10 Summer Essentials for Horse Riders

Our Pony-Mad Teen’s Real-Life Picks for a Happy Summer at the Yard

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Hi everyone, and welcome to the very first post in our new Equestrian Life series — a little corner of Our Little House in the Country that’s being joyfully taken over by my horse-mad teenage daughter.

We’re so excited to launch this series together. It’s a true passion project — and a really lovely one to be working on side by side. If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ll know just how pony-mad my daughter is. Honestly, I think her obsession began the moment she could talk. She’s been riding since she was about six or seven, and now, all these years later, it’s safe to say she lives and breathes ponies.

She rides nearly every day (six out of seven, at least!) and now that she’s on school holidays, we hardly see her from one end of the day to the next. She’s either at the yard riding, hacking, mucking out, feeding ponies, painting fences, or helping with anything and everything in between. She absolutely thrives in that world — and this new little corner of the blog is where she’ll be sharing her real-life equestrian favourites, tips, and tricks.

We’re kicking things off with her summer essentials for horse riders — all things she uses, loves, and swears by during the warm-weather months.

We’ve also been very lucky lately to partner with some fantastic brands we use all the time, including:

TRI Equestrian

One of our absolute favourite Irish equestrian brands — and always our first stop at the RDS Dublin Horse Show. We’ve bought from TRI for years and can genuinely recommend their high-quality gear and helpful service.
Pop back here tomorrow and you’ll see a banner with a link to their Pre-Dublin Horse Show Sale, where you can get up to 70% off selected stock — perfect timing!

Decathlon

We’re big Decathlon fans here — not just for horsey gear, but for everything from camping and kayaking to wetsuits and outdoor shelters. But their equestrian range in particular is brilliant — especially for riders just getting started. It’s a fantastic, affordable way to get kitted out with gear that actually lasts. Another favourite stop at the RDS every year!

Amazon

And finally — for those last-minute bits (you know the ones — when there’s a show this weekend and you realise someone’s outgrown their gloves!), Amazon is a lifesaver. Fast delivery, great value, and a surprising amount of good equestrian gear when you need it in a pinch.

So that’s the little intro from me — Ciara — aka “mum behind the blog.” The rest of this post is all thanks to my pony-mad teen, who’s sharing her tried-and-tested summer essentials for a happy, comfortable, and pony-filled summer. 🐎🌞

Let’s dive in…

Meet the Pony-Mad Teen Behind the List

Hi, I’m the pony-mad teen behind this post — and I’ve been absolutely obsessed with ponies for as long as I can remember.

One of my earliest memories is riding a pony on a campsite in France when I was about three years old, and from that moment on, I’ve loved everything and anything to do with horses and ponies.

I started riding properly when I was around six or seven, and for the past few years, I’ve been riding almost every single day. I’ve also been competing very regularly for the last two years — and I just can’t imagine life without it.

I’m a huge fan of Connemara ponies. All of my ponies so far have been Connies — and my newest one is an absolutely beautiful dun Connemara mare. I’m completely in love with her! Of course, we still miss our gorgeous Christy, my previous Connie, who you might have seen over on our Instagram.

Most weeks, I’m at the yard six or even seven days. Even during the school term, I get dropped down to the yard straight after class and squeeze in an hour or two whenever I can. And now that it’s the summer holidays? I’m there all day, every day — riding, mucking out, helping out with other ponies, painting fences, feeding, filling haynets, grooming… the lot!

We’ve got a really lovely little barn gang, and no job is ever too big or too small for us to get stuck into. It’s fun, it’s hard work, and I wouldn’t change it for anything.

And that’s really what inspired this post. When you’re out at the yard every day — especially in the summer heat — you learn pretty quickly what really matters. What gear actually lasts. What’s actually comfortable. And what will drive you demented when you forget it!

So today, in the very first post of our new Equestrian Life series, I’m sharing my summer essentials for horse riders. Hopefully, you’ll find some helpful tips and tricks here — and maybe even a few new favourites of your own!

Summer Essentials for the Rider

1. The Perfect Polo Shirt

When you’re spending hours in the saddle — or mucking out, grooming, or walking courses in the heat — the right polo shirt makes all the difference.

You don’t want something too thick (hello, instant sweat) — but you also don’t want something paper-thin that sticks to you or offers no protection. The perfect polo strikes a balance: lightweight, breathable, sweat-absorbing, and sun-protective, with just the right amount of structure.

A collar is key — not only does it shield your neck from the sun, but it also protects your skin from body protector straps and rubs. And while sleeveless tops can be great for quick rides, a short-sleeved polo offers more all-day comfort, especially when you’re in and out of the saddle.

Plus, when you’re down at the yard nearly every day, it needs to be easy to wash, quick to dry, and durable enough to survive a summer of sweat, dust, and sunblock.

🛍️ We’ve linked a few tried-and-tested favourites from TRI, Decathlon, and Amazon below — scroll down to see what made our summer short list!

HV Classic Polo Shirt from TRI Equestrian
Kids Horse Riding Shortsleeved Polo Shirt (for the littlies) from Decathalon
LeMieux Ladies Elite Polo Shirt from Amazon

2. A Reliable Summer Base Layer

Yes, it’s summer — but if you’ve ever spent a morning at an Irish yard, you’ll know that doesn’t always mean sunshine and warmth. A good base layer is one of those all-season staples that’s especially handy on cooler summer mornings or for early show starts.

But even on sunny days, a lightweight base layer with built-in UV protection can make all the difference. It gives you that little bit of extra coverage without making you feel too hot or restricted.

The best base layers are:

Breathable (because sweaty rides are real)
Lightweight but insulating (for those breezy hacks or shaded arenas)
Stretchy and comfortable (so you can move freely in and out of the saddle)
And often, moisture-wicking and quick-drying (which is great when you’re out all day)

They’re especially useful for riding lessons, long days at shows, or even just yard mornings that start off cool and misty before the sun makes its appearance.

🛍️ We’ve rounded up a few of our favourite summer-friendly base layers below — scroll down to see what we recommend from TRI Equestrian, Decathlon, and Amazon.

Ariat Women’s Sun Stopper Baselayer from TRI Equestrian
LeMieux Women’s Baselayer from Amazon

3. A Trusty Fleece Gilet

Honestly? A fleece gilet is a year-round essential — but it’s especially handy during the unpredictable weather of an Irish (or UK) summer.

Whether it’s a chilly early morning, a sudden breezy spell, or just one of those cloudy days when the sun can’t make up its mind, a lightweight fleece gilet is the perfect extra layer. We’re big fans of them around here — there’s always one hanging off a stable door or tucked into the car “just in case.”

Why we love them:

They’re easy to throw over a polo shirt when you need a bit of warmth
Great for layering without bulk (especially useful when you’re grooming or tacking up)
Ideal for competition mornings when it’s too warm for a jacket but too cold for just a shirt
Also handy for covering up the odd sweat mark after a vigorous ride — just keeping it real!

And best of all? They zip on, zip off, and wash well — perfect for yard life.

🛍️ You’ll find a few of our go-to fleece gilets linked below — cosy, practical, and rider-tested!

TRI Branded Gilet (a personal fave) from TRI Equestrian
Fouganza Women’s Sleeveless Horseriding Down Jacket from Decathalon
Jack Pyke Ladies Countryman Fleece Gilet from Amazon

4. High-Visibility Gear (HiViz)

When it comes to hacking, HiViz is absolutely non-negotiable. Alongside your riding helmet and body protector, it’s one of the most essential pieces of safety gear a rider can wear.

If you’re riding on country roads, even briefly, you need to be seen — by cars, tractors, cyclists, walkers, everyone. A good-quality HiViz vest or jacket can make all the difference. It’s a literal lifesaver.

One thing many people don’t realise? The colour of your HiViz matters. While classic yellow is the most common, it’s not always the most effective — especially in rural areas during spring and summer when fields are filled with yellow blooms (like rapeseed), straw, or dry grass. That yellow can blend in.

That’s why you’ll often see riders — especially in the UK — switching to pink or orange HiViz. These colours stand out more clearly against the landscape, giving drivers a better chance of spotting you from a distance.

HiViz is important year-round, but during summer — with brighter days and more traffic on country roads — it’s especially vital.

We always say: if you’re hacking, you need HiViz. No exceptions.

🛍️ Scroll down for a few rider-recommended HiViz vests and jackets.

Shires Equiflector Safety Vest from TRI Equestrian
Adult HiViz Safety Vest from Decathalon
Aykrm HiViz with Reflective Stripes, Zip and Pocket from Amazon

5. Summer Riding Tights (a.k.a. Jodhpurs, Breeches… You Know the Ones)

Whatever you call them in your part of the world — jodhpurs, breeches, tights — one thing is for sure: the summer version needs to work a lot harder than you’d think.

Lightweight, breathable riding tights are a non-negotiable for those long, hot days in the saddle. You want something that won’t leave you stuck to your pony, but that also offers enough grip to keep you firmly in place — especially when your Connemara decides to spice things up in the corner of the arena. (It happens more than we care to admit.)

Here’s what makes the perfect pair of summer riding tights:

Breathable, sporty material (none of the heavy cotton show-style breeches, thanks)
No fleece lining — you want mesh panels or ventilation, not a sauna
Sticky-bum grip — for obvious reasons
Pockets — so you can carry your phone (not for scrolling mid-hack, but in case of emergencies — safety first!)
Comfortable waistband — nobody wants to adjust their trousers mid-sit trot
Not see-through — because… well, that’s self-explanatory

When it comes to colours? Navy and grey are great all-rounders — they hide sweat and dust better than black or beige. Olive green can be a fun switch-up too (and it hides a multitude of sins).

These are our most worn items all summer long — perfect for yard days, lessons, hacks, and just about everything else.

🛍️ Scroll down to see a few of our favourite tried-and-tested summer riding tights from TRI, Decathlon, and Amazon.

Delta Ladies Full Seat Riding Breeches from TRI Equestrian
Fouganza Women’s Be You 500 Jodhpurs from Decathalon
LeMieux Freya Jodhpurs for Women Full Seat – from Amazon

6. A Good Cap (Yes, the Baseball Kind)

When you think of horse riding, your mind probably jumps straight to your riding helmet — and of course, that’s absolutely essential year-round.

But when you’re spending long days at the yard or at summer competitions, there’s another kind of hat you won’t want to be without: a good old baseball cap.

A proper cap is one of those unsung heroes of the summer equestrian wardrobe — and trust us, you’ll use it every day.

Here’s why we never leave home without one:

Sun protection — shade your face during long sunny days at shows or on the yard
Post-class hat hair cover-up — let’s be honest, hat hair is not the vibe
Helps you cool down fast after a ride (off comes the helmet, on goes the cap!)
Easy to pop on and off throughout the day — and it actually looks cute
Great for walking around competitions, manning the water bucket, cheering on friends — or making your way to the TRI or Decathalon stand at the RDS Dublin Horse Show without getting sunburned!

And let’s not forget… the cap collection tends to grow. Between prizes at shows and last-minute buys at stands, we now have more caps than we can count — but somehow, there’s always room for one more.

🛍️ We’ve linked a few of our favourite comfy and sun-safe caps below — stylish, practical, and ideal for everyday equestrian life.

Ariat Tri Factor Cap from TRI Equestrian
Artengo Tennis Cap from Decathalon
Ariat Men’s Shield Richardson Snapback Cap from Amazon

7. The (Often Underrated) Riding Socks

Socks might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of summer riding gear — but ask any equestrian and they’ll tell you: a good pair of socks is non-negotiable.

In this house, we have a whole drawer dedicated to riding socks. Classic argyle, plain and practical, festive, floral, even donkey- and sausage-dog-covered — you name it, we’ve got it on a sock.

But when it comes to summer essentials, not just any sock will do. You definitely want to leave your thick, woolly winter pairs at home.

Here’s what makes the perfect summer riding sock:

Lightweight and breathable, especially around the calf
Reinforced at the heel and toe to help prevent blisters in both yard and riding boots
Stretchy, moisture-wicking material (many have a Lycra blend — comfy and snug!)
Not too thick around the leg — overheating is real when you’re mucking out on a warm day
Room for personality — colour, pattern, and a bit of sass always welcome

One of our top picks? Lemieux socks — they get the balance just right: padded where you need it, breathable where you don’t, and they come in fab colours too.

🛍️ We’ve linked some of our favourite summer sock styles below — from budget-friendly basics to statement socks that’ll add a little fun to your morning routine.

Sandstorm Show Riding Socks from TRI Equestrian
Fouganza Kids Horse Riding Socks from Decathalon
LeMieux Footsies Adult Socks from Amazon

8. Short Jodhpur Boots

Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been riding for years, a good pair of short Jodhpur boots is a summer staple — and a total lifesaver when the yard boots just feel like a sauna.

They’re ideal for:

Hot summer days when your legs overheat in full-length winter boots
Younger riders — especially those in first ridden or lead rein classes (yes, we’re talking to the ickle-bickle brigade with their teeny ponies and perfect pigtails)
Everyday riding, yard jobs, and schooling in warmer weather

They’re also a brilliant alternative to tall show boots if you’re just starting out or still growing (fast!). Generally speaking:

Rubber Jodhpur boots are a budget-friendly option — great for younger riders who outgrow them quickly
Leather Jodhpur boots are more expensive, but if well cared for, they can last a long time and offer more support and comfort

Whatever style you choose, the key is comfort and durability — especially if you’re wearing them all day at the yard. You want a pair with:

A supportive sole (no one wants sore arches or cracked heels after a full day of riding and mucking out)
Good ankle flexibility
A design that works well with half chaps or gaiters, if needed

🛍️ We’ve rounded up some of our favourite Jodhpur boots for all budgets below — from starter pairs to stylish leather options for more experienced riders.

Ariat Womens Devon Zip Paddock Boots from TRI Equestrian
Fouganza Adult Horse Riding Jodhpur Boots from Decathalon
Rhinegold Boston Zip Leather Paddock Boots from Amazon

9. Gloves (Yes, Even in Summer)

After your riding helmet and body protector, gloves are one of the most important items in your equestrian kit — and they’re not just for riding.

Whether you’re:

Leading,
Loading or unloading,
Tacking up, or
Simply working around the yard,

…a good pair of gloves can protect your hands from burns, blisters, and serious injury. Holding a rope attached to a strong, startled pony is not a joke — and bare hands won’t thank you for it.

You really can’t do much around ponies without a decent pair of gloves. They’re essential for safety, grip, and general comfort — especially when you’re handling reins, lead ropes, or working with tack.

So, what makes a good pair of summer riding gloves?

Breathability – no one wants sweaty palms mid-lesson
Durability – they should last longer than three rides
Strong grip – for reins, ropes, and anything else that pulls back
Good fit – no saggy fingers or stiff, tight palms — snug is best
Lightweight – especially in summer, fleece-lined gloves are too warm
Washable – because yard grime is real

We do have a few “favourite pairs” that have mysteriously survived multiple seasons (worn into submission, as one of us likes to say…), but for the most part, it’s worth investing in a good-quality pair for summer that won’t wear through in a week.

🛍️ We’ve linked a few of our go-to summer riding gloves below — breathable, grippy, and built for busy hands.

Tesoro Seta Adults Performance Glove from TRI Equestrian
Fouganza Kids’ Horse Riding Gloves from Decathalon
AF Equestrian Horse Riding Gloves (a personal fave) from Amazon

10. A Proper Water Bottle (For the Rider, Not the Pony!)

When we talk about hydration at the yard, the conversation almost always turns to ponies — electrolytes, water buckets, salt licks… you name it. But let’s not forget the rider needs hydrating too!

Riding and yard work is seriously physical. Whether you’re competing, mucking out, lifting haynets, sweeping aisles, or walking courses, you’re moving — and sweating — all day long. And yet, it’s so easy to forget to drink water.

We speak from experience here: on show days, the biggest concern isn’t always the pony — it’s making sure the rider gets enough water and food!

That’s why we always have a good insulated water bottle on hand. One that keeps drinks cool in summer, and (bonus!) warm in winter.

What makes a great rider’s water bottle?

Large capacity — you’re out for hours, so you need more than a few sips
Insulated — to keep water refreshingly cold on warm days
Durable and leakproof — because things get thrown around at the yard
Easy to clean — no weird smells, please
Preferably with a hook or loop — so it can clip onto a grooming bag or backpack

This is one of those essentials that’s often overlooked, but so, so important — especially on those sweaty summer days when you’re too busy to realise you’re dehydrated.

🛍️ We’ve linked our tried-and-tested water bottle picks below — stylish, sturdy, and built for long yard days.

Yeti Rambler Bottle from TRI Equestrian
1L Stainless Steel Isothermal Water Bottle from Decathalon
LeMieux Drinks Bottle from Amazon

Final Thoughts: Stay Safe, Ride Well, and Don’t Forget the Sunscreen!

Before we go, just a quick note to say that this post contains affiliate links from brands we use, trust, and genuinely love — including TRI Equestrian, Decathlon, and Amazon. If you choose to purchase something through these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you), and it helps support our blog and little corner of the internet. Thank you! 💛

We hope this list of real-life, rider-approved essentials helps make your summer in the saddle a little more comfortable, safer, and a lot more fun — whether you’re heading off to shows, hacking through country lanes, or just soaking up yard life with your pony pals.

Here’s what we always say:
You don’t need to spend a fortune to find good, reliable gear. We’ve included a range of price points and brands, but our top priority is always safety first — everything else is just a bonus.

And let’s be honest: by the end of the day, you’ll probably be covered in sweat, muck, and hay dust anyway. So if your hair’s a mess and your boots are filthy? You’re doing it right.

✨ Bonus Tip: Don’t forget your SPF. Apply it every day — even when it’s cloudy, even in winter. Trust us.

Coming Next Week…

Part 2 of our Equestrian Life: Summer Essentials series —
10 Summer Essentials for Your Pony
From fly rugs to cooling washes, we’re sharing everything our pony-mad teen recommends to keep your four-legged bestie happy, healthy, and cool all summer long.

Because let’s be honest — it’s their world… we just live in it.

Wishing you happy hacking, safe riding, and many muddy, joyful, pony-filled days this summer.

See you next week! 🐎💛

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