Whether it’s a beat-up hat, a pair of boots broken in just right, or a trailer that’s carried horses from sea to shining sea, various gear and goods are central to your daily routine.
Some items make you more efficient, some speak to your personal style, and others are just plain fun. We checked in with a few of our friends to see what makes their must-have lists.
Dale Brisby, Super Puncher
Photography: courtesy of Peter Robbins
My must-have, can’t-do-without item is my American Hat. It’s the first thing people notice and sends the understatement that I’m a cowboy. Once the three people who don’t know me get further into the conversation, they realize I’m the highest level of cowboy — Super Puncher. Thank you to my cowboy hat for starting that conversation and educating the public.
Paige Murray, Western Influencer and Blogger
Photography: image courtesy of Paige Murray
Living on a Texas ranch, flies are always an issue, and nothing is more annoying than flies in the house, so I can’t live without my handmade leather flyswatter made by Ty’s dad, Butch Murray. Family is the most important thing to me and I want to capture our memories forever, so my iPhone 12 is absolutely essential for me to capture photos and video. At the end of every year I make a photo album on Shutterfly and order one for us and both of our kids and save them in a trunk to give them one day
when they move out on their own.
Scott Slusher, Photographer
Photography: courtesy of Scott Slusher
No. 1 is my go-to — my American Hat with the “slush punch” West Texas hat shape named after me. Only the best and it’s done by Danny Adams at The Best Hat store in Fort Worth. No. 2 is my Big Bend trailer. I don’t go anywhere without my Big Bend trailer when I’m headed to ranches. No. 3 is Brad Glenn custom boots in Lubbock, Texas, and no. 4 is my ball cap from Cactus Alley Hat Co.
Elise Wade, Director of Public Engagement, National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame
Photography: courtesy of Elise Wade
There are two things I never leave home without: a Hooey ball cap and my American Bonfire sunglasses, because you never know when you’ll need them. These two are almost always on me, and I even have one of both in my car, just in case!
Marina Layton, Equestrian
Photography: courtesy of Marina Layton
The product I absolutely cannot live without right now: my Jocelyn crossover riding tights. With the buttery soft, durable fabric, high-waisted crossover design, and the hybrid silicone grip, these look incredibly flattering on every figure! Effortlessly transition from the gym, street, right to the stable in style. My horse’s favorite product would be his luxurious saddle pads from PS of Sweden. I love that they are incredibly stylish and high-quality (making them very long-lasting), while he loves how comfortable and breathable they are. I also love the motivational quotes along the spine. Words of affirmation are the perfect way to boost your pre-ride confidence.
Shad Mayfield, World Champion Tie-Down Roper
Photography: courtesy of Shad Mayfield
In my everyday Western industry, I can’t live without my rope! My rope is what makes me feel like a cowboy! I’ve never been without a rope. From when I was born until now, I’ve always had a rope in my hand or around me. Even at home I have ropes laying everywhere, and it’s just natural and an everyday thing to grab one and start using it, whether it’s roping calves or just anything that’s around me! Having a rope makes me feel right!
