Whether it’s your first time in the saddle or you’re a seasoned rider, there are some essentials you need to ensure you are protected at all times. Keeping the wellbeing of both yourself and your horse at the forefront. In this guide, we are sharing our top tips on what to wear when horse riding, covering a variety of riding gear ranging from base layers to competition wear. Helping you dress with style, comfort and safety in mind.  So if you are new to riding, add these essentials to your kit list.

Base Layers

For both first-time riders and riding enthusiasts, base layers are an absolute must. These are thermal pieces that are designed to regulate the body’s temperature; by removing moisture. Helping you to stay warm or cool depending on the conditions. Base layers are multipurpose items that can be used in a range of environments, to match riding intensity and potential change in weather conditions. Our horse riding base layers are available in a range of colours and styles, crafted from breathable materials with UV SPF 40 fabric. Perfect for sporting activities all year round.

Riding Sweatshirt

Whether you are out horse riding or helping out at the stables, having a durable and comfortable mid-layer is a must. A riding sweatshirt is warm, breathable and thermo-regulating clothing that pairs with other riding pieces or layered up with a riding jacket or coat. The perfect style to wear when horse riding, would be a sweatshirt that has a zip, making it easy to take off without getting off the horse. And more importantly, without taking off your riding helmet. We have a range of half-zip sweatshirts that come in a variety of colours, styles and fleece types. With our sweatshirts and hoodies being the perfect clothing piece to wear after training or everyday wear. While our V-Neck Jumper is more breathable, easily worn under a jacket.

Riding Leggings

Riding tights, also known as equestrian leggings are a key piece of clothing that  guarantees comfort and flexibility throughout your horse riding experience. A great alternative to jodhpurs and breeches, riding leggings are made from a thinner fabric. Giving the rider a closer feel with their horse, whilst offering great freedom of movement. Lightweight and comfortable activewear that is suitable for horse riding, competition training and even a trip to the gym. Our riding leggings are designed not only for horseback riding but for everyday training and sporting activities. Made with breathable, moisture-wicking fabric, featuring two added phone pockets in a variety of colours. Stylish and functional riding wear that is great for on the go style.

Fitted Riding Helmet

The essential item for everyone when horse riding. Safety should always be taken seriously, as no matter how well trained the horse is, horses can still be unpredictable. Making this an absolute essential. If you are training with a riding school, they provide helmets that can be adjusted to your head size and meet the current safety standards. Alternatively, you can purchase your riding helmet directly from an equestrian store, however, we do advise you physically try on your helmet before purchasing. Ensuring it is comfortable, robust and safe.

One of our favourites (as pictured above) is Antares

Equestrian Headband

This may not be at the top of your riding kit list, but it should be. A stylish and practical accessory that helps to keep your ears warm on colder days and keeps your hair under control. We offer a range of 100% cotton headbands, with a soft fleece lining. Style with your hair down or in a ponytail, keeping your ears warm and yourself looking fashionable. Learn more here.

Riding Boots

When it comes to footwear for your first horse riding lessons, any pair of strong boots would be work providing they are not too grippy, like hiking boots. These help you get on and off the horse, without setting your feet stuck in the stirrups. If you are learning through a riding school, they may allow you to wear trainers until you find something more suitable and some provide this footwear to ensure safety. We recommend for those looking to upgrade their equestrian footwear, that their riding boots have a small heel. This reduces the risk of your foot slipping in the stirrup and any falls around your horse. Whilst also providing protection against accidental step ons, from your horse. Remember  - it is always important to wear the correct footwear around your horse to avoid any rider injury. 

Summer and Winter Riding

Depending on weather conditions, your choice of equestrian clothing will vary. You should dress accordingly, choosing the most suitable gear for the climate and environment you are riding in. If you are riding in a warmer environment, consider moisture-wicking fabrics and breathable clothing. We recommend our summer riders wear our half-zip base layers, offering built in UV protection, alongside our riding leggings (as mentioned above) and short riding boots in this weather. Providing effective ventilation and moisture level support, so you can ride comfortably in the hot weather.

Here at Mochara, we also have Riding Tops & Technical T-Shirts, designed with the warmer weather in mind. With moisture wicking fabric, ideal for wearing during competition and weekly training. Offering ultimate practicality and style for riders, available in a variety of colours.

In the colder months, it’s vital you layer up and stay warm when riding. So you can have a great ride in Winter, despite the weather conditions. For our winter riders, we recommend wearing our riding headbands, half-zip base layers and riding leggings. Our riding leggings are designed with moisturising locking fabric, providing ease of movement and offering style and practicality, whilst keeping you safe and comfortable when riding. 

We’d also suggest riders invest in sweaters for this season. Our range of riding sweaters are designed with a fleece layer to keep you warm whilst training, helping out at the stables or even worn day to day. Made specifically with colder climates in mind. 

Is there anything you shouldn’t wear riding?

Whilst we have covered what to wear when riding, some items should never be worn for rider safety, overall comfort and the horse’s wellbeing. Shorts should never be worn when riding as these rub your legs in the saddle and can cause long term discomfort. 

Additionally, shoes, like sandals, tennis shoes or open-toe shoes could cause rider injury and are likely to get stuck in the stirrups. Only riding boots should be worn. 

No casual headwear like baseball caps or sun hats should be worn. These are inadequate in protecting your head if you suffer from a head injury or fall. For both novice riders and advanced professionals, always wear a helmet when horse riding. 

Whilst hoodies can be worn around the stable yard, we would not recommend wearing this while riding. These can cause injury when caught on something and it’s considered dangerous, as it could hurt both yourself and the horse. Instead opt to wear our half - zip sweatshirts and sweaters. Built to keep you warm, safe and provide the ultimate comfort. The perfect alternative. 

Whether trying horse riding for the first time or a seasoned rider, you need form-fitting attire with a range of movements that compliments your riding. Our equestrian clothing range offers practical, stylish and comfortable pieces. Helping you feel amazing when training.

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