Equestrian Clothing
Equestrian clothing or riding clothes is an important part of a rider’s paraphernalia. With the right kind of protective clothing, the rider can ensure safety while riding. The type of equestrian clothing differs depending on the occasion and purpose. However, the essential items of a rider’s clothes are breeches or jodhpurs, riding boots, hats, helmets, body protectors, gloves, and riding shirts and jackets. There may be slight variations in these basic clothing pieces for men, women, and children riders. The purpose of all these riding clothes is to provide safety and comfort to the rider.
The riding clothes protect the riders from extreme weather conditions; guard the legs, arms, and head; and also protect the horse. The equestrian clothing is designed to provide maximum mobility to the rider without restricting his movements. The materials and fabrics used in manufacturing equestrian clothing are tight-fitting and stretchable. The knee and seat patches are made from grippy materials. Riding breeches and jodhpurs are excellent leg wear for a rider; they fit closely to the leg and are comfortable. Riding boots are traditionally made from smooth leather; the heel prevents the boot from sliding through the stirrup; the smooth or lightly textured sole ensures that the rider is not caught on the tread of the stirrup when the rider accidentally falls off the horse. There are boots that reach just above the ankle called jodhpur or paddock boots and there are knee high tall boots. Jodhpur boots are worn with the long jodhpurs and are especially used by children. The tall boots protect the legs of the rider from being pinched by the leather of the saddle. Riding jackets are usually formal wear and are compulsory for competitions and shows. Casual riding jackets are also available for daily use.
Kid’s equestrian clothing can include all of the essential items of riding clothing, such as helmets, boots, jodhpurs, and riding shirts. Additionally, they may be made to wear protective vests and cotton gloves with grips on the palms.
Equestrian clothing is usually priced high as they are made from special materials for the safety and comfort of the rider. Branded pieces of riding clothes will cost more depending on the prestige value. However, you can find cheaper riding clothing from the several online stores that sell these items at a discounted rate. Discount equestrian clothing can also be purchased from stock clearance sales and used equipment sales. Most of these clothing items are made from durable materials and will last long; hence buying used items at a reduced rate will not be a waste of money. For the beginners it is always better to have used riding clothes.