What To Wear For a Trail Ride

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So, you want to try a quick horseback ride on vacation, but you’re not a rider. What should you wear? In part, of course, this depends on the climate, but I have some basic guidelines.

A Helmet

Yes, there are places that let you ride without them and even that actively discourage it. Please wear a helmet. Find out ahead of time if the place you intend to ride has loaners. If not, you can get a cheap helmet at tack stores, farm supply stores and even big box stores in rural areas. Helmets can be had for as little as $50. Compared to the cost of your vacation and the value of your head, that’s nothing.

I don’t suggest ordering a helmet online if you have never worn one before as you need to know your size and which style is most comfortable. Your helmet should not give you a headache (if it does it’s too small), and should stay in place when you vigorously jump up and down (if it moves, make sure the harness is tight).

All helmets are made to certain standards. On the more expensive ones you’re paying for style and appearance, something that doesn’t matter for casual trail riding.

Proper Footwear

Despite being mentioned first, helmets are not the most important safety gear. They’ll help you if you’re in a bad accident.