Essential Horse Riding Equipment You Need

Horse equipment is more than just a set of accessories that grab during a show or a competition. It’s vital to the safety and comfort of both rider and horse. To get the most out of the horseback riding experience, you need the proper gear that fits well and provides optimal protection. The following gives you an overview of the items you’ll need for your next ride or training session.

Horse-Riding Equipment for the Rider

For a leisurely ride, wearing comfortable clothing that doesn’t restrict movement makes the experience all the more enjoyable. Starting with the pants, you’ll want to opt for the type with patches on the inside. These patches of material provide traction and keep you from slipping on the saddle. Also, riding pants have no inseam. Your choices of riding pants can range from a simple pair of riding jeans for trail riding to jodhpurs for saddle seat riding to breeches for dressage. Likewise, shirts should also be comfortable and made from breathable fabric.

Sometimes referred to as paddocks, equestrian riding boots are some of the most common varieties. They’re crafted from leather and go up to the knee. However, you can also opt for boots that double up as both riding and hiking boots or cowboy boots would work well. You should wear boots with at least a one-inch heel to prevent your foot from slipping out of the stirrup.



A wide-brim hat protects your face from the wind and sun. Plus, the ever-popular cowboy hat serves the same purpose while looking stylish. Or for just casual riding, you can’t go wrong with a ball cap, especially if in the back. 

While hats may add a fashionable touch to your ride, safety should always come first, which means wearing a riding helmet. If you're using a bike helmet, that won't provide sufficient protection in case of a fall. There are helmets specifically designed for horseback riding. Additionally, it's to invest in a brand-new helmet rather than opting for a used one. An experienced instructor can assist you in adjusting the straps to ensure a perfect fit and optimal protection against head trauma.



In addition to your apparel, helmet, and boots, you’ll need to give careful attention to the saddle. If you don’t have your horse but are taking lessons, you’ll need it with an adjustable gullet. This type adjusts to the size and shape of the horse, thus making the ride more comfortable for both the animal and the rider. And don’t forget the saddle pad (also known as a saddle blanket) goes underneath the saddle.

Depending on the climate in your region and the season, you might consider keeping a blanket or sheet for your horse—a sheet guard against flies and mosquitoes along with wind and rain. A horse blanket, on the other hand, offers extra warmth during the cold-weather seasons. Also, you can find blankets that vary in thickness and coverage. If you’re unsure about whether you can if your horse is getting cold by feeling the legs and muzzle. If they’re out, then your horse would greatly appreciate the blanket. 

In addition to your saddle, your leather tack includes the leather horse bridle, bit, and reins. These items allow you to effectively communicate with your horse while riding, which is why they must fit comfortably on the horse. A trainer can assist you in finding the perfect fit for your horse, but you can also assess the comfort of it and the length of the reins. If there's plenty of slack when your horse lowers his head and nose, your reins are the correct length. Additionally, ensure you have a bit that's appropriate for your horse's size and breed. If it's too uncomfortable, the horse may toss its head while you're riding.

Knowing what you need to get started as a fledgling rider is quite helpful, but do you know of a one-stop shop that offers all the mentioned gear and more? American Horse Products offers a wide variety of saddles and tack equipment for Western and English riding, helmets, and other riding gear and apparel. Moreover, there are experts on hand to answer any questions about horse riding equipment and to advise you about getting accurate measurements to get the best fit for your horse. You can also count on their expertise in the areas of safety equipment. Contact them online or go by the shop to check out their inventory.