Having an essential list of horse supplies and equipment can make the transition into equestrian sports much easier. There are loads of equipment and horse supplies available, and knowing where to start can be confusing. Start with this essential list of horse supplies and equipment.
Feeding Supplies
Stock up on the necessary supplies to keep your horse healthy and well-fed.
Feed Pan
As their name suggests, feed pans are containers used to feed your horse with. Horse feed pans are set on the ground for floor-level eating which can reduce choking hazards and increase the number of nutrients the horse gets due to a slower consumption rate and improved internal processing from increased chew time.
Feed Container
Similarly, you’ll need a safe place to store your horse feed. Horse feed containers use a well-fitting lid to keep the feed dry, fresh, and prevent any unwanted debris or animals from accessing the feed.
A Water Trough or Bucket
Having clean fresh water available to your horse is important for their well-being. A water trough is a receptacle used to provide drinking water to your horse. Although, a large bucket will also suffice as a watering device for your horse as a cheaper alternative. Either way, have a device on hand that you can consistently provide clean water in.
Handling and Grooming
Grooming is an important part of horse care. A clean horse is less susceptible to health problems such as thrush, rashes, and other skin problems.
Halter
A horse halter is a piece of headgear that is used to tie the horse up. The halter fits being the ears and around the muzzle and comes in handy for keeping your horse in place for grooming and gearing them up for riding.
Lead Ropes
Lead ropes are connected to the horse’s halter. The lead rope can be part of the halter or it can be purchased separately and attached to the halter via a clip. The lead rope is the rope you can use to direct or control the horse.
Hoof Pick
A hoof pick is a must-have horse grooming accessory. Hoof picks are used to clear away rocks, snow, and any other debris that can build up on the sole of the horse’s hooves. The horse’s hooves should be cleaned before and after every ride with a hoof pick.
Curry Comb
Curry combs have rubber or plastic short teeth and should be the first tool used in a horse’s grooming routine. The short teeth are meant to be rubbed on the horse’s coat to loosen dirt, hair, and other debris while stimulating the skin to produce natural oils.
Body Brush
Body brushes are also commonly referred to as soft brushes. Body brushes use soft bristles to remove small particles of dust and to shine the horse’s coat. Smaller soft brushes known as face brushes can also be used for the face and head.
Mane and Tail Comb
Mane and tail combs come in plastic or metal material. This comb is used specifically for the mane and tail of the horse to detangle their hair without pulling any out. These combs shouldn't be used on the body of the horse as they can irritate the skin.
Blankets or Sweat Sheets
Blankets are mainly used in winter months or colder climates to keep horses warm in chilly weather. Reversely, in warm weather, a sweat sheet can come in handy for keeping your horse dry as they are more likely to roll when they are sweaty, allowing for dirt and debris to stick to your horse’s clean coat.
Equine Shampoo, Conditioner, and Detangler
Like us, horses could use a good wash to keep their coat and skin healthy. Shampoo, conditioner, and detangler can help keep your horse’s coat shiny and free of tangles. Although, too much washing can irritate their skin so don’t over wash your horse’s coat.
Sweat Scrubber
A sweat scrubber uses a rubber blade and can remove excess water or sweat from your horse. This can help your horse cool off on a sweaty day or help them dry quickly after washing.
Riding Essentials
Once you have all the necessary supplies to care for your horse, here are the essentials you and your horse will need for riding.
Saddle
Saddles provide safety and comfort for both you and the horse. While riding is possible without one, it is not recommended. It can be hard for riders to keep their balance and puts extra weight on the horse without the load-bearing properties the saddle gives.
Saddle Pad
Saddle pads can be thought of as an extra cushion between the horse and the saddle. Saddle pads can absorb sweat and pick up dirt from the saddle and negate any irritation the saddle may cause if it were to be placed directly on the horse’s back.
Bridle and a Bit
Bridles and bits work together to give control to the rider. The bridle is applied to the horse's head, similar to a halter, and the bit goes in the horse's mouth to steer and control the horse.
Leg Protection
Horses’ have very delicate leg structures. Bumps, bruises, lacerations, and torn tendons or ligaments are not uncommon for active horses. Leg protection such as boots and wraps help protect against sustaining a leg injury as well as help aid any current injury.
Helmet
Even the most experienced riders must wear a helmet. Falling off a horse is a long way to the ground and will certainly result in a head injury. Riding helmets offer additional protection to the head for impact absorption and penetration protection.
Riding Boots
Riding boots are designed to protect the rider’s legs from being pinched by the saddle and have a large heel to help rider’s keep their feet study in the stirrups for extra balance.
Safety Vest
Safety vests are another important protective piece of equipment for riders, especially new riders. Safety vests protect the torso and help prevent injuries to vital organs, the spine, and ribs. These vests are heavily padded to protect rider’s if they were to fall.