What should I be doing next

[GinnyWeasley]

Hello everyone, a few of you may remember my post from a while back, that I was about to start riding lessons for the first time etc. etc.

Thankyou, for everyone who gave me advice, I can report back, That i had an AMAZING time and am absolutely loving learning to ride and horses and everything!!! So to today’s question, i am having riding lessons every week, and am also hopefully going to be doing some volunteering at my uni stables soon. But I was just wondering if anyone had any suggestions at what else I could do? Or if anyone had any suggestions about books I could read to expand my knowledge, or dvds or anything.
Also I’m thinking of buying some riding boots (Currently borrow from the stables) and more horsey type clothing and have no idea about what i should be going for, if anyone has any suggestions!

Anyway, if anyone has any suggestions or ideas I’d appreciate it!
thankyou!

 

[Equi]

So glad to hear you are getting on well Assuming you already have a hat and body protector, If i was you i would be more inclined to get some short boots and gaiters, overall it will be a little cheaper but they are generally more comfortable to walk about in long term. I personally like the zip up the back boots better. You can get cheap enough riding boots but it depends on your leg size (as in skinny people have a HELL of a lot more choice) but leather is always superior to rubber or synthetic leather.

Jodhpurs again can be bought cheaply on eBay and the like, i don't see any point in buying a pair for £60 when you know they are literally going to have a glob of snot/grass/mud on them in seconds.

As for tops, i generally ride in a polo or a tshirt with a gilet on (i highly recommend the Toggi ones) but it depends how hot you get. I like to have my arms free so to speak, so a hoodie etc doesn't quite give me the same feel. Just a mental block though..i can't do anything with my arms covered lol

My best advise is to not go mental buying loads of expensive crap that is "trendy" because it will all be destroyed.

 

[GinnyWeasley]

thankyou, yes I think a good eBay shopping trip is in order! I had forgotten about a hat and body protector (the most important thing!) I’ve been borrowing them from the stables. I am guessing a proper equine shop would be the way to go, to ensure everything fits correctly?

 

[oldie48]

Definitely get a hat and body protector fitted properly. Although I haven't used them myself I am told Decathlon have reasonably priced clothes. I like riding tights or breeches and always wear long boots but when I started to ride I had short boots and chaps. Don't buy the rubber riding boots as they are quite stiff and not great to ride in. I also agree not to spend loads on the clothes, I also wear a polo shirt and a gilet but IMHO you do need to wear gloves. Just have a lot of fun and be warned it is totally addictive!

 

[Equi]

Yes they will if they sell them i believe they have to have a certificate in fitting but that may only be here. Hats and body protectors (BPs) will havea whole new thread hahaha

I personally have a charles owen hat but that wont fit everyone, each hat fit a bit different. When fitting you don't want it to move about but also want it to feel very secure as it will flatten a little..but it should not give you a head ache.

I have a USG body protector. Not very high standard and quite cheap really. But its an extra layer of protection...if you wear it...which i don't...

 

[Widgeon]

Definitely get a hat and body protector fitted properly. Although I haven't used them myself I am told Decathlon have reasonably priced clothes.

Agree about Decathlon clothes, they are good, particularly the waterproof jods. Don't buy a hat there though - Decathlon mostly sell hats confirming to European safety standards and you won't be able to wear them at your riding school. Make sure that any hat you buy has the PAS 015 label in it.