If you've ever been involved in Endurance riding in the Western United States you probably know Henry and Dona Griffin. Henry's 'ol truck has over 600,000 miles on it and is packed to the gills with Easyboots, Stowaway Packs, EZ Ride Stirrups and other merchandise as he drives from ride to ride, vending and chatting with competitors. Each event brings a varied experience, a new story, another few miles in the long history of Griffin's, in business for over 35 years. After traveling to 41 rides last year, if there was an award for the most miles covered by a non-rider, Henry would win--hand's down.
Henry's friendly demeanor and his willingness to do custom work keep his customers coming back time and time again. Not only does he carry a full line of EasyCare products, but he makes his own line of gear (some in as many as 125 colors) and will often make a specialty item for a rider that has a specific want or need. He makes bun warmers, cruppers, hay bags, gear bags, reins, horse blankets, organizers and more.
Henry started his business in 1965. At that time he was carrying a line of gear for showing livestock--sheep, pigs and cattle. Then he met Donna, his wife, who was riding and showing horses, and who eventually ended up at Tevis. "At that time," Henry says, "there wasn't even a decent halter out there for horses. So, I started making them. And, I started making other equipment, too. When I'm not traveling I'm making stuff." He laughs when he talks about the competitors who still have the equipment he made years ago. "I tried to have a contest for people who had the oldest stuff," he says. "But there was a three-way tie. People had original equipment I sold way back, so I guess I'll have to wait about 15 years and hope there's a winner."
Griffin's was the first vendor at Tevis. They provided drinks and snacks to the riders (something they always enjoyed) as their "vendor fee." Some of their first products were Easyboots (at that time the company was owned by Neel Glass) and EZ Ride Stirrups (made by Bob Walls at the time). Thank you, Henry and Dona, for not only being loyal EasyCare dealers, but for supporting the ride teams at the many hundreds of events you have attended. We appreciate you!
EasyCare's latest 2008 catalog has a new cover! EasyCare offers the best selection of hoof boots in the industry but our line of products doesn't end there! EasyCare also has a fantastic selection of other items for the trail horse and rider. We offer everything from E-Z ride stirrups (On sale now!) to comfy sheepskin saddle covers to our unique stowaway saddle packs. Don't wait to take advantage of this months stirrup sale and check out all the great gear we have to offer. Now is the time to stock up on all the things your customers will be needing and wanting to enjoy a summer of riding!
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