What do you need to start horseback riding
You don't need to buy everything to start horseback riding. There are three things you do need, two that are good to have soon, and several that can wait. This guide separates them, using real catalog prices as of September 2026.
What you need from day one
Certified helmet
This is not optional, and no serious stable will let you ride without one. Look for the VG1 01.040 standard on the inner label. In the €100 to €300 range, there are 403 certified references; you can filter them at certified helmets. Loaner helmets at stables may have sustained impacts that you cannot verify.
Boots or jodhpur boots with a heel
The heel prevents the foot from sliding through the stirrup, which is the most common accident among beginners. Jodhpur boots are perfectly adequate when starting out; tall boots can wait. The median price in our boot catalog is €190, but there are entry-level jodhpur boots well below that.
Riding breeches
Jeans cause chafing on the inside of the knee in less than half an hour. Riding breeches have reinforcements or silicone in that area. We have 99 models between €20 and €259, with a median of €99, from 16 brands.
What is good to have soon
- Gloves: prevent blisters and improve grip on the reins when they are damp. 85 models, €34 median.
- Chaps or half-chaps: protect the leg if you ride with jodhpur boots and provide support.
What can wait
A crop, spurs, and protective vest depend on the discipline and level. Spurs do more harm than good without a stable leg position. Horse equipment—saddles, bridles, saddle pads—only makes sense when you have your own horse or exclusive use of one.
Realistic startup budget
We have grouped the essentials in equipment for beginners.
| Equipment | Typical range | Essential? |
|---|---|---|
| Certified helmet | €100 - €300 | Yes |
| Jodhpur boots with heel | From €4 | Yes |
| Riding breeches | €20 - €99 | Yes |
| Gloves | Around €34 | Recommended |
| Crop and spurs | — | Later on |
If you are buying for a child
The children's catalog is smaller: 4 boot models from QHP, HKM, and Equithème between €130 and €159. The rest of the children's equipment is grouped separately. Feet grow, so it is best not to get ahead of yourself with the high-end range. The one thing you should not skimp on is the helmet: it must be their size, not a hand-me-down that wobbles.
Key fact
Starting to ride with your own certified equipment costs between €150 and €450 for the essential gear: a VG1-certified helmet, footwear with a heel, and riding breeches.
