What to Wear When Horse Riding

Shorts are not suitable for horse riding in whilst not unsafe you will end up uncomfortable with very sore legs. Please wear or bring socks with you as you will have to change into riding boots.

If you have not ridden before, or at least for sometime, you should please note the following requirements for riding at Donegal Equestrian Centre.

Helmets and riding boots are available for casual clients free of charge.  Adults & Children riding in our regular lessons are expected to have their own equipment after their first 10 lessons.

Hats

Hats must comply to the following standard:-

  • PAS 015  2011 onwards
  • VG1 01.040 2014-12 with BSI Kitemark or Inspec IC Mark
  • ASTM F1163 2004a onwards with SEI mark
  • SNELL E2016 onwards
  • AS/NZS 3838 (2006 onwards)
  • Hats bearing only the EN1384 or BSEN1384 standard will not be accepted.

they must be worn when mounted correctly fitted and fastened. We have hats you can use if you are just visiting the area or have just taken up riding.
If you have a riding hat, bring it along and ask your instructor to check it for current standards.

Footwear

Riding boots or Jodhpur boots ideally should be worn, however, any closed toe flat shoe or boot with a smooth sole and a small heel would be acceptable. Trainers are not acceptable, so please don’t turn up in them expecting to ride. They are unsafe.

Lower Body

Thick leggings or trousers that offer freedom of movement. Jeans have been known to cause friction. Legs must be covered at all times i.e no shorts or skirts.

Upper Body

Clothing should be suitable for the weather conditions. A long-sleeved shirt, a properly fastened jacket that is not flapping or a sweatshirt, are recommended.
Body protectors must be worn for lesson involving jumping.
We have a limited number of body protectors that can be hired.
We ride in all weathers so a good waterproof coat is recommended.

Hands

We strongly recommend that riding gloves are worn whenever riding.

Jewellery

No jewellery should be worn whilst riding or handling horses. The only exceptions are the wearing of a wedding ring and watch.

Ultimately it is your responsibility to be dressed correctly in accordance with the above information before riding.