Equestrian Tack, Riding Apparel & Lifestyle Shopping in Southern California
Originally featured in the 2014 Equine Almanac
From expertly fitted saddles and bridles to competition apparel and luxury equestrian fashion, Southern California offers a distinctive shopping experience for horses and riders alike.
Rancho Santa Fe, Del Mar, and the surrounding San Diego communities have long been home to tack shops, equestrian boutiques, and specialty retailers catering to riders across a variety of disciplines.
The 2014 Equine Almanac highlighted several of these businesses, celebrating the importance of quality equipment, personal style, and the lifestyle that surrounds the equestrian world.
Choosing the Right Equestrian Tack & Riding Apparel
Having well-made and properly fitted tack is essential to a comfortable and safe ride for both horse and rider.
Each riding discipline requires appropriate equipment, including saddles, bridles, girths, bits, martingales, reins, boots, and other accessories.
Working with knowledgeable professionals can help ensure that equipment fits correctly and supports effective communication between horse and rider.
The same attention should be given to riding apparel. Whether schooling at home or competing in the show ring, comfortable, well-fitting clothing can make a significant difference.
Advancements in technical fabrics, sun protection, and safety have continued to improve riding apparel, allowing equestrians to combine function, performance, and personal style.
Equestrian Tack Shops & Riding Apparel Boutiques
Mary's Tack & Feed | Del Mar
Founded in 1963 by Mary Hammond, Mary's Tack & Feed has long been a familiar destination for the Southern California equestrian community.
After Mike Mosley purchased the business in 1976, Mary's expanded into its iconic wooden building on Via de la Valle in Del Mar.
The store was featured in the Almanac for its extensive selection of equestrian equipment, riding apparel, and accessories.
Products included:
Saddles, bridles, and other tack
Riding breeches and competition apparel
Paddock boots and cowboy boots
Equestrian gifts and home décor
Horse feed, bedding, and supplies
Products for dogs, cats, and other animals
Mary's worked directly with manufacturers to offer both established brands and new products, while its sales associates received ongoing training to assist customers.
The business also supported local horse shows, clubs, and equestrian events through donations and sponsorships.
“If you have a horse, then you HAVE to come to Mary's!”
Equ Lifestyle Boutique | Del Mar
Opened in 2011 by Monica Ward, Equ Lifestyle Boutique specialized in luxury equestrian clothing, lifestyle apparel, and horse products.
An active equestrian with years of experience in the tack industry, Ward focused on offering a carefully curated selection of high-end riding apparel.
The boutique featured custom, semi-custom, and off-the-rack hunt coats, along with products sourced from European manufacturers and American designers.
Equ Lifestyle Boutique also operated a mobile retail trailer, traveling to horse shows throughout Southern California, Mexico, and Canada.
Its approach emphasized personalized shopping, quality products, and customer service.
“We make customer service our priority.”
The Show Trunk | Southern California Horse Shows
Founded in April 2011 by KC Cunningham, The Show Trunk was created as a mobile consignment and retail business specializing in premium hunter/jumper equipment.
KC and her mother, Rosemary Cunningham, were lifelong members of the equestrian community who recognized the need for more affordable access to quality riding equipment.
The Show Trunk offered riders an opportunity to purchase premium equipment while also providing a convenient way to consign previously owned items.
Its inventory included:
Show-quality saddles
Bridles and leather goods
Hunter/jumper riding apparel
Competition equipment
Premium consignment items
The mobile store regularly attended GSDHJA, OCHSA, and USEF-rated hunter/jumper competitions throughout San Diego and Orange County.
Through its online business, The Show Trunk also made premium equestrian equipment accessible to customers outside Southern California.
“Keep your sense of humor.”
Polo Gear USA | Polo Equipment & Apparel
Established in 1993, Polo Gear USA specialized in technical equipment and apparel designed specifically for the sport of polo.
The company's approach was shaped by a passion for polo, its horses, and the international community of players.
Polo Gear emphasized product innovation, performance, durability, and safety.
Its team collaborated with players, trainers, veterinarians, and other specialists to develop and improve equipment for the sport.
The company also supported the United States Polo Association's efforts to improve player safety.
“Supplier of top polo teams, players & events worldwide.”
Après-Riding Fashion & Lifestyle in Del Mar
The equestrian lifestyle extends beyond the barn and competition arena.
After a day of riding or showing, Del Mar and Rancho Santa Fe offer opportunities to enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment.
The Equine Almanac highlighted local boutiques and lifestyle destinations that catered to equestrians looking for fashion beyond traditional riding apparel.
Matti D at Del Mar | Del Mar
Matti D was featured as a fashion boutique known for its eclectic selection of clothing, jewelry, handbags, belts, and accessories.
Creative director and owner Marie Ferris believed that fashion was a personal form of expression, reflecting an individual's personality, taste, and lifestyle.
The boutique combined timeless pieces with contemporary trends, offering accessories described as playful, artistic, and one-of-a-kind.
Its stylists helped customers discover flattering silhouettes and develop a signature style.
“Take possession of ones body and soul with fashion.”
Equestrian Leather Care, Shoe Repair & Apparel Services
Maintaining quality riding boots, leather accessories, and show clothing is another important part of the equestrian lifestyle.
The Almanac featured businesses offering professional repair, cleaning, and alteration services throughout San Diego County.
Anthony's Shoe Repair | Del Mar, Solana Beach & San Diego
Anthony's Shoe Repair brought generations of leatherworking experience to Southern California.
Anthony began learning the trade as a teenager at his father's shoe repair shop in Peoria, Illinois.
His father, Fred, had studied shoe design and repair in Beirut, Lebanon, before immigrating to the United States.
Anthony later established his own business and expanded into San Diego County, opening a Solana Beach location in 1989, followed by additional locations in Carmel Mountain and Del Mar.
The company was recognized for its experience in shoe and leather repair.
“The shoe and leather business is in my DNA.”
Continental Cleaners | Del Mar
Continental Cleaners has a long history in Del Mar, with its location dating back to 1978.
Owner Mike Monaghan entered the dry cleaning industry after working in the automotive business and learning about professional garment care from his brother-in-law.
The business offered a range of services, including:
Professional dry cleaning
Stain removal
Laundry services
Clothing alterations
Environmentally conscious cleaning options
Continental Cleaners emphasized attention to detail, customer service, and building lasting relationships within the community.
“Find out what the customer wants and needs, then let them have it.”
The Equestrian Lifestyle in Rancho Santa Fe & Del Mar
Equestrian culture in Southern California is about more than competition. It encompasses a lifestyle built around horses, community, fashion, and tradition.
From established tack stores like Mary's Tack & Feed to luxury equestrian boutiques, mobile horse show retailers, and specialty leather care services, the region has long offered resources for riders both in and out of the saddle.
Choosing quality tack, investing in well-fitting apparel, and caring for equipment are all important parts of enjoying the equestrian experience.
As Coco Chanel famously said:
“Fashion fades, only style remains the same.”
Editor's Note: This article is adapted and condensed from the 2014 Equine Almanac. Business descriptions, locations, services, and affiliations reflect information published in 2014 and may have changed. Please verify current operations and availability directly with individual businesses.
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