How To Choose And Buy Riding Clothes

Step 1: The benefits

You will be much safer when riding with the correct riding wear
You will be more comfortable and incur less injuries
And you will look neater and more professional

Step 2: You will need …

Step 3: Fitting a hat

Measure the circumference of you head, just above the brow bone. The hat is the most important piece of equipment that you will need to buy, so it's vital that it's well fitted. You will now have a good indication of your size, so start trying on a few different makes of hats. Just as heads come in different shapes and sizes, so do different makes of hats. Always try a hat on with the chin strap left undone. When you tip your head forwards the hat should not fall off, or wobble when you move your head. It should fit snugly all around and not dig in anywhere. Now that it fits securely, the chin strap can now be fastened and should fit closely around the chin.

Step 4: Fitting boots

You can wear either short or long boots. For an accurate measurement, take the measuring tape and measure from just behind the knee, down to the back of the heel and around the widest part of the calf. This will give you a good idea of which size and make to try on. They should fit snugly around the leg with enough room to flex at the ankle, without digging into the back of the leg. It's important that both have a flat sole and a small heel. This stops the foot slipping through the stirrup iron, which prevents you from being dragged. Long boots protect the inside of your calf from the stirrup leather pinching your leg.

Step 5: Fitting half chaps

If you prefer to wear short boots then half chaps are recommended to be worn on the lower leg. To correctly fit them, measure them as you would long boots. Half chaps offer protection from the stirrup leather pinching your leg. And as with long boots, they should be long enough not get caught under the saddle flaps. But not too long so they dig in the back of your knee.

Step 6: Fitting gloves

Riding gloves are mandatory for competition, but optional for everyday riding. However, for warmth, grip and to prevent chaffing they are thoroughly recommended. They should fit snugly to the hand but allow enough movement for rein contact.

Step 7: Fitting jodhpurs

Although they are not mandatory to wear, jodhpurs offer more comfort when riding. They are stretchy and are designed not to have a seam on the seat area and inside the leg. This is for extra protection and to prevent chaffing when the rider comes in contact with the saddle. Never wear any trousers with buckles or studs that may damage the saddle. Make sure your jodhpurs allow you to bend and move comfortably.

Step 8: Fitting a jacket

A well fitted jacket should always be worn fastened. This is in case it flaps and spooks your horse. It should be vented at the sides to allow free movement whilst in the saddle.

Step 9: Fitting a body protector

Take the measurements whilst wearing snug fitting outer clothing. Measure hip to hip over the shoulder, then the chest, around the waist and down the length of the back to the base of the spine. A body protector should be worn at all times for extra protection. It protects the entire body and the major organs. It should fit snugly to the body.

You are now correctly dressed to ride your horse.

You can also carry a long dressage whip for schooling or a shorter one for jumping and hacking.