What to Wear for Horse Riding
You don't need to buy specialist kit for your first lesson — just a few basics will keep you safe and comfortable.
🪖 Riding Hats
Riding hats are provided and available to borrow at no extra cost, so you don't need your own to get started. If you ride regularly, we recommend investing in a hat that meets the current PAS 015 or BSEN 1384 safety standard — our instructors are happy to advise on fit.
👢 Footwear
Your footwear needs a small heel (at least 1cm) to stop your foot slipping through the stirrup — this is a safety requirement.
- • Wellies (if they have a heel)
- • Jodhpur boots
- • Ankle boots with a heel
- • Short or long riding boots
- • Sturdy lace-up boots with a heel
- • Trainers or flat-soled shoes
- • Sandals or flip-flops
- • High heels
👕 Clothing
Wear long, comfortable, close-fitting trousers — jodhpurs or leggings without thick seams are ideal, and jeans are fine too — along with a comfortable fitted top. Bring a waterproof in wet weather and gloves when it's cold. Dress for the weather, as lessons run outdoors in most conditions.
- • Baggy or flapping clothing
- • Scarves that could catch
- • Jewellery that could snag
🦺 Body Protectors
A body protector isn't required for standard lessons, but is recommended for jumping or cross-country riding. Speak to your instructor if you're progressing to these activities.
First lesson? Don't stress about having the perfect kit. As long as you have suitable footwear with a heel, you're good to go — we'll sort the hat. Our instructors will guide you on what to invest in as you progress.
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