New to riding?  Thinking of taking a few lessons?  It doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg!  Here are some helpful links for items you may need.  (Please check with your instructor to see what items are required at your barn!)

Helmets - Whether riding English or Western, I strongly recommend the use of a ASTM certified helmet.  Every time. Every ride.  Here are some affordable options.

Troxel Spirit - A light weight affordable helmet, this helmet sells for $34.95  at Jeffers, or Crazy Horse Tack.  Troxel does make a cheaper helmet, but it does not have the dial fit system and tends to slide on the riders head.

Troxel Legacy Gold - My favorite schooling helmet for it's oval shape, low profile, and durability.  The best price that I have seen for this helmet is at Crazy Horse Tack. ($67.95) Troxel makes a variety of other helmets. See Jeffers for their complete line.

Complete new rider package - I stumbled upon this deal while surfing one day and think it is an excellent combination for the price. This package found at Crazy Horse includes a helmet, breeches, boots, gloves, and a water bottle for $99.95, BUT is only available during the spring and summer months.  (If you are visiting this site in the winter, many more deals are still available!) This may be more than you need, so be sure to check with your instructor before purchasing. And keep in mind that this is for students taking English riding lessons.

Boots - Foot protection is important when at the barn!

Paddock Boots - For the English rider. Good places to shop for paddock boots are Horseloverz.com, Jeffers, and Crazy Horse.

Western Boots - For the Western rider. Good places to shop for western boots are Sierra Trading Post, Boot Bay, and Sheplers.

Half Chaps - If you ride English, half chaps will save your calves from rubs. 

Suede Half Chaps- Great deals can be found and Horseloverz.com.   A word of caution - BE SURE to measure your calf before ordering.
Leather Half Chaps - I have a pair of leather half chaps from Jeffers that I love.  Very affordable at $35.95

Tipperary Schooling Helmet - I've always been a fan of the Troxel Legacy as it seems to the helmet that best fits my head. However, I was recently informed by a friend that the Troxel is a torture device for her round head. If you can't stand the typical helmet, the Tipperary may be the one for you. It is heavily padded and very comfortable for all head types (even mine).  Amazon sellers have this helmet at a very low price (click on helmet photo to the left).