The ultimate guide to get your child horse riding

Is your little one keen to try something new this summer? Maybe they’ve had a go at horse riding on holiday and now want to start regular lessons?

In this blog we’ll cover the basics to help you get started - from what kit they’ll need to the different types of riding lessons out there.

Benefits of horse riding for children

Horse riding is a hobby that many people start in childhood, but often becomes a lifelong passion.

Not only is it heaps of fun, but it also helps your child build confidence, stay active and healthy, and get out in the fresh air!

What to wear when horse riding

Equestrians wear certain kit to keep them safe in the saddle - but with everything from boots to breeches on offer, the choice can feel a bit overwhelming at first!

We’ve broken down exactly what kit your little one actually needs for riding lessons, why they’re important, and our top picks.

Riding hat and body protector

A well-fitted riding hat is the most important bit of kit while horse riding. Like a cycling helmet, it protects your child’s head in case of a fall.

Contact the riding school or yard to ask if they have one available to borrow for the first lesson – most places do! But if your child does want to continue horse riding regularly, a properly fitted riding hat is essential.

If you visit our shop in Denham, your child can try the riding hats on in person, and we’ll be on hand to make sure you get the right fit.

Rhinegold Pro Carbon Riding Hat

This hat from Whitaker mixes style and function. The carbon shell is lightweight and meets British equestrian safety standards*, but also features a glittery top panel to add some fun.

Whitaker Club Rider Helmet

The ventilation and removable lining in this riding hat make it perfect for warmer days. It’s available in 2 sizes (simply adjust the fit using the dial at the back) and 7 bright colours.

Rhinegold Childs Pro Comfort Body Protector

Like their riding hat, body protectors help keep your child safe if they fall while riding. This one from Rhinegold is lightweight and made of more segments than most other body protectors, giving it better flexibility and range of movement. It also meets British and European safety standards**, so you know it’s one to trust.

Boots

Riding boots aren’t just there to look smart – they're designed to keep your child’s foot secure in the stirrup and safe on the yard.

The boots we recommend are:

LeMieux Junior Zip Paddock Boots

LeMieux Junior riding boots offer a luxury look and feel, with beautifully smooth leather and an elasticated Chelsea boot gusset for extra comfort.

There’s also a convenient zip on the front, making them easy to take off. Inside, the orthofoam footbed provides breathable comfort even during a long lesson.

Rhinegold Little Ones Toddler Jodhpur Boots

These adorable little boots have two pull-on straps to make it as easy as possible for parents to get them on and off. They’re available in classic black or bright impossible-to-lose pink.

Cameo Equestrian Waterproof Jodhpur Boot

These no-nonsense waterproof boots from Cameo Equestrian provide the classic riding boot look with added grip on the soles – perfect for slippery yards or muddy fields.

Gloves

Gloves provide a good grip on the reins and protect your child’s hands while riding. They need to fit securely and be made of material that won’t wear through easily.

Hy Equestrian Everyday Two Tone Riding Gloves

The Two-Tone Gloves have extra padding to prevent rubbing from the reins and provide a firm grip. They come with easy-fastening straps for a comfortable, secure fit.

Shires Aubrion Leather Riding Glove - Child

Leather gloves are long-wearing and perfect for cooler autumn days. This pair from Shires are comfortable and non-slip with fastenings for a secure fit.

As well as these core items, there are some bits of riding gear you don’t need for the first lesson but will need in future if your child wants to continue horse riding. For example, a pair of breeches or jodhpurs.

LeMieux Mini Junior Pro Breeches

These stylish, practical breeches are perfect for children at any level of riding ability. They’re made with lightweight, 4-way stretch material so they’re super comfy, while silicone grips around the knee provide extra security in the saddle.

Finding the right session for your child

A quick search online will show you any riding schools near you. Look for ones with good reviews

These might include group lessons, 1-on-1 private teaching, or outdoors rides called hacks.

We hope this has helped make starting out feel a bit easier – and we wish your child all the best as they get stuck into riding!

* British Kitemark PAS 015 2011, meeting or exceeding the required safety criteria for equestrian sports and disciplines.

** European Standard EN 13158:2009, and BETA 2009 Body & Shoulder Protector Standard Level 3