What to expect
It belongs with riding activities rather than ordinary clothing shopping.
A good place to start
Look for an introductory riding or dressage lesson suited to your experience. Ask whether a suitable horse and required equipment are provided and how beginners are assessed.
What to compare
- Riding level
- Qualified instruction
- Horse and equipment provision
Start with a taster
Ask for a beginner session and find out what equipment you can borrow. Afterwards, think about the teaching, atmosphere and journey as well as the activity itself. The best routine is one you enjoy returning to.
Something else to discover
Horse racing
Equestrian activities range from riding lessons to endurance, jumping, eventing and western riding.
Mountain biking
Bike parks and BMX facilities offer purpose-built riding features rather than an ordinary cycle route.