If you were to start again with all new equestrian gear, what would you choose?

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elscott

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Hello all!

I’m getting back into riding after almost 20 years 🫣 and appreciate a lot will have changed in terms of clothing technology and brands.

I planned to visit some tack shops local to me (I’m near Letchworth/Hitchin) but was curious about what you would choose if you were to start again with your gear, from clothing to boots to helmets?

Is there anything else I should get. For example, I was advised for hacking to get a camera to attach to my helmet.

I’m short (5’2, 50kg) so any brands that cater to petites would be lovely.

I also have short legs and bigger calves so struggled previously with longer boots. Any brands you’d recommend or shorter boots with chaps?

Any suggestions would be massively appreciated!

Thank you, Emma
 
Winter
- Pair of wellies like these https://www.secretsales.com/6222239...yAScdrVaHDaKRXtjYkUBU15b5qoPY0kxoChLMQAvD_BwE
- SKI TROUSERS are my new obsession for winter because they're waterproof, warm, and can go on over jodphurs
- Waterproof coat
- A lot of people are getting into Equidrys now (long waterproof dressing gowns essentially but are made so you can ride in them)
- Thermal/fleece-lined riding tights e.g., these https://harryhall.com/harry-hall-wi...7mTLiFFfR2FA-YtZ4M_Jxy1bRoC9OsQAvD_BwE#145=66

Summer
- Trainers that can get disgusting for high summer/driving to and from in (I had an old pair of Airforce that were no longer fit for purpose that I use)

Riding
- You can get long boots fitted at larger tack shops if you're willing to spend some more money
- I've recently been using these Shires Moretta boots because I have a similar shape to you and don't ride enough to pay the extra for a fitting/for a new pair of long riding boots https://www.hopevalleysaddlery.co.u...ia-childrens-country-boots--dark-brown__68081 (I love them and also use them to muck out sometimes. NB - Just seen it says childs and I can't find the adult version now. I think Shires country boots are all lovely though and trust the quality. There are plenty of boots on their website that are very similar and for women!)
- Leather gloves last for ages and are warm-ish in winter
- A lot of people are moving towards riding tights over jodpurs nowadays but I think the Gallop jodpurs are still my favourites. Some riding tights brands are: Aztec Diamond, GS Equestrian, Ariat, Harry Hall. Most have a phone pocket and can be used for other sports (if you don't mind the sticky seat patch lol).
- Any hat that is properly fitted
- Maybe a Gopro if you're going to be doing a lot of hacking? Similar to having a dashcam on your car?
- I think if I had the money I'd have an AirVest too

I can't think of anything else that would be different from 20 years ago other than make sure you stock up on hi vis and generally sensible clothing for being outdoors (so for sun exposure/heat and very cold days).
 
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Definitely a MIPS hat.
A body protector with shoulder protectors (recently fractured my collarbone and didn't have the shoulder protectors - they might have prevented the break).

I have the same problem with long boots. I started with short boots but eventually bought 2 pairs of Ariat Wythburn country boots in the sales (summer and fleece lined winter boots). My other option was a pair of DeNiro boots for £300 and I don't ride enough to spend that sort of money.
 
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I have a mips helmet and a body protecter. One needs to be properly fitted with both.
For my first year, I bought the cheapest riding clothes as no one knew whether or not I would continue to ride. After a year, and that winter was cold, I bought expensive clothes in the local saddlery and most of those I still wear more than 20 years later.
A Musto waterproof jacket worn over a Burberry fleece. Musto make a fitted liner, which I dont have. With German Schumacher corduroy breeches (no longer exist)
Pikeur breeches. My warm winter breeches are now Derby House which no longer exists. But I had some thinner Mark Todd breeches which I still wear. I had thermal long johns and sock liners for very cold weather but I am now in my eighties and dont ride much in winter
Roekl gloves. But for summer, kids' bobble gloves.
Ariat zip up ankle boots worn with Tuffa suede half chaps.
After I learned to canter I rewarded myself with fabulous long boots but I can no longer get into them.
 
Blackfort riding tights are lovely quality. I prefer Cameo and Hy base layers to the LeMieux ones. Roeckl gloves are imo the best. Le Mieux good for every day riding. Uhip coat for the Winter- expensive but absolutely fantastic, makes the cold weather bearable! Not much else to add as I tend to wear my stuff until it dies on me 🫣
 
I favour Bareback boots these days. I pretty much live in their short boots and have done for about 5 years (recently replaced as they were dying!).

Clothing is a question of personal taste and fit really. I can't stand equidry style jackets, and tend to buy short winter jackets from Kramer because they're a reasonable price and a style I like. Kramer are often good for winter wear as they cater to the northern European market where things are often more dramatic weatherwise! In summer, I rarely wear overtly equestrian branded clothing, other than aubrion joggers for yard work / dark horse riding tights.
 
Order the Shires catalogue 😁. Half the forum has (including me), and it’s just nice, reasonably priced stuff. Won’t set the world on fire, but especially if you’re just getting back into things, you’ll be able to get most of the bits you need - and if the items are not quite right after you’ve ridden in them - you haven’t spent much money!

In terms of specific items, definitely go to a tack shop that fits helmets. Brands tend to cater to specific head shapes. I.e., Charles Owen will not fit me, as I have a round head (even their ‘round fit’ is too narrow). Same for body protectors, different brands suit different body shapes.

Shires also do different leg widths and heights in some of their half chaps and gaiters.

As above, Kramer is also super for good quality, cost effective gear. I find their stuff pretty true to size.
 
I’m the same height and about 55kg … for all my clothing I go for the kids section . It’s cheaper and fits better. Although I have Mark Todd Breeches. Then Horseware base layers are my classic outfit.

I got a lovely tweed competition jacket of eBay that was kids size. And super cheap as the kid had outgrown !!
 
Anything without the word horse attached to it. My jods are from sports direct, or leggings, or whatever I happen to have on. Tops are from shein or charity shop. Hat is a kids size Charles Owen so half the price of an adult one, my riding boots are probably the only thing I paid proper for and they were the cheapish ones (mountain horse I think????)

Moral of the story is you don’t need to waste money on matchy branded equestrian gear.
 
Shires moretta boots are amazing, not leather but you’d never know, they also do different calf widths and heights…much easier to fit boots now than 20 years ago!! I’d not bother with leather boots now I love synthetic!

Riding leggings or tights with grips are great, countrydale is very good value and usually have a sale on. Much comfier than old style johds!

Agreed you can get good deals on decathlon, sports direct etc too.

Vinted!! I’ve got loads off there also!
 
Pioneer Endurance Bridles
Reactor Panel Saddles
Ariat Maxtrax for summer (if you can find some) and Tellurides for winter, with Terrain half chaps (size up to fit round Tellurides).
Ariat for summer jackets, tops and polo shirts
Mountain Horse for winter coats.
Noble Equestrian riding tights (if you can find some)
Musto sailing waterproofs
Easycare stirrups (if you can find some)
Rambo Duos for main rugs, Thermaluxes for warm coolers.
Ariat Radcote wellies.
Tipperary Sportage helmet.

I'm also 5'2 but heavier than you!
 
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webble said:
Hat wise I would go with one that fits but with MIPS system
Click to expand...
Thank you for your input. I don't think this existed back then. I have a big head and struggled with hats years ago so I will look to get one fitted. I assume they can fit a MIPS system as well?
 
kerrieberry2 said:
high vis, lots of hi vis! I prefer pink and orange over yellow.
hat cam defo, I have the Techalogic DC1, which is a dual cam, so you're filming what is going on in front and behind.

I can't recommending clothing as I'm the opposite end of the height and weight scale to you.
Click to expand...
High vis is definitely something we didn't do back then in Ireland. I have been concerned about the number of dog attacks on hacks so the camera suggestion is brilliant, thank you. Didn't realise you could get a dual camera. Thank you very much for that useful advice.
 
Clothing: i like riding tights and base layers
Boots: I use Dublin river boots to ride. Hik8ng boots for doing chores.
Helmet: Charles owen is comfy and mips
Camera: techalogic is dual or you can get 2 chilli cameras and a shoulder harness for them.
 
ponynutz said:
Winter
- Pair of wellies like these https://www.secretsales.com/6222239...yAScdrVaHDaKRXtjYkUBU15b5qoPY0kxoChLMQAvD_BwE
- SKI TROUSERS are my new obsession for winter because they're waterproof, warm, and can go on over jodphurs
- Waterproof coat
- A lot of people are getting into Equidrys now (long waterproof dressing gowns essentially but are made so you can ride in them)
- Thermal/fleece-lined riding tights e.g., these https://harryhall.com/harry-hall-wi...7mTLiFFfR2FA-YtZ4M_Jxy1bRoC9OsQAvD_BwE#145=66

Summer
- Trainers that can get disgusting for high summer/driving to and from in (I had an old pair of Airforce that were no longer fit for purpose that I use)

Riding
- You can get long boots fitted at larger tack shops if you're willing to spend some more money
- I've recently been using these Shires Moretta boots because I have a similar shape to you and don't ride enough to pay the extra for a fitting/for a new pair of long riding boots https://www.hopevalleysaddlery.co.u...ia-childrens-country-boots--dark-brown__68081 (I love them and also use them to muck out sometimes. NB - Just seen it says childs and I can't find the adult version now. I think Shires country boots are all lovely though and trust the quality. There are plenty of boots on their website that are very similar and for women!)
- Leather gloves last for ages and are warm-ish in winter
- A lot of people are moving towards riding tights over jodpurs nowadays but I think the Gallop jodpurs are still my favourites. Some riding tights brands are: Aztec Diamond, GS Equestrian, Ariat, Harry Hall. Most have a phone pocket and can be used for other sports (if you don't mind the sticky seat patch lol).
- Any hat that is properly fitted
- Maybe a Gopro if you're going to be doing a lot of hacking? Similar to having a dashcam on your car?
- I think if I had the money I'd have an AirVest too

I can't think of anything else that would be different from 20 years ago other than make sure you stock up on hi vis and generally sensible clothing for being outdoors (so for sun exposure/heat and very cold days).
Click to expand...
Thank you so much for providing such a wealth of resources. It's really helpful as I start out again. I have seen those big waterproof dressing gown type coats and think they will definitely be needed!

Great to hear what has worked for you given we are similar shapes. I'll try some options and decide what might work best.

Hadn't heard of an AirVest. Another newer development that is great to learn about. I would look to invest in anything that provides extra protection as I have a musculoskeletal condition so can be more prone to injury.

Thank you again, you are so kind to share all of that!
 
Kunoichi73 said:
Definitely a MIPS hat.
A body protector with shoulder protectors (recently fractured my collarbone and didn't have the shoulder protectors - they might have prevented the break).

I have the same problem with long boots. I started with short boots but eventually bought 2 pairs of Ariat Wythburn country boots in the sales (summer and fleece lined winter boots). My other option was a pair of DeNiro boots for £300 and I don't ride enough to spend that sort of money.
Click to expand...
Another one for MIPS which is great.

Shoulder protectors. That's new to me but sounds like a good addition. Someone also suggested an AirVest. Would this be in addition to the back and shoulder protector or would I end up looking like hulk! 😂

Ariat has come up consistently so sounds like a great brand. A lot of options for boots to try!

Thanks so much for your input. I really appreciate it!
 
Skib said:
I have a mips helmet and a body protecter. One needs to be properly fitted with both.
For my first year, I bought the cheapest riding clothes as no one knew whether or not I would continue to ride. After a year, and that winter was cold, I bought expensive clothes in the local saddlery and most of those I still wear more than 20 years later.
A Musto waterproof jacket worn over a Burberry fleece. Musto make a fitted liner, which I dont have. With German Schumacher corduroy breeches (no longer exist)
Pikeur breeches. My warm winter breeches are now Derby House which no longer exists. But I had some thinner Mark Todd breeches which I still wear. I had thermal long johns and sock liners for very cold weather but I am now in my eighties and dont ride much in winter
Roekl gloves. But for summer, kids' bobble gloves.
Ariat zip up ankle boots worn with Tuffa suede half chaps.
After I learned to canter I rewarded myself with fabulous long boots but I can no longer get into them.
Click to expand...
Good advice on how you started but then invested in quality brands that stand the test of time. That's what I'm looking to do. Really appreciate your list of brands that have worked well for you.

I hope I can ride into my eighties! Love to hear this and hope it brings you a lot of joy. Riding is something I have missed terribly!
 
holeymoley said:
Blackfort riding tights are lovely quality. I prefer Cameo and Hy base layers to the LeMieux ones. Roeckl gloves are imo the best. Le Mieux good for every day riding. Uhip coat for the Winter- expensive but absolutely fantastic, makes the cold weather bearable! Not much else to add as I tend to wear my stuff until it dies on me 🫣
Click to expand...
I see riding tights are now an alternative for jophurs and seem to be more comfy? Are they breathable or are they like gym leggings? Great advice on the base layers as I'm sure they'll make the difference.

Hadn't heard of the Uhip coat but definitely one to look at! Would this be for cold weather, while something like the Equidrys for wet weather?

I will absolutely be wearing all my gear until they have worn holes, it is exactly as it should be!
 
JFTDWS said:
I favour Bareback boots these days. I pretty much live in their short boots and have done for about 5 years (recently replaced as they were dying!).

Clothing is a question of personal taste and fit really. I can't stand equidry style jackets, and tend to buy short winter jackets from Kramer because they're a reasonable price and a style I like. Kramer are often good for winter wear as they cater to the northern European market where things are often more dramatic weatherwise! In summer, I rarely wear overtly equestrian branded clothing, other than aubrion joggers for yard work / dark horse riding tights.
Click to expand...
Oh another boot option I hadn't heard of and one I will check out as I favour short boots due to my calves. Great shout! Thank you so much.

Really great tips on winter/summer clothing. Kramer is another brand I will check out. I'm so short the Equidry coat will probably drown me! I'll get out there and try some options to see what fits best.

I really appreciate your time with these suggestions.
 
teddy_ said:
Order the Shires catalogue 😁. Half the forum has (including me), and it’s just nice, reasonably priced stuff. Won’t set the world on fire, but especially if you’re just getting back into things, you’ll be able to get most of the bits you need - and if the items are not quite right after you’ve ridden in them - you haven’t spent much money!

In terms of specific items, definitely go to a tack shop that fits helmets. Brands tend to cater to specific head shapes. I.e., Charles Owen will not fit me, as I have a round head (even their ‘round fit’ is too narrow). Same for body protectors, different brands suit different body shapes.

Shires also do different leg widths and heights in some of their half chaps and gaiters.

As above, Kramer is also super for good quality, cost effective gear. I find their stuff pretty true to size.
Click to expand...
Hi! I have just ordered the Shires catalogue as per your suggestion. Thanks so much! Great that they do different leg widths and lengths!

I will definitely get a helmet and vest fitted. That's been such helpful advice.

Another shout for Kramer is great to hear. I'm making a good list!

Thanks for your time, the equestrian community here is so lovely ☺️
 
Lilly-Mayspookatbags said:
I’m the same height and about 55kg … for all my clothing I go for the kids section . It’s cheaper and fits better. Although I have Mark Todd Breeches. Then Horseware base layers are my classic outfit.

I got a lovely tweed competition jacket of eBay that was kids size. And super cheap as the kid had outgrown !!
Click to expand...
I never thought about the kids section! One benefit of being small 😂. Thank you for the suggestion for the breeches and base layers. I will absolutely check these out. Thank you so much for your time.
 
Equi said:
Anything without the word horse attached to it. My jods are from sports direct, or leggings, or whatever I happen to have on. Tops are from shein or charity shop. Hat is a kids size Charles Owen so half the price of an adult one, my riding boots are probably the only thing I paid proper for and they were the cheapish ones (mountain horse I think????)

Moral of the story is you don’t need to waste money on matchy branded equestrian gear.
Click to expand...
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I'm going to focus on investing where needed and not necessarily get everything that is horse-orientated but will hopefully last!
 
Bobthecob15 said:
Shires moretta boots are amazing, not leather but you’d never know, they also do different calf widths and heights…much easier to fit boots now than 20 years ago!! I’d not bother with leather boots now I love synthetic!

Riding leggings or tights with grips are great, countrydale is very good value and usually have a sale on. Much comfier than old style johds!

Agreed you can get good deals on decathlon, sports direct etc too.

Vinted!! I’ve got loads off there also!
Click to expand...
Another brand to add to the boot list. Thank you! As long as they are comfy I don't mind the material. Great to know they can adjust for calf width and leg length! It definitely wasn't so easy 20 years ago! I'm glad things have moved on!

Countrydale is another one I hadn't heard of. Jophurs weren't great as I recall but it sounds like there are now alternatives that may actually be comfy!

Did not think about sports direct etc, had no idea they did equestrian gear so one to look at too.

ebay and Vinted are two other options I'll have a look at as I'm sure you can come across some great finds!
 
If you're just getting back into it, I'd stick to Shires & the cheaper ranges. If you decide to keep at it, go for the more resilient brands. (Shires are still resiliant & really last)
You could also look at 2nd hand in your preferred brands.
 
Flame_ said:
Pioneer Endurance Bridles
Reactor Panel Saddles
Ariat Maxtrax for summer (if you can find some) and Tellurides for winter, with Terrain half chaps (size up to fit round Tellurides).
Ariat for summer jackets, tops and polo shirts
Mountain Horse for winter coats.
Noble Equestrian riding tights (if you can find some)
Musto sailing waterproofs
Easycare stirrups (if you can find some)
Rambo Duos for main rugs, Thermaluxes for warm coolers.
Ariat Radcote wellies.
Tipperary Sportage helmet.

I'm also 5'2 but heavier than you!
Click to expand...
All brilliant suggestions, thank you very much.

I am looking to part share/loan to start with. I assume you need to use the owner's tack? I haven't thought about this yet, although I do wonder if I may need a certain saddle to be comfortable due to previous injuries/a musculoskeletal condition. Eventually, I hope to own my own and knowing some good brands is super, I really appreciate it.
 
fidleyspromise said:
Clothing: i like riding tights and base layers
Boots: I use Dublin river boots to ride. Hik8ng boots for doing chores.
Helmet: Charles owen is comfy and mips
Camera: techalogic is dual or you can get 2 chilli cameras and a shoulder harness for them.
Click to expand...
Thanks so much for the suggestions here. Some common themes of brands, which is great to see. Thank you for the recommendation for a camera. As I'll largely be hacking this is important.
 
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