Field Trip: Trail Riding!

I'm always pretty antsy to get outside, but the first couple weeks of Fall when you christen your light jackets and sweaters are probably the most intense for me. After a long and stressful work week, my friend Samantha and I decided to go trail riding. Going out in the woods to ride is also a nice break from riding in a ring most of the time. Though our trail guide and companions were admittedly not as great as the last time we went to this particular barn, it was impossible not to enjoy tromping through the woods on horseback.

Ariat Quantum Devon Pro Zip Paddock

Leaves are still pretty green!

Sam riding Phil -- gorgeous Paint!

Post-ride with Tex.

Partially due to the chill, and partly because the last time I rode Western with half-chaps the insides of my knees were sore, I opted to wear my full-length chaps. I haven't worn those since I was in high school, so I was definitely pleased that they still fit. My new-ish Ariat paddock boots are so handsome that I've been wearing them for street purposes, but I decided that I was wasting their functionality by not riding in them. Also -- I don't care if you ride English or Western, trails or lessons, it does not make a difference. WEAR A HELMET. My Charles Owen GR8 has served me very well over the years and I will not get on a horse without it.

While it's easy to order riding gear online from big sites, I always recommend taking a trip to your local tack shop and seeing what they have to offer. If you're on Long Island, the Country Riding Shop in Stony Brook has always been my favorite, but if not, a quick Google search will certainly find you the tack store nearest to you. Shop small and local!