When starting out riding, there is plenty to be excited about. However, getting a whole new wardrobe just for riding is definitely up near the top of the list. Horseback riding fashion is huge and people get really into showing their sense of style when on their horses. Before you really start developing your equestrian fashion, you will need some of the basics to get you started.
Here is a mini guide to help you know what you riding apparel you need first.
What To Keep In Mind When Choosing Riding Clothes
When you start shopping for riding clothes, there are some things to keep in mind:
- Blisters: There is a lot of body movement that goes into riding, your feet, legs, butt, and hands are all touching the horse and tack. This sort of rubbing and friction can cause blisters.
- Chafing: Just like how blisters can occur, chafing can also happen. Sometimes rubbing can lead to uncomfortable rashes and even bleeding. This can negatively impact the riding experience and lead you to take days or weeks off riding.
- Allergies: Poor ventilation or quality can cause allergic reactions. If the skin cannot breathe through the riding clothes, this can cause a lot of discomforts.
You can avoid these issues by buying high-quality clothing that fits properly and has good ventilation.
Riding Clothes Necessities
Good Mobility
Your riding clothing should not restrict your movements. They should be loose enough to let you move freely, but tight enough to not wrinkle or get caught during your movements. Clothing that is too tight can cause chafing, blisters and can also interfere with proper movement. And, clothing that is too loose can also cause discomfort by getting caught or twisted, which can also hinder mobility.
Proper Tailoring
Choosing riding clothing that is made from high-quality material, custom and properly tailored is always the best bet. This is especially true for competitive riders. Show jackets can be tailored according to your right size and this will ensure maximum comfort in the show ring.
The Right Boots & Half-Chaps
Wearing paddock or dress boots with be very beneficial to your riding. Make sure your riding boots have a heel and are made for horseback riding. The heel helps ensure that your foot won’t slip through the stirrup. Wearing boots is also important off the horse too. You can really get hurt if a horse steps on your foot.
If you go with a paddock boot, you may want to get some half-chaps. Half-chaps are slip covers that go over your boot and zip up under your knee. They help protect your legs from rubbing and also protect your breeches from wear and tear.
Breeches or Jodhpurs
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Well-fitted pants are essential when riding. They won’t snag, tangle or twist when riding which helps with comfort and mobility. Get pants that are specifically meant for riding. Many of them will have proper padding on the inner legs to help with grip in the saddle.
Breeches and jodhpurs are similar. The biggest difference is that jodhpurs have a stirrup that goes under the arch of the boot to hold the pants down. Jodhpurs are often worn by children and young riders at the beginning of their careers, while breeches can be worn at any point in your career.
Socks and Gloves
With your boot socks, you don’t need to worry too much. Anything that is tall and won’t slip off or cut off your circulation will work well.
For your gloves, you will want something durable. You will be holding onto leather or rubber reins, if you don’t wear gloves you will most likely get blisters. You will probably want gloves for both winter and summer. Something with good ventilation in the summer and something to keep you warm in the winter.
Safety Equipment
Taking your safety seriously is important. Always wear a helmet that fits properly and is ASTM/SEI certified. Additionally, always ensure that you are maintaining and taking care of your helmet. Not wearing a helmet can be risky. You never know what may spook your horse. Not wearing a helmet and getting knocked off can lead to serious injury and even death.
Wearing a body protector or airbag vest is another great way to ensure your safety. Most injuries that happened when riding are to the head, neck, spine, chest, and arms. Most of the time, an injury to the neck, spine, and chest will happen in one situation. You can avoid these serious and sometimes fatal injuries by protecting your core with an air vest.
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