About: Basic Riding Equipment

   When you first start riding, the overwhelming amount information that comes at you can be intense. It can seem like you need lockers full of stuff that you might never use. Well, if you are just getting started with horseback riding lessons below is a list of equipment that will really help your skills progress.

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Helmet

By far the most important piece of riding equipment! Keeping your brain safe is essential, broken bones can heal but you only get one head. Riding helmets are rated specifically for horseback riding, bike helmets are not made for falls from an animal. Check out this post about different helmet brands to find the right one for you. 

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Paddock Boots

A pair of paddock books are the next most important piece of riding equipment. Paddock boots serve two purposes, first they keep your toes protected in case you get stepped on, which is bound to happen. And second the heel keeps your foot from sliding through the stirrup causing a rider to become stuck to the saddle in the event of a fall. 

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Half Chaps

Half chaps go over your paddock boots and pants to keep your legs protected from rubs from the stirrup leathers. They also give additional grip to the rider to help their legs stay in the correct position. That extra grip will keep a rider feeling more secure in the saddle.

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Gloves

A good pair of riding gloves can be super helpful for new riders because they offer additional grip and protection from rubs and blisters. Not every rider feels gloves are necessary but in the cold months they become quite valuable. Riding gloves are made specifically with seams in areas that won't hurt a riders hands. Other gloves can be slippery and uncomfortable.