Eventing Eventing kit

[DreamTime22]

Lockdown is driving me to some serious eventing daydreaming and watching an awful lot of eventing vlogs. So I've started thinking about the kit I'll need and possibly asking for it for birthday and Christmas, as I doubt we will be eventing before then now (due to horse situation as well as CV). I've just got a few questions about some stuff as I want to make sure I get the right stuff.

When did you first wear a stopwatch for XC? Did you do a few runs without first or just wear it anyway and ignore it unless it was going well?
Are those optimum time ones pretty much the only ones available or are there any others? I like shopping around but there the only ones I can see.

Do you all use different boots for SJ and XC? Do you all use boots for SJ?

Do any of you have the shoulder pads on your body protectors? I think I've decided they would annoy me more than help but wondered what other people do.

It says in the rules that dressage and showjumping numbers are up to the organiser. Will I need bridle numbers? I have a white saddle pad with the number on one side and I'd have the number bib - which phases do you wear the number bib for?

Any other things I may not have thought of? I've just got a new hat and body protector.

 

[Bexx]

Hey, eventing has a never ending list of kit that you "could" have, it's just about working out what is necessary for you and your horse.
You don't need a stop watch at lower levels, a good strong canter will get most horses round within the optimum time. I have an optimum time stop watch which is easy to use and the display is good but I only really use it if I feel I'm struggling to find a rhythm for some reason. Normally once my horse is settled I don't even look at it.I started wearing mine when I got to 100 but still i wouldn't say its necessary.
Boots are a personal choice, you dont by any means need them and there are arguments for them heating the horses legs and things. One of my horses over reaches so he wears over reach boots for show jumping then he wears boots all round for cross country. Other horses I've had have worn nothing for show jumping. I always boot for cross country though.
I dont have shoulder pads on my body protector, I do wear an air jacket too.
When you arrive at an event, you will go to check in and be given your number. Just slot these into your number bib which you have to wear for all 3 phases, you dont need bridle or numnah numbers at all.
Don't forget you have to wear gloves for all phases and take spare reins, stirrup leathers etc with you.
Studding is again personal preference but not at all necessary. Also as many buckets and as much water as you can carry.
Hope that helps!

 

[DreamTime22]

Hey, eventing has a never ending list of kit that you "could" have, it's just about working out what is necessary for you and your horse.
You don't need a stop watch at lower levels, a good strong canter will get most horses round within the optimum time. I have an optimum time stop watch which is easy to use and the display is good but I only really use it if I feel I'm struggling to find a rhythm for some reason. Normally once my horse is settled I don't even look at it.I started wearing mine when I got to 100 but still i wouldn't say its necessary.
Boots are a personal choice, you dont by any means need them and there are arguments for them heating the horses legs and things. One of my horses over reaches so he wears over reach boots for show jumping then he wears boots all round for cross country. Other horses I've had have worn nothing for show jumping. I always boot for cross country though.
I dont have shoulder pads on my body protector, I do wear an air jacket too.
When you arrive at an event, you will go to check in and be given your number. Just slot these into your number bib which you have to wear for all 3 phases, you dont need bridle or numnah numbers at all.
Don't forget you have to wear gloves for all phases and take spare reins, stirrup leathers etc with you.
Studding is again personal preference but not at all necessary. Also as many buckets and as much water as you can carry.
Hope that helps!

Thank you so much.
Okay I may just get timing myself when I go out for a canter/gallop to get a feel for how quick I'm going instead.
Yes I have been reading more about boots and I'm not a fan of using them where I don't need to. I always thought I would for XC but not for SJ (unless my horse needed it like overreaching).
Okay, I may get an air-jacket later on.
I'm pleased I don't need bridle numbers.
Good idea on the spares - I never even thought about it.
Mum already has a full set of studs which is great if I need them.
Thank you

 

[Bexx]

Thank you so much.
Okay I may just get timing myself when I go out for a canter/gallop to get a feel for how quick I'm going instead.
Yes I have been reading more about boots and I'm not a fan of using them where I don't need to. I always thought I would for XC but not for SJ (unless my horse needed it like overreaching).
Okay, I may get an air-jacket later on.
I'm pleased I don't need bridle numbers.
Good idea on the spares - I never even thought about it.
Mum already has a full set of studs which is great if I need them.
Thank you

Yes if you've got the room at home you can measure the distance and to find the speed you need to cover the distance in the time allowed for your level, the speeds are in the BE rulebook. However, its important to remember that the rhythm is more important at the lower levels, it's not really necessary to push for time so if you can canter round a cross country course in a comfortable rhythm you will be fine

 

[DreamTime22]

Sorry new thought. Stirrups.

I used to ride in peacock irons till I found out about the weight limit. Since then I have just been in regular stirrup irons. I don't like any of the safety stirrups I can find for various reasons.

Do most people event in regular stirrups or safety stirrups? If safety stirrups, what sort do you use?

 

[DressageCob]

I've only done 80s but I just had normal stirrups. Cheesegraters with the little cob back in the day and tech stirrups more recently.

I didn't have a watch but got one for my last run last year because I was consistently very slow. I then forgot to look at it.

I didn't use boots for SJ but did for XC. Although I'm yet to find any which fit fat cobby/draughty legs so maybe bootless would be better.

no bridle numbers, just a bib.

 

[SOS]

I was taught to not wear a stopwatch at lower levels as you shouldn’t be pushing for time, if you are riding in a rhythm and kick on after every jump you will make the time. If you’re not then you and the horse need a little more training on riding too and between XC fences and a stopwatch won’t fix that.

Wear whatever boots you normally jump your horse in for showjumping. XC find some secure fitting, very breathable boots and try and test them before. You don’t want them falling down! Ask your trainer for advice on boots, some horses need more protection, others can do with feeling the fences a bit more and some are much better without. Remember a boot will never prevent serious injuries but over booting repeatedly over time can.

You wear number bibs for all three phases, no need for any other numbers.

As for everything else, the most important thing is training you and your horse. Pour money into that rather than any further fancy equipment. As long as it fits there’s no reason you can’t do well.

 

[DreamTime22]

I was taught to not wear a stopwatch at lower levels as you shouldn’t be pushing for time, if you are riding in a rhythm and kick on after every jump you will make the time. If you’re not then you and the horse need a little more training on riding too and between XC fences and a stopwatch won’t fix that.

Wear whatever boots you normally jump your horse in for showjumping. XC find some secure fitting, very breathable boots and try and test them before. You don’t want them falling down! Ask your trainer for advice on boots, some horses need more protection, others can do with feeling the fences a bit more and some are much better without. Remember a boot will never prevent serious injuries but over booting repeatedly over time can.

You wear number bibs for all three phases, no need for any other numbers.

As for everything else, the most important thing is training you and your horse. Pour money into that rather than any further fancy equipment. As long as it fits there’s no reason you can’t do well.

Thank you.
Before, I haven't usually worn boots for SJ (apart from one horse that practically stood on her own legs and couldn't go out for a walk without boots) but I didn't know if I should be. The last thing I want to do is overboot though.

Great about the number bibs - don't think my horse would tolerate a bridle number. Just seen a few on the eventing vlogs (even on head collars) so wasn't sure if I needed it.

Definitely. I am all for as much training as possible. This post is about finding out what I NEED - even better now that the rather alarmingly priced watches are off my list for a little while. I will be able to start with what I've got pretty much I think. Just some cross country boots!

 

[DreamTime22]

I've only done 80s but I just had normal stirrups. Cheesegraters with the little cob back in the day and tech stirrups more recently.

I didn't have a watch but got one for my last run last year because I was consistently very slow. I then forgot to look at it.

I didn't use boots for SJ but did for XC. Although I'm yet to find any which fit fat cobby/draughty legs so maybe bootless would be better.

no bridle numbers, just a bib.

I think I'll only be doing 80s for a while. I may start with my regular stirrups then and just nosey at what everyone else has. I just can't picture how half these "safety stirrups" actually help. I'll just make sure I use the stirrup leathers that come off easier. It feels like that would be more likely anyway.
I might go without a watch then.
As long as I/my mum/my trainer don't see a need to I may go bootless SJ then. I think I definitely want them for XC and I like the blue Trizone ones.
So pleased - head shy horse probably would run a mile if I had a bridle number.
Thank you

 

[SOS]

Thank you.
Before, I haven't usually worn boots for SJ (apart from one horse that practically stood on her own legs and couldn't go out for a walk without boots) but I didn't know if I should be. The last thing I want to do is overboot though.

Great about the number bibs - don't think my horse would tolerate a bridle number. Just seen a few on the eventing vlogs (even on head collars) so wasn't sure if I needed it.

Definitely. I am all for as much training as possible. This post is about finding out what I NEED - even better now that the rather alarmingly priced watches are off my list for a little while. I will be able to start with what I've got pretty much I think. Just some cross country boots!

Id ask your trainer re boots. And if you will be using studs then this also may influence your choice!

Sorry if my first post came across a little harsh, I can see your heart is in the right place. There’s lots of things people have to event that aren’t necessary (make life easier but not completely needed) and being on a shoestring budget when I started I had to learn what was vital and what could be saved up for. Sure our kit was a little basic but safe enough and we have fun. Don’t let anyone tell you that you must have the latest/most expensive gear to do well!

 

[DreamTime22]

Id ask your trainer re boots. And if you will be using studs then this also may influence your choice!

Sorry if my first post came across a little harsh, I can see your heart is in the right place. There’s lots of things people have to event that aren’t necessary (make life easier but not completely needed) and being on a shoestring budget when I started I had to learn what was vital and what could be saved up for. Sure our kit was a little basic but safe enough and we have fun. Don’t let anyone tell you that you must have the latest/most expensive gear to do well!

You didn't seem harsh at all. I can see reading back my post is coming across as "what fabulous and amazing things should I buy" when actually my intention is how much can I get away with not buying for now. Shoestring is me too mainly because I'd rather spend it on clinics and course hire etc. Pricy gear doesn't mean a lot to me - usually pretty colours are the only thing that sway me. My partner bought me some lovely XC colours and saddle pad for Christmas though so at least I'm not tempted by that.

I'll definitely ask my trainer regarding boots and studs. This all seems too far away now . I hope it's not too long, though I think it might be, before we can all be out doing again!

 

[Jeni the dragon]

Bridle numbers on headcollars probably mean they are in international classes. Pretty sure they have to wear their numbers all the time.

 

[DreamTime22]

Bridle numbers on headcollars probably mean they are in international classes. Pretty sure they have to wear their numbers all the time.

It was a BE100 championship I was watching.

Edit: I might be mixing it up with the 3 day event PC championship one I watched actually because I think there was a trot up too.

 

[Red-1]

I have only ever worn a bridle number in a 3 day event. The horse had to wear one at all times outside the actual stable, including on the head collar when around the stables area.

For one day events you will just have the number bib.

I use the Sprenger stirrups, which will release in a fall.

I would invest in studs and a stud tap, along with a magnetic tray to keep all the gubbins together when you inevitably knock it over.

 

[DreamTime22]

I have only ever worn a bridle number in a 3 day event. The horse had to wear one at all times outside the actual stable, including on the head collar when around the stables area.

For one day events you will just have the number bib.

I use the Sprenger stirrups, which will release in a fall.

I would invest in studs and a stud tap, along with a magnetic tray to keep all the gubbins together when you inevitably knock it over.

I'll have a look at the sprenger stirrups.

Luckily my mum already has all the stud gear ?

 

[sportsmansB]

What you definitely need - number bib, muted colour jacket or tweed, correct standard crash cap and body protector for XC. Pretty much everything else is choice (your XC hat with a subtle cover can be used for all phases, but most people have a different one for dr / sj). You MUST get your hat/s tagged before you start.
What you don't need- 3 different full outfits, matching XC top / saddlecloth/ears, all the ice boots, etc etc.

I have never worn a watch, I learned from one week to the next based on my time v the optimum and adjusted based from it. At the beginning you really only want to go at the speed you feel safe and in control, then you can look at changing it.

I do wear SJ and cross country boots (tendon and fetlock for SJ, XC for XC) - my horse has a splint and wears studs and I think its appropriate. They arent essential for either but XC fences are hard if you knock them, and a decent set of brushing boots with good fastenings are fine for low level XC. Overreach boots if your horse does that.
If your horse is a neat jumper and wearing studs you might want to think about a stud girth.
You don't need shoulder pads on your body protector. If you don't usually ride in one then do ride in it at home to get used to it.

 

[LegOn]

What you don't need- 3 different full outfits, matching XC top / saddlecloth/ears, all the ice boots, etc etc.

You might not need them but you can want them!! I love getting new kit for stuff!! I took up showing with my new horse 2 years ago, and yes I borrowed and bought 2nd hand but then I loved being able to shop for the stuff I really wanted for me & my horse, its half the fun really! I dont spend my money on anything else! I did a few One day events & I do Hunter Trial so I love having my colours and outfits aswell - I would be one of those saddos with all the gear and no clue - I do have 3 outfits for 3 phases!!! I love getting fancy photos of my & my horse cause I love getting him ready & having fun together - I even break out the quarter marks! Love it!!

 

[MagicMelon]

I wouldn't bother with a stop watch. I've done up to CIC* and only ever wore one once. I find that unless you're on a naturally very fast horse then generally you just need to go as fast as safely possible at the lower levels. I've never been too fast at BE level and I used to have a pretty quick horse. It'll just add to your stress if you're not used to using one!

Yes, I use tendon boots for SJ and a full set of proper XC boots for the XC (and over-reach for both). Its really personal preference but tendon boots are better for SJ as they allow the horse to feel if they hit a fence. I always think better safe than sorry with regard booting up - I dont always wear hind SJ boots though. But I definately would always wear front boots if you have studs in. Also its nice to have seperate boots in case it was a wet/muddy day and you soak the boots in the SJ, you dont really want to put wet boots back on again later.

Ive never had shoulder pads and I dont wear an air jacket either.

Stirrup wise, I use the Cavallo safety ones which are brilliant - lightweight but still chunky enough to keep my foot in the stirrup. They were around the £90 mark so much cheaper than a lot of other lightweight safety ones. Prior to these ones I used to compete in bent leg stirrups - they're really cheap and I think pretty safe.

I believe rules are you do need bridle numbers on nowadays - I do anyway, Im pretty sure it became a rule. I use a plain white saddlecloth - dont need one with numbers on it. You wear the number bib for all phases - you pick up your paper number from the secretary on arrival and slot it in. If you look online at the start list when your times are out it'll say your number so you can do your bridle number etc. prior so you're all ready to go on the day.

The only extra's I always take with me are things like a first aid kit for the horse (and you - plasters/sudocreme etc.!), plenty of spare studs (and kit), spare saddlecloth (in case horse gets very sweaty in dressage or SJ etc.), take plain black or brown (depending on colour of your tack) electrical tape - this stuff is brilliant for wrapping round any straps on the breastplate etc. like ends which flap about or if a keeper breaks etc. Take wash-down stuff (plenty water, buckets, sponges). Fly repellent! I always take extra stirrup leathers, just in case. Also ask your farrier for your last set of shoes he replaces - these are brilliant to keep as spares in your box in case the horse pulls a shoe just before you're due to go in the ring, saves SO much time.