When riding your horse, it is essential to know what role reflective wear plays. The purpose of this type of gear is to ensure the safety of both yourself and your horse.
Safety stirrups
Safety stirrups are essential equipment for any rider. They reduce the risk of your foot getting caught in the stirrup during a fall and help release your foot faster. Investing in safety stirrups is an easy way to make sure you are safe on the horse.
Safety stirrups are available in a variety of price points. Some are very inexpensive, while others cost PS100-PS200+. These stirrups are usually made from nickel and synthetic materials. You can find stirrups with many features, such as magnetic stirrups, bent-leg stirrups, or break-away stirrups.
The best safety stirrups are those with an anatomical footbed, an extra-wide tread surface, and a shock-absorbing sole. Each of these features relieves the concussion caused by a fall.
Stirrups can also be made with cages to keep the foot from getting trapped. However, they can be too light to provide a firm grip and may need to be put in place. For more stability, choose a stirrup with a heavy base.
Safety vests
A safety vest is essential protective equipment for any horse rider. They provide a high level of protection, even when riding at speed. There are a few tips for choosing the right vest.
The first step is to measure your body. You should choose a vest that fits well and offers the best protection. Also, ensure that the air bladders are in good working order.
Next, check the straps to make sure they are secure. If the straps are loose, they can pinch and cause pressure points. It is also essential to keep the vest clean. Dirt and sweat can deteriorate the protective material.
Finally, try on a few vests to see which one fits you best. This will ensure you can move freely without worrying about catching your hip bone.
Tendon boots
Horse riding reflective wear is a must when tasked with navigating a dark, foggy, or rainy day. Bright fluorescent gear increases your chances of being found by motorists and other road users.
Tendon boots are a great example of this. They help prevent your horse from chafing and swelling while also being an excellent way to keep his hind legs clean. You can buy them in various styles, from short to long.
Having the right size is essential. If you aren’t sure, measuring your horse is a good idea. A good rule of thumb is to have at least a medium size boot for a medium-sized horse.
One of the best features of these boots is that they are made from a material that won’t retain water. This makes them ideal for Western riding events, where sliding stops often occur.
Flashing hat band
The Reflective Hat Band is the ideal accessory for riders. It is designed to fit any riding hat and is easily cleaned. This is an excellent option if you are traveling in the dark or want to increase your visibility. You can also purchase the LED version of this hat band, which has bright LED lights, an on/off button, and flashing lights.
The reflective band is made from a high-viz fabric and features a rubberized strap to keep the hat in place. The front panel has small white and red LED lights, and the rear has a more prominent white and red light. This hatband is a good choice for Endurance and Le Trec riders. However, it should be noted that it is not recommended for use by children.
Reflective saddlery
Reflective saddlery for horse riding can help a rider stay safe. These items can also improve a rider’s visibility in the dark. Many of these items are available in bright colors. When combined with other reflective objects, the result is increased visibility for both rider and horse. This can be crucial in avoiding dangerous situations.
A reflective vest is a must-have item if you plan to ride at night. You can find reflective vests with LED lighting in a variety of sizes. Additionally, some are made with detachable helmet bands, arm bands, and tail guards. Other reflective tack includes harnesses and halters. Having a reflective rug or blanket is essential if you plan to ride in a cold climate. A waterproof exercise sheet is ideal for keeping your horse warm and dry, but it doesn’t impede his movement.