We get a lot of visitors each Summer who are excited to ride for the first time — and we’re excited to share that first horse riding experience with them!  Many know we’ll supply the Stickyseat Riding Pants or Stickyseat Riding Breeches, but they wonder what else they should wear for a safe and comfortable ride.

We stress that safety over style wins every time and functionality over fashion while horse riding is imperative.  Of course, at Stickyseat, we make sure all the equestrian boot cut riding pants and breeches are fashion-forward, functional, comfortable, and stylish!

This guide will help you step into the saddle in style, knowing you're well-prepared and safe. We'll cover everything to ensure your first ride is comfortable and enjoyable.

Proper Riding Attire

Wearing the proper riding attire is crucial for both safety and comfort. Each piece, from your helmet to your boots, plays a specific role in protecting you and enhancing your riding experience.

Quality riding gear is designed to be durable and provide the necessary support for different riding activities and riding disciplines.

For instance, boots with a small heel prevent your feet from slipping through the stirrups. Wearing a well-fitted helmet protects your head from impacts. Investing in quality riding gear ensures that you can focus on enjoying your ride without unnecessary risks.

Riding Tights or Horse Riding Pants for a Trail Ride

With the right horse riding pants on your side (and legs), you'll have a more comfortable, safer horseback riding experience. While shorts might seem like an easy choice for a trail ride during hot temperatures, they don't protect the skin from being pinched by the saddle. Long Horse Riding Pants, like Stickyseat Cargo Boot Cut Pants, or Riding Tights, like the Stickyseat Cargo Euroseat Tights, will protect your legs from the saddle and the elements.

Horseback riding tights and pants designed for horseback riding offer flexibility, stretch, breathability, and a snug fit that keeps you comfortable during your ride. At Stickyseat, we are not fans of riding in jeans, as the seams inside the leg and looser fit can rub you raw and cause painful blisters.

We have many customers who have ridden in jeans their entire lives, but once they “cross over” to the comfort of Stickyseat Riding Pants and Breeches, they swear they won’t go back! We make Denim-Dye Stickyseat Riding Pants and Riding Breeches for those who want the look of jeans but the comfort of Stickyseats.

Whether you choose riding tights, breeches, or bootcut riding pants, always ensure they are made from durable, stretchable fabric for the best experience.

Breeches and Jodhpurs

Lightweight riding breeches are staples in horseback riding attire. Breeches and tights are snug-fitting and reach down to the ankle, making them ideal for wearing with tall boots or paddock boots and half chaps. They provide excellent grip and support, helping you stay stable in the saddle. Horse riding breeches come in various styles. At Stickyseat, we make a grip seat with a knee patch version for ultimate traction in the saddle and a No Stick version with a knee patch only for a more independent seat.

Riding Shirts

When it comes to riding shirts, comfort and fit are key. Opt for form-fitting yet flexible shirts that allow you to move freely. Moisture-wicking fabrics are ideal for keeping you cool and dry during your ride. Make sure the shirt is rated with SPF Protection from the sun.

In cold weather, layering is essential. Start with a base layer that keeps you warm without adding bulk, and add a lightweight, breathable top layer. Long sleeves can protect your arms from the sun and brush for a trail ride. A good riding shirt should fit snugly but comfortably, offering protection and ease of movement whether in a lesson or on a trail.

Riding Helmet

A riding helmet is the most crucial safety gear for horseback riding. It protects your head in case of a fall, reducing the risk of serious injury. The most critical gear is a riding helmet that meets the ASTM/SEI safety standards.

A proper helmet should fit snugly without being too tight. A well-fitted helmet stays in place, offering maximum protection. Riding helmets come in various styles. Make sure yours is adjustable and has not expired. Foam will break down over time (and exposure to the sun and heat), so never buy a used helmet.

Never substitute a riding helmet for another type, like a bike helmet, as they're not designed for the specific impacts of falling from a horse. Always wear a helmet, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, to ensure a safer, more enjoyable ride.

Riding Boots

Proper footwear is essential for horseback riding. Boots or closed-toe shoes with a small heel are critical for safety. Tennis shoes should not be worn when riding because they lack the necessary small heel. Don't wear flip-flops or open-toed shoes for the same reason.

Many experienced riders prefer riding boots. These come in two types: tall boots and paddock boots. Tall boots provide more coverage and support. Paddock boots offer flexibility and are often paired with half chaps for extra leg protection. Make sure they fit well and are broken in before your ride to prevent blisters.

Body Protectors

A body protector is safety equipment designed to absorb impact in case of a fall. It protects the spine, ribs, and internal organs, reducing the risk of injury. Initially intended for eventing, body protectors are becoming increasingly popular among recreational riders.

When choosing a body protector, look for one that meets the BETA level 3 (2018) standard. This safety standard is to make sure it provides adequate protection. Body protectors should be professionally fitted to offer the best protection and comfort.

Wearing a body protector can boost your confidence. You'll be able to focus on improving your riding without worrying about potential injuries.

Riding Jackets or Vests

Riding jackets or vests are versatile pieces of clothing that keep you warm and protected while riding. In cold weather, a well-fitted jacket can provide warmth without restricting movement. Look for jackets with moisture-wicking properties to keep you dry and comfortable.

Vests are excellent for layering, offering core warmth while allowing your arms to move. Both jackets and vests should be designed for riding, with features like side vents and secure closures. Whether you're riding in cool or warm weather, a good jacket or vest can enhance your comfort and performance.

Riding Gloves

Riding gloves are not always necessary but can be very helpful. They grip the reins and protect your hands from blisters and calluses. In winter, gloves keep your hands warm, allowing you to maintain control of the reins.

For horse shows, gloves add a polished, professional look to your attire. Choose gloves designed for riding, as they're reinforced and offer a better grip than regular gloves. Investing in a good pair of gloves can enhance your comfort and make your riding experience more enjoyable.

Western Riding Attire

Western riding attire is distinct and steeped in tradition. Unlike English riding, Western riding evolved from the cowboy culture, which required durable, functional clothing. Typical Western riding attire includes cowboy hats, long-sleeve shirts, long pants or jeans, and cowboy boots.

The cowboy hat offers shade from the sun and protection from the elements. Modern cowboy hats are sometimes built with helmet features for added safety. Cowboy boots are essential for their high shafts and angled heels. Chaps or chinks are often worn over jeans to protect the rider's legs from brush and provide extra grip on the saddle.

This attire is functional and embodies the spirit and style of the Western riding tradition.

Caring for Your Riding Attire

Proper care of your riding attire can extend its life and maintain its effectiveness. After each ride, clean your boots to remove dirt and sweat, which can degrade the leather over time. Use a damp cloth and a gentle cleaner for the best results.
Regularly check for cracks or damage to your helmet and clean the interior padding to keep it fresh. Breeches, jodhpurs, and riding tights should be washed according to the manufacturer's instructions. Gloves should be cleaned based on their material. Inspect all your gear for signs of wear and tear and replace any damaged items.

Now You Know What to Wear for Horseback Riding

You’re looking for an enjoyable, rewarding adventure when you go horseback riding. The last thing you may consider is wearing the right gear. Each piece plays a role in protecting you and enhancing your riding experience. Ensuring you have the appropriate attire will make your rides more enjoyable and safe.

At Stickyseat, we specialize in high-quality, comfortable pants catering to all riders, including plus-size riding pants. Our pants are designed to offer flexibility, durability, and comfort. These breeches are finely tailored using high-end athletic fabrics that breathe and wick away moisture.

What sets Stickyseat apart is the innovative technology. Stickyseat originated the concept of adhering the sticky seat to the outside of the fabric, preventing irritation against your skin. The grip seat is designed to stretch rather than form a solid plate. You get the grip you need without sacrificing comfort or performance.

Visit Stickyseat today to shop for the best horse riding pants and gear up for your next horseback riding adventure! Whether you're looking for saddle seat clothing, pleasure attire, or even everyday training wear, our products will help you ride in style and confidence.