As with any type of equestrian activity, proper equipment is essential to maintaining a safe and responsible horseback riding experience. When purchasing horse riding gear, it’s important to select items that are appropriate for your skill level, the weather conditions and the type of trail you plan to ride on. Though some types of horseback riding gear are more essential than others, all riding gear is designed to protect the rider and the horse from injury if either one falls. However, not all riding gear is created equal—poorly designed or poorly maintained equipment can lead to serious injuries, even to those with decades of experience. Here are some examples of common dangers associated with improper horse riding equipment:
Riding in Heels
Riding in heels is common among women who ride for pleasure or as a competitive sport. However, using high heels when riding a horse can be dangerous. Purchasing a pair of riding boots designed for women is a must if you intend to ride in heels. If you must wear high heels when riding, make sure to use a non-pointy heel, as these are less likely to cause an injury if your horse falls. When riding in high heels, it’s also recommended to wear a pair of nylon or synthetic socks to protect your feet from being injured by the stirrups.
Not Tethering Your Horse
It’s important to tether your horse when riding in challenging conditions, such as on rough terrain or when riding in groups. In order to protect you and your horse from injury, the tethering point should be above the point where the horse’s neck meets its head. When tethering a horse to avoid danger, make sure its tether is long enough to allow it to graze and walk around comfortably. In addition, the tether should be thick enough to keep the horse from catching it in its teeth.
Wrong Seatbelt for an Equipped Horse
The most common mistake made when equipping a horse is wearing the rider’s seatbelt. Wearing the wrong seatbelt on a horse can put the rider in danger if the horse suddenly bolts. The rider may not be able to get out of the way quickly enough if the horse bolts, and there may not be enough time to take the seatbelt off. The most serious danger associated with wearing the wrong seatbelt is the rider being trapped by the buckles while the horse continues to run wildly. Wearing the wrong seatbelt can also put the rider at risk of injury if the horse falls, or if the rider is thrown off the horse.
Not Using a Bridling Process
In order to keep your horse from becoming unruly, you need to use a bridling process. The bridling process will help you keep your horse under control and prevent it from injuring you or another rider. If you’re riding on public trails, you’ll need to use a bridling process to avoid scaring other riders.
Using the Wrong Size Bit
When it comes to equipping your horse, the bit is one of the most important pieces of equipment. The bit is used to guide the horse and communicate the rider’s needs. When purchasing a new bit, it’s important to select one that is appropriate for your horse. If you use a bit that’s too large, the horse may not be able to understand the rider’s commands and may become unruly. If you use a bit that’s too small, the rider may not be able to communicate properly with the horse and may find the ride uncomfortable.
Conclusion
The dangers associated with improper horse riding equipment are numerous. When purchasing horse riding gear, it’s important to select items that are appropriate for your skill level, the weather conditions and the type of trail you plan to ride on. Though some types of horse riding gear are more essential than others, all riding gear is designed to protect the rider and the horse from injury if either one falls.