What does the new rider need to get started?
A certified riding helmet is a must whenever you ride. No reputable trainer will let you ride without one. Safe riding helmets are certified by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI). Equestrian helmets are designed specifically to protect the rider's head from high falls or kicks from horses, and bike and other sports helmets are not designed to protect against these types of injuries.
Riding helmets can cost more than $500, but for the new rider or those on a budget, we recommend the ASTM/SEI certified Troxel Sport, which only costs $19.99 and provides more than adequate protection.
The next-most important safety item for the new rider is
appropriate riding footwear.
Paddock
boots, whether laced or zipped,
have a sturdy toe cap to protect the rider's foot when on the
ground, a smooth, hard sole to help the foot slide out of the
stirrup in case of a fall, and a small heel, which keeps the foot
from sliding forward through the stirrup while riding. We recommend our
starter
paddock boots for all beginning riders, especially children,
because at $39.99, they are more affordable for growing feet than
traditional tall boots.
While not required for safety reasons, we strongly suggest a pair of half chaps, which when worn with paddock boots, help the rider grip the saddle and prevent chaffing. Our half chaps start at $34.99.
Finally, gloves give any level rider a firmer grip on the reins and help prevent blisters -- especially those with pimpled palms like our gripper glove priced at $9.99.