Ask the Expert

By James Ruder - March 2026

James Ruder

We asked the team at Back on Track how technology can improve performance.

Q: There are so many new technologies hitting the market. How can technology improve performance?

A: For us, these are the questions we’re constantly working to answer. Great rides are increasingly powered by smart materials greater comfort for horse and rider. One of the most widely used examples in barns today is far-infrared (FIR) textile technology, which repurposes the body’s own heat to support circulation, ease stiffness, and aid recovery for both horses and riders. Back on Track’s Welltex® is a leading FIR textile: ceramic and mineral particles are embedded in the fabric to reflect natural body heat as long-wave (far-infrared) energy, a property tied to improved local blood flow and comfort.

How the technology works

When FIR energy is returned to the body, it can stimulate the release of nitric oxide, a signaling molecule that widens blood vessels (vasodilation). That supports oxygen and nutrient delivery to working tissues, which riders feel as “warming up faster” and “cooling down cleaner.” Reviews of infrared therapy report benefits for musculoskeletal pain, circulation, and tissue healing pathways—mechanisms relevant to both equine and human use.

What the evidence shows. Beyond manufacturer claims, independent and translational studies in people have linked FIR-emitting ceramics and garments to reduced soreness, improved recovery markers, and comfort in athletic contexts; clinicians also use thermography to visualize circulation changes during rehab. While protocols and outcomes vary (and no textile replaces veterinary care), these data help explain why many barns use FIR layers for warm-up and post-ride routines.

Back on Track publishes product-specific background showing how its ceramic/mineral matrix is tuned for emissivity in the FIR band, and it shares veterinary case materials (e.g., blankets, leg gear) demonstrating visible thermographic changes consistent with increased surface circulation after use. Again, these are supportive—not diagnostic—tools, but they align with rider reports of easier warm-ups and next-day comfort.

Practical takeaways for the barn

  • For horses: Sheets, coolers, saddle pads, polo/standing wraps, and bell boots built with FIR textiles are used to prime muscles and soft tissue before work and to support recovery after. Riders often notice a more supple back at the start and less “day-after” stiffness.
  • For riders: Base layers, knee/back supports, and apparel that incorporate FIR ceramics can help manage fatigue and minor aches on long training or show days—useful when you’re walking courses, mucking, and riding multiple.
  • For pets: The same bio-responsive approach appears in dog coats and beds—handy for aging barn dogs who stiffen up in cold weather. (Mechanism is the same FIR reflection discussed above.)
  • Use and care. Introduce FIR garments gradually (short sessions, then build), monitor comfort, and follow label care so the ceramic/mineral elements—bonded into the fibers—remain effective over the product’s life. Many riders report durable performance with routine washing (no tumble-dry for certain items).

Bottom line

Technology is now part of thoughtful horsemanship. FIR textiles like Back on Track’s Welltex® don’t replace conditioning, saddle fit, or vet/farrier care, but they can be a useful adjunct for warm-up, ride quality, and post-exercise comfort—benefits that show up where it matters most: in the arena and the day after.

Where to start. For horses, consider a sheet or saddle pad for daily work, plus leg wraps for warm-up/recovery. For riders, start with a base layer or back/knee support you’ll wear consistently. Explore options at backontrackusa.com or ask your local retailer which Welltex® pieces best fit your routine.

James Ruder is CEO and Managing Director of Back on Track USA. He is a 45-year veteran and business executive of the animal health industry, Master Farrier (retired), former CEO of Equilite, Inc. (developers of Sore No More), a product development expert in alternative therapies, practices and remedies along with being a life-long equestrian and pet owner. To learn more about FIR technology and the other advanced therapy technologies developed by Back on Track, visit BackonTrackUSA.com.