So you decided to take your first riding lesson or just going to ride a horse. I’m so happy for you.
Lesson or Casual
One thing to consider when riding in a lesson is that the instructor needs to see your body and how it is moving. What you wear means a lot. So take that under consideration when riding in lessons.
If you are not in a lesson, you can dress casually and comfortably with the weather in mind. There are hints in this post for a better riding experience that will tell why you might choose different clothing styles.
What to wear on your head
For all riding styles, anytime you’re on a horse, you will need an equestrian helmet. For your first few lessons, you should ask if the lesson barn supplies helmets for you. That helmet should be less than 5 years old and should have an ASTM/SEI Certified label on the inside. Follow this link to find out more about the proper use of your equestrian helmet. https://newtohorses.com/what-do-you-wear-to-go-horseback-riding-equestrian-riding-helmets/
Horseback riding is an outside sport.
Working with horses is an outside sport. The sun can be a great thing, but also not so great. Skin needs protection, and long sleeves can protect your arms from burn and damage. Sunscreen is also a great way to protect yourself, especially with the athletic sweat-proof sunscreen we have today. It makes going sleeveless easier. (See below about wearing sleeveless shirts while riding.)
What to wear on your body
It would be best if you tried to wear a T-shirt or any shirt that has sleeves of some sort. If you took a tumble, you would want to protect your shoulders from getting scratched up. Most surfaces that are ridden on have sand mixed in them. Also, shoulders due tend to burn in the sun. Tank tops are great for really hot weather, but I always had my kids and adults ride in sleeves short or long. Today’s T-shirts can be made with 100% polyester, which helps keep cool in the hot weather. And those with 100% cotton can keep you warm.
Below there are a couple of riding shirts that give you an idea of fit. Follow the links to a variety of styles that are made for Equestrian wear.
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Fleece Long Sleeve Shirt for kids
Body Protection
The body is as important to protect as your feet and head. Today body protection has been improved by size and technology. Body protectors come in many sizes, shapes, and abilities. Some sports require or strongly encourage the use of vests. Just like helmets, vests are constructed for different activities in horseback riding disciplines. As a beginner, you and your instructor should decide if a body protection vest is required for your safety.
I am not an expert on body protection. Ask your instructor about the type and design is best for you. This is just a sample of what body protection looks like.
Be prepared for the cold
For cold-weather riding, sweaters are good. Be sure they are no longer than your pants pockets while you are sitting in a chair. When it gets cold enough to wear a coat, try not to wear a bulky winter coat where the instructor cannot see how your body moves. Unless you are riding for fun, then bundle up. Either way, layering is the best because you usually will start sweating once you start to ride. Peeling off layers is preferable to taking your coat off and freezing. Many tack shops carry ear protection that fits under helmets. Some earmuffs also work. Even when riding in the indoor arena, it can be freezing unless insulated and/or heated.
Keep your Fingers Warm
Gloves are important. In the winter, you definitely will need winter riding gloves. Cold fingers are one of the first complaints when the weather starts getting colder. You could wear the stretch nylon ones, but they tend to slip on the reins. And if your hands sweat, they will get wet and won’t keep you warm. They also don’t repel water. They make gloves for all occasions, such as winter, summer, and work. The gloves below are not for winter, but you will find a variety of gloves to choose from if you follow the link.
No baggy pants
Jeans that are snug but not too tight are good. A stretchy pair is really nice. Make sure they are not baggy anywhere. Because of the constant rubbing, you might become chaffed in different areas of your inner leg. Baggy pants also will ride up your leg and leave the skin on your inner leg exposed and may be pinched by the stirrup leather. For girls or women, yoga pants will work to start you out. Later, when you want to invest more into your riding wardrobe, you can start to invest in English riding pants called breeches.
No boxers
This is a sensitive subject, especially for younger boys. Underwear. They should wear “whitey tighties” not boxer shorts. Boxers tend to bind up while riding.
Equestrian Footwear
Footwear is another important topic. When considering footwear, always think about the weather. Toes and fingers always get cold first. And maybe your nose. So consider wearing thicker socks in the winter. After a few lessons, you might want to choose proper riding boots for the rider learning to ride. Please read up on what to wear on your feet in my post at this link: https://newtohorses.com/what-do-you-wear-to-go-horseback-riding-equestrian-footwear/
Don’t panic
Now you know what to wear horseback riding. Remember your first couple of lessons will be very informal. Don’t panic if you don’t have the “equestrian wear.” The lesson barn should have helmets. Don’t wear flip-flops or sandals of any sort for sure. If you find a pair of cowboy boots, wear them until you need to get the proper Equestrian Footwear. Remember protecting your head and feet are most important at all levels.
Now go and enjoy your first lesson or first time around a horse.
