A lightweight and easy-to-wear hi vis vest was among the products that received attention at the New Products Awards at BETA International. Sponsored by Equestrian Trade News, the awards included eight categories with winners and runners up across a wide variety of areas withing the equestrian market.
Those of us who hack our horses are always keen to be as visible as possible on the roads, and the winner of the Safety award, Equi-light’s Hi-viz vest (pictured top), can help you do just that. Judges said it was “well-designed and easy-to-wear, with good additional features”, like hidden pockets. They also liked the way the versatile vest could be worn all year round.
Another rider item that received an award was the Exmoor Country Coverall by 3 Donkeys Clothing, which won the Clothing & Footwear category. It was praised as an “innovative, high-quality garment of good designed practical work clothing, particularly for the equestrian professional, with a wide range of practical applications.” A perhaps less practical, but just as desirable winner was the Wild Feet Novelty Slippers by Platinum. It received the General & Gift award and was a “perfect gift at a good price” and well presented, according to the judges.
Horsewear also featured at the BETA International awards, with the Horse Cooling Rug by Equidaw of London receiving the Horsewear, Horse Care & Equipment title. Judges said it was “very well designed responding to welfare requirements within the industry”. A second rug received the Sustainability award. The Weatherbeeta Greentech 1200D Detach A Neck, Medium Turnout Rug was applauded as a “long-lasting, high quality product that has been made from recycled materials”.
Judges were so impressed with the Saddlery & Tack winner, the Mono Flap ‘Hattie’ Dressage Saddle by Harry Dabbs, that they had to apologise for the finger marks they left behind, as the “beautifully made and designed saddle” was “so tactile”. While they praised the Elico Hebden Jute hay bag by Jenkinsons, which won the Bedding & Yard Equipment award, as it was “a well designed, easy to fill, smart, eco-friendly, convenient product.”
Last but not least, GASTRO MAG by Equine Products UK took home the Feed, Supplements & Forage award. “A handy product, useful for a wide range of customers, aiding equine comfort,” judges said.
Equestrian professionals and businesses were also recognised at BETA International, including the founder of a bedding company for his contribution to horse health. Read our report of the British Equestrian Trade Awards here.
Image by Joanna Fair Photography
