All the basic equipment for getting first horse

[kitofkat19]

Hey everyone,

Im a new equestrian that have only had a few months of riding lesson behind me from last year (stopped during winter due to the time of lessons and lockdown this year as also stoped me) i go to my friend's yard with her to help out with her horse and such. I still have a lot to learn but I would love to have my own horse one day.

What is some of the basic equipment you need for your first horse (including possibly tack for ridding)? Thank you

(Im also reposting this post of the Tack room forums)

 

[HeyMich]

Don't even think about getting tack yet - that depends totally on the horse/pony you get. You could get some brushes or mucking out equipment now, but to be honest they'll just sit unused as anywhere you go for lessons/trekking will have their own.

I would concentrate on having as many lessons as you can, possibly doing some sort of stable management course or 'own a pony' days at local riding centres, and then maybe look into sharing for a while. Only then can you start to think about getting your own.

Good luck, and I hope you enjoy your horsey-journey!

 

[HazuraJane]

When you've had enough lessons and experience, and it's time to consider dealing on your own with a horse, the first step might be independent rides on your lesson horse,
if the lesson program will allow it.
Expect to pay a sponsor fee.
Sometimes that is a per-ride or per-half-day fee.
Initially, once you've learnt to tack up, have an experienced horse person re-check what you've done.
(I very confidently led my lesson horse out for my first independent ride, put my foot in the stirrup and the Entire. Saddle. Slipped. Fortunately, the horse stood but I could have had a very very bad outcome if the horse had reacted while I had one foot in the stirrup with the saddle on sideways. Yeesh.)

Once you're at that point, you can assess whether or not you want to commit yourself further!!

For your first horse, you'll need:

• halter/headstall
• lead line/rope
• body brush
• hoof pick
• curry brush
• mane/tail brush
• assortment of toweling rags

Those are the basic-basics for keeping your future horse tidy and to be able to lead him/her around.

For you:

• Sturdy paddock boots
• Gloves (horses are unpredictable and gloves protect the hands from a rope burn; also, many people wear them whilst riding)
• Riding hat/helmet that has been fitted to your head
• Breeches/jods for riding

Tack:

• Bridle
• Bit
• Saddle
• Stirrup leathers
• Stirrups
• Girth/Cinch
• Saddle pad

All of these items are incredibly specific and for best results you should consult a professional before spending money on them.
A poorly-fitting saddle will cause physical problems that may cause your horse to act out.
Not only is the saddle specific to your horse, it is specific to your body type/size.
That is why you oughtn't rush to collect tack until you have a specific horse in mind.
(UNLESS you happen upon a free saddle and you use it as your instruction tool: taking it apart, learning how it works, practice cleaning it.)

• Saddle soap
• Sponges and more toweling rags

If there is a used tack store in your area, that can be a nice way of saving money - BUT - keep in mind that tack tends to adapt itself to the specifics of the body of the horse using it. In order to make it usable on a different horse, a saddle should be initially fitted to the horse using it. As your horse's body shape changes, re-fitting is needed.


It's wonderful that you are moving along with your instruction!! Keep it up!!! And keep us informed as you progress!!

 

[Orangehorse]

As above, it depends on what sort of horse or pony and what they come with.

However, the basics would be saddle and bridle, headcollar, grooming kit, a bucket or two.

If stabled for part of the day then you would have to add mucking out equipment - wheelbarrow, fork, brush, shovel.

Owners and riders just get things gradually. So long as you have the basic clothes to ride in, including a hard hat of course, and suitable footwear, things just get accumulated over the years.