger areas of fencing and multiple horses

Cons

• Must have a mains power source to run it
• Limited portability

9V/12V battery powered energisers

Pros

• Portable and flexible
• Quick installation
• Energy source is not reliant on mains power

Cons

• Batteries need recharging and need regular check-ups

Solar powered energisers

Pros

• Compact design ideal for temporary fences
• Solar cells keep your battery charged
• Low operating costs

Cons

• Not as powerful as mains energisers in the same price range

Battery vs solar energisers

If you don’t have access to mains power, you’ll be choosing between a battery or solar-powered electric fence energisers for horses. Solar-powered energisers do have a battery, but this is charged by the sun rather than requiring you to replace the batteries.

Battery-powered electric fence energisers are a popular choice for strip grazing and temporary fencing as they are very portable. Some are powered by dry-cell 9V disposable batteries, so you will need to consider the cost of replacing them as they run out. Others are powered by rechargeable 12V batteries, which can power longer fences at a higher voltage. You could use a car battery, but a purpose-designed leisure battery is designed to give a steady output over time, while a car battery will dwindle quite quickly. The higher the Ah of the battery, the longer you can leave it between recharges.

Solar-powered energisers use energy from the sun to power your fencing setup. They tend to have a higher initial cost but are cheaper in the long run and assuming they’re in a good position to receive enough light, you don’t have to worry about making sure they’re charged.

How many Joules should an electric fence have for horses?

Electric fence energisers for horses work by delivering an electric shock to any horse that touches the fence the energiser is attached to. Joules represent the energy output of the energiser and put simply the higher the joules the stronger the shock will be.

It’s essential to strike a balance between effectiveness and safety, ensuring that the fence provides enough deterrent for the horses without causing harm.

The ideal number of Joules for an electric fence for horses can also vary depending on factors such as the size of the pasture, the behaviour of the horses, and the level or type of vegetation growth in the paddock.

However, generally, electric fences for horses typically have an output of around 0.5–1.5 Joules.

How many Volts should a horse fence be?

Voltage is a measure of the electric potential energy per unit charge between two points in an electric circuit. A higher voltage will provide a stronger shock, but it also relates to the distance over which the electric shock can effectively deter horses. Higher voltage levels typically allow the pulse energy to travel greater distances along the fence line.

The voltage of electric fencing used for horses should typically be between 2,000–10,000 volts to effectively deter horses.

The exact voltage required can vary based on factors such as the length of the fence, the type of insulators and conductors used, and the energy output of the electric fence energiser.

It’s also important that regular maintenance and testing of the fence system are carried out to ensure consistent voltage levels and proper functionality.

You might also like:

Electric fencing for horses – everything you need for a temporary setup or strip-grazing

Strip grazing – all you need to know to get started

Best grazing muzzle options to help reduce your horse’s daily intake

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Electric fencing for horses is typically used as temporary fencing, for strip-grazing or to protect existing fencing, which is a more permanent fixture. You may also be looking at setting up a track system with electric fencing as it can be easily moved.

If you’re setting up electric fencing for horses for the first time or need to make some upgrades, read on to find out what you’ll need…

What you need for temporary electric fencing

Electric fence starter kits

If you’re setting up your electric fencing for horses from scratch, an electric fencing starter kit could be just what you need. They usually include an energiser, batteries, fence posts and tape, but may also include conductors, ring insulators, a gate handle or a warning sign.

Energiser

The electric fence energiser is the heart of the fencing system and the best option for you depends on the power supply, output required and fence length. If you’re looking for a new energiser and the options below don’t fulfil your needs, we’ve written a specific guide to the best electric fence energisers, too.

Nine-volt battery energisers are a popular choice for strip-grazing and temporary fencing as they are very portable. They are powered by dry-cell 9v disposable batteries, so you will need to consider the cost of replacing them as they run out.

12v battery energisers are ideal for semi-permanent electric fences or where no mains power is available. These are powered by a rechargeable 12v battery and are able to power longer fences at a higher voltage. You could use a car battery, but a purpose-designed leisure battery is designed to give a steady output over time, while a car battery will dwindle quite quickly. The higher the Ah of the battery, the longer you can leave it between recharges.

Solar-powered energisers use energy from the sun to power your fencing setup. They tend to have a higher initial cost but are cheaper in the long run.

Posts

Plastic posts are the most popular for temporary electric fencing for horses – especially for strip grazing – because they’re cheap, lightweight and easy to set up and move. But choosing the right type for you could save you money and hassle in the future. You should consider the…

• height – for some horses, the visual effect of a 3ft post with a couple of lines of tape is enough to command their respect. However, in general, the taller your fence the better – especially if you’re enclosing larger or more determined horses – so 4ft6in fence posts or 5ft fence posts are likely to be a better choice.
• footplate – some posts have a single footplate and if this snaps, it can be hard to replant the post again, while others have a double footplate and some have a stirrup, which is typically more sturdy.
• colour – posts come in a variety of colours (most commonly white, green or black, but you can also get pink, purple or orange). Green is the least lurid and can blend into the surroundings more easily, while some people believe that horses are most respectful of a white fence. Ultimately it’s down to your preference or that of the landowner.

Electric fence tape/rope

Horses need to be able to see your fence for it to act as a deterrent, so the thinnest twines are not suitable. The most popular options for electric fencing for horses are tape and rope.

Electric fence tape is a great choice for plastic posts. It is subject to increased wear in windy conditions, so it’s best not to choose a tape that’s too wide – 20mm tape is suitable for most situations and the most common choice with plastic posts.

Electric fencing rope is visible, very strong and less prone to becoming caught in the wind. It comes in a variety of specifications and strengths – polyropes with stainless steel conductors are ideal for short/medium fence lines, while ropes containing tinned copper conducting lines are better for longer fencing and higher powered energisers. Rope is most commonly used in conjunction with wooden posts.

Connectors

It’s best to avoid cutting your tape where possible. If you need to connect two lines of fencing tape together, you should use tape connectors to ensure good conduction rather than tying the tapes together.

Insulators

Insulators direct your conducting tape or rope and are vital to an efficient electric fence. They’re essential if you have wooden posts as, unlike plastic, wood is a poor insulator. If your fence isn’t insulated properly, the power will leak into the earth and your horse will learn there is no need to respect the fence.

Ring insulators are the best option if you’re using polyrope (but can be used effectively with tape, too). They can be used to direct the rope to run above the fence, which prevents cribbing and chewing, or just inside the fence to prevent horses from scratching or leaning on the fencing.

You can also get distance/offset insulators, which are longer, that keep your horses further away from the fencing. Tape insulators are flatter to accommodate the shape of the tape, while combination insulators can be used for rope or tape.

Handles

Handles are essential for creating safe gateways to the field. They allow the current to pass through and complete the circuit while the gateway is closed, while giving you something safe to hold when you need access.

Warning signs

If your field has a public footpath running through it or alongside, it’s a legal requirement to place warning signs on your fencing to alert people to the potential danger.

Fence testers

Fence testers allow you to check the voltage of your fence to make sure everything is working correctly.

How does electric fencing work?

An energiser unit converts power high voltage split-second pulses that are emitted once every one or two seconds. If your horse touches the wire that carries the pulse, the current will pass through him to the ground and he’ll receive a shock. Horses quickly learn to stay away from the fence and it becomes a physical and psychological boundary.

Essential parts of temporary electric fencing

An electric fence is made up of four essential components…

• An energiser converts power from the mains or a battery into high voltage pulses that are emitted once every one or two seconds.
• The conducting tape makes up the actual barrier and carries the current along the fence. If your horse touches the wire that carries the pulse, the current will pass through him to the ground and he’ll receive a shock.
• Insulation stops the power being lost to the earth – if your tape is touching anything other than the posts or insulators, such as a tree, the fence will lose power.
• An earth stake that takes the current back to the energiser.

You might also like:

Electric fence energisers for every setup

Best grazing muzzle options to help reduce your horse’s daily intake

The 10 commandments of electric fencing

Do electric fences make horses stressed?

A Swiss study has looked at the effects of electric fencing on horses

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

This is the time of year when most equestrians become preoccupied with winter and the challenges it brings, but how much thought do you give to autumn paddock jobs?

Maintaining your horse’s turnout is a year-round responsibility, and different seasons bring different issues with them. Ahead of winter, we look to reduce the chance of poaching in gateways and feed hay without stifling grass growth. However, the weeks that precede the arrival of autumn conditions can feel a trifle miscellaneous.

Optimal grass height and coverage, secure fencing and great paddock hygiene are standards all owners aim for. The good news? There’s much you can do as we head into autumn to shore up the health of your horse’s field – not just for this season, but all year round.

Autumn paddock jobs: what you need to know

As all people with livestock know, the challenges associated with late autumn and winter arise due to deteriorating conditions. In the main, these are reduced daylight hours and wet to boggy ground conditions. What’s more, early autumn with its mild weather and increased rainfall is a time for accelerated grass (and weed) growth. The case for autumn paddock jobs being done while you have some extra daylight and the weather remains reasonably fair, is a strong one.

John Mathews of electric fence and grass mat supply company Fieldguard says: “I have clients ring me up in mind November and say “we’re knee-deep in mud, what can I do?”

“Grass mats laid in muddy gateways will go a little way to helping out, but really these are best laid in spring when you have most of the year for the grass to go through them. We still have another six to eight weeks of grass growth ahead of us, so even now is a good time to be thinking of getting some grass mats down.”

Malcolm Hughes of Logic Machinery says: “Managing paddocks is a constant cycle following the seasons – your goal is to minimise the horses’ impact on the paddock.

“There are several autumn paddock jobs you can do involving different pieces of equipment. If you’re lucky enough to have a friendly farmer close by, they might be well equipped do certain tasks for you provided they aren’t too busy!”

1. Harrowing

“This time of year is a good for running a chain or spring-tined harrow over your field. It gets rid of all the rubbish, dead grass and weeds to allow new autumn growth to come through before winter,” says Malcolm.

Harrowing also has the benefit of breaking down old manure from concentrated toilet areas, which benefits grass growth too. According to Malcolm, how you manage your paddock’s manure burden depends on how much room you have.

“If you’ve got two horses on 20 acres, you’re probably all right rotating them to different paddocks,” he says.

“If you have a lot more horses on a lot less land, manure is going to become a problem. Poo picking is a bugbear for many, and you can get machines to help you with it, but there are huge benefits that come with it.

“For one thing, you end up with large areas that the horses won’t graze. Then you get sourness in the grass and it becomes very untidy with under and overgrazing. Once it does start being collected, and the sourness comes out of the grass, they start eating bigger and bigger areas. This happens quite quickly.”

2. Rolling

Poached ground, once dry, forms ruts in paddocks that can last for seasons.

“Rolling is one of those great late summer or early autumn paddock jobs that tidies up your field. Not every paddock needs it, but I’ve seen some that are still incredibly rutted from the previous winter,” says Malcolm.

“Rolling levels the paddock, making it more comfortable to walk on. And, in conjunction with the harrowing, you’re starting to regenerate that top inch of soil for grass growth.”

According to Malcolm, rolling is best done after rain when the ground is more malleable.

3. Listen for ticking

While you might expect to hear the energiser ticking as it runs off your electric fence’s power source, hearing your fence tick elsewhere is a sign things aren’t right.

“If you can hear ticking, that’s not a good thing because it means your fence is shorting,” explains John. “It might not be obvious to the naked eye, but it’s normally quite obvious to find and in low light you’ll see a small spark as well. It means one the steel filaments running through the nylon of the line of fencing is broken.

“The current has to arc across the gap, which means the shock given the other side of the gap is significantly reduced.”

You can fix the issue by cutting a new length of nylon fence line to splice in and replace the compromised part. But make sure you’re using the right tools.

“You must never tie knots in it because there are so many bits if stainless steel going in different direction within the knot,” says John. “It’ll go tick, tick, tick and eventually burn through the nylon.”

John recommends purchasing specific, inexpensive products to connect lines of fencing, attach them to posts and go around corners.

“A joining buckle is the proper way to connect fencing,” advises John. “Where you have to turn a corner you cut the line, use a tensioner and start again. All intermediate posts should be fitted with plastic insulators to pass the fence line through.”

4. Topping

Malcolm recommends topping, or removing excess grass length, not only to improve the appearance of the paddock, but also to help break the cycle of weed growth.

“Topping helps remove soured grass that horses don’t want to graze to encourage them to start to eat it. It’ll also control the weeds to some degree.”

While owners can look to improve their grazing chemically with fertiliser and weed killer, this should only be done under professional guidance.

“You’ve just got to be careful as you can end up with more problems than you started, especially if you’re not used to using chemicals,’ explains Malcolm.

“If you’ve done the harrowing, rolling and topping, your paddocks will be looking superb and you’ll get a lot of return. You might find there’s no need for chemicals.”

As well as topping the length in the middle of your grazing, John advises you pay attention to the length of grass stems under your fencing, too.

“If vegetation touches a strand of fencing, you’ll probably hear it ticking as the circuit shorts and sends the current into the earth, so the fence won’t work as it should beyond that point.”

5. Put it to the test

Additional health checks you can give you electric fencing include checking it’s well earthed.

“A good earth stake is a piece of galvanised angle iron about a metre of so long,” explains John. “You drive it two and a half to three feet into the ground. A fence doesn’t need to be a complete circuit, it can run in a straight line or an L-shape. When the horse touches the fence, he also earths it, which completes the circuit and is why he gets a shock.”

As well as checking the state of the earthing, John also advises using a pocket tester.

“It’s a simple piece of kit. There’s a little prong that you pop into the stick into the ground, and another little prong that you put onto the fence, and it gives you a reading in volts.

“Take a reading at the closest point to where that the energiser is connected to the fence, and then work away from that. I’d normally go to the next gateway or if there wasn’t one, the next half dozen or so posts.”

According to John, an appropriate voltage for horses is from 3,000–9,000V.

“Horses will respect anything from around 3,000V, though I personally wouldn’t want to touch a fence at around the 2,000V mark!” says John.

You can expect the voltage reading to be strongest close to the energiser, and a gradual drop in the reading as you move further away. However, a sudden significant drop in voltage always warrants further investigation – whether that’s into the condition of the electric tape or rope, the way the fence is earthed or the power supplied by the energiser.

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout the National Dressage Championships, Blenheim Horse Trials, Horse of the Year Show and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You may also be interested in…

Electric fencing for horses – everything you need for a temporary setup or strip-grazing

9 reasons riders love (and hate) autumn

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Mucking out can be hard work and anyone who does so regularly, whether it’s one a day or 10, will know that having one of the best shavings forks to hand will make a significant difference. Despite the name, shavings forks can be used on a range of bedding types, including hemp, paper and pellet-type beddings. And having an efficient and easy-to-handle fork will not only save you time, but it’ll prevent the aches that would come with a more unwieldly option, too.

The main differences between different shavings fork are the materials, which affects the weight, and the shape of the head that does the bulk of the work. In general, the lighter the fork the easier it is to work with and the less additional strain it puts on your body – the lightest shavings forks tend to be made of plastic and aluminium. Some users prefer fork with a metal head and tines as they can be more robust and cut through wet bedding more easily. If you have rubber matting in your stable it’s worth considering a fork with rounded tines to prevent damage to the matting during use.

Some forks are available in a wide range of colours and if you’re on a livery yard on which everyone has their own tools, being able to choose a different colour to others can be really useful.

Once you’ve found the best shavings fork, you can pair it with one of the best wheelbarrows and best outdoor brooms to make all daily tasks as easy as possible.

We’ve rounded up a selection of shavings forks with a range of different designs to help you find one that will work for you.

Best shavings forks for mucking out

Fyna-Lite XL Shavings Fork

Colours: Navy | Sizes: 89cm (D handle) or 112cm (straight handle) | RRP: From £32 |

This weatherproof fork is specifically designed for shavings, with an optional unique shaker cage for reducing bedding waste. You can also choose between a long handle or D-grip handle.

In the UK? View now at equus.co.uk

KM Elite Ultimate Shavings Fork

Colours: 10 options | Sizes: 115cm | RRP: £29.99 |

KM Elite describe this fork as “lightweight and ultra durable”. It has an aluminium shaft with strong but flexible heads and is efficient for shavings and pellet beddings. This fork is also available with a telescopic handle if you wish to be able to alter the length to fit you or for storage.

In the UK? View now at equus.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

Shires Ezi-Kit Premium Lightweight Fork

Colours: 7 options | Sizes: 137cm | RRP: £23.99 |

This shavings fork is made from tough, durable plastic, a lightweight aluminium stem and a useful handle – all designed to keep the weight down.

In the UK? View now at gooutdoors.co.uk, millets.co.uk or blacks.co.uk

Harold Moore Shavings Fork

Colours: Purple, black, blue, green or pink | Sizes: 101cm | RRP: £50 |

Shaped like a shovel, this fork has a reinforced shaft and large fork head that should make moving material around easier than ever. The round-edged polypropylene tines reduce the risk of damaging floors and rubber matting.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, equus.co.uk or viovet.co.uk

Fyna-Lite Multi Mucka Stable Fork

Colours: Silver/purple or red/navy | Sizes: 100cm or 120cm | RRP: £45 |

This sturdy metal fork has sharpened, pointed prongs that are designed to lift and move bedding with ease. It’s suitable for use on shavings, straw, chopped straw, flax, and other similar bedding materials. You can choose between a long handle (both colours) or a D-shaped or T-shaped handle (in red/navy).

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or equus.co.uk

Red Gorilla Medium Fork

Colours: Blue, light blue, green, purple, pink, red or black | Sizes: 118cm | RRP: £29.95 |

This light bedding fork weighs just 800g. It has an aluminium handle and extra-strong tines.

In the UK? View now at gooutdoors.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

Falsterbo Shavings Fork

Colours: Navy, green, grey, purple, pink or red | Sizes: 115cm | RRP: £29.95 |

This ergonomically designed fork has a wide scoop area (40cm width) to help speed up mucking out. The hardwearing prongs allow for flexibility to prevent breakage and are set 1.5cm apart. Also available in a telescopic version (75–155cm).

In the UK? View now at ebay.co.uk

Fyna-Lite Pellet Master Fork

Colours: Blue | Sizes: 100cm or 120cm | RRP: From £40 |

Designed to be used on pellet bedding, this fork design traps debris but allows bedding to fall between tines to minimise bedding wastage, while the rounded tines prevent damage to rubber matting.

In the UK? View now at equus.co.uk

Herbies Swedish Fork

Colours: Black | Sizes: One size | RRP: £67.50 |

This lightweight (900g) fork was developed in collaboration with a physiotherapist. The handle, head and shaft are all ergonomically designed to increase comfort and reduce the load on your wrist and shoulders, and the handle is designed to offer four different grip options, which increases comfort and minimises injuries. The large head in a bucket shape helps to speed up mucking out time and minimise bedding wastage.

You might also like:

Get swept up in our pick of the best yard brooms

7 ‘wheelie good’ barrows for horse owners that won’t let you down

What’s the best bedding for you and your horse?

How to spring clean your stable, with tips from a vet hospital supervisor and five-star eventing groom

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

If you’ve got a horse who’s attracted to the mud, one of the best portable horse showers could be just what you need. You can use them to wash your horse in the winter and remove stable stains before shows, but they’re really handy for washing down in the summer, too. Plus, many designs are portable, which means not only can you wheel them around the yard and store them out of the way, but you can take them away to shows, too.

There are plenty of benefits to using hot water shower to wash your horse. The hot water helps the shampoo do a better job of removing debris and grease form your horse’s coat. Horses are usually happier to bathed in warm water, too, especially in cooler temperatures. Plus if you’ve got a dog, you can use it to wash him down as well.

Choosing the best portable horse shower for you will depend on what your needs are as well as the facilities and setup of your yard. Consider the following…

• Portable vs fixed – ask yourself whether you really need a mobile unit as if you’re only planning to use the shower at home and have a suitable space to do so, a fixed unit may work well for you. However, if you’re on a livery yard, need to be able to move the shower between stable blocks or plan to take the shower to shows with you, then a portable unit on a trolley is what you need.
• Indoor vs outdoor – gas-powered horse showers are only suitable for outdoor use. If you want an indoor one it will need to be fitted as a permanent fixture and you’ll also need to build a vent for fumes. Electric showers can be used in any location providing you can reach the mains.
• Tank vs mains water – most showers are designed to be connected to the mains due to the amount of water you’ll need to wash a horse. If you’re not connected to the water supply, some showers can be connected to a barrel.

Best portable horse showers

Showerking E5 Classic

RRP: From £179 |

This outdoor shower doesn’t require electricity to power, just access to mains water. It delivers 5L/min, and dials allow you to control the temperature and water pressure. It includes a spray gun, all the connectors you need, a gas regulator and gas hose. You can upgrade to include a bespoke trolley, 6m hose and shampoo spray gun.

It comes with a one year manufacturer’s warranty and Showerking provide technical support of the life of the shower.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

Eccotemp L5 Portable Tankless

RRP: £249.99 |

This outdoor shower delivers 5.7L/min at 30–35°C, and has a maximum water temperature of 65°C.

It has a built in safety timer and includes hose adapters and a shower head with an on/off switch.

It also has a one year manufacturer’s warranty and can be used with any size propane gas bottle – an 11kg bottle can supply up to 28 hours of hot water.

In the UK? View now at equestrianco.com

Hippo Shower Portable

RRP: From £495 |

Available in a wide range of colours, this shower comes on a purpose-built trolley with pneumatic tyres, as well as all the necessary fixtures and fittings. It has a lightweight expandable hose (25ft, 50ft or 100ft) with a seven-setting hand held shower attachment.

It provides 8L/min and has a digital display that allows you to monitor the water temperature, with dials to adjust the pressure and temperature.

It comes with a one year warranty as standard, but if serviced annually this can be extended for the boiler for up to five years. Fits with a 6kg gas bottle.

AS16 Portable

RRP: £245 |

This 16L portable shower unit comes on a trolley and with all the connector you’ll require for the hose and gas. It has settings for summer and winter, in addition to a digital display that allows you to monitor the water temperature. It also includes a 7m hose and spray head attachment.

In the UK? View now at ebay.co.uk

Camplux AY132N 

RRP: £189.99 |

This shower has been designed for camping in remote areas so works with low water pressure. It delivers 5L/min and comes with a shower head and house, and a gas regulator.

It has a folding handle for easy carrying and hanging, and has a drain plug, which allows you to drain the entire water content when it’s not in use to prolong its service life.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk

You might also like:

How good is your bath-time game? Here’s the best way to wash horses…

19 shampoos that will get your horse sparkling – because he’s worth it!

How to remove stable stains and keep a grey horse clean

19 shampoos that will get your horse whiter than white

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Reolink Duo 2 Outdoor Security Camera

More than ever people are looking for ways to keep their property secure, and a high-quality security camera is often top of the list. Reolink is a brand known for its security products and this summer launched its latest product in its Duo series, the Duo 2, costing £159.99.

The 4K 8 megapixel dual-lens camera – which comes with a two-year warranty – is available in two connection options; hardwired using Power over Ethernet (also known as PoE) or WiFi. For this review I have tested the PoE, which is suitable for home set-ups where cabling is already in place. Owing to my property’s rural location, PoE provides me with a stronger connection than WiFi – but this will vary from property to property based on your WiFi coverage, and should be taken into consideration before buying.

The PoE system offers a simple “plug and play” set up, but you require a PoE-compatible network switch, which you’ll need to buy separately. The camera came with screws that can be fitted to a variety of materials including wood or concrete, using a power drill or screwdriver. As my property already has PoE cabling in place, I would say setting up the camera was a smooth process and the camera is activated via the Reolink app by scanning the QR code. However, some yards and individuals might find the WiFi option more appealing, and easier to set-up, owing to it being wireless.

I previously tested the Reolink Go PT Plus outdoor camera – which was super for watching over my field and stables – and I had high expectations for the Duo 2, which I would describe as an overall yard security camera. I fitted this to a wall overlooking my entrance gate and parking area, and thanks to its 180° panoramic view, I can see any vehicle or person entering my premises – as well as anyone making their way towards my horses’ field.

Similar to the Go PT Plus, the Duo 2 has lots of features; its dual lens provides a wide viewing angle that captures a big area seamlessly, it offers live viewing and easy playback, has motion detectors that pick up vehicles, people or animals, a built-in microphone and speaker, time lapse feature, and spotlights. The smart camera offers the ability to have continuous recording, motion-triggered recording or scheduled recording – for example, if you only wanted to record during the night or when a vehicle was detected. Recordings can be stored on a server or on an SD memory card; a 64GB card will support around 16 hours of recording, while a 256GB card will support up to 64 hours, based on the camera’s default bitrate setting (note: the WiFi version offers more hours of recording on the same size memory cards, compared to the PoE).

Another helpful feature is the alert settings which allow you to receive push notifications to your mobile when motion is detected. As I keep my horses at home, having a camera and the ability to set alerts provides that extra peace of mind – as well as quality video evidence in a worse case scenario should I ever be a victim of crime. Another bonus is the camera can also connect to Google Assistant so for those with a Google Nest Hub at home for example, you can ask Google to show you your camera view, which is a nice added touch.

Verdict

H&H Approved – A security camera is a much-needed addition to any home or yard and I feel the Duo 2 really offers everything you could ask for. The picture quality is second-to-none and I like that everything can be controlled via an app on your mobile phone, making it very user-friendly. The Duo 2 does not currently come in a 4G version (like the Go PT Plus) and so WiFi or PoE cabling is essential for installation – however the original Duo camera (which offers 150° view compared to the new Duo 2’s 180°) does come in 4G. Overall I would describe the Duo 2 as a high quality product in the Reolink range, with a reasonable price tag.

In the UK? View the PoE version now at amazon.co.uk

In the UK? View the WiFi version now at reolink.com

In the US? View the PoE version now at amazon.com

In the US? View the WiFi version now at amazon.com

Who tested this camera?

Becky Murray started freelance writing for Horse & Hound in 2016 alongside other equestrian titles, before joining the H&H news team in July 2018. She was made senior news writer in January 2022. During her time at H&H she has reported on a broad range of topics across the equestrian industry including welfare issues, veterinary studies, FEI Tribunal hearings, rider safety, and road safety campaigns. In 2019 she attended the national Strangles Symposium and the Scottish welfare conference.

Becky was part of the home remote reporting team for the Tokyo Olympic Games and the European Showjumping Championships and has reported from Morris Equestrian, the Royal Highland Show and Blair Castle International Horse Trials. She also regularly contributes to the H&H podcast.

Based in north Scotland, Becky learnt to ride at the age of five. She got the showjumping bug with her 13.2hh older pony Phoenix, who used to particularly enjoy a chase-me-Charlie. She went on to compete in British Showjumping and riding club activities as a teenager with her pony Sparkle. After losing two horses in 2015 to illness and injury, Becky is now producing two Irish mares, Ruby and Chloe, and hopes to get back in the showjumping ring in the future. She also has two miniature Shetland sisters, Mootie and Poppet, who keep her on her toes.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

You might also be interested in:

Reolink Go PT Plus outdoor camera *H&H Approved*

£245.99

11 stable cameras that allow you to keep an eye on your horse 24/7

Best cameras to keep an eye on your dog when you’re out

10 riding hat cameras and other devices designed to capture your special moments on horseback

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Reolink Go PT Plus outdoor camera

There are many reasons to consider a camera at your yard – whether you have a small home set-up or a bigger premises – and I was really excited to test the Reolink Go PT Plus owing to the many benefits it offers.

The 2K 4 megapixel wireless 4G PT camera, with smart detection, is an outdoor battery-powered camera costing £245.99. The waterproof camera, which has a two-year warranty, comes in white and is a nice sleek design measuring 112mm x 98mm in size.

I attached the camera to my stables (you could also use it inside the stable, too) – using the screws and mount provided – overlooking my field and its 355° pan and 140° tilt offers a brilliant all-round view. The pan and tilt features are controlled via an app that is free to download on your mobile phone, so you can adjust this on the move. It was easy to assemble by hand and was screwed in using a normal screwdriver into wood. For tougher surfaces a power screwdriver would be beneficial. 

I was a little concerned that setting up the device might be complicated, but I would describe it as a straightforward process and the clear operating instructions were easy to understand. One of the biggest bonuses is the camera operates via a 4G pay-as-you-go sim card meaning you do not need Wi-Fi or cabling for it to run – providing you have 4G coverage. I tried both an EE and a Three sim and both allowed the camera to operate in “high” – which is four megapixels. There is also the option to record in mid and low. The manufacturer states 02 and Vodafone sim cards will also work but I would recommend checking which provider offers the best 4G signal in your area first.

Providers offer various 4G sim plans – including pay as you go and a monthly contract. As an example, EE offers a 5GB pay as you go sim for £10, and you can get a 100GB for £30. Under an EE monthly contract you can get unlimited data for £37 a month (prices subject to change). The Reolink Go PT data usage depends on the bitrate you have the camera set up for – recording in high will use more data than lower options. As a guide the manufacturer states that “under normal usage” 2GB of data will be enough for a month, based on 30 minutes continuous live video viewing in high mode, and 10 hours in a lower setting – this can vary from provider to provider. The settings in the camera’s app allows you to change bitrate and resolution to suit your needs.

The Reolink Go PT Plus offers lots of clever features including; Smart person/vehicle detection via a PIR motion sensor (passive infrared sensors that detect heat energy) with alert notifications available via the app or email, night vision up to 33ft, zoom function, cloud storage and SD memory card storage, and time lapse. It has a very effective two-way audio system so you can communicate with someone through the camera using the app and you can also take instant time- and date-stamped screenshots from the live recordings.

There are many different reasons to have an outdoor camera – from added yard security, to keeping a close eye on a poorly or even a new horse in the field, or simply seeing what your horse gets up to when you’re not around. But it’s important to note a camera should not be used as a substitution for daily in-person checks.

I keep my horses at home and like that the camera is providing extra security, which is a big comfort. I really like that if I’m out I can quickly open the app and see my mares grazing in the field – I also appreciate that I can simply do this while watching television in my living room in an evening if I want to. For me, being able to gauge when my mares lie down, when they drink and generally how they interact together and at what times of the day – without disturbing them with my presence – is fascinating and I think a real benefit for owners as we continue to understand more about horse behaviour.

Plus, as an owner of two miniature Shetland ponies who have been known to test the electric fencing is working on occasion, the camera allows me to quickly check my mares are where they should be at any time of the day or night. I can see the camera also being an asset to owners with horses on field rest, or horses with foals, as owners can promptly check on them throughout the day between visits.

As the camera is battery operated, it will need charging which means disconnecting it for a period. The manufacturer states the battery lasts for about one to four weeks per charge, but “actual use varies based on settings”. I found the battery to last around one week on the high function.

Reolink also offers a separate solar panel, costing £24.99, which can be mounted and connected to your camera via USB cable as a charging solution. I have been really impressed while testing the solar panel and think this is a worthwhile investment as this means I don’t need to disconnect my camera to charge it. I have been testing the solar panel during summer in Scotland and we have had lots of sunlight, so I will be interested how this gets on during our long dark winters, but I don’t foresee this causing any major concerns.

Verdict

Overall, I am very impressed with the Reolink Go PT Plus. It would be nice if the solar panel charger was included in the price, but it offers everything I can think I would need from an outdoor camera, and the fact it is wireless offers a real benefit for many horsey premises that don’t have Wi-Fi or electricity. The picture quality is excellent day and night and I wouldn’t hesitate in considering other Reolink products.

View now at amazon.co.uk 

Who tested this camera?

Becky Murray started freelance writing for Horse & Hound in 2016 alongside other equestrian titles, before joining the H&H news team in July 2018. She was made senior news writer in January 2022. During her time at H&H she has reported on a broad range of topics across the equestrian industry including welfare issues, veterinary studies, FEI Tribunal hearings, rider safety, and road safety campaigns. In 2019 she attended the national Strangles Symposium and the Scottish welfare conference.

Becky was part of the home remote reporting team for the Tokyo Olympic Games and the European Showjumping Championships and has reported from Morris Equestrian, the Royal Highland Show and Blair Castle International Horse Trials. She also regularly contributes to the weekly H&H podcast.

Based in north Scotland, Becky learnt to ride at the age of five. She got the showjumping bug with her 13.2hh older pony Phoenix, who used to particularly enjoy a chase-me-Charlie. She went on to compete in British Showjumping and riding club activities as a teenager with her pony Sparkle. After losing two horses in 2015 to illness and injury, Becky is now producing two Irish mares, Ruby and Chloe, and hopes to get back in the showjumping ring in the future. She also has two miniature Shetland sisters, Mootie and Poppet, who keep her on her toes.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

You might also like:

11 stable cameras that allow you to keep an eye on your horse 24/7

Reolink Duo 2 Outdoor Security Camera *H&H Approved*

£159.99

10 riding hat cameras and other devices designed to capture your special moments on horseback

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Welcome to our group test of yard brooms. All of the brooms in this group test have been put through their paces by by event rider and BHSII Lisa Spence and her team. Find out what she thought below

Official description: Herbie’s Quickie Super Bulldozer broom

The Herbie’s Quickie Super Bulldozer broom is super-lightweight and comes with an extra-long 60 inch steel handle, which also has a neat swivel hang-up feature for easy storage.  This 24in stiff natural fibre Palmyra pushbroom is great for heavy debris and rough surfaces. The superb flick-action can’t be beaten and it makes sweeping up a breeze. The heavy-duty resin block won’t warp, rot, or crack, and it doesn’t soak up moisture and become heavy. Replacement heads are available from us when bristles wear down past their best.

Handle length: 152cm

Head width: 61cm

£34

First impressions

I thought this broom looked a good size, durable, and I really liked the colour. It was also one of the more expensive brooms we were testing.

Overview of performance

This broom worked well on all the surfaces we tested it on, and we found it easy to use. Its lightweight and works well sweeping in both directions – towards and away from you. The handle length was also good. 

Lisa’s likes and dislikes

I liked the size and how well it swept the yard. The bristles did start to wear down after a while, but overall it was pretty durable.

You might also like:

Get swept up in our pick of the best yard brooms

Verdict

I would definitely buy another and recommend it – it’s a good broom and quite durable.

Welcome to our group test of yard brooms. All of the brooms in this group test have been put through their paces by by event rider and BHSII Lisa Spence and her team. Find out what she thought below

Official description: Equerry British Bulldog yard broom

The colourful Equerry British Bulldog yard broom features two fibre strengths to help make light work of sweeping away all types of debris found in the stable yard. The stiff fibres at the front will remove stubborn dirt and debris whilst the softer fibres at the back will enable the broom to catch lighter debris. The hollow centre in the middle of the broom head ensures the brush fibres don’t become clogged. This lightweight broom comes with a black handle with a screw fixing for easy assembly.

Colours: Red, blue, purple or pink.

Handle length: 150cm

Head width: 45cm

View at equus.co.uk

First impressions

This looked like a nice, lightweight broom that would be easy to use. It felt like a good length, too.

Overview of performance

This broom was really good at getting dust and dried dirt up, but it also performed well when sweeping wet surfaces. The hollow centre means the bristles are spaced out more, which made it less likely for hay and dirt to get caught – it really worked and I liked this feature. 

Lisa’s likes and dislikes

I liked that it din’t clog, but it was also easy to store and an overall sturdy broom.

You might also like:

Get swept up in our pick of the best yard brooms

Verdict

A great all-round broom with a nice choice of colours.

Welcome to our group test of yard brooms. All of the brooms in this group test have been put through their paces by by event rider and BHSII Lisa Spence and her team. Find out what she thought below

Official description: Harold Moore stable and yard broom 

The Harold Moore stable and yard broom is a medium-fibre brush with aluminium pole. It has a coloured polypropylene back with strong angled screw thread, and is a great all round brush that is ideal for sustaining a clean stable and yard. These brooms are designed to be compatible with any surface, including concrete, rubber matting, stone, tarmac or cobbles. They are hard wearing and specifically designed for the demands of the professional equestrian environment. They have a low wear rate and are designed to work on the toughest surfaces while remaining soft enough to be rubber matting friendly. The bristles are crimped to increase the contact surface area and create a more effective material grab. They’re also non-absorbent, rot proof and easy to clean. The design minimises clogging and the increased hole depth provides additional bristle support, while anti-corrosive stainless steel staples securely fixes them in place. The pole is made of high performance durable aluminium and topped with an ergonomic hanging handle.Replacement brush heads are available.

Colours: Blue, green, pink or purple

Handle length: 140cm

Head width: 30cm, 45cm or 60cm

First impressions

We had the 45cm broom on test. This was a nice-looking broom and it was a good size for storing.

Overview of performance

It worked particularly well for sweeping shavings back, but wasn’t as efficient at sweeping dust or water. It worked well for the outside yard sweeping hay, and you could use it equally well sweeping towards or away from you.

Lisa’s likes and dislikes

I liked how useful this broom was in the stable.

You might also like:

Get swept up in our pick of the best yard brooms

Verdict

A useful broom for the stable.

Welcome to our group test of yard brooms. All of the brooms in this group test have been put through their paces by by event rider and BHSII Lisa Spence and her team. Find out what she thought below

Official description: Red Gorilla Gorilla broom

The Red Gorilla Gorilla broom is available in six different colours and three different sizes. The Gorilla Broom shows off a colourful and practical design. It comes with a built-in scraper blade and anti-clog channel.

Colours: Red, blue, pink, purple, pistachio or yellow

Handle length: 120cm or 147cm

Head width: 30cm or 50cm

First impressions

I tested the wider broom (50cm), which had the longer handle (147cm). It looked smart, well made and not too bulky. It was also easy to store.

Overview of performance

This broom worked really well when the ground was dry and it was good at getting dry mud up – the scraper helped with this, too. However, it didn’t perform so well when it was wet. Some hay does get caught up, but not too badly – I’ve definitely used much worse. It was a sturdy and durable broom – there were no problems there. 

Lisa’s likes and dislikes

I didn’t like how stiff the broom was because it made it harder to sweep. but it’s a durable sturdy broom. The handle was also too long for me – I would have been better with the shorter version.

You might also like:

Get swept up in our pick of the best yard brooms

Verdict

A good broom if you’re sweeping dry areas.

Haygain HG One official description

The Haygain HG One is designed to feed one horse, for everyday use on the yard or for steaming hay when travelling to shows. Due to it’s lightweight and compact design, it is well suited to smaller yards and fits easily on a lorry. It holds up to 8kg of forage – either in a haynet or loose wedges. The robust chest allows temperatures to reach more than 100ºC, which is vital for killing mould spores and bacteria.

Quick and easy to use, the Haygain HG One steams forage in approximately one hour using a 1.5kW steam generator with a water capacity of 3.5l, which is sufficient for one steaming cycle. The HG One’s lid is double-skinned for exceptional strength and thermal efficiency in all ambient temperatures. The lid has been designed to allow the condensation to collect and fall back evenly onto the hay.

First impressions

This steamer looks robust and like it would be quite heavy, but it was so lightweight – while it’s empty you can lift it up with just one hand. It was really easy to put together and work out how to use it, too.

Overview of performance

Put simply, I loved it and the horses loved it. We used it mostly for one horse who is particularly fussy, but he ate all his hay after had been in the steamer rather than just picking at it as he had before. It comes out so much cleaner and it smells like you’d want to eat it yourself. You can steam one full net at a time and we found it would take less than an hour. It’s perfect for travelling as it’s so easy to move about and transport.

Sam’s likes and dislikes

You can’t see how much water you’re putting in from the outside, but it comes with a handy measuring stick. It would be great if there was a clear window, like you find on a kettle, so that you can easily see how full it is, but I imagine this would be hard to keep clear. I would say that it’s really important that you read the manual and follow the cleaning instructions, particularly when it comes to cleaning the filament.

Verdict

*H&H APPROVED* Perfect for a single-horse owner or someone who travels a lot.

In the UK? View now at ebay.co.uk

You might also like:

11 small-holed haynets and slow feeders to extend eating time and reduce wastage

Respiratory supplements: what’s on the market?

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

It’s that time of year when horse owners are gearing up for the arrival of spring grass, but when does grass start growing in the UK? After a particularly wet, dark and miserable winter , it’s no surprise that our paddocks resemble vast pool of squelchy mud, rather than the luscious green pastures of our dreams.

What can horse owners actually do to optimise grass growth this spring? We talk to grassland specialist Sara Gregson from Talking Grass, who puts us on the right track.

How has the winter affected this year’s crop of spring grass?

“The spring this year is very late coming,” says Sara. “And it follows a very wet, late 2017 summer and autumn, so many paddocks are muddy and the soil is damaged and compacted so water can’t drain away.

“It has been raining more than usual this spring — for example, Gloucestershire normally expects 50mm in March, but had 125mm this year.

Grass starts growing when the soil temperatures reach between 5° to 6°C, and temperatures have stayed stubbornly low this spring. Wet soil is also colder than dry soil, which is why the grass is not growing yet.

“With a bit of sunshine, grass will start growing very quickly, so be prepared for a rush of growth when it comes.”

What do horse owners often overlook when it comes to growing grass?

Horse owners need to decide what the primary purpose of the field or paddock is, according to Sara. Is it to provide a food source or is it just a loafing area?

“If it is loafing/exercise area, the grass needs to comprise of amenity-style grasses that are dense and knit together into a carpet-like surface. Areas subject to excessive wear, such as fence lines where horses march up and down, will need higher grass seeding rates seed than the rest of the field,” she says.

“If the paddock is to provide the horse’s food, then the field must be sown with a purpose-built seeds mixture such as Oliver Seeds Paddock Mix or Horse Herb Grazing Mix. The latter has a wide variety of good plants for horses in it, including late perennial ryegrass, meadow fescue, cocksfoot, timothy, strong creeping red fescue, crested dogstail and creeping bent.”

Good to know: “Changing what is growing in a horse paddock depends on whether the paddock is owned or rented,” adds Rod Bonshor of Oliver Seeds. “If owned, the horse owner can get a local farmer or contractor to come in to plough and reseed the field and get exactly what they want. If someone else owns it, there would have to be some negotiation on what is sown and who pays to get it done.”

What can I do now to encourage growth?

“To get the best out of any field, it needs to be nurtured and managed,” says Sara. “If the field cannot be reseeded from scratch, paddock renovation is the answer. This will place new grass seeds into the muddy, bare patches and challenge weeds, such as docks and nettles coming in and taking over.”

Sara’s blue-print for over-seeding horse paddocks:

• Check the nutrient status of the soil — grass, like all ‘crops’ needs feeding to perform to its best. Soil samples can be collected and sent off to a lab for analysis (cost around £15). This will tell whether the main nutrients of nitrogen (N), phosphate (P) or potash (K) are lacking and also whether the soil is acid or alkaline. Grass prefers to grow in alkaline soil. If it is too acidic, having lime applied can really boost grass growth.
• Break up soil — if the soil is very compacted and feels hard to walk over, it will need breaking up to allow water and air to permeate throughout the soil profile. Local farmers or contractors might have machinery like a sward slitter which can be dragged through the field to open up the upper layers.
• Remove all weeds — by hand or by spraying if there are too many to dig out.

If you have machinery…

• Remove all surface growth to leave 5cm of grass by mowing or getting some sheep in to graze it down.
• Grass harrow the field in both directions to remove surface trash and moss.
• Sow the seed by using a broadcasting machine (throwing it in all directions) or direct drilling (in rows). The aim is to get ‘soil to seed’ contact. Do not sow seeds deeper than 1cm.
• Sow at a seed rate of 7-10kg/acre, but be prepared to increase to the full sowing rate of 14kg/acre if sward damage is extensive or the plant population is very thin.
• Roll the field in both directions with a ring roller to ensure good seed to soil contact.
• New plants will need a supply of phosphate and potash to develop new roots. Applying about 2x50kg bags/acre of a low N, high P and K fertiliser will really help to get things going.

If you don’t have machinery…

• Use a lawn mower or graze with sheep to produce a short sward and remove all clippings.
• Use a garden rake to remove the surface trash and loosen the soil surface.
• Broadcast the seed by hand throwing the seed in several directions.
• Sow at a seed rate of 3 to 5 grams/m².
• Roll with a garden roller or simply tread the seed in to ensure good contact with the soil.
• Fertilise as above.

In both scenarios and depending on the weather conditions, Sara says the grass should germinate within two weeks. “Keep horses off the newly reseeded pasture until the grass is strong enough to withstand them — possibly two to three months.”

How much will it cost approximately?

Are there any potential horse health risks to using seeds on the grass?

“There are no health risks to horses of rejuvenating paddocks. It will make the grasses stronger, healthier and more nutritious,” says Sara.

What types of weeds grow when the grass is in such a condition (wet and poached)?

“Weeds are a frequent problem in overgrazed and neglected horse paddocks. While horses relish mixed swards to graze, weeds such as ragwort, thistles, docks, nettles, buttercups and dandelions are not to be encouraged,” Sara adds.

“Horses urinate and defecate in the same areas of a field, which often have tall, coarse grasses and weeds that have been stimulated by over-supply of nutrients and lack of grazing.

“Weeds easily colonise areas where there is bare and damaged soil. Where a wide range of weeds such as buttercups, dandelions and docks, are a problem, a new herbicide for use in horse paddocks, called Envy, from Dow AgroSciences can be used.

“This needs to be applied through a tractor-mounted or self-propelled boom sprayer. Horses need to be taken out of the field for seven days after treatment — which is a lot less time than for many herbicides.

“If paddock owners want to apply herbicide with a knapsack sprayer, GrazonPro is one of a limited number of products that can be applied using this method. It gives excellent control of docks, thistles, nettles and also brambles, gorse and broom.

“Envy and GrazonPro are classed as professional use pesticides. This means they can be bought by anyone, but can only be applied by people who have completed appropriate city and guilds/National Proficiency Test Council (NPTC) courses.

“Most paddock owners will contract out their spraying to local certified farmers or contractors. To help find one visit naac.co.uk.”

Managing toilet sites

“Horses urinate and defecate in the same areas of a field and will not graze there. This may be natural worm control, as these toilet areas contain 500 times the number of infective larvae compared to the rest of the paddock,” says Sara.

“Latrines must be managed to stop them spreading. Harrowing undertaken on a hot summy day will spread and breakdown the dung and dry out the worms, killing them. But it is essential to rest the paddock after harrowing and to follow a sound veterinary-led worming regime with your horses.”

What can horse owners be doing to ensure grass growth is better next spring ?

“Good grassland management is required throughout the year to prevent both under-grazing and over-grazing. This will allow the grass to get through the winter to perform well again next year,” says Sara.

“Using an electric fence to sub-divide the field into smaller sections and rotating the horses around gives each area the chance to rest and recover.

“Horses should be moved on to the next section when the height of the grass has been grazed down to 2.5cm and not come back until it has grown back to between 8 and 12cm.

“If the autumn comes wet again, stable the horses earlier than normal to prevent soil damage and poaching, which would reduce the amount of grass that will grow in spring 2019 and encourage colonization by weeds.”

For all the latest equestrian news and reports, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Our reviewer loved this muck fork thanks to its lightweight and easy to use nature

This is a re-thought version of the traditional ‘poo-picking’ rake used in most equestrian establishments for arena dropping removal.

This one is made to be far more solid than the most common thin metal version. It is more substantial in appearance, formed of a hard plastic central section, with a metal blade on one side and small metal prongs on the other.

The handle is longer than most making it user friendly and easier on the operators back and the handle is covered in a soft grip to make it more comfortable to use.

The handle is aluminium and so corrosion proof unlike the more traditional rakes.

Verdict

A user friendly version of the traditional muck forks

Fly repellent from Supreme Products

Supreme Products has launched a new fly repellent called Fly Off.

The specially blended fly repellent contains a mixture of aromatic oils to provide protection from flies and other unwanted flying creatures.

The product offers horses protection from wasps, flies and insects for a few days.

A 500ml size costs £10.99 and a five litre quantity is available at £82.

For more information visit www.supremeproducts.co.uk

Glitter tattoos from Equidivine

Businesses looking for a bit of extra sparkle can benefit from a new innovation from Equidivine. The company creates glitter tattoos, which companies, charities and riders can have designed in their own brand logo.

The temporary tattoos will then be able to jazz up lecture demos, promotional photo shoots or ad campaigns.

“We have spent many years developing a really fun range of products, which not only add sparkle but also encourage children to spend time grooming and taking care of their ponies,” said Michelle Inch of Equidivine.

“More recently, our products have been used to decorate horses at high profile shows and events including Olympia.

“A company logo as a glitter tattoo is really eye-catching; it’s an advertising opportunity not to be missed.”

Stencils of any company logo can be reproduced and sent with an application kit including glitter colours, which are easy to apply and remove.

Visit: www.equidivine.com

New fly sheet from Shadow Horse

Shadow Horse has added the Kensington Surefit Cut Textilene protective sheet to its online equestrian range.

Styled in a 1000×2000 Denier Textilene® fabric the ‘Surefit’ is specially formulated to keep flies off.

The weave mesh blocks over 70% of harmful UV rays, dirt and grim helping to keep a horse’s coat cleaner and drier.

The protective sheet can be used on its own as fly rug, as a protective layer over a turnout rug to extend its life expectancy or in the summer as a cooler travel rug.

The rug has elasticated cross surcingle’s with belly band, detachable elastic leg straps and double closure front system for extra security.

“This sheet is a fly rug with multi-purpose properties,” said a Shadow Horse spokesman.

It comes in two colours: deluxe black plaid and silver blue plaid with matching neck covers, fly masks, leg wraps and tail covers available at additional costs.

The rug comes in sizes 5’9” to 7’3” priced £116.

For more information visit: www.shadowhorse.co.uk

New casual wear from Ariat

Ariat’s new cadence zip fleece is designed for wearing both in the saddle and about in town.

Made from a stretch TEK fleece that is smooth on the outside and brushed on the inside, the fleece retains warmth on chilly days. During activity moisture is transported away from the skin to prevent overheating.

The fleece has a full contrasting zip, contrast stitching and Ariat logo for an active look. Kangaroo pockets complete the hoodie style.

The Ariat cadence zip fleece is available in sizes xs-xl in navy eclipse priced £54.99.

For more information visit www.ariat.com

HAYGAIN launches steamer for single horse owner

HAYGAIN has launched a new steamer for the single horse owner.

The company has spent the last year researching and developing the HG-ONE.

Created to feed one horse it will hold up to 8kg of forage either in a hay net or compact wedges.

Forage is steamed in 60 minutes using a specially designed 1500W steam generator. This has a water capacity of 2.5 litres, which is sufficient for one steaming cycle.

The lid is double skinned for strength and thermal efficiency and has been designed with pockets to allow the condensation to fall back evenly onto the hay.

“The HG-ONE is ideal for everyday use on the yard and is great to take to shows due to its lightweight and compact design,” said a company spokesman.

The new product costs £495. For more information visit: www.haygain.com

New noseband from Kate Negus Saddlery

Kate Negus Saddlery has added the elastic grackle to its range of specialised nosebands.

Designed with event rider Kitty King the new noseband combines English leather with special elastic and sheepskin padding where the straps cross on the nose.

“The elastic grackle is perfect for horses that need the action of a grackle, but don’t like the restriction of a leather noseband,” said Kitty.

The noseband is available in black and chestnut in cob and full sizes. It can be used with a regular headpiece or with Kate Negus’ Grand Prix version, which features integral noseband hangers.

Prices start at £50.

For more information visit: www.katenegus.com

Horse & Hound brings you the latest products on the equestrian market. This round-up features Wolseley, Ariat and Bizzy Bites

Wolseley launches new clipper

Wolseley has launched a heavy duty machine for tougher clipping jobs.

The new lightweight Wolseley Kite is an ergonomically designed clipper with a powerful permanent magnet motor.

The Kite has reduced noise and low vibration and “is designed to meet the most challenging equine clipping requirements” said the company’s product development manager, Jane Trowbridge.

The clipper’s weigh 1.03kg, have a blade speed of 2500 double strokes and a slim handle to make clipping easier especially around difficult places.

The air-cooled motor and ventilated head help keep them cool during use. The washable filters are easily removed and there is an easy to use tensioning system.

The clippers can also be used to clip coarse coated or dirty cattle.

They come with a two-year warranty and will be available in early March.

For more information visit www.stockshop.co.uk

New boots from Ariat

The stylish new Monaco Tall Stretch Zip boots from Ariat have a high Spanish cut to flatter the leg.

The boots are made from French baby calf leather to give a soft luxurious feel and have an inner panel made from oiled leather for grip.

The technology used in the boots means riders do not have to spend hours “breaking them in,” said a spokesman from Ariat. The air cell mesh lining on the boot’s shaft allows moisture to evaporate easily.

The boots are designed with an ultra contoured ankle to ensure a closer contact to the horse.

Other features include a simple square toe, black patent leather cuff detail, swagger tab and sterling silver log plaque at the top of the boot.

The boots use patented ATS technology for comfort and have a leather outsole with a Duratread foot overlay for stability.

They are available in ladies sizes 3-8.5 in black only, priced £589.99.

For more information visit www.ariat.com

New teething toy for young horses from Bizzy Bites

A new equine toy is being launched to stop young horses from getting bored.

Bizzy Bites has been created by horse owner and mother Nicola Ramirez.

She saw the parallels between young animals and children of teething age realising they all needed to bite on something to alleviate the symptoms of teething.

The “patent pending” product will be available in March.

The stable teething toy comes in pink or aqua colours and has wings to give equines a mouthing and biting surface.

The Bizzy Bite can be wall mounted on a bracket (bought separately) that enables the toy to spin round.

It can also be hung on a lead rope from an attachment on its top or just placed on the stable floor.

A molasses based edible lick devised by nutrionists is inserted into the middle of the toy.

The licks last for weeks and can also be bought separately.

The Bizzy Bites stable toy costs £35.

For more information visit www.bizzybites.co.uk

A new joint cream has been designed for riders.

A new skincare range which has been designed by a former rider has been launched.

The Ginger and Juniper Joint Cream is now available from the R&S Naturally Inspired skincare range.

“This luxurious and fragrant cream contains warming oils such as ginger and juniper, which are believed to help promote improved circulation to stiff joints, along with uplifting rosemary plus a soothing action from arnica oil,” said a spokesman from the company.

“Just massage the cream into any stiff or aching joint or muscle — gentle massage is important to trigger the “actions” within the product’s ingredients.”

The cream is available online from www.karenruggles.co.uk

A supplement designed to help support the wellbeing of horses is now available from Animalife.

Vetrofen Intense is a natural formulation, suitable for daily use and is aimed at helping horses deal with the challenges of daily life.

“Brand new for 2014, Vetrofen Intense is now available in a maximum strength instant syringe to provide a simple and easy administration method that can be used at home, or on the go — as and when required,” said a spokesman from the company.

“Vetrofen Instant is a palatable, apple flavoured maximum strength formulation which is ideal for keeping on the yard and in the lorry.”

The syringes cost £24.99 each and prices for Vetrofen Intense start at £54.99.

For more information, visit www.animalife.co.uk

Glucosaflex 10000 has been renamed Glucosaflex 12000. The joint supplement also has a new specification.

It now contains higher levels of glucosamine HCI and MSM per serving, as well as 300mg of vitamin C.

“At Equimins, we’re dedicated to providing our customers high specification products that offer great value for money, so when we were able to improve the specification of our Glucosaflex, we did,” said David Willey, managing director of Equimins.

“Even though we’ve improved the specification, we’ve managed to maintain the price, so a 900g tub will still cost £14.99 and lasts for 60 days at maintenance.”

For more information, visit www.equimins.com

Zedlock has introduced a range of enhancements to its gate lock, including new handle options and bespoke sizes.

The Zedlock was first launched in November 2011 with the aim of creating a lock that would still work when the gap between the gate and post was up to 2 inches wide.

“I installed Zedlocks to my lorry parking area and gates because they are subtle, effective and look nice,”said Pip Wates from Equine Aqua Training in West Sussex.

“I now have a lock which is more like a back door lock and key, it gets locked each night and opened in the morning and I don’t have to worry or fiddle about with frozen chains and WD40!”

The lock mechanism remains unchanged, but the sliding bolt now has a fluted design which improves the action. There’s also a bevelled cut at the closing end which helps align the sliding bolt into the gate post. The lock case is now zinc iron coated, with the option of a black powder coat finish.

Zedlock is also now offering an industrial range to suit frames from 10mm to 80mm diameter. They can be supplied from stock or made to order.

For more information visit www.zedlock.com

Protexin have added a 5th product to their Equine Premium range. Gut Bind is a 2 course of probiotics, prebiotics, kaolin and pectin. It comes in a 30ml syringe and is designed to settle a foal’s disrupted gut. It can be used on foals from birth and is also suitable for horses of any age.

With a peppermint flavour the main ingredients provide the following support; Protexin probiotics help re-establish the normal hindgut microflora, Preplex prebiotics nourish the beneficial bacteria, kaolin is a natural binding agent to firm up faeces, and pectin helps to soothe the gut lining.

The 4 other products in the Equine Premium range are Gut Balancer, Acid Ease, Quick Fix and Recover Aid.

International event rider Piggy French has tested the product on her yard.

“We tried the Protexin Gut Balancer on 10 of the horses and compared the results to the rest of the yard,” said Piggy.

“I can honestly say those 10 have really benefitted from Gut Balancer by comparison in both holding their condition and they are more settled during a stressful competition schedule; so much so we’ve put the rest on it! Thank you for a great British product.”

More information can be found at www.equinepremium.com

A new hoof packing product — Magic Cushion— has been launched by W. F. Young Inc.

The product, designed to cool and cushion bruised soles and sore feet, is part of the Hooflex hoof care range.

It can be used on shod and barefoot horses and its sticky, spongy texture enables it to mould to the horse’s sole. One application lasts up to 48 hours.

“Magic Cushion is a highly respected product among farriers and we are pleased to be able to make it available to consumers through our regular distributors,” said Rachael Holdsworth, European marketing manager.

Magic Cushion is a natural, capsicum free product and does not contain any prohibited substances.

For more information, visit www.absorbine.co.uk.

In the latest edition of our occasional series in which H&H staff talk about products they simply couldn't live without, H&H editor Lucy Higginson explains why she loves Equerry leather body brushes

I’ve come to the conclusion I am a complete body brush snob, preferring the Equerry leather body brush to all others.

It’s probably all down to the fact I’ve become an office softie, cosseted from the hard realities of yard life, but most body brushes are just too heavy, hard and big for me. My hand soon becomes stiff or sweaty from the effort of grasping it and the horse fails to get quite the grooming it deserves.

Thus I always have an Equerry leather body brush in my tack box — lightweight, soft-backed, with good spring bristles that stand the test of time. It also seems to wash perfectly well (though I do that infrequently).

And I always have it clearly named so it doesn’t wander!

Equerry leather body brushes fact file

Brand: Equerry — holds the Royal Warrant for horse grooming brushes

Product: Leather-backed body brush

Colour and styles: Various

RRP: around £24

Visit the website

Do you have any items of grooming kit that you simply wouldn’t be without? Tell us about your favourites via the comments box below…

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A clip has been designed so that you no longer have to struggle with knots when tying your horse.

Makers of “The safe clip” claim it makes it easier to move a horse from one location to the other.

Should a horse panic, the clip is designed to allow it to feel a release of pressure.

“The horse has the opportunity to calm down while remaining safely tied, helping to prevent damage and injury from breaking loose,” said a spokesman for The Safe Clip.

The clip can also be used to hang haynets and water buckets in the stable, yard or trailer.

For more information visit www.thesafeclip.co.uk

Rainbow Trugs has revealed its new Trug-Lids that turn their plastic bucket trugs into a instant lidded containers.

The lids, that the company claims create a “universal storage solution”, fit “securely and snuggly onto any of its 14, 30 or 45-litre Rainbow Trugs”.

All of the products are made from recycled high-density polyethylene and polypropylene ensuring they are firm and rigid. Once fitted with a lid, the trugs can be used to secure feed, water, tack and other equipment.

The company says the Trug-Lids make their containers “even more useful and versatile”.

The 14-litre Trug-Lid costs, £4.49, the 30-litre, £5.49 and the 45-litre £6.49. For more information head to www.rainbowtrugs.com or call 01386 427110.

Paxton Equine has revealed a new product, Soak-a–Way, that the company claims will make soaking hay this winter “a less arduous chore“.

Soak-a-Way has an integrated draining system that prevents the user from getting wet and, the company claims, makes carrying soaked hay a safer task.

Soaking hay is reported to be of “great help” in removing sugar and contaminants from feed and preventing coughing, and in more serious cases, RAO (Recurrent Airway Obstruction).

The hay soaker that will not rust or corrode has a capacity of 120 litres, around half a bale of hay, and is made from heavy-duty polyethylene. The product can also be used for steaming hay in areas with no electricity.

Soak-a-Way costs £150 (excluding VAT) — for more information head to www.paxtonagri.com.

Solar Powered Air Heaters (SPAH) has revealed its new products that heat with no running costs.

The heaters, that will “keep stables warm and damp free“, require no mains power and work solely from energy from the sun, reducing carbon footprint.

A spokesman said: “This exciting method of heating is new to the UK and exclusive to SPAH. The cold air outside is pulled in, heated, dehumidified and pushed inside the building as fresh, warm air.

“There are no running costs, simply buy it, fit it and feel the free heat.”

The heaters, which produce between 20 and 30 degrees more heat than the outside air temperature, come in three different sizes.

Prices start from £300 — head to www.solarpoweredairheaters.com for more information.

A farmer from North Wales is winning plaudits for designing a new truck that makes moving hay around easier.

The Tidy Tryc – which is made from a steel frame – enables the user to easily transport bales around whole, instead of unwrapping them which can be messy and time consuming.

The Tidy Tryc recently came second in the Farmers Weekly farm invention awards (simple category).

The truck can be used in a similar way to a sack trolley or, if a quad kit is purchased, fixed to the back of a quad.

Telor Edwards who invented the device said: “It’s so much cheaper to buy big square bales rather than small bales, and with the help of Tidy Tryc, segments can be carried around the yard easily with no strain or mess.”

Tidy Tryc Manual (including 10% introductory discount) RRP: £305.00

Watch the Tidy Tryc in use

For more information visit www.tidytryc.co.uk or tel: 01678 504557.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A new two-in-one brush that allows you to clean your yard or box with or without water has been launched by Parell Products.

Wash-n-Brush has a universal attachment allowing it to fit to most hoses. The bristle brush head has 14 high-pressure power jets, has an adjustable length and is lightweight and portable.

Wash-n-Brush was thought up after company director Ellie Parkin saw a gap in the market when she wanted an easy way of cleaning her yard and lorry.

“I was often spraying a hose on to the yard, and I was fed up of battling with a hose in one hand and a brush in the other,” she said.

“This spurred me on to develop Wash-n-Brush and the product makes a necessary task quick and easy.

“It is Ideal for use in the stable, on the yard, in the horsebox or trailer or around the home.”

The brush costs £14.99

For more information visit: www.parellproducts.com

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A new feeding system designed to save time and reduce waste has been launched by Eezhay.

“As advocates of simple and natural feeding methods, we have launched a new system, which incorporates the benefits of our existing hay feeder with some innovative additions,” said a spokesman for the company.

The Eezhay Premier now incorporates a unique detachable feeding manger within the hay feeder.

The “Eezhay Premier Combo” is made from tough, 1.5mm powder coated mild steel. It allows horses to feed in their natural position, which encourages healthy digestion, respiration and aids the natural wear of teeth.

The removable feed manger is made from mild steel and offers horse owners a “space saving, mess-free” feeding method.

“The sleek design takes up little space and prevents mess and wasted forage. With safety a high priority, the innovative shape has been created with no sharp edges,” added the spokesman.

It can hold up to a whole bale of hay in one go, aiming to save time on hay net filling and the company says that wastage can be reduced by up to 25 per cent — as horses no longer drop hay from a haynet or traipse it through their bedding.

The Eezhay Premier Combo is available in pony size and full size in a range of colours. Prices start at £64.99.

For more information visit: www.eezhay.net

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The world’s first self-cleaning water trough has been launched on the UK equestrian market.

Water treatment specialists Aquamidas are so confident in their “Fresha Trough” that they are selling it with a two-year money-back guarantee.

The 250-litre trough is treated with an antimicrobial coating that has been proven in trials to prevent algae and microbes growing.

Aquamidas hopes the trough will help to keep horses healthier, as well as save time for their owners. Equine colic, in particular, is thought to be often caused by dead algae.

Aquamidas director David Dunkling explained that the Fresha Trough evolved from the Fresha Tank — released for aquariums some time ago.

The Fresha Trough’s antimicrobial coating comprises silver and active metals, which results in an “important decrease of all bacteria tested in contact with the product”.

Mr Dunkling, a former science and technology lecturer, explained: “The Fresha Tank only killed microbes which came into contact with the pre-treated discs, not those that grew on the sides of the trough.

“Since then we’ve experimented extensively and trialled our new Fresha Trough product, which we feel will fit with the particular needs of anyone caring for horses.”

The Aquamidas Fresha Trough will not only stay free from algae, but is double skinned for insulation. It costs £199 and comes with a money-back guarantee.

• For more information, and to buy, visit www.aquamidas.com

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

More paddock and yard equipment

Q: I have heard about a new gateway catch that is said to be easier to manoeuvre than conventional “side-pull” handles.

Do you know what it is and whether they are available to purchase? I am sick of having to get off my horse to open heavy gates around our farm.

GM, North Yorkshire

There is a new product called the Equine Catch from Gatecatch.

According to the product’s inventor, Phil Evans, the Equine Catch consists of a lockable, two-way gate latch that opens the gate away from the user, irrespective of direction of approach.

“When you’re through the gate, just fling it back for the catch to grab it safely,” said Phil.

Phil was developing the product when he broke an arm and a leg, and his temporary disabilities gave him an insight into mobility problems.

“The National Trust uses it for access to their gardens, to comply with the UK Disability Discrimination Act, and we have had interest from various sources, including land owners and local councils.”

The product has proven popular with equestrian establishments — it has been fitted to gates at Knightsbridge Barracks in London, home to the Household Cavalry, and also at many commercial properties.

Judy Hutchings runs the Anglesey Riding Centre in Dwyran, North Wales: “We were so delighted with the Equine Catch that we fitted them to all 23 gate on our riding school and farm.

“They are so easy to use and are safe for even our most inexperienced riders,” she said.

Information

Price: £74.99

Gatecatch, tel: 08452 607706 www.gatecatch.com

This Q&A was first published in Horse & Hound (14 May, ’09)

Looking for more paddock and yard equipment?

The Hay Bar from Park Feeders Limited is a simple solution to a long-standing feeding problem. Most horse owners realise that feeding hay or haylage on the floor is the most natural way for their horses to eat. However, this is not terribly practical as it creates unnecessary wastage.

The Hay Bar is a curved feeder, made from high density Polyethylene with a reinforced top edge. It is designed to be located in the corner of the stable and prevents the loose hay or haylage from mixing with the bedding. The feeder has no sharp edges for the horse to injury itself on and can be fixed in place with basic DIY knowledge.

The Hay Bar is simple for owners of all ages to use and removes the problems associated with tying up heavy haynets, as well as eliminating concerns about animals get their legs caught in empty nets over night. It can be positioned either flush with the floor, or with a small gap below to allow wet hay to drain and make cleaning easier.

Dentists widely welcome feeding forage from the floor as it helps encourage correct jaw alignment and the natural wear of the horse’s teeth. Vets also support feeding hay from the ground as it encourages natural draining of fluid from the horse’s airway.

The Hay Bar also encourages the horse to maintain good natural posture, stretching the muscles across its back and upper neck while eating, and discouraging the unwelcome development of the lower neck muscles.

The feeder is suitable for use by equines of around 14hh upwards, although a smaller Hay Bar for ponies will be available early next year.

The Hay Bar is available in black and costs under £50 plus carriage. For more details contact (tel: 01723 882434) or visit: www.haybar.co.uk