Importance Of Equestrian Equipment

Posted on 08. Oct, 2009 by in Horse Riding Gear and Accessories

Horse riding clothing is not just for show but designed to be fitted to the purpose of horseback riding, meaning it is durable and comfortable for the horse rider at the same time. In order for an equestrian to be protected well, there are a lot of types of clothing that need to be worn. For equestrian activities, the essential items of clothing are the boots, chaps, gaiters breeches and jodhpurs for the legs, the jacket and body protector for the torso, and the hat for the head. It is vital for someone new to know each type of dress. Each individual’s favorite might vary but it is necessary to be have knowledge about the basics before buying any clothes since horse back horse riding can be pricey and the clothes for this activity is no exception.

The most important apparel is the horseback riding hat because it safeguards the riders from falls which can be experienced whether you are in or out of a contest and while horses can be trained they can still be unpredictable. The hat, with its hard shell and shock absorbing lining, provides safe-guardion for the horse rider in case of a fall. It’s essential to use them even when not horseback riding because the horse could kick a rider instead so it’s essential that you wear them while handling horses on the ground.

If the rider suffers from a fall the hat should be replaced right away as the fall can diminish the hat’s integrity. The protection also decreases over time as the padding compresses from daily use so riding headgear should be exchanged ever three to four years. The first of the three basic hats available for riders is the classic riding hat constructed with a hard peak and traditionally made from velvet cloth in brown, black, or navy.

The 2nd is the skull cap which is also alluded to as the jockey cap which doesn’t have a peak and is generally worn by jockeys. Peak covers can give a skull cap the appearance of a horseback riding hat, a look which is gaining in popularity for both leisure and competition. Novelty silks are also made for youngsters, and they sometimes have eyes and ears attached to them. Similar to a cycling equestrian helmet is the skull protector, it is ventilated and lightweight, making those warm summer day rides a lot more comfortable.

Riding hats have chin straps and should conform to the riding hat safety standards and the United Kingdom for instance, has 3 safety standards. Riding headgear should follow one of these criteria for optimum safety of the rider so the chin straps should be able to secure the hat safely and securely on the horse riders head. A starter should be sure to buy a hat that is comfortable, and all horse riders must remember to always secure their headgear when riding. Riding hats are one of the most essential pieces of equestrian apparel. In the event of a fall, horseback riding headgear help safeguard the riders head from severe injuries. Horse riders should not buy a previously owned horseback riding hat because previous damage cannot be seen from the outside and it is possible they will have reduced safety, so always purchase a new hat for ensured safe-guardian.

Choosing A Good Horse Rug

Posted on 02. Oct, 2009 by in Horse Products

Although sometimes thought of as a sport for the affluent, riding and competitive equestrian competitions can be enjoyed by people of all age groups and areas in life. Hours and hours of hard work and discipline go into the coaching of a horse, and riding requires a great deal of patience. Although the rider is every bit as important as their horse, the prospects of winning in the competition do not rely on them and like racing cars it’s essential that horses are in peak health.

There are numerous products out there that could help the horse, most of which are available on the internet and one of the most essential products is the horse blanket which may also be called rugs or sheets. For protection from natural elements a horse blanket is necessary because just like us they need protection from the wind, hot and cold temperatures, and the rain. You must be sure to purchase the correct type of cover to keep your horse warm and free from sickness.

The use of coolers and anti-sweat rugs will help the horses to not get shivers when they are resting post working out. These horse rugs breath and they have different sizes of mesh which keeps off flies. A Fly sheet or rug safeguards the horse from bugs and flies during the summer months when they are grazing. The sheet is also available with extra attachments such as neck covers, hoods and fly masks which help to provide complete protection for the horse.

A summer months sheet keeps flies and dust off horses in the hot, is very light, and can be used as a travel rug. All horses when ridden, are fitted with under-blankets or liners to help lessen rubbing on their backs from the horse rider. There are different materials to choose from, which include the traditional wool under blanket, or the more modern under blanket made of a lightweight material, is often referred to as an under rug.

To keep the horse protected from the harsh winter elements use a stable rug. It not only keeps the horse warm, but is also very fashionable. They come in different colors, weights and thickness. Breathable cloths allow the horse’s sweat to evaporate even through the heaviest, thickest blankets that supply the most warmth. The under blanket can also be laid underneath the stable rug to add heat and this is usually required when the horse is stabled day and night.

Turnout rugs, or blankets, are worn to keep the horse warm and clean in the wintertime while outdoors. Turnout rugs should be lengthy to allow them to cover the belly of the horse, the ruffles on the shoulders should allow movement, and the front edge should overlap well. These rugs also come in different thickness and weights, altering from light weight with no filling for the the summer months, and heavy weight with filling for the wintertime. Choosing a good rug is essential to protect the health of your horse, which, unlike a car, can’t undergo multiple repairs or have worn parts substituted.