CAVALLS
WAKAN
Equipment
Horse riding is an activity that involves some risk, so it is important to use the appropriate safety equipment and equipment in good condition.
The comfort and safety of the horse is also important, so its equipment must be appropriate: saddle, girths, stirrups, etc.
Helmet.
The essential safety element is the helmet. The risk of accidents in equestrian activities exists and we must reduce it.
The helmet is designed to protect your head from impact in the event of a fall, kick or blow, distributing the force, and reducing the risk of injury.
Just as people fasten their seat belts in a car or airplane, or put on life jackets when boating to reduce the possibility of tragedy, wearing a helmet is a proven way to prevent or reduce head injuries when riding a horse.
Saddles.
At Cavalls Wakan we always use western saddles.
The saddle helps the horse to support the weight of the rider, correctly distributing the weight of the rider on the horse's back, in a comfortable way for both the horse and the rider.
Saddles are designed to adapt to both the rider and the horse, with a good blanket underneath that absorbs perspiration and prevents heat build-up, protecting the saddle and the horse's back.
Girth.
To keep the saddle on the horse, we use a girth.
A band that is attached to the saddle and passes around the horse's belly and with the help of adjustable leather or nylon straps, keeps the saddle in place and resists the repeated force of the horse's movements.
The three most common materials for girths are fleece, mohair and neoprene.
It must always be in perfect condition.
Stirrub.
Stirrups are where you place your feet when riding a horse.
They attach to the stirrup leather, which is fixed to the saddle tree under the flap. They serve to provide a flat, sturdy base of support for your foot while riding and a stable area when mounting your horse.
Stirrups allow for the correct position in the saddle, with your heels down and your knee bent. This allows the rider's back and heel to align.
Bridle.
The bridle is the part of riding equipment that fits over the horse's head, where the reins are attached, and one of the important communication tools used when riding a horse.
We typically use a hackamore or bosal.
A hackamore bridle is a type of bridle used for horses that does not include a bit in the mouth.
It uses pressure on the horse's nose and face to communicate with the horse and provide control and direction.
Reins.
Reins are long straps that can be made of leather, nylon, or other materials and are attached to a bridle to direct and communicate with your horse while riding.
The position of your body, including your legs and torso, is also part of how you connect with your horse while riding. This can affect your positioning, so you need to be able to maintain balance while in the saddle, so you don't lose this contact and connection with the reins. Therefore, the grip, length, and force you exert with the reins are important.