“In riding a horse, we borrow freedom.”
Helen Thompson (https://bit.ly/44o2iQL)
Quickly, to the Google! What does a first timer wear to a riding lesson? It used to be jeans and a long-sleeved shirt, how much has it changed?
This all depends on:
- Are you a horse girl from birth and returning to riding?
- Do you want to look the part or be the part?
- Have you a bottomless wallet?
- Is this for real or a flash in the pan getting older phase?
Questions! So many questions! Let’s cut to the chase and ride!
Whoa there…you over exuberant 67 year old. There are safety regulations that must be considered before you get your equine aromatherapy hit. These are mandatory or highly recommended for any trail ride, regulated lesson or competition.
Thankfully, Wattle Creek Equestrian Centre (https://bit.ly/3MbeMF6) supplies a wide range from children to adults. Me? These purchases where the first of my multiple dives into the wallet.
Boots
On the farm I always used short wellies! So, first pair of riding boots, second-hand, would do the job. These boots didn’t last too long, but that’s another blog. A few things to look for when buying riding boots.
Things to consider when buying:
Heel – essential to prevent your foot from slipping through the stirrup
Smooth sole – ensures the foot can easily slide out of the stirrup
Sturdy toe box – protects the toes
Height – depends on personal preference and wallet
Helmets
Having come from a cycling background, I’m very fussy about helmets. I never buy online, unless I have tried it on in real life (IRL), and am looking for a bargain. Same with riding helmets. I went to my local horsey shop and this Dublin helmet fit me like a kid glove.
Notice the fluro sticker on the strap. Helmets must meet current Equestrian Australia Safety Standards for Helmets and the sticker provides the evidence. Interested in reviewing the standards, click the link. https://bit.ly/48e60Pa
What to wear? The essentials!
Always want to look and feel good when on your freedom rides. For this first lesson I decided to take the low keyed approach. Foraging in the wardrobe revealed suitable attire.
Shirts
I have pasty, white skin that looks like vanilla blancmange, so it’s only long sleeved for me. From bushwalking I have a breathable shirt that fits the bill. Why breathable? Riding is hot work! I’ve since bought specific riding tops that are perfect.
Pants
Lesson #1, and up to #4, I wore a pair of stretchy jean like pants. Changed to riding breeches for improved grip and stability in the saddle. Also, stretchy, breathable fabric provides more flexible movement.
Knickers
Comfortable, and so not a G-String. Nasty things get wedged between the butt cheeks. OUCH! Can just imagine the chaffing.
Bras
Life has given me…well, let’s just say I’m a D cup. A supportive sports bra is a necessity. Don’t need bouncing bowling balls.
Other important stuff
There are a few other considerations before venturing into the arena.
Your basic everyday gardening gloves. I wore this type for nearly two years. They are the Cyclone Invisigrip type, and only $8.65 from your local Bunnings Warehouse (https://bit.ly/3Kw9KlX)
QUEENSLAND Australia! Beautiful all year round, but we’re not known as the SKIN CANCER CAPITAL OF THE WORLD for nothing. Dubious accolade, but it’s ours. Lifestyle is an outdoors’ affair, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Yes, YES! There is the matter of my blancmange skin, but life would pass my by if I had decided to stay indoors.
For more info on skin cancer in Queensland click this link https://bit.ly/49RwzL9
Apply a sunscreen, preferably SPF 50+, to your lips. A simple, yet super important action before riding. Before anything outdoors!!!
I’ve had a 1.5 cm section removed from the lower right side of my bottom lip, because of sun cancer. You can never be too careful.
Prepped!
Breathe easy! I think the blog prep was more convoluted than the actual riding prep.
Preparation completed! It’s now time for the fun part. Mr Perfect (Tino) and I take to the arena.
Back in the Saddle 
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