what you should get for your first horse
You might be wondering – I’m getting my first horse, but what do I actually need?
Well, I’m here to help. What you’re going to need before you even go pick up your horse is:
First tip (important)
Do not go buying all your tack (saddle, bridle, etc.) straight away.
Most of it needs to be properly fitted to your horse.
Essentials before picking up your horse
- Halter & lead rope – this is probably the most important thing. You’ll use it to pick up your horse and for everyday handling.
- Basic grooming kit
- Curry comb
- Dandy brush
- Body brush
- Sweat scraper
- Hoof pick
- Medical kit – for small injuries and general care
- Lunge line – great for groundwork and getting to know your horse before riding
Now that’s what you’ll need most importantly. Once you have your horse, there’s a big shopping list—but you don’t need to get it all straight away.
Riding Gear (once you have your horse)
- Saddle – must be fitted to your horse. Best place to do this is your local saddlery.
(If you’re in Australia, places like Horseland or Greg Grant are good options.) - Bridle – also needs to be fitted. Don’t go buying fancy gear—keep it simple. A basic noseband bridle is usually fine.
- Bit – some horses need one, some don’t, but most do.
- Reins – usually come with the bridle. If you’ve got sensitive hands (like me), rubber reins are a good option.
- Saddle pad – very important. It helps keep your horse comfortable while riding.
Rugs (you don’t need them all straight away)
- Turnout rug – your paddock rug, helps keep your horse clean and protected
- Stable rug – for when your horse is inside
- Summer sheet (optional) – lightweight, helps prevent sun bleaching
- Rain sheet – keeps your horse dry without overheating
- Winter rug – for colder weather
Daily Care
- Hay/feed – depends on your horse, but getting the right feed matters a lot
- Fly mask – very useful, especially in summer
Ongoing Care (throughout the year)
- Worming – every 6–8 weeks
- Farrier – every 6–8 weeks
- Teeth – once a year
- Vaccinations – once a year
- Vet check-up – once a year
- Saddle fitting check – once a year or as needed
Start with the basics, learn your horse, and build up from there.
You don’t need everything straight away.
