Resources for New Students
What do I wear?
Students often have questions about what they need for their riding lessons. Below you'll find a list of items you need, and items we recommend.
Riding Helmet
The most important part of your riding attire, a Riding Helmet is critical to your safety. Riding Helmets must be ASTM and SEI certified riding helmets specifically designed for a fall from a horse. (Bicycle helmets will not work.) The Riding School has some loaner helmets, but proper fit is critical, so we encourage students to purchase their own.
Riding Pants
Jodhpurs, also called breeches or English riding pants, are tight-fitting trousers that reach to the ankle, where they end in a snug cuff, and are worn primarily for horse riding. You can find riding pants or riding tights at your local Dover Saddlery. Here's a weblink to what you should look for.
Riding Boots
Second only to a helmet, your footwear is an important gear category for horse riding. Paddock boots are short boots that come just above the ankle, with a slight heel. While the Riding School does have some loaners, its important that you have a well-fitting pair of boots when you ride. Here's a weblink:
Other Recommended Items
The other items students should consider purchasing include:
- Riding Gloves - These will provide the grip you need to grip the reins, with flexibility to bend your fingers as needed.
- Half-chaps - Half chaps are worn over paddock boots to protect the rider's lower legs while riding. They offer the benefits of tall boots with less maintenance, less break in time, and a more affordable price. Half chaps come in leather, suede, and synthetic material options to suit every rider.
- Riding Shirt - Moisture-wicking for summer and long sleeve for winter, this should be tucked in and not too loose.