Aviva Directory » Shopping & eCommerce » Sports & Recreation » Equestrian

The focal point of this part of our web guide is the horses, tack, accessories, and supplies involved in equestrian sports and recreational horse riding.

Equestrian sports use horses as a central part of the sport. Usually, this takes the form of a rider being on the horse's back or the horse or horses pulling a horse-drawn vehicle.

Equestrianism, or horseback riding, can also involve the recreational use of a horse, such as trail riding.

Other equestrian activities include various forms of horse racing, steeplechasing, endurance riding, dressage, show jumping, vaulting, harness racing, carriage driving, horse shows, and others.

Horses are also used in rodeo events, but we have a separate category for Rodeos.

Of all the sports and recreational activities, those revolving around horses are likely to be more expensive and require a greater number of materials than most.

Although I have never been involved in equestrian sports, my father raised horses when I was a child. Seventeen is the most I can remember him having at one time, but I know it involved a lot of stuff. Adding equestrian sports to the mix would increase the demands considerably.

The horses themselves are at the heart of equestrian sports and recreational horseback riding. Different breeds and types of horses are suited for various disciplines, such as dressage, jumping, eventing, and trail riding.

Horses require regular care and maintenance, including food, water, shelter, and veterinary care. These necessities alone will be expensive. Proper nutrition includes hay, grain, and various supplements to ensure a balanced diet.

Other materials will depend on what you intend to do with the horse or horses.

Tack refers to the equipment used to ride and care for horses. This includes saddles, bridles, bits, reins, stirrups, and girths. Tack is designed to provide comfort and control for the horse and the rider.

Although there is such a thing as bareback riding, saddles are commonly used in horseback riding, as they provide a significant degree of comfort to the horse and the rider. There are various types of saddles, such as English, Western, and Australian saddles, each designed for specific riding styles.

Bridles are used to control the horse, as they incorporate components like the bit, reins, and headstall. Different types of bridles are used for various riding disciplines, such as snaffle bits for beginners and curb bits for more advanced riders.

Bits are placed in the horse's mouth and connected to the bridle. There are various designs, each serving a particular purpose.

Girths and cinches are used to secure the saddle to the horse. Generally, girths are used with English saddles, while cinches are used with Western saddles.

Horseshoes and boots refer to protective footwear designed for horses. They are intended to prevent injuries and provide traction on different surfaces.

Traditionally made of steel, horseshoes may also be made from aluminum or rubber. Aluminum shoes are commonly used on racehorses and eventers to reduce weight and improve performance, while rubber shoes may be used for therapeutic purposes or where extra cushioning is desired.

Hoof boots are made of rubber or synthetic materials, often with velcro or buckle closures. Unlike horseshoes, they are designed to be easily removable. They fit over the horse's hoof like a glove and can be put on and taken off as needed. They are durable but subject to wear and tear based on usage.

Horseshoes are nailed to the hoof, while hoof boots are removable and secured with closures. Horseshoes are designed to be semi-permanent or to last for an extended time, while hoof boots are used temporarily. The choice between one or the other depends on the horse's needs, the owner's preferences, and specific circumstances.

Other requirements include grooming supplies, such as brushes, combs, hoof picks, and grooming kits. Saddle soap and leather conditioner help to maintain tack and equipment.

Other requirements will depend on the specific equestrian sport or activity and may include riding boots, helmets, gloves, and apparel.

Several prominent equestrian businesses supply the products and supplies needed for equestrian sports and recreational riding. These and less well-known manufacturers and suppliers are appropriate resources for this part of our guide. Horse breeders, equine farms and ranches that regularly sell horses, horse auctions, and online marketplaces may also be found here.

 

 

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