General Safety Around Horses
As part of your lesson your instructor will offer advice on how to handle and behave around horses.
Some pointers that equally well apply should meet some horses when out in the countryside are;
Always approach a horse from the front, don't sneak up on a horse from behind - let the animal know you are there, say 'hello'.

As a horse has a wide angle of view but can't see directly behind keep a hand on its body to let it know you're there as you move behind it.
Watch your horse's ears, they show what mood its in - if they are flattened and pointing back, be warned it is not very happy.

Watch your feet and try not to place them where they might get accidentally trodden on.
Not every horse likes it face stroked or patted, especially by a stranger. If you don't know the horse or are unsure, stroke its shoulder or scratch its withers- this mimics the natural behaviour of horses and you may be accepted quicker by the horse.

Head Protection
We will be pleased to provide a riding hat for your first few lessons; however we strongly recommend that you purchase your own hat from a reputable supplier if you decide to take up riding as a regular pursuit.
Always ensure that you buy a hat that conforms to the latest standards (PAS 015 or BSEN1384) from a stockist where advice on correct fitting can be obtained. Skull type hats offer the best protection and don't look too bad with a silk (fabric cover) over the top. Expect to pay £30 to £40.

Never be tempted with a second hand one unless you know it's history. If the hat has been in a previous accident it may be seriously weakened even if it looks fine from the outside. Hats should be thrown away if they've been called into use, dropped or knocked.

Boots
Boots are an essential part of a riders attire and should be considered carefully. The wrong footwear could mean your feet become trapped in the stirrups and you are dragged with the horse.

To start with, sturdy plain boots with a definite heel will suffice. Shoes or boots with deeply ridged soles or fancy buckles are dangerous, as are trainers - their flat soles could completely slip through the stirrups. We will not allow riders to mount if wearing trainers. If in doubt ask your instructor.

There are two main styles of boots - short and long. The basic ranges of long boots have one major problem for the beginner rider. Their moulded plastic uppers are quite inflexible around the ankle area making it difficult to maintain a good lower leg position - the boot always trying to force your leg to its moulded shape. Leather boots have much better flexibility but are expensive.

Short boots, also known as jodhpur boots, are probably the better choice for your first purchase. They offer good mobility for the ankle and are comfortable to wear when not riding. To give some protection and support for your lower leg half chaps can be worn with them. Prices for the basic long and short boot start from around £30.

Half chaps fit around the lower leg and offer protection from dirt and grease off the horse's sides and help prevent your jodhpurs rubbing.

Body Protectors
Body Protectors are made of a lightweight, dense foam panels which cover your back and chest area. They can help absorb some of the energy of a fall, a hoof - if you are unfortunate enough to be fall underneath a horse, or something like a fence post if you are riding outside.

Modern designs can fit underneath a jacket or coat and have removable panels so the outer cover can be washed. Again seek the advice of a good stockist as there is a range of protection levels available and it's important you get one that fits correctly.

Jodhpurs and Breeches
Ordinary trousers and jeans rub in some very tender places and the purchase of a pair of jodhpurs or breeches will be essential if you decide to make riding a regular pursuit.
Traditionally breeches are cut with a leg that stops around the calf area and are designed for wearing with long boots. Jodhpurs are made with a longer leg length and are suitable for use with short boots and will usually also be fine with long boots..

Gloves
Gloves are not only useful for keeping the cold out but also keeping your hands clean. Often in the school in winter a pair of gloves will help to keep the chill out.
Underwear

When first developing your seat as a novice rider, it should be worth noting that comfortable knickers and underwear should be worn. For ladies bigger knickers and a sturdy bra, for gents, often protection or special boxer shorts can be purchased for added comfort.