Horse riding clothing to wear

You don't have to buy expensive horse riding clothing. A few simple items will suffice for the beginner stages. Below are a few horse riding clothing tips:

Horse riding helmets

The one item that you certainly don't want to purchase secondhand is the horse riding helmet. A used helmet may be damaged and if you fall it will thus not provide the protection required.

If you start with lessons or will do endurance riding, the best types are those allowing free flow of air. Not only are they lighter than the English formal hats, but also provide advanced head protection and enough ventilation.

The formal English riding hat is a bit more expensive, but if you plan to do jumping or dressage competitions, you should at least have one in your cupboard.

It should fit comfortable and must not move around. Select one with adjustable straps for maximum comfort and safety.

Shirt and jacket

For formal riding and shows, you will need specific horse riding clothing according to the show rules. The apparel can be bought or custom made. Visit your nearest horse shop for more information.

For lessons, you will only need a T-shirt and comfortable jacket during the winter time.

Select gloves for winter riding that are comfortable and prevent sweating of the hands.

If you go on trails buy bright horse riding clothing to ensure maximum visibility.

Pants

Select a pair of breech or traditional horse riding pants for show jumping. For normal horse riding lessons you only require tights or jeans. If you buy horse riding tights you will find them extra comfortable. You can add knee caps for added protection.

Boots

Your horse riding boots are important as you don't want something with a steep hill that can get jammed in the stirrips. Long boots are well suited for competitions and formal horse riding. Shorter boots are best suited for everyday riding.

The above horse riding clothing tips should get you started. You look at around R700 to R3000 depending on the brands for a total outfit.