Equestrian Gear Guide: Equipping Yourself and Your Horse for a Safe and Successful Ride

Horses and horseback riding have captivated humans for centuries. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a curious beginner, having the right equestrian gear is vital for safety, comfort, and a successful ride. This guide explores the essential equipment for both horse and rider, ensuring a harmonious and enjoyable equestrian experience.

For the Rider: Safety and Security Come First

• Helmet:  This is paramount. Look for a certified helmet that fits snugly but comfortably, with no pressure points. ASTM F1163 is the current safety standard for equestrian helmets in the US. Here are some of the top-rated equestrian helmets to consider, with varying features and price points:
  • Troxel Spirit Deluxe Helmet [Troxel Spirit Deluxe Helmet on troxelhelmets.com]: This helmet is a great choice for beginners, offering a comfortable fit at an affordable price. It comes in various colors and meets ASTM F1163-15 standards for safety.
  • One K Defender Helmet [One K Defender Helmet on Dover Saddlery dover saddlery.com]: This helmet provides a sleek design with advanced technology, featuring a polycarbonate and ABS composite outer shell for durability. It comes in both oval and round shapes to ensure a proper fit. While on the pricier side, it boasts excellent ventilation and a comfortable moisture-wicking liner.
  • Charles Owen Ayr8 [Charles Owen Ayr8 Helmet on charlesowen.com]: Known for its superior comfort and ventilation, the Ayr8 is a favorite among experienced riders. It is available in a wide range of colors and features a removable, washable liner. This is a top-of-the-line helmet with a price tag to match.
• Riding Boots:  Provide support, stability, and protection. Choose between:
  • Tall boots:  Reach above the knee for maximum leg protection, common in dressage and fox hunting. Here are two examples:
    • Cavallo Adriana Boots [Cavallo Adriana Boots on [invalid URL removed]]: Made from premium full-grain leather, these boots offer exceptional quality and durability. They feature a contoured fit and a shock-absorbing footbed for comfort.
    • Mountain Horse Dublin High Rider Boots [Mountain Horse Dublin High Rider Boots on [invalid URL removed]]: A good value option for tall boots, these are constructed from durable synthetic leather and feature a gripped sole for stability in the stirrups.
  • Paddock boots:  Shorter boots that work well with half chaps, ideal for schooling and general riding. Look at these options:
    • Ariat Heritage IV Paddock Boots [Ariat Heritage IV Paddock Boots on ariat.com]: A classic choice from a trusted brand, these paddock boots are crafted from full-grain leather and offer a supportive fit.
    • Horze Dublin Paddock Boots [Horze Dublin Paddock Boots on horse.com]: An affordable option, these paddock boots are made from a durable synthetic material and come in various colors.
  • Jodhpur boots:  Traditional pull-on boots worn with jodhpurs, not recommended for beginners due to a lack of ankle support. However, if you’re set on jodhpurs, consider these boots:
    • Anky Jodhpur Boots [Anky Jodhpur Boots on anky.com]: Made from high-quality calf leather, these jodhpur boots provide a luxurious feel and a close-fitting design.
• Riding Pants: Should allow flexibility and prevent chafing. Options include:
  • Breeches:  Close-fitting riding pants with a full seat of synthetic or natural materials like leather or suede for grip. Here are some examples:
    • Kerrits Performance Flex Riding Breeches [Kerrits Performance Flex Riding Breeches on kerrits.com]: These breeches are designed for maximum comfort and freedom of movement, with a four-way stretch fabric and a silicone grip full seat.
    • Dublin Axiom Full Seat Breeches [Dublin Axiom Full Seat Breeches on dublinclothing.com]: A good mid-range option, these breeches offer a comfortable fit and a durable suede knee patch for grip.
  • Jodhpurs:  Looser-fitting than breeches, often have a knee patch for reinforcement, worn with jodhpur boots. Consider these examples:
    • Macmurphy Show Jodhpurs [Macmurphy Show Jodhpurs on [invalid URL removed]]: Made from a breathable cotton twill fabric, these jodhpurs are ideal for warmer weather riding.
    • Horze Jodhpurs [Horze Jodhpurs on horse.com]: An affordable option available in various colors.
  • Riding tights: Provide a comfortable, stretchy option for casual riding
  • Shirt: A breathable, comfortable shirt that allows for a full range of motion is ideal. Opt for natural fibers like cotton in warmer weather or synthetic materials that wick away moisture. Here are some options:
    • Show shirts: Button-down shirts with a competition collar, typically made from breathable cotton or a cotton blend. Look for brands like Cavalleria Toscana or Equestrian Stockholm.
    • Base layers: Moisture-wicking base layers are a great option for comfort in colder weather riding. Popular brands include Under Armour and Patagonia.
  • Riding Gloves: Protect your hands from blisters and provide grip on the reins. Leather or synthetic materials with good grip are common choices. Here are some examples:
    • Roeckl Grip L [Roeckl Grip L on roeckl.com]: These high-quality leather gloves offer exceptional grip and feel.
    • Kingsland Competition Gloves [Kingsland Competition Gloves on kingsland.com]: A good value option with a breathable mesh back and a PU leather palm for grip.
  • Safety Vest: Highly recommended, especially for beginners. Look for vests that meet ASTM F1163 standards and offer impact protection. Consider brands like Tipperary or Hit-Air.

Additional Considerations for Rider Comfort

• Riding Crop: A riding crop is a tool used to aid communication with the horse, but it should be used sparingly and with finesse. Beginners may not need one right away. Some popular crops include the Whips by Nigel Bailey or the Schroeder Aluminum Crop.
• Riding Hat: Provides shade and keeps your hair out of your face on a sunny day. Look for options with good ventilation, such as those from Charles Owen or Ovation.

Equipping Your Horse: Partnering for Performance

• Saddle: The bridge between rider and horse, it distributes weight evenly and comfortably. Proper saddle fit is crucial for both horse and rider comfort and safety. Consider seeking a professional saddle fitter for guidance. Here’s a brief overview of the two main saddle types:
  • English saddles: Designed for various riding disciplines like dressage, jumping, or hunting, with a focus on rider posture and communication. Some popular brands include Stubben, Albion, and Bates.
  • Western saddles: Known for their high cantle (back) and horn, used for working cattle, trail riding, or other Western disciplines. Popular western saddle brands include Billy Cook Saddlery, Circle Y, and Tucker Saddlery.
• Saddle Pad:  Provides cushioning and protects the horse’s back from saddle rubs. Look for breathable, shock-absorbing materials that conform to the horse’s back. Here are some examples:
  • Woolen saddle pads: A traditional option that provides good shock absorption. Consider brands like Pessoa or Acavallo.
  • Gel saddle pads: Offer additional shock absorption and pressure distribution. Look at brands like Equilibrium or Acavallo.
• Girth:  Secures the saddle to the horse’s back. Common materials include leather or synthetic fibers. Here are some examples:
  • Leather girths: A traditional option that requires proper care. Popular brands include Stubben and Fairfax.
  • Synthetic girths: Easier to care for and often more affordable than leather girths. Look at brands like Bates and Wintec.
• Bridle:  The primary means of communication between rider and horse. It includes:
  • Headstall: The adjustable part that goes around the horse’s head. Choose a comfortable, well-fitting headstall from a brand like Kieffer or Pessoa.
  • Browband: A decorative strap that sits above the horse’s eyes. This can be a place for customization, with options from various brands.
  • Cheek pieces: Connect the headstall to the bit. Choose a material and style that complements the rest of your bridle.
  • Throatstrap: Buckles under the horse’s jaw to help keep the bridle in place. Look for adjustable throatstraps for a proper fit.
  • Bit: Goes in the horse’s mouth and is used to provide signals and direction. Different bit styles are used for various training levels and disciplines. Consult with a trainer to choose the right bit for your horse. Some popular bit brands include Neue Schule, Myler, and Pelham.
• Reins: Long straps attached to the bit that the rider uses to control the horse. Leather or synthetic materials are common. Choose reins with a comfortable thickness and grip. Popular brands include reins by Herm Sprenger or Pessoa.

Beyond the Basics: Horse Care Essentials

• Halter and Lead Rope: Essential for leading and handling your horse on the ground. Choose a halter that fits comfortably and a lead rope of an appropriate length and strength. Here are some options:
  • Nylon halters: Affordable and easy to care for. Look at brands like Horze or Weaver Leather.
  • Leather halters: A more traditional option that requires regular cleaning and oiling. Brands like Stubben or Fairfax offer high-quality leather halters.
  • Lead ropes: Choose a lead rope of an appropriate length and thickness. Braided nylon or cotton lead ropes are popular choices. Consider brands like Weaver Leather or EcoRider.
• Grooming Supplies: Regular grooming promotes healthy skin and coat, strengthens the bond between horse and rider, and allows for early detection of any problems. Basic grooming tools include:
  • Curry comb: Loosens dirt and debris from the horse’s coat. Consider a rubber curry comb from brands like Oster or Equine Choice.
  • Soft brush: Removes dirt and dust after using the curry comb. A horsehair brush from Effax or Weaver Leather is a good option.
  • Mane and tail brush: Detangles and smooths the mane and tail. A dandy brush from Derby Originals or Les Aubrières is a popular choice.
  • Hoof pick: Cleans dirt and debris from the hooves. A metal hoof pick with a brush is a versatile tool. Look at brands like Waldhausen or Korsteel.
• Horse Blanket:  Provides warmth and protection from the elements. Consider the climate and your horse’s needs when choosing a blanket. Here are some types:
  • Turnout blankets: Designed for use in the paddock or field. Brands like Rambo by Horseware or Weatherbeeta offer durable turnout blankets.
  • Stable blankets: Lighter weight blankets for use in the stable. Look at brands like Woof Wear or Baker Pads.
• First-Aid Kit: Be prepared for minor cuts, scrapes, or injuries. Assemble a basic first-aid kit for your horse, including antiseptic wipes, wound dressings, and vet wrap.

Additional Considerations

• Horse Trailer: If you plan on transporting your horse, you will need a safe and reliable trailer. Consider the size of your horse and your towing capacity when choosing a trailer. Popular trailer brands include Brice, Sooner, and Wandersoo.
• Horseback Riding Attire: If you’re attending competitions or shows, you may need discipline-specific attire. Research the dress code for the events you plan to participate in