Everything you need to know about Pony Club

Do You Need Your Own Horse to Join Pony Club?

No,not always.

Whether you need your own horse depends on how you join Pony Club in Australia.
Joining a Local Pony Club.

Pony Club rallies operate in different seasons across Australia.

Most local Pony Clubs require riders to have their own horse or pony, or exclusive access to one through a full lease, as members bring their own horses to rallies and events. Most clubs do not provide horses for members to ride.

Don't Own a Horse?

If you don't own a horse, Pony Club Australia offers Centre Membership through accredited riding centres across Australia. Centre Members ride trained school horses provided by the riding centre, making it a great option for beginners who want to experience Pony Club before owning or leasing a horse.

Some individual Pony Clubs also have shared horse programs or "Riders Without Horses" initiatives, but these vary from club to club and aren't available everywhere.

Our Tip:
If your child is new to riding and doesn't yet own a horse, contact your nearest Pony Club or Accredited Riding Centre. They'll be able to explain the options available in your area and help you choose the best pathway into Pony Club. Find a Pony Club Near YOU!

What Should My Child Wear to Pony Club?
Starting Pony Club is an exciting milestone for both children and parents. One of the first questions most families ask is, "What does my child actually need to wear?"

The good news is you don't need to buy everything at once. Most Pony Clubs across Australia focus on safety, comfort and neat presentation rather than expensive clothing. As your child gains confidence and begins competing, you can gradually build their riding wardrobe.

Many Pony Clubs hold training days where riders can enjoy the relaxed "free dress" option instead of the Pony Club uniform. It's the perfect chance to wear one of our matching riding sets. Comfortable, stylish and made to move, they'll help young riders feel confident, ride comfortably and enjoy every moment in the saddle.

The Essentials Every Pony Club Rider Needs:

Every rider should have:
✔ Approved riding helmet - check out the current regulations here
✔ Riding boots
✔ Riding tights or jodhpurs (check with your club about the colour they prefer)
✔ Usually the Pony Club will have a club shirt for purchase when you join. Reach out to the club to find out what their requirements are
✔ Comfortable socks
✔ Hair neatly secured
✔ Gloves (recommended)
These basics are enough for most Pony Club rallies.

1. Riding Helmet - check the latest EA Standards

A properly fitted riding helmet is the most important piece of equipment your child will own.

Your helmet should:
• Meet current Australian safety standards or your Pony Club's approved standard.
• Fit snugly without moving.
• Sit level across the forehead.
• Have the chin strap correctly adjusted.
Never buy a helmet that's too big in the hope your child will "grow into it."

2. Riding Boots
Correct footwear helps prevent feet slipping through the stirrups.
Suitable options include:
• Jodhpur boots
• Tall riding boots
• Boots with a smooth sole and small heel
Avoid:
✖ Running shoes
✖ Gumboots
✖ Hiking boots
✖ Fashion boots with chunky soles

3. Riding Tights or Jodhpurs?

One of the most common questions parents ask is whether they should buy riding tights or traditional jodhpurs.

For many Australian riders, riding tights have become the preferred choice because they're:
• More comfortable
• Have 4-way stretch
• Cooler in hot weather
• Easier to wash
• Lightweight

Traditional jodhpurs are still popular for some disciplines and formal competitions, but for everyday Pony Club riding, many children love the comfort of technical riding tights.
Check with your club to see what colour tights or jodhpurs they prefer at their club.

Being traditionalists, we have stuck to jodhpurs for our child's cream show jodhpurs. They are the same fabric as tights but include a button and zip closure. Check them out here

A new arrival on the market are two-tone jodhpurs. They create a flattering, slimming look while helping disguise dirt, saddle marks and everyday wear. The darker inside leg panels also provide extra confidence during your period, making them a stylish and practical choice for every ride. Check ours out here

4. Do You Have to Wear Your Pony Club Shirt at Rallies?

In most Australian Pony Clubs, members are encouraged or required to wear their club shirt or official Pony Club uniform during rally days. Wearing the club shirt helps identify members, creates a sense of teamwork and makes it easier for instructors to recognise riders during activities.

If you're attending your first Pony Club rally, don't worry if you don't have a club shirt yet. Many clubs allow new members to wear a plain collared riding shirt or tidy riding attire until they have the opportunity to purchase the official club uniform.
Because uniform requirements vary between clubs, it's always a good idea to check with your local Pony Club before your first rally.

Look for tops that offer:
• Moisture-wicking fabric
• Four-way stretch
• Lightweight construction
• Long sleeves for sun protection
• Comfortable fit

5. Gloves
Although not always compulsory, gloves improve grip and help prevent rubbing from the reins. This can cause blisters.

They're especially useful during:
• Long Pony Club rallies
• Wet weather
• Winter riding

6. Riding Socks
Good riding socks are often overlooked.

They should be:
• Thin enough to fit comfortably inside boots
• Long enough to protect the lower leg
• Breathable
Avoid thick sports socks, which can bunch inside riding boots.

What Should My Child Wear to Pony Club Competitions?

They should wear competition clothing

Depending on the event, your child may need:

• Competition shirt, preferably with collar

Many riders wear a collared shirt at competitions. Check out our best selling long sleeve, collared, cool mesh riding shirt.

• A navy show jacket is the ultimate equestrian staple, just like the little black dress is to fashion.
• White breeches if it's a dressage or show jumping comp or cream or beige for showing.
• Competition tie or stock
• Polished boots

Always check the current Pony Club Australia or your state Pony Club dress rules before competing.

Common Mistakes New Parents Make:

Buying riding clothes too big to allow for growth.
Oversized clothing can affect a rider's position and presentation, while tights that are too loose may bunch, slip or rub, causing discomfort in the saddle. Choosing fashion leggings instead of riding tights.
Buying cheap boots that don't fit correctly.
Forgetting gloves.
Ignoring helmet fit.
Buying heavy clothing for Queensland summers.

Frequently Asked Questions:-
Can my child wear leggings to Pony Club? For many riders, yes. Riding tights are lightweight, breathable and extremely comfortable for everyday riding.

Does my child need a show jacket? Not for most beginner Pony Club rallies. Show jackets are usually only required for competitions or formal events. If you are tempted to buy one - make it navy ;) This is a staple colour in the equestrian world.

Can children wear black riding tights? Check with your club to see what colour preference they have.

Final Thoughts:
Starting Pony Club is about building confidence, learning new skills and enjoying time with horses. The right clothing helps your child stay comfortable, safe and ready to focus on riding rather than adjusting uncomfortable gear.

Choose clothing that fits well, allows freedom of movement and suits Australia's climate. As your child progresses through Pony Club and into competition, you can gradually build a riding wardrobe that grows with their experience.

Hot Tip:

Don't worry about having the fanciest horse or the most expensive gear, focus on being prepared. Arrive early, have your tack clean, know your gear, and be ready before your lesson starts. Pony Club instructors notice riders who are organised, and you'll feel far more relaxed and confident once you're in the saddle.