Gear & What to Wear
What to Wear to Your First Horseback Riding Lesson
Good news: you almost certainly already own everything you need.
Read articleThe Best Horseback Riding Gear for Maryland Trail Rides
Pack Smart, Ride Happy
The best horseback riding gear for Maryland trail rides is less about expensive equipment and more about a few smart, comfortable choices.
If you are joining a guided trail ride, the horse and tack are provided — so this guide focuses on what you wear and carry.
The non-negotiables
Three items matter most for any trail ride. A properly fitted riding helmet protects your head and is required on every ride. Long pants such as jeans or riding tights prevent chafing. And boots or sturdy shoes with a small heel stop your foot sliding through the stirrup.
Comfort layers for Maryland weather
Maryland's weather shifts, so dress in layers you can adjust. A light jacket in spring and fall, breathable fabrics in summer, and warm, non-bulky layers in winter all help.
Avoid anything loose enough to catch on a branch.
What to carry
- A water bottle — even short rides are thirsty work
- Sun protection: hat-friendly sunscreen and sunglasses
- Bug spray in the warmer months
- A small snack for longer outings
Gloves and half-chaps
Riding gloves improve your grip and protect your hands, and half-chaps add lower-leg comfort. Neither is essential for a first ride, but both are worthwhile if you ride often.
What gear do I need for a trail ride in Maryland?
For a guided trail ride in Maryland you need a properly fitted riding helmet, long pants, and boots or shoes with a small heel. The horse and tack are provided. Add weather-appropriate layers, water, sun protection and bug spray depending on the season.
Key takeaways
- A helmet, long pants and heeled footwear are the essentials.
- Dress in adjustable layers for Maryland's changeable weather.
- Carry water, sun protection and seasonal bug spray.
- Gloves and half-chaps are nice extras for frequent riders.
Ride with Solitude Stables
We are a small family farm in Harwood, MD offering horseback riding lessons and guided trail rides for riders across Anne Arundel County. We would love to welcome you.
Book a ride Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
More on this topic, answered simply.
No. For a first guided trail ride you only need clothes you likely already own — long pants and closed-toe shoes with a small heel. The farm provides the horse, tack and a helmet, and we can advise on helmet sizing.
Avoid shorts, sandals, flip-flops, smooth-soled flat shoes and loose, dangling clothing or jewelry. These can be uncomfortable, unsafe, or catch on branches.
Yes. A small heel of about an inch is important because it stops your foot from sliding through the stirrup, which is a genuine safety concern. Paddock boots or sturdy heeled shoes work well.
Keep reading
More from the Solitude Stables blog
Gear & What to Wear
Essential Tack & Equipment for Beginner Riders
Saddle, girth, bridle, stirrups — a friendly tour of the gear you will meet.
Read article Gear & What to Wear
How to Choose a Riding Helmet for Kids & Adults
If you buy one piece of riding gear, make it a well-fitted helmet.
Read articleBring this to life on the farm
With the right horseback riding gear, Maryland trail rides become comfortable, safe and pure joy in every season.
Have a question first? Email us at [email protected].