Is it compulsory to wear a hat when carriage driving?

benson21

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26 December 2009
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Oh is organising some carriage driving lessons for me. My hat was destroyed in my riding accident, I am guessing I need to wear one?
 
When I've had a lesson at instructor's yard she insists on both a hat and a groom because it's her insurance. When she comes to me at a friend's yard, then it's up to me/my friend, our risk.
 
For many years I drove on the open road without a hat as I loved bowling along with the wind in my hair until I was bolted in carriage (not my pony thank goodness). This mare kicked the cart to pieces and my instructor and I were left with a rein each and nothing much else. After that I never drove without a hard hat. If I had hit the road on my head I am sure I would have been killed. So do take care of your head it is the only one you have!
 
I recently did a carriage driving course (it was ace, I loved every minute). We had to wear a hat whilst we were in the carriage, they also recommend gloves, string, leather or pimple palm type will suffice. After the first day (I did a 6 week course) wearing my good Charles Owen velevt show hat, I went to decathlon and bought a hardshell type; better ventilated, and less inclined to attract all the cr*p when you put it down on the floor when putting to etc. Cheaper to replace as well! :)
 
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