If you’re stuck for inspiration, we recommend browsing around the site for a bit. You’ll see all kinds of equestrian riding apparel, horse equipment, and novelty items at prices to fit every budget. Some specific Christmas gift ideas for equine enthusiasts include:

• Equestrian riding apparel. New equestrian riding apparel is always appreciated—as long as it’s in the right size. To make sure you only buy stuff that fits, try to discover your rider’s size without letting him or her know what you’re up to.
• DVDs, books, and toys. For younger equine enthusiasts, we have books and DVDs from the popular Bella Sara series, as well as a number of Safari Toob toys and plush horses that would make fabulous stocking stuffers.
• Home décor. What could be cuter than housewares that look like various kinds of horse equipment? From leather bit and stirrup napkin rings to horseshoe paperweights, stirrup ornaments, and decorative coasters, we have lots of fun ways to dress up your rider’s home.
• Belts and wallets. When not wearing equestrian riding apparel, your equine enthusiast can still promote the sport by using accessories with horse-related themes or motifs. Many of our Equine Couture belts feature such designs, while our LILO leather wallets will call to mind the finest grade horse equipment around.
• Purses, handbags, totes, and travel bags. Give your rider a way to pack and carry her equestrian riding apparel in style. She’ll love one of the travel bags from the Horseware Newmarket collection or a scarf handbag from the LILO collection. We also have many bag and purse selections for young riders.
• Jewelry and accessories. Designs incorporating stirrups, bits, and horseshoes make for excellent jewelry pieces, too. We sell a variety of rings, earring, pendants, necklaces, bracelets, hair clips, and key rings that feature horses or horse equipment.
• Gift cards. If you’re having trouble deciding which of our fine products your loved one will like best, you can simply purchase a gift card and let the recipient make the final choice. We offer TheEquestrianCorner.com gift cards in numerous denominations, ranging from $25 all the way up to $1,000.

We carry a lot more than just equestrian riding apparel and horse equipment at TheEquestrianCorner.com, so be sure to shop our site for Christmas gifts this year. Time’s running out, but if you place your order soon it will still arrive in time for the big day!

Unlike regular equestrian apparel, winterwear is typically made from special materials designed to retain body heat while blocking out cold and wind. When layered properly, winter equestrian riding apparel will keep you warm even in freezing temperatures while still allowing for the range of motion you need to execute commands and ride safely.

For maximum warmth, we recommend wearing three layers of clothing for your winter rides. You can build a great outfit by following these suggestions:

Base layer

For your base layer, it’s important to wear equestrian apparel with moisture-wicking properties to keep you dry and warm. Our Kerrits LJ top and matching breeches fit this bill, as both items are made with lightweight, quick drying, Bacteriostatic fabric. An alternative would be the CoolMax inner shirt and breeches (available with or without stirrups) from TuffRider. These CoolMax products not only help wick moisture away, but also feature a peached inside for added warmth and comfort.

Middle layer

Your middle layer of winter equestrian riding apparel should consist of breeches and shirts that are lined or otherwise equipped to provide complete protection against the cold. For instance, we carry many front-zip and pull-on breeches from TuffRider that are made from a patented Unifleece material that is smooth on the outside and brushed on the inside to help provide superior warming qualities without added bulk.

The Kerrits line of Sit Tight N Warm breeches is another popular wintertime product. Available in both ladies and youth sizes, the Sit Tight N Warm is made of Polartec Wind Pro with a comfy fleece lining to keep the wind and cold at bay while you ride.

Turtlenecks serve as a terrific middle layer for winter, especially when worn over a CoolMax or Kerrits inner. We have several options from TuffRider that will block out the cold without sacrificing style.

Outer layer

For your outer layer of winter equestrian apparel, we recommend wearing something like the TuffRider Unifleece vest. This stretch fleece fitted vest will lock in warmth without restricting movement, which is precisely what you need for comfortable, safe riding.

You should also wear warmer boots in winter, so be sure to check out our fleece-lined tall boots, field boots, and paddock boots from TuffRider. All of these products are fully lined, insulated, and waterproof to protect your feet from cold and wet conditions.

And don’t forget gloves! Hardcore all-season riders will surely appreciate how TuffRider’s winter gloves with thermal insulation and reinforced grips keep your fingers warm while still allowing you to easily handle the reins.

Remember, a winter outing with your horse doesn’t have to be a miserable experience. You can be warm and comfortable while giving your horse some much-needed exercise as long as you dress in equestrian riding apparel specifically designed to combat the cold and rain. Visit TheEquestrianCorner.com today to stock up on winter equestrian apparel so you can continue training all year round.

In addition, most sanctioned events and shows now require participants to use ASTM/SEI approved horse riding helmets; so if you plan to compete, you’ll have to purchase a suitable helmet to match the rest of your equestrian apparel.

At TheEquestrianCorner.com, we carry a variety of helmet designs and covers from the best brands in the industry. Here are some options to look into based on your riding style or event.

All-Purpose

All-purpose horse riding helmets are durable and rugged enough for everyday use. Some styles can even be used in eventing and show jumping in addition to schooling and pleasure riding. Key features to look for include vents for improved airflow and comfort; a removable/washable headliner; and strong outer shells. Troxel, a leading manufacturer of performance headgear, is the brand to check out if you want an all-purpose helmet.

Show and Dressage

Participation in show or dressage events requires adherence to precise guidelines concerning every part of your equestrian apparel. The guidelines extend to your headgear as well, and usually mandate that you wear a black, English-style helmet (i.e. slim and elegant) with a black satin or velvet cover. The classic styles do not have ventilation systems, but may come with a moisture-wicking lining to help keep you dry while in the ring. Top brands to consider include Ovation, LAS, Troxel, and Pegasus.

Jumping and Sport Riding

You generally have far more leeway in choosing your equestrian apparel for jumping and sport riding, so horse riding helmets for these disciplines tend to look more sleek, colorful, and modern than the ones intended for other events. They have a carbon fiber outer shell, a low profile for improved aerodynamics, and often feature a ventilation strip in a contrasting color.  IRH or International Riding Helmet, KEP Ovation, Pegasus, LAS, and Troxel are all worth a look for your jumping and sport riding helmet needs.

Helmet Covers

Helmet covers are a way to add a dash of color and flair to your otherwise conservative equestrian apparel. Though not always suitable for shows and events, you can certainly add a cover for schooling or pleasure rides. In response to customer demand, TheEquestrianCorner.com carries the very popular Ovation Zocks line of covers, as well as some selections from Troxel

We naturally associate horseback riding with fun, exercise, and competition, so sometimes it’s easy to forget about the inherent dangers of the sport. Although there’s no way to guard against 100% of the accidents and mishaps that might occur, wearing ASTM/SEI-approved horse riding helmets on each and every outing will significantly reduce your chances of sustaining a serious head injury.

Dressage, hunt seat, and pleasure classes each have specific requirements regarding equestrian clothing. It is up to you to check with the sponsoring organization to get the details of your equestrian clothing needs.

Tall Black Boots: Focus On Fit

Your field or dress tall black boots must fit properly. Since manufacturers differ, you must use the sizing chart for the horse riding boots that you are buying. Most horse riding boot sizing charts will ask for calf and height measurements, plus your normal show size. Calf measurements are taken at the widest part of your calf, with socks and riding breeches on, while seated. The height measurement is from the base of your heel to the top of your lower leg plus one inch.

Tuffrider’s Ladies Pebble Grain Slide Zip Field Boots provide an excellent look, fit and feel, with the advantage of a specially designed zipper that facilitates putting them on and taking them off easily. Tall horse riding boots must fit snugly in all the right places to give you the look and support you need to do well in the show ring and to complement the rest of your equestrian clothing.

Show Coat: Looks Are Everything

Your show coat is what the judge will notice first. A properly fitted jacket should give you a trim appearance with squared shoulders and a narrow waist. To check for a good fit, you should be able to take a pinch of approximately one-inch of fabric from the sides of the shoulders, which will allow the freedom of movement you need.

The waistline of your jacket should be at your natural waistline. The length of your show jacket should take it just to the bottom of your buttocks. Show jacket sleeves are measured at one inch below the wrist. Show coats are generally beige, gray or a dark color. Dressage show coats are black.

Ratcatchers And Men’s Shirts

Under the show jacket, women wear a ratcatcher and men wear a buttoned shirt. Again, the correct fit is crucial to creating the right image while allowing you to ride safely and effectively. Ratcatchers are extra long-sleeved shirts with a short, upright collar. The Ladies Tailored Sportsman Ballard Show Shirt and the Ladies Tailored Sportsman Browne Show Shirt are excellent examples of high quality materials and craftsmanship creating a form-fitting riding shirt that provides the necessary freedom of movement with show clothes.

Riding shirt sleeves are generally two inches longer than normal clothing, to allow you the reach you need when jumping. After putting on your show jacket, one-fourth to one-half inch of your shirt cuff should show. Ratcatchers are normally white or of a pale color. A stock pin should be worn with your ratcatcher. Men are required to wear a button-down shirt with either a tie or a stock pin.

Breeches And Jodhpurs

If you are wearing paddock boots, then you will want to also wear jodhpurs. Jodhpurs are riding pants with an elastic cuff that is worn over your horse riding boots. When sizing for jodhpurs, measure your inseam plus one inch with your paddock boots on. If you will be wearing your jodhpurs in the show ring, try to find a color match with your show jacket. The Tuffrider Lowrise Kentucky Jodhpurs are especially comfortable with eight percent Lycra.

Breeches come in many styles, including front-zip, pull-on, side-zip, low-rise and full-seat. You’ll want to make sure that your breeches maintain the overall trim and professional look of your equestrian clothing. Show breeches are normally beige. Equestrian Corner’s Equine Couture F3 LowRise Side Zip Breeches and the Tuffrider Legend Side Zip Breeches will both help you to look your best in the show ring.

Helmets

An ASTM F-1163-01 and 04a/SEI certified helmet is mandatory part of your equestrian clothing any time you are on or working around a horse. These helmets are tested for the rigors of riding and can save your life in the case of a fall. Helmets are sized by measuring the circumference of the rider’s head.

By dressing appropriately for equestrian events, you’ll be able to showcase your skill and command of the sport. Wearing the proper show clothes will reflect the elegance and control of English riding styles.

• Ladies Ribb full seat. This particular style from TuffRider has a full UltraGrip imitation leather seat that allows you to sit more securely in the saddle. The breathable polyester/spandex material wicks away moisture to keep you dry while also providing a stretchable fit for comfort.
• Tailored Sportsman Trophy Hunter Low Rise. The Tailored Sportsman is known for producing some of the finest equestrian apparel on the market. This offering features distinctive European styling, particularly in the leg seams and seat detail. The Clarino knee patches let you get the best grip possible on your horse, and the four-way stretch construction ensures easy mobility. Front pockets, a front zip, belt loops, and Velcro leg closures round out the great look.
• Kerrits Flowrise Performance Tight. For those practice sessions where more casual equestrian apparel is allowed, we recommend trying the Flowrise Performance Tight from Kerrits. It is the lightest tight on the market and enables you to experience virtually unrestricted maneuverability while riding. We’re sure you’ll just love the anatomically correct Flowrise waistband that sits a bit lower in front and higher in back for the perfect combination of comfort and coverage.
• Tailored Sportsman Trophy Hunter Side Zip Mid Rise. If you like the look of the low rise version, but want equestrian breeches that sit higher on your waist and zip at the side rather than the front, then this is the pair for you. In addition to the comfortable fit, the Trophy Hunter Side Zip Mid Rise has the same exciting features as its low rise counterpart, and is available in six different colors to suit your tastes.

Wearing the right equestrian apparel when you ride can improve stability in the saddle, increase your range of motion, and offer extra protection against minor injuries, so don’t compromise performance by purchasing inferior or ill-fitting products. We carry numerous styles and brands of equestrian breeches—as well as shirts, jackets, helmets, boots, and gloves—so feel free to browse our website at www.theequestriancorner.com to see what catches your eye.

Unfortunately, stables aren’t immune to this trend, either. But the difference in this case is that opting for beach chic and flip-flops over proper equestrian apparel and equestrian boots could lead to serious injuries or other problems. Though we’ll stop short of recommending that the fashion police patrol the paddock from June to September and physically remove any offenders, we would like to offer the following tips about what NOT to wear while riding during this season.

Sports bras or bikini tops
Although you don’t have to be dressed to the nines in your best equestrian apparel and equestrian boots for every riding session, you should at least be … dressed. Sorry, ladies, but sports bras and bikini tops do not qualify as actual clothing at the barn! Riding shirts made of lightweight, breathable fabrics are a more sensible alternative, so please cover up.

Low-rise or saggy jeans
We understand that some people like to wear denim on dusty or muddy days to save their regular equestrian apparel from getting dirty. But if you’re going to ride in jeans, make sure they fit properly. In other words, low-rise jeans that expose your thong and delicate parts of your anatomy are better left at home. And for the men out there, complete strangers should not be able to answer the “boxers or briefs” question simply by looking at you. If you insist on saggy jeans while riding, the least you can do is wear a belt.

Shorts or cutoffs
There are many valid reasons for wearing shorts in the summer. They’re cool, they allow you to get a more even tan, and they let you show off your fabulous new strappy sandals. But shorts don’t look that great with equestrian boots, nor do they provide adequate protection while riding. So unless you don’t mind the chafing and blistering that will surely result from several hours of constant skin-on-saddle contact, then breeches would be your best bet.

Baseball caps or visors
Yes, riding helmets can be hot, and they’re not exactly known for preserving that fresh-from-the-salon hairstyle you spent an hour perfecting. But wearing a baseball cap or visor instead of proper safety equipment is just inviting trouble. There are plenty of lightweight, ventilated helmets designed specifically for summer riding that will both keep you cool and protect your head from impact in the event of a tumble.

While most fashion faux pas in the real world are relatively harmless, things are different as soon as half-ton animals enter the equation. When you fail to wear proper equestrian apparel, including equestrian boots and a certified helmet, you put yourself unnecessarily at risk of everything from blisters and sores to broken bones and concussions. Do yourself and those around you a favor by dressing right before you head out to the barn this summer.

Before departing on your unforgettable journey, it’s important to make sure you are well prepared for the adventures that lie ahead. This means bringing season-appropriate equestrian riding apparel for your scheduled activities, as well as any horse equipment that might be required. Let’s take a closer look at what is involved in packing right for your vacation.

Horse equipment
If your vacation involves any kind of training or instruction, then you will likely have to bring your own horse. This means you’ll have to pack basic horse equipment such as a halter, lead line, saddle, saddle pad, and bridle. Some horse equipment, such as stable blankets or turnout sheets, might be provided for you, so be sure to check with the barn prior to departure. When staying on a ranch or traveling overseas, you can obviously leave your horse equipment at home since you’ll be mounted on a loaner.

Equestrian riding apparel
The kind of equestrian riding apparel you should bring depends on the activities you’ll be participating in. For example, you’ll want to pack traditional English equestrian riding apparel—shirts, breeches, gloves, boots, and a helmet—for dressage instruction or similar types of lessons. Conversely, you can stick to casual equestrian riding apparel if a dude ranch is your destination, since jeans and flannel shirts are entirely acceptable in that setting.

Be sure to pack for the season and anticipated weather at your destination. Breathable fabrics with moisture wicking properties are great for keeping you cool in summer, while jackets, down vests, or parkas are preferred in colder climes. In addition, a waterproof jacket or raincoat will help ensure that a little rain doesn’t spoil your fun.

Everyday clothing, toiletries, and miscellaneous items
You won’t be on horseback 24/7 during your vacation, so you’ll also have to fit regular clothes into your suitcase as well as toiletries and miscellaneous items such as sunscreen, sunglasses, a digital camera, and a laptop or tablet if you need to stay connected while away.

One key to enjoying your vacation is to pack as lightly as possible so you won’t be overwhelmed with heavy luggage. This can be a bit difficult to accomplish when you have to include equestrian riding apparel and horse equipment in the mix, but it is certainly doable if you plan ahead.

However, since the extreme heat and humidity pose serious health risks for both rider and horse, there are a number of precautions you should take before each riding session. For example, using proper equestrian apparel and lightweight horse equipment can go a long way toward staving off potential problems associated with sunburn or overheating. In addition, maintaining energy levels via adequate nutrition and hydration is vital for preventing heatstroke and other ailments.

Here are some more summer riding tips for proper hydration, nutrition, equestrian apparel and horse equipment.

Proper Hydration and Nutrition

• Keep a water bottle or canteen on hand and try to take frequent sips while riding. If this is not possible, be sure to take a break at least once every hour to rehydrate.
• Give your horse plenty of opportunities to stop at the water bucket or trough during the workout, and be sure to provide lots of fresh water back at the barn once your session is finished.
• Low blood sugar levels can lead to slower reaction times and questionable judgment while riding. If you don’t feel like eating a full meal prior to riding, energy gels or power bars can help restore blood sugar levels very quickly.

Summer Equestrian Apparel

• If you burn easily, then you should wear equestrian apparel that covers up exposed skin. We recommend long-sleeved jerseys and tops made from ultra-breathable fabric that wicks moisture away to keep you cool while protecting your arms from the sun.
• When sunburn is not a concern, you can choose from a wide selection of short-sleeved or sleeveless tops, including polos, rugbys, jerseys, and tanks.
• Breeches, paddock boots, and an ASTM/SEI certified helmet should always be worn, regardless of the season.
• Summer equestrian apparel that consists of light colors will help keep you cool, as lighter tones reflect rather than absorb sunlight.

Horse Equipment for Summer

• Try to use lightweight tack whenever possible. This reduces the load on your animal, which in turn helps minimize strain and prevents overexertion.
• Consider using thinner saddle pads in the summer, as these dry quickly to keep your horse comfortable. Of course, if chafing becomes an issue, you should revert to thicker pads that provide better protection.
• Guard against flies and other summer pests by using lightweight flysheets made of breathable, open-weave fabrics.
• In addition to the right horse equipment, proper grooming and care can help your animal stay healthy. For example, a quick bath with cold water can be very refreshing after a riding session, while frequent brushing and hoof inspections can prevent other problems from developing.

Riding in the summer can be a pleasurable experience for you and your animal as long as you take some reasonable precautions related to proper hydration, breathable equestrian apparel, and appropriate horse equipment. Sensible choices regarding riding times, such as going out in the early morning or evening hours when the sun is less intense, can also help you stay safe.

We hope you keep our tips in mind the next time you head out for a practice session!

TIP #1: Determine specific needs. The type of riding boots you will need to buy depends on how they will be used. If the primary riding discipline is English, then tall English riding boots would be your best bet. TheEquestrianCorner.com has many options which all come in a vast array of styles. For example, the Mountain Horse Supreme Ladies Field Boot provides the closeness and control you may need as well as comfort in a classic design.

TIP #2: Consider the type of weather, time of year and hours spent in the saddle. Many boots are designed to be good for more than one thing, so it’s possible to purchase boots that are waterproof with good traction that are also very comfortable while riding. If riding during the snowy months, consider Tuffrider Snow Rider Tall Boots.

TIP #3: Set a budget. Riding boots come in a myriad of styles and price points. It’s good to set a range of how much you want to spend prior to making the final decision. Ovation Ladies Finalist PRO Field Boots provide comfort as well as an elegant design. These boots are a great buy!

TIP #4: Know your size. When measuring for tall riding boots, put on the breeches and socks you will use most often. Use a cloth tape measure while sitting in a chair with your knees at a right angle. To find the height of your boot, measure the floor by your heel to the break in the back of your knee. Make sure to add at least a 1/2 inch for the drop. Calf width should be measured around your calf at the widest point, adding 1/8 inch for comfort. Accurately measured boots will be just a bit too tall the first time worn, and the boot tops will hit the tendons behind the knee. After a few days of breaking them in, the ankle area will soften and crease and drop approximately a 1/2 inch.

TIP #5: Do some additional research. There are many name brands to choose from, as well as more economic brands. Pay close attention to customer reviews to get a good overall opinion.

Finding an excellent pair of riding boots that will last a extended period of time is indeed a possibility if you take the time to establish what you need, set your budget, know your size and do some research. It may be a little more work during your initial period of determining which boots to buy, but the results are well worth the effort.

To prevent this scenario from happening, it’s important to make the right choice the first time around. Newcomers to the scene often base purchasing decisions on criteria such as the horse’s looks or price tag, but the fact of the matter is that age, training, and temperament are the truly critical indicators of safety and good performance. The following information is meant to serve as a basic guide to help you pair up a horse with your riding style.

Beginners and Novices
Riders are typically classified as beginners if they are completely new to the sport or if their experience is very limited. They can often be identified by their brand-new equestrian riding apparel and somewhat tentative nature when mounted. They are not yet comfortable in the saddle, nor are they able to control the animal’s speed or direction with any confidence.

Novices are a step above beginners. They are familiar with handling horse equipment and have no trouble tacking up on their own. Novices exhibit good balance in the saddle, can execute a range of basic commands, and can control the animal even at a trot.

Horses for beginners and novices should be:

• Older and well-trained
• Responsive, but not jumpy or easily spooked
• Calm and patient during grooming activities
• Manageable on the ground/easily led
• Temperamentally tolerant and confident

Intermediates
Intermediates have a good amount of experience under their belts. They are able to consistently control their animal in terms of speed, movement, and direction, and also understand the nuances involved in body positioning as related to proper balance and timing. Intermediates take an active role in caring for their animal because they know how to use and correctly maintain all kinds of horse equipment.

Horses for intermediates should be:

• Middle-aged or older
• Free of major training issues
• Highly responsive with excellent lateral flexion
• Quick to pick up correct leads
• Temperamentally confident without being unduly excitable

Advanced
Advanced riders have been around horses and stables so long that you’d swear they were born in equestrian riding apparel. They possess a very high degree of skill and can control their animal in virtually all riding situations. They are even able to ride competently without basic horse equipment such as a saddle or stirrups. Advanced riders are thoroughly accustomed to competitions and shows, and likely have a trophy or two on their mantelpiece.

Horses for advanced riders can or should be:

• Young and energetic
• In need of more training or retraining
• Quick, responsive, and athletic
• Temperamentally suited to the rider’s discipline of choice

When you mount a horse that is not suited to your riding style or ability level, then you’re putting yourself at risk of a serious injury.  Not even the best horse equipment and top-quality equestrian riding apparel can help you overcome the difficulties associated with riding an animal that is beyond your ability to control. Before you buy a horse, take the above points into consideration and be sure to consult with a qualified professional to help you make your selection.