Children's Equestrian Clothing: Safe and comfy for young riders

Children's Equestrian Clothing: safe, comfortable and fun

With children's equestrian clothing, two things matter most: safety and freedom of movement. A properly fitted children's riding hat and a well fitting body protector are the most important pieces of kit. Add breeches and riding tights in children's sizes, warm jackets for the yard, grippy gloves and show clothing for that first outing at a local show.

Protection that fits properly

A children's riding hat must sit firmly on the head without pinching and should be a riding hat certified to the current safety standard. Many models have a dial for fine adjustment, which is handy for growing heads. After a fall the hat must be replaced, even if no damage is visible. The body protector should reach from the shoulders to the base of the spine and must not catch on the saddle when your child sits. It is best to try both on together.

Clothes for lessons and the yard

Children need breeches or riding tights that do not pull when mounting and dismounting and have no thick seams on the inside leg. Silicone grip helps them stay secure while their balance is still developing. Water repellent jackets and gilets are ideal for the yard, and gloves protect small hands from blisters on the reins. Choose a size with a little room to spare, but nothing that flaps or could get caught.

Frequently asked questions

At what age can a child learn to ride?
Many riding schools offer lead rein lessons from around four or five, and proper lessons often start between six and eight. Interest, concentration and enough strength are what really count. A riding hat is part of the kit from day one.

Do I need to buy riding clothes straight away?
For the first few lessons, their own riding hat, sturdy shoes with a heel and comfortable leggings are enough. If your child sticks with it, breeches, gloves and jodhpur boots are worth buying. Avoid second hand hats, as you cannot know whether they have been in a fall.

How much growing room should a children's riding hat have?
A hat should never be bought to grow into, it has to fit now. If it is too big, it can shift in a fall and protect less well. Adjustment systems cover small differences, and when your child needs the next size, it is time for a new hat.