Hydrophane Leather Dressing
4.9
5
17
17
Tack Saver!
I bought a used Antares saddle last year in very poor condition (I don't know how someone could not take care of their tack!!) The seat was hideously multi-toned, and I couldn't stand to look at it (but I bought it because it is outrageously comfortable and I was on a budget, so it was that or nothing). I bought some of the Hydrophane lanolised saddle soap from my local feed store and this oil from SmartPak ASAP. I've worked my fingers to the bone on it often since I've bought it, and it totally revived my saddle! I just got done oiling it, and the seat, which I'd lost hope in, looks beautiful and the leather is so supple and awesome I cannot believe its the same saddle! I believe that this saved my investment and made it 100x better! It's also lasted me a long time. I've had the same can since last August, and I oil frequently and until my saddle stops taking it in, which takes quite a bit, and I still have a good amount left. I'm sure now that my saddle is in better condition, I'll go through it waaaaay slower. I just can't believe the difference this has made in my tack. It's a wonder product!
April 27, 2013
Good but not what I was looking for
My saddle has blended for years now no matter what type of cleaner, conditioner or balm I use. I thought perhaps waterproofing may do the trick. It still bleeds but the leather does feel nice with minimal product. Boil before using for best result.
March 27, 2013
Impressed!
17 years ago, I sold my Pessoa and bought a "value" saddle - i needed the money, i was headed to college. I rode in the value saddle about 4 times and gave up riding. The saddle sat in a box in the attic for SEVENTEEN years. It had never seen any oil... EVER! FINALLY, I began riding again, i pulled out the saddle (wishing I hadn't downgraded) and had been riding in it for several months before my trainer "yelled" at me for the stiffness of it. I was a bit embarrassed to admit, the saddle had never seen any oil. I purchased Hydrophane Leather Dressing after reading reviews and got to work - WOW! Back in the "old days", I used Fiebings Hoof Oil to soften my tack - which always left my breeches stained, and the oil left a residue everywhere. This product was amazing. It took several coats to wake up my dry saddle, but when I was done, I was amazed at the difference! I HIGHLY recommend this product!
November 7, 2012
The ONLY Leather Oil I use
Simply the best. Very light, yet completely quenches dry leather - even worn out saddle billets. It doesn't darken the leather at all - keeps it the same beautiful color you love, just makes it happy again! Lasts forever too. I use this on my saddle and bridle about once a month (more in the summer) and still have my original can from 3 years ago.
April 19, 2012
Quality Product, I use every 6 months
I find, at least at my barn, that new horse owners/riders are not taught to care for their leather. I have used this to oil to show the newbies and some of the oldies how to do it right (really good for softening unloved tack).
Here is my method:
-After every ride use a cream (CPR or Lederbalasm are my favorites)
-Weekly (or every other week or after a dirty hunt/hack) clean with soap (any soap - glycerine is the common one, but Kirk's or Ivory is also used in some circles) use a toothbrush and get into the grooves, wipe of all sud grossness with a clean damp sponge and then apply cream.
-Every six months or more depending on climate: soap and clean, OIL, then cream... I use Hydrophane. Brush it on (99 cent brushes work great and put oil in a cup), especially on the underside. May take multiple coats, but until it is not quickly absorbed. (This is where most people start, if they have never cared for their tack).
Also, use a different sponge each for soap and cream (don't let dirt get in the cream one). Throw them away often, they harbor dirt. Invest in a saddle cover, get one embroidered for a snazzy look, they will keep the barn dust off of your saddle (bridle bags are cool, but I only use for travel). Lastly clean your bits and stirrups (take out the pads and place both in dishwasher) then shine with polish. Replace pads often, they are not that expensive and old rotted yellow ones are really noticeable.
December 12, 2011
Hydrophane Oil
I have used Hydrophane Oil to condition all my leather tack since I was first introduced to it by the owner of a large local tack shop 25 years ago. It soaks into the leather immediately and is so light and pervasive that you don't even have to completely disassemble the tack. It also leaves no gooey residue.
February 22, 2011