All our students are expected to meet the requirements outlined below at every class. Students that arrive for class without the listed items won’t be able to participate in a mounted class that week.
Helmet
Helmets are mandatory. The one you choose for riding must meet or exceed ASTM F1163-88/SEI certified safety standards. While St. Andrews Stables does have loaners, we strongly encourage you to purchase your own—we can help you find one that fits properly and meets the necessary standards.
Please note, while you may have a helmet for cycling, skiing or other sports, not all helmets offer the right protection for equestrian activities. A riding helmet is specially designed to protect the wearer from the kinds of injuries that could occur from a fall from a horse or a strike from a hoof.
Boots
Boots are an important part of your riding wardrobe. They don’t have to be special “riding boots” as long as you choose ones with a closed toe, smooth sole and a defined heel (a ½” to 1” heel is best). If you are picking out boots at a tack shop, roper style or paddock boots are great choices.
Pants
Long pants or jeans must be worn for all lessons. Some riders like yoga pants or sweatpants because they bend with you and don’t bind at the hip or waist. Jodhpurs or other pants specially designed for riding are also available, if you choose to invest in sport-specific gear.
Shorts, capris pants or other styles that don’t cover your leg down to the ankle are not acceptable—even when it’s hot out. Sorry!
Other
Use your common sense when dressing for riding. Plan to leave your jewellery at home, tuck in your shirt, and tie back your hair if it’s long enough to get in your eyes.
