Wednesday, March 22, 2017

The Anatomy of an Equicizer Elite

Each and every Equicizer is hand-crafted with great care. We are proud of all the unique horses we send out to private homes, physical therapy centers, lesson programs and jockey rooms worldwide. This week for Wooden Horse Wednesday, we want to feature our Equicizer Elite model and give you an up close look at the components that make it great!

 

Head

Each Equicizer Elite features a graceful hand-carved head that offers a more refined and realistic look than the Equicizer Classic model. The head of the Elite can be customized in a variety of ways to make the Equicizer resemble a horse of the purchaser's choosing. Frankie has even made Elite models resembling famous horses like Zenyatta! The sky is the limit and we encourage you to send pictures of the horse you want your Elite to look like. Frankie carefully shapes the head and paints on facial markings such as blazes and snips.
Bonus: Click here to see the video "making of" Zenyatta Equicizer Elite for jockey Mike Smith. 

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Neck

The neck of an Equicizer might not look all that complex from the outside, but what lies beneath is a system of rubber bands and springs connected through the body that give the horse it's unique, proprietary motion. The system was designed by Frankie after a bad racing accident and refined over many years. Did you know the earliest Equicizer model did not have body movement at all? The Elite model comes with a 10 year extended warranty on the neck bands and springs*!

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Body

The body portion of all Equicizers is made in a similar fashion to the hull of a boat. This makes the horse solid and structurally sound thus capable of holding a significant amount of weight (up to 500 pounds). The Equicizer can safely support multiple riders across its back (within the weight limit) and/or riders who are unable to distribute their own weight evenly. The body is carpeted with marine grade carpet designed to be long-lasting, stain/weather resistant, and easy to clean. Every Elite model is outfitted with a personalized brass nameplate on the front as well as handles that can be used to easily lift the Equicizer if needed.

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Base

The Equicizer Elite model is supported by a metal base covered by elegant solid oak running boards that match the other wooden components. The base includes locking metal caster wheels that allow the horse to be rolled in any direction and then safely locked for mounting and riding. The base is sturdy enough to be used as a step up for mounting, if necessary. If the rider would prefer a taller mount, we sell a Riser Stand that can elevate the horse to height of 14.0, 14.2, 15.0, 15.2, and 16.0 hands. There is also the option of the heavy duty diamond plate aluminum All Terrain Cart, which allows the Equicizer to roll over dirt, sand, stone and grassy areas with ease.


Mane and Tail

The mane and tail of the Equicizer Elite can be customized to resemble virtually any color you would desire on a horse! Frankie goes above and beyond, even sometimes custom mixing the hair colors to find the right look for your request. The locks can be customized to different lengths as well. While the hair may be a more aesthetic component, we know many little girls who get quite a lot of satisfaction out of carefully braiding and caring for their Equicizer's mane and tail. The mane and tail also provide an opportunity for a sensory therapy application. They make the Equicizer more lifelike in appearance. 
Fjord Mane!

The Equicizer Elite is available today for $3,995 and comes with your choice of English, Western, Therapeutic or Racing reins. We have a variety of options available for financing. Please send us an email or visit our online store if you are interested in the Equicizer Elite!


by Amanda Chicotel
 


*Restrictions apply: does not apply to programs, organizations, schools, racetracks or other training facilities where excessive use from multiple persons occurs, in this case parts are under warranty for 5 years.

Wednesday, March 8, 2017

Equicizer Testimonials

Over the last few weeks we have received more than one beautiful testimonial from some of our Equicizer owners. They're too inspiring not to share, so take a peek and we'll show you where you can read more...

My LOVE for Chance

Debra was the recent winner
of our "Valentine's Day" themed photo contest!
My husband bought me my Chance 2 years ago for our Anniversary, and it is the absolute best gift I have ever been given. He knew that it was time for me to give up riding real horses, but he knew how good the motion of the horse was for me. I was diagnosed with MS 23 years ago. Although I am managing it ok, being able to ride Chance and do exercises on him has clearly made a difference in my life.

For me, Chance is my chance to stay fit from riding. Thank you Frankie, for my wonderful Chance.
 
-Debra H.
 

"California Pal"

Equicizer Team-

I want to send a note of thanks for "California Pal". What a wonderful example of craftsmanship, superiority, useful product, and professionalism. Everything from the ordering process, confirmation correspondence, and shipping went so smoothly. The shipping company did a wonderful job, and I must compliment the packaging engineering. Top of the line job team!

As a testimony to the product, I would like to say what a wonderful riding tool this is to help me stay in shape. I've been riding for 20 years/ 5 days a week. I moved to California where horse access is far and limited. I came back home after two months for a visit and to ride. After riding my Quarter Horse for 15 minutes my legs were so sore, and I was amazed at the loss of flexibility in my legs--especially my ankles. Oh yes, my core was very "loosey-goosey" as well. I had the opportunity to ride and train on "California Pal" for a week before coming home for another visit. I could tell a large difference in my riding. I felt like a strong, confident rider again. Additionally I did not suffer from any leg pain--My riding legs have come back!!

Thank you to everyone involved. It has been a true pleasure.
 
-Christina S.
 
Lastly, one of our most recent customers - Joan - sent us this beautiful photo of her and her new partner, "Cowboy", who is going to help her stay riding fit during the winter months!
 
 
 
To read more of our testimonials and customer stories, you can visit both our Equicizer Classic and our Equicizer Elite store pages. Scroll down to the bottom and there you will find a collection of some of the many testimonials that we have received in recent years.
 
If you are an Equicizer owner yourself, we'd love to learn about your journey with your Equicizer - however big or small! You can leave a review as well at the above links or send us an email at info@equicizer.com.
 
Thank you to all of our customers and supporters who have left feedback and have helped us make the Equicizer into the life changing tool that it has become.
 

www.equicizer.com