Gearing Up for Your First Distance Ride

When selecting tack and gear for your first ride keep it simple. Hopefully you will start your conditioned horse in a limited distance ride (LD) for a distance of 15-25 miles to see how you and your horse hold up and if your conditioning program needs some tweaking.

You will need access to a truck and trailer to get you and your horse to the ride location, entry fee and registration for the ride paid in advance, directions to the ride, and information on the rules of the ride. If traveling out of state check to see if you need a Coggin's test or other proof of vaccination prior to traveling with your horse.

When deciding what to take first let's consider the needs of your horse. Use a saddle that fits the horse and allows the shoulders to move freely. Ill fitting saddles can be excruciatingly painful for your horse. Endurance riders use english, western, treeless, and hybrid style saddles. Find what works for you and your horse, try to keep it light weight where possible. Realize also that as your horse's condition changes, saddle fit may need to be revisited. Some nice saddles to consider are the Sensation G3 English Trail, The Barefoot London Treeless, and the Bob Marshall Treeless Sports saddle. If you prefer a treed saddle look at saddles made by Stubben, Wintec, or any nice fitting balanced dressage saddle. You will want plenty of D rings attached to your saddle to hang your other gear. You will also want the saddle to feel comfortable to you.

Select a good quality pad to go under your saddle. You will be in the saddle 3-5 hours, so don't skimp on your saddle pad. My favorite is the Skito Insert Pad. This pad has foam inserts that lift the saddle away from the spine. There are many pads available, and it is best to use what works well on your horse.

Water bottle holders are an inexpensive must have. On long trail rides you must stay hydrated. You can find these at Sportack.com or your local Tractor Supply Store. The water bottle holders are made from a synthetic material that machine washes. They will hold one water bottle so purchase at least two of them.