Horse racing is one of the most lucrative sectors in the world, with the industry being worth billions. However, the sport is constantly looking to evolve with the growing demands of climate change.
Racing is already one of the most sustainable, especially when compared to other major global events such as Formula 1 and tennis. Due to its global reach, the sport is incredibly popular with bettors at TwinSpires, with significant races such as the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes ranking popular in terms of newcomers being attracted to the sport.
However, what steps could be taken in racing fashion to ensure that it is as sustainable as possible for future generations?
Problems With Equestrian Leather
Getting involved in racing can often be a costly venture for aspiring riders, as the expensive nature of the kit required to compete can be extreme. However, while the price may be high, it is worth stating that the reason for using leather comes down to how durable and long lasting the material is.
Leather is the gold standard for equestrian gear, offering flexibility and safety as well as being durable and long lasting. But, the material comes at a huge environmental toll. Cattle farming is one of the biggest driving factors in global deforestation, while tanning leather relies on toxic steps being followed.
This will typically pollute water channels, due to the chemicals involved in tanning. There have been pushbacks to the use of leather in racing in recent years, with many industry professionals lobbying due to the EU Deforestation Regulation. This could cut the supply chain between jockeys or riders and their leather dealerships that are providing the equipment.
Innovation Driving the Future
As mentioned, horse racing is a sport that thrives when asked to adapt, meaning that it is no surprise that the sport is showing signs of transitioning away from animal leather. Leading brands are leading the way in the sector, creating pioneering products that are plant-based and using synthetic materials.
A leader in this sector is Ecorider, who are producing hypoallergenic and eco-friendly leather bridles. These are designed to be as study and durable as the previously used materials. Furthermore, products from the brand are believed to meet all the requirements of a rider while also not compromising on comfort.
New products are certainly following the steps required to make equine sports more sustainable, with further influence put on plant-based and vegan materials. Kingdom Saddlery is one of the leaders in this area, with the use of certified vegan leathers making is compliant with the strict EU REACH standards that have been set out.
Replacing leather as a material for boots has been regarded as one of the biggest obstacles in the sector. However, a leader such as Kentucky Horsewear has shown that it can be achieved. The brand specialises on using heavy-duty vegan lambskin, as well as robust bamboo to protect the horse from impacts. The brand is able to do this while also remaining compliant with the ethical guidelines that are in place.
Sustainable Apparel
While much of the equipment used in equine sports is made up of leather, it is also worth remembering that those involved in the sport also rely on the material when it comes to their apparel. This is due to being able to maintain warmth due to working outdoors for much of the day.
Leather is a reliable material in this regard due to its ability to be durable. However, it is an area that many brands have already begun to offer more sustainable alternatives. Major names such as LeMieux and Ariat are the early trendsetters in this market, with both relying on recycled fabrics to create long-lasting pieces of kit for those involved in equestrian sports.
Items at the brands specialise in being sustainable, with apparel made using eco-conscious rubber, recycled plastic bottles and also being packaged in responsible materials. Another angle adopted to create long-lasting apparel can be found via Equestrian Stockholm. This label prioritises using recycled polyester, as well as utilising coffee bean textiles.
The Future
Horse racing has a history of developing when it is needed. Therefore, the sector is likely to ensure that it is as sustainable as possible in the future. A key way to achieve this would be to ensure that all kit used is made up by sustainable materials that are durable and able to be used for a long duration of time.
Sustainable materials don’t mean the end of the luxury equestrian brands, but they will ensure that the carbon footprint of the sport is much lower than it is in this modern day. The main goal for all involved is longevity, ensuring that anything brought can be used for long periods to avoid the need for wasting materials.
