Stylish And Practical Clothing For Horse Riding
As a fashionable guy always looking for that next big thrill, horse riding could be a fantastic choice. It allows you to connect with nature, riding through open fields, mountain trails, or even along the beach. However, it is also important to dress appropriately (and tick those style boxes), which will be the focus of this article. Click to find out more.
Riding a horse is not just a hobby; it is an adventure all by itself. As it is an outdoor activity, you need to wear apparel that is comfortable, functional, and fashionable. Incidentally, my Mom (who you can see here) used to ride horses back in the day (during the 60s/70s) – she loved the adventure!
In the next few steps, I will share several clothing recommendations that will keep you safe and stylish from head to toe.
Riding Helmet
Even though horse riding can be a thrilling experience, it carries a number of risks. As such, you need to protect your head in case of accidents or falls, so investing in a quality riding helmet is a must. Choose a certified helmet that fits snug but not too tight and provides excellent air circulation thanks to a well-designed ventilation system.
Check out premium equestrian shops to find the perfect helmet for your horse-riding expedition. Headwear is available in various designs and styles (so you can still convey your unique tastes when riding). Remember that you should always wear a helmet (there is no excuse not to); it is not worth the risk of injury.
Riding Boots
The correct footwear choice is the next essential you need for your horseback adventures. Riding boots have been designed specifically for horse riding. They feature higher heels to ensure riders’ feet are safely secured in the stirrups. They also include ankle support so riders have increased stability when sitting on their horses.
Additionally, most models utilise a smooth sole to guarantee your foot slides out of the stirrup easily (with less risk of getting stuck). During the selection process, ensure the boots fit snug yet comfortable and allow ease of movement when worn. Choose boots that are durable and long-lasting but also water-resistant to protect against the elements.
You could even incorporate half-chaps or gaiters that defend your legs when riding and also give you extra grip against the saddle. It is also a wise idea to ‘break them in‘ before jumping on the horse so they are comfortable and ready to go (and there is less chance of irritation).
Riding Trousers Or Jeans?
Staying comfortable is essential when sitting on top of your horse, so it is paramount to wear the correct attire. Jeans may seem a great choice, however they can often be uncomfortable and too restrictive for long rides.
The best option is to purchase specialised riding pants constructed using stretchy and breathable fabrics, which allow ease of movement (crucial for this type of activity). Additionally, dedicated riding trousers offer specific features such as reinforced knee patches (to protect against falls) or full-seat grips that provide extra hold when sitting in the saddle.
However, if you are dead set on wearing denim (after all, they provide that unmistakable cowboy look), choose a pair that is well-fitted with a straight or bootleg cut for comfort (as much as I love skinny denim, they are not particularly suitable for horse riding!). Similarly, keep away from styles that are too loose, as they can chaff and be quite uncomfortable during your rides.
Long-sleeved Shirt
For upper-body wear, a long-sleeved shirt is a wardrobe essential for horse riding. A quality button-up will protect your arms from close encounters with the environment, such as tree branches, scrapes and bumps and even the sun’s rays. When shopping for a new shirt, choose breathable and lightweight materials that offer UPF protection for defence against the sun.
An optional extra is shirt fabrics that include moisture-wicking functionality, which keeps your arms, back, and chest cool and dry when on horseback.
As a stylish lifestyle guy, remember to choose a style and colour that pairs with the rest of your riding gear. But also avoid anything too loose, as it will ruin the overall ensemble (and remove the possibility of it getting caught on obstacles or branches).
Finally, make sure your shirt is tucked in (and include a belt) to prevent any accidents by getting caught in your horse saddle.
Accessories To Protect From The Sun
When horse riding, it is a given that you will be spending many hours outdoors, so you must protect your eyes and skin from the damage caused by the sun. Sunglasses are an excellent starting point, defending your eyes from harmful UV rays and allowing you to see much better when riding. Polarised models with a wraparound design are ideal, as they offer extra protection. Additionally, stylish frames add another way to showcase your chic look (especially if you are rocking a designer pair of shades).
Always remember to apply sunscreen to your skin before heading out. Choose a type with at least SPF 30 to help avoid sunburns (and potential long-term damage).
Finally, throw on a wide-brimmed hat to protect your entire face, ears, and neck from the sun. There are hundreds of styles to choose from, with different materials such as cotton, straw, or even leather. A lightweight model with a chinstrap is a great idea, as it will provide ample shade but also stay on your head during those strong gusts of wind!
Comfortable Underwear
Even though it is not the most glamorous of items on my guide, comfy underwear is essential for an enjoyable ride! (The last thing you want is to constantly try and ‘re-adjust’ when riding). Search for underwear designed for athletic activities, which have been designed to avoid chafing and discomfort. You can even select compression shorts if you plan on extra long days out on horseback. It is important to recognise the importance of wearing the correct underwear; they will ensure that your riding time is a positive (and comfortable) experience.
How To Layer Horse Riding Attire
The weather can change in an instant (especially if you live in the UK!), so if you are out enjoying a horse riding event, it is vital to have layering options within your ensemble.
Choose lightweight items with moisture-wicking fabric as a base layer (such as a heavy tee or knit), then add a mid-layer fleece or light jacket. Finally, complete the look with a water and windproof heavy-weight jacket or coat (ideal to protect against heavy rain or strong bouts of wind).
The advantage of incorporating layers into your riding outfits is that you can adjust accordingly on the fly, changing with the weather but never forfeiting comfort. It is also recommended that you bring extra layers with you, just in case you are out till late in the evening when the temperatures drop.
Rain-Weather Apparel
As mentioned, the weather is unpredictable, so always plan for rain (just in case!). Consider wearing a waterproof jacket (or even a poncho) to keep you dry in case of unexpected showers. However, ensure that the material is lightweight, allowing you to breathe (to avoid overheating and sweating).
Additionally, you could wear waterproof trousers (or even chaps) to keep your lower body dry during wet riding conditions. Waterproof accessories can be fantastic extras, too, such as waterproof gloves (especially if you need to handle wet reins).
Finally, invest in a rain cover for your saddle to avoid it getting soaked with water (which would be very uncomfortable to sit on!). If you have the correct rain gear for your horse riding activities, you will be able to ride undeterred in any weather conditions.
Summary
Whether you have only recently begun horse riding or are a veteran in the saddle, the tips in this guide will help you to dress appropriately no matter where you ride. Just remember to ensure your clothing attire is comfortable, safe for riding, and also stylish. Now get out there, saddle up and enjoy your horse riding adventures.
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