Equestrian pursuits have historically been the domain of the wealthy and the elite. However, more and more normal people are starting to take advantage of the abundance of stables and open spaces near to them. If you are interested in horse riding, but don’t know enough about it to know what equipment you need, this post has you covered. This article’s intention is to explore some of the very basics of horse riding, so you know what you need, where you can get it, and how you can get started.
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Perfectly Sized Boots
One of the most important pieces of equipment you need if you want to pursue horse riding is a pair of comfortable boots. You can get these from most equestrian shops, but make sure you take measurements and get your size correct.
The chances are that you’ll buy your boots online, since most equestrian shops have exclusive online presences nowadays. Taking proper measurements so you can get the right size is important, otherwise you’ll end up with blisters or your boots flying off when you are riding. If the size you buy is not a good fit, exchange the boots you’ve bought for another pair.
Most equestrian retailers offer 30-day money back guarantees, so you can return what you have purchased and exchange it for another item in a different size, another item altogether, or just return it and get your money back in full, shipping excluded.
Proper, Fitting Helmet
In addition to a pair of comfortable boots, you also need to make sure that you have a helmet that’s sized properly. The worst thing you can do as a horse rider is buy a helmet that’s either too big or too small for your head. If your helmet isn’t properly sized, it won’t provide as much protection if you are thrown from your horse.
Being thrown from your horse is not guaranteed, but it is something you should expect at least once in your time as a horse rider. Most riders have been thrown from their horses or have at least fallen off.
In addition to buying a helmet, you might also want to take a safety course led by an experienced rider. Ideally, you should find one that teaches people how to properly fall from their horses. Learning how to fall properly will prevent you from seriously injuring yourself in the event you are thrown.
Comfortable Saddle
A comfortable saddle is essential. While it isn’t necessarily dangerous to have a saddle that’s rigid and unforgiving, owning one like this will guarantee pain. The longer you ride your horse, the more painful it will be.
Saddles are not the kind of thing you can buy online. While you can, you should go into a store and try them out in person. Trying saddles in person makes it easier for you to find the one that’s right for you.
Remember that saddles made from leather are going to be a lot more expensive than ones made from plastic and other alternative materials. Bear in mind that while more expensive though, leather saddles are typically much more comfortable and are a much better pick for people who’re concerned with quality above everything else. A quality saddle will last a lifetime, too.
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Riding Gloves
If you have been out on a horse before, you will know that your hands can get very cold if you’re riding in winter and that holding onto the reins can hurt your hands. Holding them for extended periods of time can cause blisters, which you obviously don’t want.
Riding gloves can be ordered online, as they typically come in standardized sizes. You should have no problem finding a pair of gloves that fit. All you need to do is take a hand measurement, then use the measurement you get to find a pair of gloves that fit you.
Try to find gloves made from leather, because leather gloves are a lot more durable and much more comfortable. They mold to the shape of your hand over time, which makes them the ideal type for people who want comfort and longevity from their gloves.
Saddle Pad
Your comfort isn’t all you need to think about. It is also important to think about the horse’s comfort. When you are taking up riding for the first time, you need to get into it with a positive attitude. Taking care of the horses you ride is part of having a positive attitude.
Exposure to a saddle over long periods of time can cause chaffing, which can hurt a horse’s back. The best way to prevent chafing from occurring is by investing in a saddle pad. A saddle pad will keep you comfortable and prevent your horse from getting hurt. If you need advice picking a saddle pad, get in touch with an equestrian center via email and ask them for their support.
Also worth noting is that most equestrian centers will be able to provide a few pieces of equipment in the event you do not already have your own, but want to try horse riding, so you don’t necessarily need to go out and buy all of the above straight away. Feel out riding and see if it’s for you first.
Buying a Horse
Finally, you need a horse. You only need a horse if you are confident riding is for you, however. You should perhaps take a few courses in riding prior to buying your own. These courses will allow you to get out on other people’s horses for a small fee.
Riding other people’s horses before you buy your own will help you to decide whether riding is right for you or not. Find the best courses you can. Always read a course’s reviews before you sign up for it. Make sure that the course you take is positively reviewed, because good reviews is an indication that a course offers something of real substance, and isn’t a waste of time.
Horse riding can be an extremely effective way of getting fit, improving one’s mental health, and getting out of the house. Hopefully, the guidance given here will help you to figure out which pieces of equipment you need as a first-time rider.
