Horse riding equipment list: The essentials you need to stay safe
Horse riding is the second most popular sport in the UK, following football, but it’s not just about watching the sport for Brits. According to a 2022-2023 survey, about 322 million people had ridden a horse in Britain during the previous year, and although fox hunting was officially banned in 2004, many still enjoy trail hunting with hounds, an activity that uses an artificial scent. Data shows that people are increasingly interested in horse riding, but the number of houses that own a horse or participate in the upkeep of one has been experiencing a slight decline. Both the sport and the industry remain popular among members of the general public, and if you’re thinking about giving it a try yourself, you may have been wondering about what type of equipment you should get.
After all, while riding is an incredibly rewarding sport, it can also be quite dangerous, considering how tall and powerful horses are. Making sense of all the equipment available on the market can be pretty difficult, and you might end up scrolling endlessly on online shopping pages or spending hours in a specialised shop. Here is a comprehensive list of the items you should make sure to get.
Helmet
The helmet is one of the most essential items you need to wear. The injuries that can happen if you fall or are thrown off can be quite catastrophic, requiring hospitalisation and with the potential to result in lifelong disability. Becoming injured can cause people to become afraid of trying the sport ever again, and even the most minor injuries can be enough to necessitate taking time off daily activities and postponing any plans you may have had until a later date. For it to be effective, the helmet you choose must be specifically designed for horse riding. The features of this model include an adjustable chin strap that fits snugly but not so tight to feel uncomfortable. Your helmet should also have adequate padding and ventilation, and remember that you shouldn’t hold onto yours forever.
As a rule, you also shouldn’t go for longer than five years before updating your helmet to a newer one, even if you weren’t involved in an accident, since they lose their effectiveness by that point. The helmets can be expensive, so it is tempting to go to second-hand markets to look for one, but this is something you should avoid since it isn’t safe. There’s no way of knowing what kind of structural damage the helmet sustained with its previous owner, and it may not be able to provide you with adequate protection in case you become injured.
Equipment
If you’re a fan of horse riding, you already know that you need to wear suitable clothing that allows you to be comfortable and perform to the best of your abilities. Riding trousers, also known as jodhpurs, are tight-fitting and go down all the way to the ankles, where they end in a snug cuff. The jodhpurs have been adapted for riding through the integration of a pattern cut that keeps all leg seams to the outside of the leg, including a leather patch inside of the knee and sometimes even an additional panel that allows you to feel more comfortable in the saddle.
The shirt you wear must be made of comfortable, breathable fabrics and appropriate for the weather conditions in which you’re riding. When you’re riding in warmer weather, the fabric of your shirt should have moisture-wicking properties and UV protection, while in colder weather, you will need thermal layers that can help you stay warm without feeling like they’re reducing your ability for normal movement. The riding boots are one of the most iconic pieces of equipment. Much like the clothing, they have a distinct heel that will prevent your foot from sliding through the stirrup. The classic boots come high up enough to prevent the saddle from pinching your leg, have sturdy toe areas, and are made from smooth leather.
If you want to be extra safe, there is also the option of adding a special safety vest to your equipment. This piece protects your torso and chest if you happen to fall and can also ensure that your injuries are not so severe if you come into contact with the horse’s hooves.
For the horse
You won’t be riding on your own, so you must remember that your horse also requires equipment to ensure it is safe and protected. The saddle will most likely be the most significant investment you have to make in this regard, as they are designed to fit both the rider and the horse. That means your measurements must be perfect in order to ensure comfort. Caring for your saddle is also paramount so that it lasts longer, and using pads underneath can provide some extra cushioning, prevent heat build-up and ensure the saddle is not chafing your horse’s skin. The bridle, reins and bit are essential communication tools you will need anytime you’re riding a horse.
There are many options out there, and choosing which one you should get depends on your riding style. Stirrup irons are attached to the leather to ensure your foot has a sturdy support base while riding and a stable area when mounting the horse. You will also need to invest in grooming tools that ensure your horse’s health and well-being. Regular grooming is important for coat shine and circulation, and it can also serve as a great way to bond with the horse and get them to trust you.
Having fly spray readily available ensures that these pesky insects won’t become a nuisance and a safety hazard for your horse. Depending on the climate, you might also want to invest in a horse blanket. Having a first aid kit can also be a lifesaver, even in the more serious cases when you still require a vet’s assistance, as it allows you to stabilise your horse and ensure their condition doesn’t worsen.
When you’re just getting started, and it’s your first time getting in the saddle, you will naturally feel excited and want to get everything just right. But since there’s so much equipment and gear you need to buy, the best thing is to prioritise and focus on the essentials first. There’ll be plenty of time to acquire everything else over time.