Taking up horse riding is an exciting adventure, but it requires a certain amount of equipment to guarantee safety, comfort and efficiency during sessions. Today, CAMAYA shares a list of must-have equipment for beginner riders.
Riding pants : a must for comfort
Riding pants are a staple for any rider, beginner or otherwise.
Designed to be snug-fitting, elastic and close to the body, they help prevent chafing and injury to the legs, particularly when in contact with the saddle. A good pair of pants should allow the rider to move freely, without being hindered, while providing optimum support during movement.
Models with reinforced knees or seat are particularly appreciated for their durability and added comfort.
Note : well-fitting pants help to maintain a correct position in the saddle, promoting good engagement of leg and back muscles.
Boots with mini-chaps : protection and flexibility
Knee-high riding boots protect the rider’s legs from rubbing against stirrup leathers and prevent unpleasant pinching.
However, boots, combined with mini-chaps, are a more flexible and equally effective alternative. They allow the rider to remove the mini-chaps after the session while keeping the boots, which are often more comfortable to walk in.
Whether you opt for boots or boots with mini-chaps, the important thing is to choose a model that provides good ankle support while allowing the calf to move freely. This helps avoid unnecessary muscle tension during long sessions.
The bomb or helmet : safety first
The bomb or helmet is mandatory for all riders, whether beginners or experienced.
Its function is to protect the head in the event of a fall, an omnipresent risk in horse riding.
Important: it’s advisable to change your helmet every five years, or after a serious fall, even if there are no visible signs of deterioration.
Helmets must meet strict safety standards. It is crucial to without sacrificing comfort. A too-tight or ill-fitting helmet can hamper concentration and posture in the saddle.
The protective vest : insurance for your back and ribs
The protective vest is a recommended piece of equipment, especially during jumping or cross-country sessions. The vest is designed to protect the back and ribs in the event of a fall, reducing the risk of serious injury.
Like the helmet, the vest must meet specific safety standards.
In addition to protecting against impact, a well-designed vest helps maintain good posture, essential for preventing muscular strain in the back and shoulders, areas that are particularly stressed when riding.
Gloves : comfort and control
Although not compulsory, gloves are very useful for preventing blisters from rubbing on the reins, especially in winter or when the rider’s hands are more sensitive. They also ensure a better grip on the reins, offering better control over the horse.
Grooming equipment: a moment of connection with the horse
In addition to personal equipment, every beginner rider quickly becomes familiar with grooming tools, essential for the horse’s well-being.
Several tools are indispensable :
The currycomb: whether metal, rubber or plastic, it loosens dirt and clumped hair with circular movements.
The plug or hard brush: useful after the currycomb to remove dust residues, it can also be used to brush the tail.
The soft brush: used to remove dust from the horse’s most sensitive areas, notably the head and bony parts.
The hoof pick: an essential tool for cleaning hooves, especially the fork and gaps, often filled with mud and stones.
Comb: used to detangle the mane, it helps maintain a well-groomed appearance.
Sponge: gently cleanses the horse’s eyes and nostrils.
Grooming is not just a question of cleanliness.
It’s also a moment of connection between rider and horse, a massage that benefits both skin and muscles. By stimulating blood circulation and relaxing the skin muscles, grooming allows the horse to relax and release tension.
This link between care and well-being is directly linked to the horse’s myology, an aspect detailed in our book available for purchase: “Myologie du cheval: muscle par muscle”.
Riding a horse : a budget to plan for
In addition to basic rider equipment such as saddle pads, gaiters, snaffle or halter, often supplied by equestrian clubs, owners must invest in additional equipment for their own horse. Riding equipment for beginners is therefore an investment, albeit an essential one, if you are to start riding in the best possible conditions.
It guarantees safety and comfort, and contributes to better posture, thus fostering an enriching experience for both rider and horse.