Horseback Riding Basics: Have You Got What it Takes?

Perhaps you are planning a trip to the country. Maybe you're visiting a dude ranch or taking a pack trip. By chance, you may be renting a few mounts for a trail ride in the hills. Quite possibly, you're just stopping at a nearby stable for a recreational ride.

What basic equipment and supplies will you need?

Tacking up can really add up, even just for pleasure riding. A simple walk in the park will require a fair amount of preparation.

First, you will probably have to sign a liability waiver.

Most riding facilities (and many horse owners) require every equestrian participant to sign a release of liability form. This is standard practice, so you should expect to be asked.

This official agreement waives your rights to litigation, in case you should become injured while riding. Even if you will ride only quiet, dead-broke horses, the management will want this document. Besides, the barn's insurance provider probably insists they do this.

Choose a suitable horse.

A quiet and trustworthy horse is ideal for recreational riding, especially if you are not a seasoned horseman. A young or untrained horse is generally unsuitable for novices, although he may excel in the show or performance ring.

Recreational equestrians are often beginning riders, who may or may not have accrued years of experience in the saddle. Simply renting a horse for an afternoon on the trails does not a cowboy make! Even if you remember riding horses as a child at summer camp, you will want to select a more docile and experienced equine for recreational riding now.

Obtain a halter and lead rope.

A leather, rope, or nylon web halter is the most basic requirement for a horse. Combined with a lead rope, this allows the rider or handler to catch and control the horse from the ground. The lead may be used to tie the horse for grooming and saddling.

Most likely, if you are renting or borrowing horses from an established stable, this equipment will be provided.

Consider what tack you will need.

Generally, the barn where you ride will provide suitable tack (saddle, bridle, etc,). The staff may even tack up your horse for you. However, this is not always the case. Check with them ahead of time, so you do not arrive unprepared!

Most recreational riders will prefer a basic Western saddle. Unlike its English counterpart, a Western saddle offers a horn, giving the rider something to grab when the horse moves suddenly or too quickly for comfort. Also, Western saddles usually have deeper seats and more sturdy stirrups. A rider is less likely to become unseated in this format.

Western saddles are available at all price ranges, from synthetics to fine-tooled leathers with jewel embellishments. Saddles are sized to fit the horse and the rider.

A saddle blanket or saddle pad should be placed under the saddle to protect the horse's back.

A basic bridle, with crownpiece and sturdy reins, is needed. A simple bit, such as a jointed snaffle, is usually sufficient. In many cases, a martingale or chest-piece will be employed, as this provides better control for the rider in collecting and balancing the horse.

Often, a horse will wear velcro boots (resembling shin guards) on his front legs to protect them while he is working.

Dress for riding.

Riders should wear long pants, or jeans. A closed-toe shoe or boot with a 1" heel will protect the rider's feet and keep them in the stirrups. (Flat shoes are not advisable, as feet may slip through stirrups and become stuck. This is extremely unsafe, if the rider should become unseated and dragged!) Sneakers and sandals are inappropriate at the barn. If you need further explanation of this, ask any experienced horseman what can happen, if a 1,000-pound horse steps on your foot.

Have a helmet.

Protective headgear is essential for any horseback rider. Suitable riding helmets may be purchased, rented, or borrowed for pleasure riders. An equestrian center may be able to provide you with a helmet to use, if you do not mind wearing a used hat.

Take your camera.

If you are heading for the trails, be sure to pack a small camera. A lightweight (pocket-sized) camera is ideal on a ride. Plus, horses make super photographic subjects. You may see some scenic spots, seasonal beauty or even wildlife. Be sure to have someone snap your photograph while you are mounted on the horse!

Don't forget to take you cell phone as well, if you head out on the trail. (Use it for emergencies only. Sitting astride a horse is not a good time to answer a call!)

Pack carrots and apples.

Of course, you may want to take a few snacks, in case you need a pick-me-up after riding. However, the carrots and apples are not for you! A good horse deserves a bonus. If your horse returns you to the barn unharmed, he should be rewarded. He may like peppermints, ginger snaps and sugar cubes too.

Saddle up! Let's ride!