Our Story
How does the tack we use affect horse welfare and performance?
Sagebrush Tack was born out of a lifelong passion for horses and a deep curiosity about how the tools we use shape their comfort, performance, and welfare. Founder Julie Pratt has been riding since she was five years old. She enjoys working with young or "problem" horses and retraining off-the-track thoroughbreds for new careers, pursuing everything from mounted archery to ranch work. She continues to study classical dressage, and can often be found training her horses new tricks in the pasture.
Along her training journey, she has learned that good horsemanship depends on three things: clear communication, empathy, and tack that supports—rather than hinders—the conversation between horse and rider.
Meet the Maker
Julie’s academic path mirrored her time in the saddle. After completing a BSc in Animal Health, she worked in veterinary research focusing on animal welfare, nutrition, and whole-body health. But it was the practical questions from her own riding that kept tugging at her: How common is pain in ridden horses? How does tack design affect welfare? What small changes can make the training experience better for both horse and rider? And most importantly—how can everyday riders access this knowledge to make informed choices?
Sagebrush Tack grew from these questions. What began as a student’s DIY experiments—dyeing her own rope to afford more colour options—quickly evolved into a business combining artistry, craftsmanship, and science. Julie discovered that creating tack wasn’t just a way to save money; it was empowering. Riders could make gear that fit their horse, expressed their style, and supported welfare, all while gaining the confidence that comes from building something with their own hands.
Today, Sagebrush Tack is more than a tack shop. It’s a resource for riders who want to learn about tack design, fit, and function, grounded in evidence-based knowledge and real-world horsemanship. From DIY kits and workshops to ready-made tack, everything we create is designed with horse comfort, rider empowerment, and lasting durability in mind.
At the end of the day, our mission is simple: to help riders help their horses. Whether you’re here to learn, to create, or to find quality tack you can trust, we hope Sagebrush Tack gives you the tools—and the confidence—to make each ride a little better than the last.
Designed for them, made your way.
Julie Pratt
Owner of Sagebrush Tack