You’ve probably found out by now that the equestrian sport is, well, expensive. Or how we like to say EQspensive. If you’re like me you can’t resist a good deal when you see one. How do you know which items are worth spending a little extra cash on and which ones you can price shop? Well, let me help you! Here are my top 5 items I would recommend not nickel-and-diming.
Helmets
Your noggin is important, this is the first item I would highly suggest investing in. Honestly, for riders there is not another item I would rank more important than your helmet. The most important piece of advice is be sure your helmet fits you. If you are trying a helmet for the first time it is best to have it appropriately fitted by someone knowledgeable in helmets like our friends over at Farm House Tack!
Protective Vests
Some disciplines – like eventing – require body protectors for certain phases of competition and training. Safety equipment is not worth skimping on. If you are unsure regarding fit or options for protective vests Ride Equisafe is your go-to resource. There are frequent advancements in protective vest technology that it is important to consult experts in the field to make the purchase that best suits you and your needs!
Stirrup Irons
So you might be thinking, really Sarah? Stirrup irons? Hear me out, in the event of an unintentional dismount your stirrup irons become very important. Stirrup irons can help rider comfort and safety if selected appropriately. If you aren’t sure what stirrup would work best for you and your riding goals you can reach out to experts like Ride Equisafe and Farm House Tack. Technology is always evolving. The once believed to be super safe peacock stirrup is now being looked at for possible banning due to associated injuries and adverse outcomes. More on the future of peacock stirrups here.
Tall Boots
Tall boots I would not classify as a safety related item, but they can be pricey. We really cannot purchase quality tall boots these days for under $300/400. To prevent frustration and the potential of breaking in more pairs of boots than you care to, it is important to do your homework on tall boots before hitting add to cart. Our leg is the base of our riding so we do not want to be chronically uncomfortable wearing our tall boots. So unless you like blisters and tender feet, invest in your tall boots.
Show Jackets
Like tall boots, this is not a safety related item. Well, unless you intend to wear a show coat over your air vest. We all know when you look your best, you tend to ride your best. Your show jacket is another investment. Spend time looking for a show jacket that makes you feel good about yourself. Save up for that show coat that adds to your self-esteem. Don’t pinch pennies for one that does not fit well as this is not going to make you feel your best, which can carry over to your riding. Show jackets go on sale often. Do your research, make a list of “must have items” for your coat. Things like if it needs to be compatible with an air vest or be appropriate for the equitation ring. The show jacket is often one of the first things a judge notices when you walk into the arena along with your horse’s turnout. Now, do not take this as you must go out and purchase the most expensive jacket. That is not the intention. A matter of fact, my favorite show jacket at the moment is in fact not the most expensive show coat I own!
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