You must consider several things before horseback riding, and one of the most important is what clothes to wear. The gear needed for horseback riding will depend on the style of riding you intend to participate in. For example, if you plan on the trail or endurance riding, then it would be wise to pack your sunscreen and sunglasses. Hats are also recommended! In this article, I’ll outline some basics about which clothing items should be worn when horseback riding, as well as some tips for packing accordingly.
What to wear when horseback riding:
- clothes should be made of fabrics that hold up well to dirt and sweat
- long sleeves are recommended for horseback riding, as they offer more protection than short sleeves
- Consider protective gear such as boots, gloves, or even a helmet, depending on the type and style of horseback riding you plan to do.
How much should you expect to spend on riding clothes?
- Horseback riding clothes range from $25 to $400 for designer brands.
Packing tips:
- Pack sunscreen and sunglasses if you plan on trail or endurance riding
- Please bring a hat, as it can help protect your eyes while shielding them from wind/dust. They also protect against the sun’s rays.
Safety tips:
- Make sure clothes are appropriate for the type of horseback riding you plan to do and that they have reflective strips if you will be doing nighttime or evening rides.
Make it a habit to check your gear before heading out on a ride. Ensure everything is functioning properly from head to toe.
Boots and gloves:
If you plan to ride more occasionally, you should consider investing in a good pair of riding boots. This will protect against weather, dirt, and possible rough terrain. Riding gloves are another great purchase if you are riding more frequently. Gloves can help protect your hands and keep your palms free from calluses.
Where can you buy riding gear?
There are many different places where you can buy horse riding gear. You may want to visit a local tack shop or an outdoor store like REI for more options.
Recommended gear for horseback riding:
Some of the most common gear we would recommend having for horseback riding would include:
- riding helmet
- lip balm with SPF protection (particularly if you are going to be spending a lot of time outside)
- pair of gloves or mitts
Riding boots: Boots should always have at least a half-inch heel. A higher heel is perfect for providing more control and balance while horseback riding.
The benefits of horseback riding gear:
- Riding helmets protect your head and brain from harm in the event of a fall.
- Gloves or mitts are great for protecting hands that would otherwise be susceptible to calluses, scrapes, abrasions, and other injuries while horseback riding.
- Riding boots provide excellent support when it comes to balance and stability.
Tips for buying horse riding gear:
- Look for a snug fit that provides optimal stability without being too tight.
- When looking for riding boots, make sure they have at least a half-inch heel and are made of leather or synthetic material.
How to maintain horseback riding gear:
- Ride with good posture, so your weight is distributed over your horse’s back and not on its spine.
- The stirrups need to be adjusted so that the rider’s weight is evenly distributed over both feet.
- When using spurs, ensure they are short enough for riding in an enclosed arena but long enough for country trail riding where ground obstacles may present a challenge.
How to choose the right riding helmet for you:
- Determine your size by measuring the circumference of your head at its widest point.
- The helmet should be level on top and sit just above eyebrow height for a comfortable fit that doesn’t slide around or pinch hair.
- Buckle the chin strap securely without tightening it so much that you feel discomfort in the back of your throat.
- The helmet should not be so loose. It rocks back and forth on the head or wobbles when you turn your head.
How to choose riding gloves:
Riding gloves are an essential part of gear for horseback riders, as they help protect hands from injury in falls or accidents. They come in various materials, such as leather, synthetic materials like goatskin or polyurethane, and cowhide.
- Lace gloves securely at the wrist to ensure that they don’t ride up while in use.
- If you have long hair, wear it back, so it doesn’t get caught on things such as your horse’s bridle, reins, or stirrup.
- Wear long pants to protect your legs from the sun, bugs, and scratches just in case you fall off horseback while riding.
Different types of riding boots:
Riding boots are the most important part of horseback riding gear. They protect the legs and feet and ensure that riders maintain their balance while mounted on horseback. Riding boots come in three general styles: close-fitting breeches, regular calf length with stirrups, and over-the-knee tall boots.
- Close-fitting breeches: These come in various colors and are perfect for the rider who favors shorter skirts or lower hems. They’re not as protective, but they often have stirrups attached to them, allowing riders to mount their horse without assistance from anyone else.
- Regular calf length with stirrups: These are the most common riding boots. They come in various colors and styles and are usually worn with pants or jeans tucked inside them to keep dirt from getting on clothing.
- Over-the-knee tall boots provide the best protection for horseback riders because they go over the knee and protect both calves.
Why do we need a saddle pad when horseback riding?
A saddle pad helps to provide extra padding for both horse and rider, as well as protection in the event of falls or other accidents.
What is the best way to clean your horse’s saddle?
Use soap or detergent, a sponge and bucket, a water hose, a scrub brush, and saddle soap to clean the horse’s saddle.
In Conclusion:
When it comes to horseback riding, having protective clothing is essential. Remember that boots are one of the most critical parts of a wardrobe when riding, so choose these wisely! Gloves are also extremely beneficial for most riders and can greatly impact keeping your hands safe and protected while riding. Lastly, remember that long sleeve clothing and pants are always recommended when riding horseback to protect yourself from all the outdoor elements. Have fun and happy riding!
