Your First Riding Lesson: What to Wear

A beginner rider wearing a helmet, long-sleeve shirt, pants, and boots participates in a riding lesson. The rider is mounted on a chestnut horse while the instructor guides them on a lunge line in a sandy outdoor arena.

You’ve scheduled your very first riding lesson—congratulations! Whether you’re excited, nervous, or a little of both, one of the first questions that comes up is: what should I wear?

I always recommend asking your instructor if they provide helmets or boots for students to borrow. Some barns have extras, and some don’t. Borrowing is perfectly fine when you’re just getting started, though some people prefer to have their own right away. Both choices are okay.

When you’re new to riding, it doesn’t matter whether your lesson is English or Western—you can dress the same for either. Here’s what you’ll need:

Pants

Any kind of pants will do, but I’ve found leggings to be the most comfortable for beginners. They allow more movement and don’t rub as much as stiff fabrics. Jeans are fine too, but once you’ve had a few rides, you might consider investing in clothing designed specifically for horseback riding. Riding gear can be pricey, so make sure this is something you (or your child) really want to stick with before you start spending money. Horses aren’t for everyone, and that’s okay.

Boots

Footwear is one of the most important pieces of riding gear. You’ll need boots with a small heel—between ½ inch and 1 inch. The heel prevents your foot from sliding dangerously through the stirrup. If the heel is too high, it changes the way your foot sits in the stirrup and becomes uncomfortable. Safety first here—please skip the sneakers, sandals, or fashion boots.

Shirts

Keep it simple: wear something that covers your torso and shoulders. A fitted T-shirt or lightweight long sleeve works well. You want to avoid anything too loose that could get tangled, and tank tops aren’t the best choice for riding since they leave skin exposed in case of a fall.

Helmet

This one is non-negotiable. If the barn doesn’t provide helmets, and you’re buying your own, make sure it is a helmet designed for horseback riding—certified by ASTM/SEI. Bicycle, skateboarding, or other helmets are not built for the type of falls equestrians experience. Yes, any helmet is better than none, but in my program, no one rides without a proper riding helmet. Safety is part of my job, and I take that responsibility seriously.

Final Thoughts

Your first riding lesson doesn’t require fancy gear—just practical clothing, a safe pair of boots, and a proper fitting helmet. Keep it simple, keep it safe, and most importantly—enjoy the experience of starting your journey with horses.

👉 Next in this series: What to Wear to the Barn (When You’re Not Riding)