Question:
I am interested in taking English riding lessons for the first time and I
was wondering what I should look for in choosing a stable.
Also, is there any equipment I should bother investing in at this early
stage?
This is something I have been wanting to do for a long time so I want to
make sure I choose a quality stable and ask the right questions.
Answer:
I'd suggest a pair of gloves and a pair of riding britches, to
keep from rubbing your seat and inner thigh with the seams of other
styles of pants. For your feet, you'll need either shoes with 1/2 inch
or more of heel or boots, likewise with heel. I do most of my schooling
(practice riding) in a $35 pair of rubber boots. They really do make a
difference. I'm using $4 stretch nylon gloves with nylon bumps on the
fingers and palm for every day wear. MOST IMPORTANT: a well-fitted riding
helmet. The modern ones are light weight, often have vents for summer
cooling/comfort, and really do protect the head and contents thereof.
If this seems too much to spend at first, the helmet is the most
important. You'll see lots of different opinions here on rec.equestrian
on whether helmets should be *required* or not, but I won't ride without
one. My husband and my neurologist will both divorce me if I get hurt
riding bare headed.
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