For many rodeo riders, life outside the arena requires as much grit and determination as the eight-second rides they’re known for. While the rodeo circuit offers excitement, camaraderie, and the thrill of competition, it doesn’t always provide year-round income. When the off-season arrives, most riders turn to side work—drawing on their versatility, work ethic, and hands-on skills to make ends meet. From ranch labor and construction to more specialized trades like woodworking and window restoration, these jobs not only provide financial stability but also allow cowboys and cowgirls to stay connected to craftsmanship and tradition.
Blue-Collar Backgrounds
Many rodeo professionals come from agricultural or blue-collar backgrounds, so physical, outdoor work comes naturally. During downtime, they often pick up seasonal ranch jobs, such as cattle feeding, fence repair, or horse training. Others work in the oil fields, drive trucks, or take on welding and carpentry projects. These trades align well with a rodeo rider’s rugged lifestyle—demanding, independent, and rewarding for those who take pride in tangible results. However, a growing number of riders have discovered niche side work that connects them with history and preservation, including skilled restoration work on historic buildings.
Restoration Services
One unique and rewarding field that some rodeo riders have ventured into is historic window restoration. This trade requires patience, precision, and respect for craftsmanship—all traits that rodeo athletes naturally possess. Window restoration projects often involve repairing or rebuilding original wood sashes, reglazing antique glass, and refinishing frames to match a structure’s historic character. The work can be meticulous, but for those accustomed to long hours in the saddle, the satisfaction of restoring a piece of history is worth the effort. A notable example of such craftsmanship can be seen in projects like the Wanton Lyman Hazard Hous in Newport, Rhode Island—one of the oldest surviving homes in the area. Restoration efforts on historic properties like this highlight the importance of preserving original architectural details, including period-accurate windows that help maintain both aesthetic authenticity and energy efficiency. For a rodeo rider-turned-craftsman, being part of such work can be both financially beneficial and deeply fulfilling.
Custom Trades
Aside from restoration, many riders explore creative trades that allow flexibility around their competition schedules. Custom leatherwork, for example, is a natural fit—many riders are already familiar with the materials and techniques used to maintain their gear. Some design and sell hand-tooled belts, saddles, or rodeo accessories during the off-season. Others start small businesses in welding, metal fabrication, or woodworking, taking pride in the same craftsmanship that defines their time in the arena.
What makes these side jobs so appealing is that they mirror the independent spirit of the rodeo world. Whether restoring antique windows on a historic site like the Wanton Lyman Hazard House or handcrafting leather goods in a workshop, rodeo riders bring their trademark resilience and dedication to every project. These off-season endeavors aren’t just about making ends meet—they’re about continuing a tradition of hard work, creativity, and craftsmanship that keeps the rodeo spirit alive long after the dust settles in the arena.