Dreaming of galloping along a sun-kissed beach or want to explore beautiful historic Caribbean towns on horseback during your vacation? Nevis Equestrian Centre can make it happen! But, before you hop into the saddle, you’ll want to plan what you’re going to wear so can maximize comfort and safety AND still looking amazing in your photos!

Here are our recommendations for what to wear when you ride a horse on vacation…

The Essentials: Comfort and Protection

• Long Pants: Although you definitely can ride in shorts, we strongly suggest you wear long pants to protect your legs from chafing against the saddle and stirrup leathers. Preferably, you’ll want to wear something you’re comfortable sitting in that has some stretch – like leggings, jeggings, jeans, or even riding breeches if you have them. Try to avoid pants that are too loose or baggy, as they could get caught on the saddle or you’ll end up sitting on the bunched up extra fabric and that’s not comfortable at all.
• Shoes with a SMALL Heel: Yes, you can definitely wear your flip-flops or sneakers when you ride at Nevis Equestrian Centre, but for safety, we recommend boots (or shoes) with a small heel (around 1-2 inches, maximum) to prevent your foot from slipping through the stirrups, which could be dangerous. If you don’t own riding-specific boots, sturdy ankle boots with a defined heel (and that cover your ankle for added protection) are a good alternative.
• Helmet: At Nevis Equestrian Centre, we prioritize your safety so helmets are mandatory for riders aged 17 or younger and optional for other riders. We provide helmets for you and have a variety of sizes to choose from. If you have your own riding helmet, feel free to bring it along for a perfect fit!
• Appropriate Top: A comfortable, breathable top is ideal for riding tours at Nevis Equestrian Centre. T-shirts and tank tops work great! If you’re concerned about sun protection, you might want to opt for a lightweight long-sleeved shirt or sunshirt. We recommend avoiding tops that are too loose or that have dangling straps that could get caught on things.

Weather Considerations:

• Sunny and Hot: Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. A wide-brimmed hat or a baseball cap will shield your face from the sun. Remember sunscreen and sunglasses!
• Cooler Weather: Layering is key to staying comfortable while you ride in cooler weather, like evenings or during the winter. We suggest you bring a light jacket or fleece that can be easily added or removed as needed, or a windbreaker or waterproof jacket if the forecast calls for light rain.
• Cold Weather: We’re blessed with beautiful weather all year long here on St. Kitts and Nevis, but in case of unseasonably chilly temperatures, or if you’re reading this blog in preparation for a ride someplace else that gets cold, we suggest layers! Bring a warm jacket, a scarf or neck gaiter, and gloves that let you to maintain a good grip on the reins.

Optional but Recommended:

• Riding Gloves: Most of our riders won’t need to worry about gloves – just come on out and enjoy a relaxing, leisurely rid along Nevis’s beautiful beaches! For our more advanced riders, though, or for those choosing our extended rides, you may want to bring a pair of lightweight riding gloves for a better grip on the reins and to prevent blisters.
• Chaps: Chaps are usually not necessary for vacation horseback rides or tours, but they can provide extra protection for your legs, especially on longer rides or in rugged terrain.
• Sunscreen and Insect Repellent: If you burn easily or of mosquitos seems to your flavor, we recommend bringing sunscreen and insect repellent to protect your skin.

Things to Avoid:

• Shorts or Skirts: You can definitely ride in shorts (or a skirt with built-in shorts) at Nevis Equestrian Centre, but you may chafe a bit on your thighs as a result, so we generally don’t recommend it. If you’re reading this blog to prepare for your ride somewhere else in the world, keep in mind that many riding stables do not allow shorts or skirts.
• Open-toed Shoes or Sandals: Again, we do allow guests at Nevis Equestrian Centre to ride in open-toed shoes or sandals since you can choose to ride into the ocean with our horses, but it might not be the most comfortable choice for you… Otherwise, most riding stables do not permit riders to wear open-toed shoes or sandals as they provide little to no protection.
• Loose Jewelry or Scarves: It’s best to leave the long, dangly jewelry at your hotel since loose necklaces, bracelets, earrings, or accessories like scarves can get caught on the saddle or reins.
• Anything too Fragile or Valuable: Since dirt and potential damage (from the elements, tree branches, water, etc.) are a factor when riding, we strongly recommend you leave anything valuable or fragile at home or in your hotel – don’t bring it with you to ride!

It’s important to remember to always check with your tour operator or stable for any specific requirements or recommendations, but deciding what to wear when riding a horse on vacation isn’t complicated. By following our simple recommendations, you can plan an outfit that’ll be more likely to keep you safe and comfortable while still looking your best for all the amazing photos you’ll get to take!