A lot of people get into horseback riding or equestrianism for different reasons — fun, love of horses, health reasons, etc. Whatever yours is, you have to have the proper horse-riding equipment to make your rides not only enjoyable and entertaining but also safe and secure.
Below is a checklist of must-have supplies for horseback riding:
For the rider:
Riding pants
You cannot just wear your slacks for work, jeans for going out, or shorts for playing basketball or football. For horseback riding, there are specially made pants, called breeches, which are made using thin and stretchy fabric for ease of movement. They have a snug fit to promote safety and better communication with your horse, and typically do not have an inside seam to reduce chafing. This varies by brand, so be sure to keep that in mind.
Riding boots
Your rain boots, snow boots, or casual boots are a no-no. You have to have a good pair of riding boots because they are made with special features that ensure the safety of both the rider and the horse. With their small heels, lightly textured soles, and firm toe boxes, you can keep your feet on the stirrup, prevent your foot from sliding through it and getting caught, and protect your toes throughout the ride.
Shirt
Even though you have to have pants and boots that are specifically made for horseback riding, you have more freedom when it comes to your shirts. While there are shirts made for horseback riding , you can also use any shirts in your closet, as long as they are breathable, have UV protection, and fit you perfectly. The most crucial thing here is that they should not restrict your movement so you can be comfortable throughout your ride.
Helmet
It’s important that all equestrians wear a helmet when horseback riding. Whether you are a newbie or have been riding for years, your riding helmet is an essential item for your safety. In case you did not know, this sport can be dangerous and has a high risk of head trauma. By wearing a helmet that is specially made for this purpose, you can increase your safety and security when riding. Make sure to find one that features the best safety technology and fits your head properly. Always opt for buying a new helmet as used helmets subjected to prior falls may have compromised structures, increasing the risk of serious injury during the next fall.
Safety vest
Because there is always a risk of falling from the horse, having another way to protect yourself is a good idea. While the helmet is protecting the head, the safety vest is protecting the torso. Nowadays, there are many different styles of safety vests for horseback riding available, and you can choose one that suits your taste. If safety and comfort is your top priority, an inflatable vest that fills with air when the safety strap attached to your saddle is pulled loose will lessen the impact of the ground or the horse’s hooves in case of a fall.
For the horse:
Saddle, saddle pad, and girth
With a properly fitted saddle, you and your horse can enjoy many safe and comfortable rides. You can go to your local horse-riding shop in your area or check out tack shops online to shop for one that suits your needs. Available in a wide range of sizes and styles, it can either be a Western saddle or an English saddle, depending on your chosen discipline. Before buying, make sure that you ask your local horse-riding shop if you can take the saddle for a test ride. By doing this, you can avoid spending a ton of money on an ill-fitting saddle that hurts your horse.
Even the perfect fitting saddle can rub against your horse and cause chafing, so you need to place a saddle pad underneath it to provide a layer of cushion. Choose a style and size that fits your discipline, saddle, and horse well.
To keep your saddle secure and in place, you need a girth, which is a band that attaches to your saddle and wraps around the belly of your horse. There are plenty of tack shops online that offer these items in a range of styles, sizes, and colors.
Reins, bridle, and bit
While riding, you need to effectively communicate with your horse where you want them to go and what you want them to do. With the right reins, bridle, and bit, you can have good control of your horse and be safe. There are many types of bits out there and they each work differently. Be sure to keep in mind your horse’s level of experience and whether they have a soft or tough mouth when choosing a bit. A poorly fitted bit can be extremely harmful to the horse’s mouth.
Grooming kit
Grooming your horse before taking it for a ride is a must. It is good for their coat, helps to create a bond between horse and rider, and also guarantees that no debris is digging into their skin and causing pain or discomfort, allowing you to attach the saddle properly. Your grooming kit should include a hard brush, soft brush, curry comb, hoof pick, and fly spray.
