Gear & What to Wear
Best Horseback Riding Gear for Maryland Trail Rides
The right gear turns a good trail ride into a great one. Here is what to pack.
Read articleSummer Trail Riding Gear for Maryland Heat & Humidity
Beat the Heat in the Saddle
The right summer trail riding gear for Maryland heat keeps you comfortable when the humidity climbs — and it makes a hot-weather ride genuinely enjoyable.
Maryland summers are warm and humid, so heat-smart choices matter for both you and the horse.
Breathable, light-colored clothing
Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics that wick moisture. Light colors reflect heat better than dark ones.
You still need long pants for the saddle, but summer riding tights are far cooler than heavy jeans.
Sun protection
Even on shaded woodland trails, sun finds the gaps. Apply sunscreen before you ride, wear sunglasses, and choose a helmet with good ventilation.
A helmet sun visor or a long-sleeved sun shirt in breathable fabric helps on exposed stretches.
Hydration is non-negotiable
Drink water before, during and after your ride. Carry a water bottle even on shorter trails.
Ride heat-smart
- Book early-morning or late-afternoon rides to dodge midday heat
- Choose shaded, wooded trails over open fields
- Use plenty of bug spray
- Watch the horse for signs of overheating and keep the pace gentle
How do you stay cool horseback riding in summer?
To stay cool riding in summer, wear lightweight, light-colored, breathable clothing, apply sunscreen, and drink water before, during and after the ride. Schedule rides for early morning or late afternoon, choose shaded wooded trails, and keep the pace gentle in the heat.
Key takeaways
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, breathable clothing.
- Apply sunscreen and protect your eyes even on shaded trails.
- Hydrate before, during and after every summer ride.
- Ride early or late and stick to shaded trails in the heat.
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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
More on this topic, answered simply.
No. Long pants are still needed in summer to prevent saddle chafing. Lightweight, breathable summer riding tights are far cooler than jeans while still protecting your legs.
Early morning and late afternoon are best, because they avoid the hottest, most humid part of the day and are more comfortable for both rider and horse.
Keep the pace gentle, choose shaded trails, offer water, and watch for signs of overheating. After a hot ride, horses are cooled down with a walk and often a rinse.
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With breathable gear and shaded trails, summer trail riding in Maryland stays cool, comfortable and fun.
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