Chloe, our Equipment and Safety Officer, has written the following post. Chloe is a very experienced rider and is familiar with the dangers of riding, having competed for our BUCS team. She currently competes to a high level in dressage:
Horses are dangerous and unpredictable and it’s essential to take necessary precautions to ensure both yours and your horses safety. Below are a few basic things to remember…
1- Always wear a hat!
It’s important to always wear a riding hat whilst on your horse, to protect you in the unfortunate event you may fall. There are set standards for the quality of hats, the (BS)EN1384 spec has just been withdrawn, and it is recommended to look for PAS015, the new VG1 specification or the revised EN1384. It is essential to replace your hat each and every time you fall and hit your head, as damage is not always visible on the outside! Never buy a riding hat second hand! As you have no idea what damage has occurred with its previous owners.
2- Gloves
Gloves should be worn whilst riding, handling and loading horses. This prevents reins slipping through your hand, prevents blisters, and will save you a lot of pain if the horse pulls back or rears.
3- Suitable shoes
Shoes with a smooth sole and small heel should be worn. Shoes without a heel such as trainers or wellies can slip through the stirrup and get stuck, which can result in being dragged behind the horse if you fall! Sturdy shoes are recommended for being around horses, to prevent injury if you’re trodden on, as soft or open toed shoes will make this worse! Jodhpur boots or long boots are ideally recommended.
4- Well fitted clothing
A well fitted jacket is perfect for riding in! Hoods on coats or jumpers should not be worn, and jackets should be zipped up to prevent them flapping and spooking your horse. A nicely fitted jacket will show off your position and allow the instructor to work on it; they can’t work on what they can’t see! For cross country riding, long sleeves are recommended. Sturdy trousers are also suggested.
5- Tie your hair back!
Ladies with long hair; always tie your hair back in a bun or use a hairnet! This not only looks neater, but will prevent you being scalped in the case of a fall.
6- Remove all jewellery
All jewellery should be removed! Rings, necklaces and piercings can become caught up and cause injury. Watches can be worn safely.
7- Back Protectors
Back protectors are considered mandatory for cross country, but beginners may consider wearing one whilst learning to jump. They do not inhibit you, and although they may not be flattering, the alternative of a possible spinal injury may keep you out of the saddle for months!
UWE Riding Club 2014-2015 