saddle
Test out equipment that you buy on your horse to see if it actually fits snugly and it doesn’t cause the animal any discomfort
Don’t skimp on the price – Quality and durable riding equipment will not come cheap. Be ready to invest in your horse if you are looking to enjoy comfortable rides for a long time to come
Horses are prone to injuries just like other animals. Attempting to ride an injured horse can be a dangerous venture not to mention that you will likely end up injuring the animal more. It is therefore important to have a fully-stocked first aid kit at hand when going riding.
A girth or cinch is a band that is used to strap the saddle securely in place on the horse’s back so as to prevent it from falling off. The girth/cinch usually goes around the belly of the horse.
As a rider, some of the key equipment you should purchase includes riding boots, a helmet, riding pants, and a comfortable vest/shirt, among others. Once you are all set, it is now time to think about your horse.
Saddle pads are usually placed between the horse and the saddle to provide a cushion that prevents discomfort for the horse.
The proper equipment usually helps in ensuring the safety of both the rider and the horse while also reducing the risk of injuries to both parties.
Reins are usually held in the hand and they help in controlling the horse.
A saddle is usually placed on the back of a horse to provide the rider with a stable seating platform when riding. Saddles can be found in two main styles – English or Western.
Further, grooming your horse daily will give you a clear idea of how your horse should look like when it is healthy. This means that you will easily be able to notice changes in the horse’s health quickly.
The bit is a piece of rod that usually goes into the mouth of the horse while a hackamore is a fashioned rod that is placed over the nose of the horse. Both the bit and hackamore together with the reins usually help in controlling the movement of the horse.
Note that the style of saddle that you choose will dictate the specific type of associated components that you can purchase.
If you are a novice rider, don’t be afraid to consult a seasoned equestrian or a supplier of riding equipment before making a purchase
Ensure that you buy the necessary primary gear along with the associated riding components
Note that your choice of saddle style will determine whether you buy a girth or cinch. If you have a Western style saddle, you should focus on getting a cinch. If you own an English style saddle, focus on finding a cinch.
Some of the essential items that should be in your grooming kit include a hoof pick (to get rid of debris that lodges in the horse’s shoes), a stiff brush, a curry comb, mane and tail brushes, soft cloth, fly whisk, and a curry comb. You can also include a fly spray in the kit.
While atop a horse, you will have to communicate with the animal so as to provide directions on where you want to go. A bridle usually fits on the head of a horse and it is usually used in conjunction with reins and a hackamore or bit.
Without stirrup irons and leather, climbing atop a horse can prove tricky and awkward. Even if you manage to eventually get on the horse, the ride can be extremely uncomfortable and painful for both you and the horse.
There are many types of riding equipment that you will need to ensure maximum comfort and safety for your horse. Note that there is certain equipment that you can forego depending on your horse, level of experience, and type of riding that you are participating in.
Note that you can either buy a pre-stocked kit or make your own. Some of the items to have in the horse’s first aid kit include: a digital thermometer, cutters, cotton or padding, antiseptic solutions, wound cream, self-sticking bandages, and wraps, among others.
Just like most other pets and animals, you can learn the health status of your horse by simply looking at the sheen and shine of its coat. A healthy animal should have a shiny coat with all furs properly in place.