Although owning quality saddles, bridles and other horse riding gear is essential when aiming to perform well at an equestrian event, looking the part is more important than you think, too! When partaking in endurance riding competitions, you’ll struggle when encountering the inevitable turbulence everyone experiences when losing control for an instant without the correct boots and gloves, for example.
In case you’re just starting out with equestrian competitions, you’ll have to start by getting the basics right. Here’s what you’ll need to wear, top to bottom:
Riding caps
Protective head gear is the most important protective measure across a variety of sports, from cycling to Formula 1 racing. When finding a suitable riding cap, however, you’ll have to consider why horse riding is different from these sports.
As horse riding exposes the rider to the danger of potentially major falls, these caps are designed to absorb this blow to the head. Not every rider falls often, but most riders have had to deal with a difficult fall at least once in their careers, making the presence of quality riding caps that ensure that you’re well protected a riding necessity.
As these caps are designed to negate an impact, they’re often compromised after a major impact. Replacing them after a significant blow to the head ensures that you’re riding with a cap that has the integrity to absorb the next one!
Protective wear
As a cap will keep your head safe from the dangers of falling, making sure your chest and vital organs are protected is just as important. Getting a torso cover to shrug off a bad fall or any accidental hoof impacts will ensure that you get back on your horse immediately, rather than in a week or two!
Leather gaiters or riding boots
Although any boots with a raised heel will do for a beginner, you’ll certainly have to purchase quality leather riding gaiters or boots at a later stage. These boots are designed to kerb the risk of damaging your legs and ankles with your spurs when having a turbulent ride. The elevated heel goes a long way in preventing your feet from slipping through the spurs and becoming trapped.
Invest in the basic necessities first. Whether it’s competitive or casual, making sure that you’re outfitted in quality equestrian equipment can save you and your horse a lot of downtime and prevent serious injuries.