I put the SSG Gator Grip Gloves to the test during some hot summer rides. The gloves are visually appealing, coming in a wide variety of colors. Bright accent colors contrast beautifully against the black palm, making these gloves great for livening up your schooling wardrobe.

The SSG Gator Grip Gloves are made of durable material. Their palms have a latticework pattern overlay to give them excellent grip, even in slick conditions. I had no trouble keeping hold of my reins. I found that the palm was fairly breathable, but while the back panel is also described as being breathable, the backs of my hands warmed up pretty quickly.

The Velcro closure allows for an adjustable fit and stayed secure every time I used these gloves. The gloves themselves fit well and didn't pinch or restrict my hands. However, their feeling is just a little too "thick" for me - I found it a bit difficult to really feel my reins through the gloves. Granted, this is just my preference - I typically ride with thin gloves, so these may not have been the wisest choice for me. And if I were riding my mare cross-country, I think my appreciation of a secure grip would override my desire for a delicate feel.

All in all, this is a nice pair of quality gloves probably best suited for event riders or for summertime schooling.

How we've been reviewing products for almost a year and have omitted Cowboy Magic Detangler & Shine, I don't know. This product has been one of my favorites for almost 20 years now. My friend first introduced me to Cowboy Magic's Detangler & Shine when we wanted to pamper the school horses we were riding. Now, this Detangler & Shine is my go-to mane and tail detangler and conditioner. 

The Cowboy Magic Detangler & Shine works, well, magic on Whisper's tail. Though I work on it daily, Whisper's tail is prone to dreadlocks and snarls, and its overall texture is rough and coarser than a typical horse's tail. Not pretty. With this awesome product, though, it just takes a little bit - maybe a teaspoon or a little more - rubbed into the top of Whisper's tail to completely change its texture. I work the product in with my hands and then start brushing from the top down, and the snarls and knots just disappear. Whisper's tail is left with a soft, sleek feel - no more of that coarse and brittle texture - and it looks healthier overall. I use this product every 3 or 4 days to keep Whisper's tail soft and smooth. 

I really like the Detangler & Shine because it doesn't contain silicone, which can dry out your horse's tail even more. Instead, this product conditions your horse's tail in a way that you can both see and feel. At the same time, it doesn't leave manes or tails as sticky dirt magnets, like some other products do. Your horse's mane and tail are silky and soft, and the shine that this product brings out makes your horse look truly impressive. 

If you're planning to use the Detangler & Shine, don't do so right before a horse show; your horse's hair will be so slick that braiding will not go well. However, I'd definitely use it a few days before, since its effect lasts and makes detangling manes and tails a breeze. 

Lastly, you really can't beat the price. Available in 4 ounce, 16 ounce, and 32 ounce bottles, you can purchase just what you need. The 16-ounce bottle starts at $7.99 at Dover Saddlery; you'll have a hard time finding a quality grooming product for less.