YOUR ESSENTIAL CHECKLIST FOR EQUESTRIAN ACCESSORIES: THE NECESSARY ITEMS TO ENSURE RIDER AND HORSE SAFETY

Horses and their riders need the right gear and accessories in order to stay safe while participating in equestrian sports, such as trail riding, western riding, and pony sport. In this blog post, we will discuss the items that are essential for horse and rider safety such as a helmet, saddle, boot, bit, glove and other necessary accessories. We’ll look at different types of each item to make sure you have the right equipment for your particular sport or discipline. Read on to discover the must-have list of items that all riders should be sure to have with them on every ride.

WHAT ACCESSORIES ARE NEEDED FOR RIDERS AND HORSES?

In order to ensure a safe and enjoyable equestrian experience, riders and their horses require certain accessories. A properly fitted helmet is one of the key items that should be at the top of any rider's list. Helmets come in various sizes, styles, and materials including leather or metal. When selecting a helmet, it is important to make sure it fits correctly and provides the right level of protection for the riding activities you plan to do.

The next type of accessory riders will need is a saddle that provides support to both horse and rider. Saddles are available in different types such as English or Western, online or custom made. When choosing a saddle, factors such as size, balance, weight distribution, fit, position on horse’s back and material should all be considered.

Boots are another essential item for both riders and horses when engaging in equestrian activities. Riding boots vary in style and material such as leather, synthetics or rubber. It is important to select the best boot type for your specific activity level, terrain, and environment.

The last item on the list of basic accessories for riders and horses is a bit. Bits can come in various metals, styles and sizes, and provide control over the horse's head. When selecting a bit, it is important to consider its shape, size, material, style and fit. It is also important to know how to properly fit a bit and learn proper maintenance techniques.

WHAT OTHER ITEMS ARE NECESSARY WHEN RIDING?

In addition to the essential items discussed above, there are additional items riders should have on hand when engaging in equestrian activities. These include items used for control of the horse such as bridles and stirrups, as well as items to improve comfort and convenience while mounted such as gloves and reins. Bridles come in many different styles from simple snaffles to leverage or sidepull designs. Stirrups also vary in type depending on the activity level, terrain and environment. Gloves are a great way to improve grip when riding; however, riders should ensure that their gloves offer adequate protection from any metal or leather parts of the equipment.

In addition to bridles, stirrups and gloves, reins are an important feature for controlling the horse. Reins can come in cotton, leather or webbed materials and be designed with or without stops. Trail gear is also essential when riding on trails and includes items such as a first-aid kit, grooming supplies, snacks, cell phone and an emergency kit.

Completing the trail gear checklist is the final item - the tack and leather kits. There are many types of tack kits available that include items such as stirrup leathers, cheek pieces, girths, martingales and spurs. It is important to select the right kit for your activities and to know how to properly care for the equipment.

WHAT ACCESSORIES ARE USED TO CONTROL A HORSE?

While most riders understand that stirrups, reins and bridles are used to control a horse during riding, there are other accessories that are also important for this purpose. Bits play an important role in controlling a horse's head. Bits come in various styles such as snaffle, leverage or sidepull designs. When selecting a bit, riders should consider its shape, size, material style, fit and proper fitting techniques. In addition to bits, other items that can be used to control a horse include spurs, martingales and girths. It is important for riders to understand how and when to use these items for safe riding.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD RIDERS HAVE ON HAND WHEN RIDING?

As mentioned above, trail gear is essential when riding on trails, but there are a few other items that riders should bring along. Grooming supplies such as brushes, combs, hoof picks, shampoos and conditioners are essential for maintaining the horse's coat and hooves. Additionally, a first aid kit should be included in the trail gear or carried separately. It is also important to have treats and feed available to keep the horse motivated and energized.

CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF YOUR EQUESTRIAN EQUIPEMENT

Waterproof or water-repellent rainwear requires careful maintenance to maintain its properties over time. You will find in our selection of textile care products a range of products dedicated to all textiles adapted to your different uses as a rider, for your training sessions, horse shows and when riding.

See our care guides for riding clothes to preserve your favourite clothes for a long time.

CONCLUSION

Using the right accessories when engaging in equestrian activities is key to keeping both riders and horses safe. This list of items includes helmets, saddles pad, saddle pads, horse ear caps, gloves, socks, groom's backpack, gloves reins, trail gear, tack and leather kits, bridles, stirrups, grooming supplies and a first aid kit. The right combination of these items will ensure a pleasant experience for everyone involved.