Rico models his snazzy Custom Crystal Browband. Photo by Sally Spickard.
I will be the first to admit that I am not always one for flashy bling on my tack. I’m all for looking your best, but bling has just been one thing that I’ve not gotten into. Nonetheless, I couldn’t help but notice that some of the browbands I’d seen recently really jazzed up the “wow” factor.
So I started exploring and was directed to Highland Browbands, the brainchild of Jo Niehaus in Oregon. Highland Browbands has really upped the ante on the bling game, adding tasteful yet colorful displays of your favorite crystals to an average bridle. I took a browse through the Highland Browbands Instagram page and was seriously impressed; not only were the browbands bright and flashy, they still kept that essential touch of class that is absolutely necessary to the discerning rider.
So when Jo offered to craft my a browband, I jumped at the chance. I carefully selected a pattern using navy blue and silver and told Jo that I wanted it to be unique but tasteful. She sent me a sneak peek of the browband and I was thrilled with how it looked.
Absolutely lovely. Photo by Sally Spickard.
Upon arrival, the browband was breathtaking, with soft black leather that would complement my dressage bridle well and a unique pattern of navy and silver that was everything I had imagined. This was actually the first browband with this particular design that Highland Browbands had made and I have a feeling it will go on to be quite popular based on the compliments it garnered.
One of the things I always worry about with browbands that have crystals is the security of the bling — I don’t want them to fall out or get loose after awhile. I’ve had this browband for about a month and have used it in every dressage ride with absolutely no issues. This includes cleaning, hot weather and a whole lot of use, all with no ill effects whatsoever.
The quality of the leather is also something to be complimented, as sometimes you see the leather quality sacrificed in an effort to put more attention into the bling pattern. I’m happy to report that this is not an issue with Highland Browbands; the leather is supple and every bit as high quality as the nicest bridle you could buy.
Photo by Sally Spickard.
For the color happy, Highland Browbands offers many different options for customization at a reasonable price. Custom Crystal Browbands start at $50, with plenty of options for shape and the amount of crystal rows you want. The customer service is also wonderful, as the staff aims to please and keeps in touch with you on the progress of your browband.
And, you’re in luck! Right now, in honor of the Olympics, Highland Browbands is running a 16% off sale using the code “RIO2016”. We’re also running a Fab Freebie this week for your chance to win a Custom Crystal Browband of your very own. Go crazy, eventers! This type of product is definitely right up our alley. Consider me a convert.
