Everything you need to know about Pony Club

New to Pony Club? You're in the Right Place!

Starting Pony Club is exciting... but it can also be a little overwhelming. Between helmets, boots, uniforms and all the advice coming your way, it's hard to know what's actually essential.

After more than 22 years designing riding apparel and helping Pony Club families across Australia, I've learnt that you don't need to buy everything at once. Start with the basics, make sure it fits well, and add to your riding wardrobe as your child progresses.

Let's answer some of the questions I'm asked most often.

Do You Need Your Own Horse?

Usually, yes.

Most Pony Clubs require members to bring their own horse or pony, or have exclusive access to one through a lease.

If you don't own a horse yet, don't worry. Pony Club Australia's Centre Membership lets riders participate using trained school horses at accredited riding centres. Some local clubs also offer shared horse programs, but these vary from club to club.

My Tip:  Give your local Pony Club a call before joining. They'll happily explain what's available in your area and point you in the right direction.

What Does My Child Need to Wear?

The good news? Pony Club is about learning, not wearing the most expensive gear.  However, most clubs have a club shirt for purchase if you decide to join.  Ask your club about their club uniform preference.

For everyday rallies your child will usually need:

✔ Approved riding helmet

✔ Riding boots

✔ Riding tights or jodhpurs

✔ Pony Club shirt (or a tidy collared shirt until you can buy the club uniform)

✔ Comfortable riding socks

✔ Hair tied back

✔ Gloves (recommended)

That's enough to get started.

Riding Tights or Jodhpurs?

This is probably the question I'm asked the most.

For everyday Pony Club riding, most kids love riding tights. They're lightweight, stretchy, breathable and easy to wash,  perfect for Australia's climate.  Pony Club usually prefers a beige or light colour.

Jodhpurs are still a great choice, especially if your club prefers them or you're heading to a competition. Ours use the same technical fabric as our riding tights but have the traditional zip and button front.

Hot Tip: Check with your Pony Club before buying. Some clubs prefer beige, cream or navy, while others are happy with almost any colour.

Boots

Choose boots made for riding.

Good options include:

* Jodhpur boots
* Tall riding boots
* Boots with a smooth sole and small heel

Avoid runners, gumboots, hiking boots and fashion boots. They're not designed for riding and can be unsafe in stirrups.

 Don't Forget Your Helmet

Your helmet is the most important piece of riding equipment you'll buy.

Make sure it:

* Meets the latest approved safety standard - check that out here
* Fits snugly
* Sits level on the head
* Has the chin strap adjusted correctly

Never buy a helmet for your child to "grow into"

What About Competitions?

Most Pony Club competitions require competition attire rather than everyday riding clothes.

Depending on the discipline, you'll generally need:

* A collared competition shirt - check out our best selling style here
* Navy show jacket - check out our best value and selling jacket here
* White breeches or tights (dressage and show jumping) - check out our white tights here
* Cream or beige jodhpurs for showing - check out our cream jods here
* Competition tie or stock - check out our HUGE selection of ties here
* Clean, polished boots

Always check your club's dress rules before the day.

 A Few Mistakes I See All the Time

* Buying clothing too big so they'll "grow into it"
* Choosing fashion leggings instead of riding tights
* Buying cheap boots that don't fit properly
* Forgetting gloves
* Not checking helmet fit

My Best Pony Club Tip:

Don't stress about having the fanciest horse or the latest gear.

Turn up early, have your tack clean, know where your equipment is, and be ready before your lesson starts. Pony Club instructors notice riders who are organised, and you'll enjoy the day far more when you're not rushing around at the last minute.