Few things compare to the pleasures of riding on horseback. The synergy that occurs between (wo)man and beast simply defies description. Whether you’re galloping across a beautiful sandy beach, strolling along the backcountry, or training your horse around the arena or obstacle course, you’ll get to experience unparalleled, liberating sensations. With all this said, a prime consideration when practicing equestrian sports is safety.
Invariably, you must be well-equipped and wear the right gear to prevent common accidents and ensure your riding goes smoothly, both for you and your horse. Horse riding equipment not only keeps the rider safe, it keeps the horse safe, according to Pink Equine, a leading equestrian equipment seller.
Footwear
One of the most basic items for a rider is the boots. Naturally, with all the galloping and fence-jumping, your feet need a good deal of stability and support. A proper pair of horse riding boots are a given across disciplines and rider levels. This type of footwear is specifically designed to keep your feet safe in the stirrup; their sturdy toe and slightly textured sole ensure that your foot won’t get caught inside, helping you stay comfortable throughout. As such, you’ll want to invest in a pair of high-quality, durable, and fitting leather boots.
Riding Hat or Helmet
Although horses have been tamed for thousands of years, a significant number of them will often exhibit a tendency for stubbornness and acting up. Whenever this happens, you risk falling off or being ejected from your mount violently, which may result in severe head bumps, injuries, or traumas. Wearing a robust safety hat helps minimize these risks significantly; consider it the “seat belt” of horse riding. Now, whether you opt for the iconic charles-owen riding helmet or a more beginner-friendly model, some specialized research will point you towards a variety of offerings to suit your level, needs, and head size.
Gloves
A worthy rider cannot proclaim themselves as such without a great pair of gloves, particularly during winter and cold months. Riding gloves fulfill more than one purpose. They help keep your hands comfortable and warm, prevent sores and blisters on your fingers from maneuvering the reins, and impart a sense of style and allure to your riding. Leather is the material of choice for most riders thanks to its durability, optimum thermal protection, and elegant feel. As always, make sure the pair you purchase fits you well, like a glove.
Riding Pants
It goes without saying that you shouldn’t practice equestrianism in casual sweatpants or bluejeans (unless you’re a modern-day cowboy). Theoretically, you could wear jeans for some Western disciplines, provided they’re specially designed for that purpose. Nevertheless, horse riding usually calls for breeches or riding trousers. Opt for a quality pair made in stretchy, non-restrictive fabric for optimal comfort and maneuverability while sitting on your saddle. These often come with the added grip around the knees and under the bottom for adherence. In general, favor darker colors, unless you’ll be signing up for competitions in the future.
Safety Vest
Concluding this list of essential attire is the compulsory protective riding vest. Much like with helmets, you’re never safe from a dangerous fall or a horse kick, which is why your body needs substantial protection to absorb the impact or chock. Safety vests typically come in a close fit with padded materials and ensure great flexibility. A well-crafted vest will effectively shield the ribs, spine, and internal organs from harm. They’re often worn by eventers but have also made their way to recreational riders. An absolute must-have for the inexperienced novice who is still somehow uneasy around and on top of a horse.
Essential Horse Tack
Last but definitely not least, your riding gear wouldn’t be complete with the assortment of items that comprise a horse tack, meant to help you sit on your mount and guide it easily. This includes the saddle and horse saddle pad sets, bridles, bits, halters, leads, as well as basic horse grooming supplies (comb, brush, hoof pick, etc.). Now, while purchasing everything isn’t necessarily required, a comprehensive horse tack will guarantee better safety and an even more memorable riding experience, especially for occasional riders.
Horse riding is a unique discipline, yet evidently, it’s no easy affair. As any popular sport, it has its own variants, rules, codes, and gear. Thankfully, this guide will have laid out the safety fundamentals of horse riding and helped you get a better sense of what you’ll need for an enjoyable, safe, and memorable riding experience. While absolute beginners will generally be provided with everything they need for their first lesson, they’ll have to upgrade and get more fitting and durable gear as they progress. Happy riding!
