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What should I wear to my first lessons?

3K views 14 replies 11 participants last post by  QtrBel  
#1 ·
Im getting riding lessons soon for the first time and I want to be ready and safe. So do any of you know what I should get or have any recommendations? Thank you!
 
#4 ·
Most places provide a helmet but I found very quickly I wanted my own. Riding in the summer usually makes for an at least some what sweaty head, at least for me. Helmets provided have been used many times, by many people. I also got a pair of paddock boots and half chaps, immediately after my first lesson. If you ride western I would think some kind of boot with a mild heel.
 
#5 ·
You didn't mention whether you were taking English style or Western style lessons.


The bare minimum are loose pants of any style to start with, but, yes, some tights/ leggings can be quite slick. Shoes with a heel, and not heavy cleats on them.


then you can see what the others wear and check out getting something more specific to riding.
 
#6 ·
Best is to call and ask what they expect and what they provide. Then go from there. Most around here start with a pair of comfortable jeans and heeled shoe or boot with little or no tread. Helmets are provided.



If that is the case then I would actually recommend waiting on the helmet. See what they have that fits so you know better what to purchase as not all brands fit the same or have the same comfort level.



Once you know you are going to stick with it then look at what the others are riding in. You never say if english or western. English tend to start in either more fitted jeans and western style boots or paddock boots. Riding with english style dress boots often means if there is a zipper it is on the inside and could cause wear and tear on the saddle so is discouraged. Once you know you are sticking with it then the kids here usually find riding breeches under the tree or wrapped up for birthdays and such along with better quality foot wear, half chaps, pads and crops or whips, gloves. They build their gear as they go and base it on where they are headed. Eventually those that stick with it will end up buying a saddle that is something that is sized to be worn on a wider range of horses or if they have leased then fitted to the lease horse.
 
#8 ·
HAHAHHA! Personally, I'd go for bubble wrap.

OP...Wear something comfortable. Others have given good advice. There is time later to go out and spend all those dollars on "fashionable attire" if you decide to hang in there.
The important thing is to wear a SMILE because this is fun!

Need to add...Never compare your progress to others and there are no stupid questions!
 
#9 ·
Hmmm, if we fill the medieval armour with those polystyrene chips you see in mail parcels, will it simulate an all-over body helmet?

Bubble wrap is a great idea for body protection, but not very aerodynamic. The armour would probably give the OP more street cred.

And if the OP wants to learn how to fall off: https://www.horseforum.com/horse-talk/falling-off-nerds-789799/

I'm afraid the angelic emoji is out of action at the moment, so I am unable to use it at present... waaaah...
 
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#10 · (Edited by Moderator)
comfortable shirt, very comfortable pants, and comfortable shoes. Those mean different things for different people so it's up to what you feel is comfortable.
I stated out riding in an arena in Germany (too many years ago now) and I usually went right after school. Riding in jeans, a cotton shirt, and tennis shoes. Over 50 years later the only things that have really changed are the pants (but I still ride in jeans since my favorite silk pants don't self clean after ever ride) and the shoes, but my favorite shoes for riding are still just (very ugly) glorified leather tennis shoes. I more often wear some of my military boots, but that's in case I end up in the woods and they offer better protection....and they are the second most comfortable footwear so it's not really much difference.

Wear what feels good since you want to be comfortable while riding.
 

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#13 ·
Some instructors do not allow sneakers worn in lessons as they are a hazard. Especially with a new rider. Any type of low heeled shoe that fits comfortably would be what is recommended. Many around here wear dress boots as long as they do not have zippers up the inside. More typical is a pair of slip on western.
 
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#15 ·
I think it would be fine. Here for the first few lessons Jean's are fine ad long as you have appropriate head and footgear. Best is to call the instructor.

My son refused to wear breeches for years but instead worn a polo(the sport) jean that was soft and super stretchy but otherwise fit and looked like jeans. They were a light tan. He would wrap the lower leg and put the half chaps over them. Made them look like breeches without the overly close fit he found uncomfortable.
 
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