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If you love being outdoors and plan to take a horseback riding trip, it is important to dress properly. Dressing appropriately for horseback riding trips can help make the experience more enjoyable and ensure your safety. Without proper clothing, you can suffer from sunburn and chafing, or worse – risk injury from falls. Fortunately, a few key elements should be included in your wardrobe for the perfect horseback ride. Let’s get to the list.
Protect Your Feet With the Right Boots
Good boots are essential for a safe and successful ride. Choose a pair with smooth leather and no laces or buckles that can snag on the stirrups. Boots should be snug but comfortable, as you don’t want them to slip off your feet during the ride. You can visit equestrian shops to get an exact fit and the right style. Ensure they provide good ankle support, so you don’t twist your ankle during a ride.
When choosing boots, also consider the weather. If it’s hot, look for a pair with breathable material. If it’s cold or raining, choose boots with waterproof protection. Ensure that these shoes are made for riding horses and not just walking; they should have a short heel to fit into the stirrup.
Wear Protective Clothing to Cover Your Body
To stay protected while horse riding, make sure you wear close-fitting clothes. Loose clothing can get caught on the horse’s legs or your saddle. Long pants should be worn to guard against scratches and abrasions in case of a fall. Jeans are ideal for most riders as they provide protection and ease during movement.
To keep your chest area covered, you should wear a riding shirt. It should fit snugly and be comfortable for long rides. Look for a shirt with breathable material to keep your body cool and a collar to protect your neck from sunburns.
For the upper body, you may want to consider a riding vest. It will provide extra protection and support during the ride.
Choose the Right Headwear
You need to protect your head from the sun, and any potential falls. The ideal headwear is a riding helmet, which comes in different styles and colors. It should fit snugly but not too tight so it doesn’t hinder your vision or breathing. Look for one with breathable material to cool your head on hot days. You may also want to wear a bandana or scarf to protect your face and neck from the sun.
Finally, you should bring along sunglasses and a hat with a broad brim to keep the sun out of your eyes. Choose polarized lenses that reduce glare off reflective surfaces like water or snow. If your helmet has a visor, remember to remove it before mounting your horse, as it can be a hazard.
Protect Your Sensitive Parts
You should pay extra attention to areas that are more sensitive to the elements, like your hands and ears. Invest in good quality riding gloves that provide protection while keeping your hands comfortable. You can also opt for arm-length gauntlets to cover your wrists.
For your ears, don’t forget to use a pair of earplugs to prevent hearing damage from prolonged exposure to loud noises. This is especially important if you’re riding on a busy road or in an area with heavy machineries like tractors and mowers. Lastly, use a lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from sunburns.
Undergarments
You need to wear the right undergarments when horseback riding. Choose clothing made from breathable materials like cotton and polyester to avoid getting sweaty and uncomfortable. Look for light, loose-fitting items that still provide good coverage. You may also want to wear padded cycling shorts or briefs to help prevent chafing. Also, remember to wear socks that won’t slip off your feet or bunch up in your boots.
While you don’t have to find new undergarments for every ride, it’s important to check them for signs of wear and tear. Replace stretched-out or frayed items, which can cause discomfort during the ride. Moreover, clean and air out your gear regularly to keep them fresh.
Get the Right Accessories
Some additional accessories can help make your horseback riding trip comfortable and successful. Bring along a water bottle to stay hydrated, and attach it to the saddle so you can easily take a sip during the ride. You may also want to bring a digital camera or phone with you and binoculars for bird watching.
Finally, don’t forget your riding bag! This should contain a first aid kit, snacks, and other supplies you may need during the ride. The first aid kit should contain plasters, bandages, and over-the-counter painkillers. Pack healthy snacks like fruit, nuts, and energy bars to refuel during the ride.
Steer Clear of Runway Fashion
Many individuals would want to look their best while riding. While there is nothing wrong with that, it’s important to remember that horseback riding is a sport, so you should dress for the occasion, not for the runway. Choose clothing that allows you to move freely and provides ample protection in case of a fall.
Above all else, ensure your outfit doesn’t interfere with the safety of other riders or your horse. Avoid any accessories, such as scarves that could get caught on something and put you in danger. You can work with experts for more tips on how to dress properly for a horseback riding trip.
Avoid Excess Accessories
While riding, it’s important to keep things simple. Avoid wearing long jewelry that can snag on the saddle or get caught in your horse’s mane. Also, leave wallets and cell phones at home; you don’t want them to fall out of your pocket during a ride.
Moreover, you should minimize the amount of gear you bring with you. Too many objects can add weight and make it difficult for your horse to move comfortably. Instead, opt for a smaller bag or pouch that contains all the items you need during the ride, such as water bottles, snacks, first aid supplies, and other essentials.
Overall, proper dressing is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable horseback riding trip. Choose breathable clothing made of lightweight materials and free of excess accessories that could lead to potential danger. Don’t forget to wear the right gloves and ear protection while packing healthy snacks, a first aid kit, and other essentials in your bag. With the right preparations, you can have a thrilling and safe horseback riding experience.
