An Extensive Range of Quality Equestrian Wear

When it comes to horse riding apparel, your safety is paramount and the one thing you just cannot go without is an ASTM/SEI certified helmet. Fortunately, most riding schools will let you use one of their helmets in anticipation that once you are hooked you will get your own.

A pair of “square heel smooth sole” boots is your next most important safety item, they prevent your foot from sliding through a stirrup iron and facing the consequences of being dragged at full gallop by a terrified horse. Initially it makes absolutely no sense to splurge on full length riding boots… no, but it’s very wise to find a good pair of ankle boots that have a smooth leather sole and a square heel.

When selecting horse riding pants, be conscious of the “prominent seam hazard”, which can badly scrape your thighs, knees and chaff your calves. Bear in mind that jeans also tend to ride up the leg, exposing your calves and leading to stirrup leather chaff. Ladies, try wearing a pair of pantyhose beneath your jeans. You will find that stretch running pants are too smooth and will cause you to slip around in the saddle. Only once you are hooked on horses should you consider investing in breeches or riding tights, or perhaps better still… a pair of those fantastic riding jeans made of stretch material with no inner seams.

It’s pointless spending on show ware before you are competition ready. Your money would be better invested into tack, books, DVDs and other training aids, which will help you develop your riding skills and enable you to compete successfully from your very first show.