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What You Need To Get Started
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We always get the question "What do I need for my riding lessons?", so we put a list together for you that you can find below.
We will give you all the needed information to you gear for the different disciplines we offer here at Pony Gang Equestrian Services in Camden.
Hunter/Jumper / English Riding
Helmet
As for English riding all Students are required to wear SEI approved helmets regardless of age when riding horses at Pony Gang Farm. Pony Gang Equestrian Services provides helmets for students for evaluation lessons or the first couple of riding lesson. After your first month we ask that our student purchase their own helmet to ensure your best safety.
Pants
Students must wear long pants like jeans, riding pants, leggings or other long pants, that cover all skin on their legs when riding. Please no baggy pants or jersey workout material pants.
Gloves
Riding gloves are not required, but they provide grip for the reins and in the winter time also will keep your hands warm. Please don't use regular mittens or other gloves, because they do not provide the needed grip and will not be allowed during lessons.
Footwear
Try-out lessons students and new students just starting in our lessons program can wear any type of boots when riding as long as these shoes are closed in and have a two-inch heel. Boots also should have a sole with traction and be
completely
slick.Students in regular lesson programs need to purchase a pair of short English riding boots called paddock boots if riding English/Hunter or if older as 12 years can purchase a pair of English tall riding boots.
Shirt
Riders have to wear form fitted shirts that are tagged into their riding pants.
No baggy or overlong shirts!
Hunter/Jumper / English Riding
Helmet
As for English riding all Students are required to wear SEI approved helmets regardless of age when riding horses at Pony Gang Farm. Pony Gang Equestrian Services provides helmets for students for evaluation lessons or the first couple of riding lesson. After your first month we ask that our student purchase their own helmet to ensure your best safety.
Pants
Students must wear long pants like jeans, riding pants, leggings or other long pants, that cover all skin on their legs when riding. Please no baggy pants or jersey workout material pants.
Gloves
Riding gloves are not required, but they provide grip for the reins and in the winter time also will keep your hands warm. Please don't use regular mittens or other gloves, because they do not provide the needed grip and will not be allowed during lessons.
Footwear
Try-out lessons students and new students just starting in our lessons program can wear any type of boots when riding as long as these shoes are closed in and have a two-inch heel. Boots also should have a sole with traction and be
completely
slick.Students in regular lesson programs need to purchase a pair of short English riding boots called paddock boots if riding English/Hunter or if older as 12 years can purchase a pair of English tall riding boots.
Shirt
Riders have to wear form fitted shirts that are tagged into their riding pants.
No baggy or overlong shirts!
Western Riding
Footwear
Try-out lessons students and new students just starting in our lessons program can wear any type of boots when riding as long as these shoes are closed in and have a two inch heel. Boots also should have a sole with traction and be completely slick.Students in regular lesson programs need to purchase a
pair of western boots that are not too bulky. Please purchase them at a tack store and not at Walmart because this boots are not made for horseback riding they are made for style.
Pants
A pair of Boots cut jeans that will fit over the boots. The jeans should be stacked. (No skinny jeans that will be stucked into the boots)In order for a jeans to fit correctly when you are on a horse, they need to be overlong when you are not on the horse.
The act of being in the saddle shortens the length of your pants leg, and without proper "stack", you wind up looking silly.
Belt
Riders are required to wear a belt.
A well-fitted belt helps keep riding pants securely in place. This prevents them from slipping down during a ride, ensuring that the rider can maintain proper posture and balance in the saddle.
Wearing a belt ensures that riding pants stay comfortably positioned, preventing chafing or discomfort caused by loose fabric.
Helmet
As for Western riding all Students are required to wear SEI approved helmets regardless of age when riding horses at Pony Gang Farm. Pony Gang Equestrian Services provides helmets for students for evaluation lessons or the first couple of riding lesson.
After your first month we ask that our student purchase their own helmet to ensure your best safety.
Correct fit of Western pants
Why is a correct riding attire important?
Correct riding attire is important for several reasons, including safety, comfort, and functionality. Here are some key reasons why wearing the right attire is crucial when horseback riding:
1. Safety:
Protective Gear: Proper riding attire includes safety gear like a riding helmet. Helmets are designed to protect your head in case of a fall or impact, reducing the risk of serious head injuries.
Riding Boots: Riding boots with a defined heel help prevent your foot from slipping through the stirrup, reducing the chance of getting stuck in case of a fall.
2. Comfort:
Support and Padding: Riding attire is designed to provide comfort during long hours in the saddle. Breeches or riding pants often have reinforced knee patches or full seats for grip and added comfort.
Moisture-Wicking Fabrics: Many riding shirts and base layers are made from moisture-wicking materials that help keep you dry and comfortable, especially during warm weather or when you're sweating.
3. Functionality:
Gripping and Control: Riding attire, such as gloves, can improve your grip on the reins, enhancing your control over the horse.
Freedom of Movement: Riding-specific clothing is designed to allow for a full range of motion in the saddle, ensuring you can ride effectively and comfortably.
4. Tradition and Etiquette:
Dress Code: In some equestrian disciplines, there are specific dress codes or attire traditions that riders are expected to follow when competing. Adhering to these guidelines is a sign of respect for the sport and its history.
5. Protection:
Protection from the Elements: Depending on the weather and riding conditions, correct attire may include additional layers, such as a jacket, to protect you from rain, wind, or cold temperatures.
Protection from Chafing: Riding attire is designed to minimize friction and chafing, ensuring you don't develop discomfort or sores from extended riding.
6. Professionalism: When riding in a professional or competitive setting, appropriate attire contributes to a polished and put-together appearance, which can make a positive impression on judges, trainers, and peers.
7. Horse Comfort: Certain attire items, like smooth-seamed breeches or riding boots, can help prevent irritation or discomfort for the horse when it comes into contact with the rider's legs or seat.
8. Cultural Significance: In some equestrian traditions and cultures, wearing correct attire is a mark of respect for the sport's history and traditions.
In summary, wearing the correct riding attire is essential for safety, comfort, functionality, and adhering to traditions within the equestrian world. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, investing in proper riding attire is a fundamental aspect of responsible horsemanship and contributes to a safer and more enjoyable riding experience.
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If you are looking for "horseback riding lessons near me" don't look any further because you are at the right place for riding western or riding English. We offer it all to you!
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