The Best of Western Horseman Awards are finally here.
From the ranch to the show pen, these standout products reflect the gear that horsemen rely on to care for their horses.
Best of Feed Winner: Unbeetable Feeds
Unbeetable Feeds is redefining horse nutrition with forage-focused, grain-free formulas powered by beet pulp and science. Grounded in Midwest farming roots and strengthened by a research partnership with Kentucky Equine Research, Unbeetable delivers feeds that fuel performance, health and longevity. With innovations like BeetAdvantage Technology, a powerful combination of beet pulp and betaine, and KER-formulated micronutrients, Unbeetable products support hydration, digestion and recovery, while ensuring optimal vitamin, mineral and amino acid levels.
“At Unbeetable, we believe horse owners deserve science they can trust and feeds that are as natural as they are effective,” says Dr. Holly Spooner, vice president of Science and Innovation. “Out mission is simple: healthier horses, powered by the right nutrition, rooted in trust.”
Whether it’s Unbeetable Complete, Unbeetable Balance or Forage Only, every bag reflects a commitment to quality, sustainability and equine well-being.
Best of Feed Runner-Up: Bluebonnet Feeds
While often recognized as a leader in equine nutrition, Bluebonnet Feeds began with humble roots at a single mill in Ardmore, Oklahoma, where its headquarters remain today. Founded in the early 1980s, the company built its reputation on safe, reliable feeds crafted with care and consistency. What started as a regional mill has since evolved into a brand trusted by horse owners nationwide.
At its core, Bluebonnet is guided by a horse-first philosophy. Every formula is backed by science, developed by in-house PhD nutritionists and supported by a team committed to raising the standard for equine nutrition. Unlike others in the industry, Bluebonnet lists every ingredient by its true name, locks each formula and excludes risky ingredients such as ionophores to ensure uncompromising safety and quality.
Today, the company remains deeply connected to the Western way of life, standing alongside the horsemen and horsewomen who built its success.
“Their trust reminds us that everything we do starts with being here for the horses.” — John Langemeier, president of Bluebonnet Feeds
Best of Feed Honorable Mention: Purina
Purina Animal Nutrition has supported horse owners for generations, combining a legacy of innovation with a deep commitment to animal well-being. Through trusted feed, education and partnerships, Purina helps horses and their people thrive by building health, connection and confidence that lasts.
Best of Horse Care Winner: Farnam
Widely recognized as a pioneer in the horse care industry, Farnam offers an every-expanding range of premium products from head to hoof. A leading supplier to quality horse care products within fly control, grooming, supplements, dewormers and other horse care necessities for more than 75 years, Farnam’s mission has always been to strengthen the bond between horses and humans with proven, effective, trusted and innovative horse care solutions.
“At Farnam, we’re dedicated to helping horse owners give their horses the very best care possible,” says Sarah Jarvis, Farnam marketing director. “Our customers inspire everything we do because their bond with their horses is the same one that we share with them: built on trust, love and respect. We’re proud to provide effective and innovative solutions that make a real difference from head to hoof.”
Like their customers, Farnam’s team members love their equine partners and want to give them the very best on the market. That’s why they’re in business and proud to be a partner in providing great horse care.
Best of Horse Care Runner-Up: Vetericyn
Vetericyn is committed to developing the safest, most effective and innovative animal wellness products in the world.
Trusted by veterinarians, trainers and horse owners, Vetericyn’s Equine Care line is designed to support wellness from head to hoof. From wound sprays and antimicrobial gels to hoof soaks, liniments and medicated shampoos, each product is formulated to be safe, non-toxic and sting-free. Cuts, scrapes and skin irritations are a part of horse life, but infections don’t have to be. Vetericyn helps create the ideal healing environment, speeding recovery while keeping horses comfortable.
Whether caring for a foal, maintaining a performance horse or keeping a senior horse comfortable, Vetericyn provides products that bring peace of mind.
“I’m proud to see Vetericyn help care for the animals that are such a big part of our lives and look forward to our company bringing more cutting-edge animal wellness products to animal owners everywhere.” — Bob Burlingame, founder of Vetericyn
Best of Horse Care Honorable Mention: Hay Chix
Founded in Minnesota in 2010, Hay Chix has pioneered slow-feed hay nets and reshaped equine feeding programs. Now based in Texas, the company proudly manufactures all products in the U.S., helping horses and owners find balance through innovative products.
Best of Saddles Winner: The Saddle House
Winning for the second year in a row, The Saddle House is a small but mighty entity in the industry. The Saddle House is a result of Adam Schwalm’s lifelong love of saddles and tack, combined with the steady success of selling high-end, used saddles from a booth at weekend shows. What began as a traveling business in 2014 is now located in Sealy, Texas, where The Saddle House boasts quality gear for multiple disciplines, all made in their shop. Their custom work specializes in reined cow horse, ranch horse, cutting and reining saddles. Customers can also shop for tack, including bits, breast collars, cinches, headstalls and more.
Despite providing such a wide range of gear, Schwalm emphasizes the importance of excellence in materials used and the meticulousness of creating each product. That and exceptional customer service and satisfaction put The Saddle House a cut above the rest.
Best of Saddles Runner-Up: Martin Saddlery
It’s your horse’s stillness in the head box, drowning out a Friday night crowd. It’s the steadiness of your hands as your horse gains speed toward the first barrel. It’s the wave you throw the gate man to call for the cow. It’s the satisfaction of catching up to that stray, miles from home.
It’s in the preparation where success is found. At countless events, large and small, these are the moments we work toward. Martin Saddlery is proud to produce the best seat in the house, with the goal of putting you in the right position every time.
The process starts with a custom tree shop. Each tree is crafted from South Dakota white pine, reinforced with fiberglass for strength and stability, plus Martin’s uniquely designed molded ground seat. With a 100% waterproof seal, your saddle maintain its shape for life.
Martin Saddlery continues to set the standard. From seasoned professionals to first-time riders, Martin builds saddles that help you and your horse be the best.
To read the full story on Martin Saddlery, click here.
Best of Saddles Honorable Mention: Jeff Smith’s Custom Western Saddles
Jeff Smith’s Custom Western Saddles are handmade in the U.S. with Hermann Oak leather and American materials. With more than 36 years of craftsmanship, the company builds cutting, ranch, cow horse, cowboy and barrel saddles that are fully customizable.
Best of Tack & Gear Winner: Classic Equine and Classic Rope
In a world driven by instant gratification, there’s an industry that still rewards patience, consistency and perseverance. Classic Rope was founded in 1986 from this mindset and remains one of the most respected rope companies nearly 40 years later. The same group that developed the first four-strand rope with a core and introduced CoreTech Technology still runs the shop today. Classic’s lineup — including PowerLine Lite, Heat, Spydr, NV4, XR4, NXT and the MoneyMaker — is trusted by professionals worldwide.
“Embracing technology and staying current with the evolution of the sport is what keeps us focused on delivering products that help people and horses perform at their best,” says Ken Bray, president and CEO of Equibrand, the parent company of Classic Rope and Classic Equine.
In 1995, Classic Equine was founded to offer advances performance protection for horses. From the patented Legacy2 Support Boot to saddle pads and barn solutions Classic Equine has become the trusted name for professionals and everyday horsemen. Classic Equine endorsees continue to make history, dominating the biggest stages in rodeo and performance horse events. The Equibrand team’s product knowledge and real-world experience gives Equibrand its competitive edge and passion to support the Western industry.
Best of Tack & Gear Runner-Up: Nettles Stirrups
Forty years ago, cutting horse trainer Ronnie Nettles needed a pair of stirrups for a rocking horse saddle. Oxbow stirrups dominated the 1980s, and the past Futurity Champion and Hall of Famer had every intention of putting oxbows on that saddle.
“We rode steel oxbows back then,” Nettles says. “They were hard on your ankles and brutal if they hit your knees or shins.”
Stirrups were once little more than an afterthought, so when Ronnie Nettles couldn’t find a pair built for comfort, he made his own — first from pine, then from the oak of his wheelbarrow handles. Those early stirrups marked the beginning of a stirrup-making revolution.
What began by building one stirrup at a time in the steel mechanical jig is now a business that ships worldwide. And while there are many copiers on today’s market, the “feel” trainer learned from long hours in the saddle, the intricate details necessary for superior workmanship, the quality performance and comfort sets Nettles Stirrups apart.
Best of Tack & Gear Honorable Mention: Tom Balding Bits & Spurs
For more than four decades, Tom Balding Bits & Spurs has strived to be the highest quality in the bit and spur industry, crafting equipment that blends precision function with timeless Western artistry.
“It’s truly gratifying to know our work is recognized and valued.” — Tom Balding, owner
Best of Supplements Winner: Succeed Equine
When there’s a need to be met, horse people tend to rise to the occasion. That was how the SUCCEED Digestive Conditioning Program came about 20 years ago. A beloved show horse, with national champion potential, struggled with digestive tract issues. A group of equine experts in performance, veterinary medicine, animal nutrition and science got together and created the framework for the SUCCEED Equine products used today.
Decades later, Freedom Health, LLC, the company behind SUCCEED products, continues to operate by the original principle: doing right by the horse while conducting business with the utmost integrity. They envision a future where every horse and owner enjoys a healthy, successful partnership that begins and ends with optimal digestive tract health.
“SUCCEED takes great pride in being the products that helps every horse to be at its best,” says Paula Dorsey, professional animal scientist and vice president of Business Development. “Our company proudly continues to be run by horse people for horse people.”
Best of Supplements Runner-Up: Farnam
For generations, horse owners have turned to Farnam for solutions that help their equine partners stay strong, sound and ready for the work ahead. That commitment extends to Farnam’s line of supplements, carefully formulated to target the daily nutritional needs of horses at every stage of life and performance level.
From joint and hoof support to digestive balance, hydration and immune health, each Farnam supplement is crafted with premium ingredients chosen for quality, safety and effectiveness. The formulas are designed by equine experts to complement a balanced diet and help horses perform, recover and thrive — whether in the arena, on the ranch or out on the trail.
What sets Farnam apart is a focus on consistency and trust. Every product undergoes rigorous quality checks to ensure reliable results in every scoop. For horse owners who expect more than the basics, Farnam delivers targeted solutions that make a difference in both everyday care and longterm performance.
Best of Supplements Honorable Mention: Silver Lining Herbs
Silver Lining Herbs, a family-owned Idaho company, has spent more than 20 years creating premium herbal blends for horses, dogs and people.
“We’re here to help horses feel their best so they can give their best.” — Chance Schuknecht, owner
Best of Pharmaceuticals Winner: Adequan
American Regent Animal Health, a division of American Regent, Inc., is committed to joint health in horses and dogs. The company manufactures FDA-approved products, including Adequan i.m. (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan) and BetaVet (betamethasone sodium phosphate and betamethasone acetate injectable suspension). Equine practitioners have relied on Adequan i.m. for more than three decades, and BetaVet is the only dual-ingredient I.A. corticosteroid for horses.
The company also manufactures FDA-approved Adequan Canine (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan), which has been trusted by veterinarians for more than 25 years and helped over a million dogs lead more active lives. See indications, important safety information and learn more at ARAnimalHealth.com.
Best of Pharmaceuticals Runner-Up: Zoetis
Zoetis is a global animal health company driven by a singular purpose: to nurture the world and humankind by advancing care for animals. Founded in 1952 as part of Pfizer and established as a standalone company in 2013, Zoetis has spent more than 70 years innovating ways to predict, prevent, detect and treat animal illness. Today, the company partners with veterinarians, pet owners, livestock farmers and ranchers worldwide — supporting all who are dedicated to the animals in their care.
Guided by the mantra “Always by Your Side,” the U.S. Equine Division is made up of veterinarians, horse owners and enthusiasts committed to helping all horses live healthier, happier lives with trusted equine care solutions and expert guidance.
“Your horse is your everything, and when it comes to his care, you want to do what’s right,” says Jen Grant, head of marketing for U.S. Equine. “We’re here to help all horses live happier, healthier lives by connecting you with the equine care solutions, guidance and resources you need.”
Best of Pharmaceuticals Honorable Mention: Merck Animal Health
Merck Animal Health, a division of Merck & Co., provides veterinarians, producers and pet owners worldwide with vaccines, pharmaceuticals and health solutions. Present in more than 50 countries, it is dedicated to advancing animal well-being through science, innovation and connected technology.
