Summer Riding Essentials: What Every Equestrian Needs This Season

Summer is one of the best times to be in the saddle — longer days, warm trails, and the smell of fresh hay in the morning air. But riding in the heat comes with its own set of challenges. Keeping yourself and your horse cool, protected, and comfortable takes the right gear. Whether you're competing in a summer show series or enjoying weekend trail rides in the mountains, here's everything you need to make the most of the season.

Gear Up: What to Wear for Summer Riding

Breathable Riding Gloves

Your hands work hard every ride — gripping reins, adjusting tack, and communicating with your horse. In summer, sweaty palms can compromise your grip and your control. Look for gloves made with mesh panels or moisture-wicking fabric that keep your hands cool without sacrificing feel.

Lightweight Riding Apparel

Ditch the heavy layers and reach for moisture-wicking, UV-protective tops and breeches. Brands like Equine Couture and Dapplebay offer summer-ready styles that look polished in the ring and feel comfortable on the trail. Look for:

• Light colors that reflect heat rather than absorb it
• Ventilated panels under the arms and along the inner leg
• UPF-rated fabrics if you're riding in direct sunlight

Sun-Safe Helmet Liners and Covers

Your helmet is non-negotiable — but that doesn't mean you have to overheat. Moisture-wicking helmet liners pull sweat away from your head, while ventilated helmet covers add a layer of sun protection without trapping heat. Replace your liner regularly throughout the summer to keep things fresh.

 

Keep Your Horse Cool and Comfortable

Lightweight Saddle Pads

A thick, heavy saddle pad in July is a recipe for a sweaty, uncomfortable horse. Summer is the time to switch to a thinner, breathable pad that still provides adequate cushioning. Look for pads with moisture-wicking or cooling properties — your horse will thank you.

Fly Sheets and Fly Masks

Flies are one of summer's biggest nuisances for horses. A well-fitted fly sheet protects your horse's body from biting insects while still allowing airflow. Pair it with a fly mask to protect the face and eyes. Look for mesh materials that are lightweight and won't cause overheating.

Electrolytes and Hydration

Horses sweat — a lot — during summer workouts, and they lose important minerals in the process. Adding an electrolyte supplement to your horse's water or feed can help replace what's lost and encourage them to drink more. Always make sure fresh, clean water is available before and after every ride.

Arena vs. Trail: Does Your Gear Change?

If you're splitting your summer between arena work and trail riding, your gear needs may shift slightly.

For arena riding, focus on technical performance: moisture-wicking fabrics, a well-fitted helmet, and gloves with good grip. The footing is predictable, so your main concern is staying cool and focused.

For trail riding, add a few extras: a cantle bag or pommel pack for snacks and a first aid kit, a brighter or more visible riding top if you're near roads, and boots with a more aggressive sole for varied terrain. If you're riding in wooded areas, a fly spray that's safe for both horse and rider is a must.

Timing Your Rides for the Heat

One of the simplest ways to keep summer riding safe and enjoyable is to adjust when you ride. In the Pacific Northwest, summer temperatures can still climb into the 90s — especially inland. Here are a few timing tips:

• Ride early or late — aim for before 10 AM or after 6 PM when temperatures are lower
• Check the heat index, not just the temperature — humidity makes it feel hotter
• Shorten intense workouts on especially hot days and focus on lighter flatwork or trail walking
• Cool your horse down properly after every ride — walk them out, sponge them off, and don't put them away hot

 

Watch for these warning signs in your horse:

• Rapid or labored breathing that doesn't slow down after 10–15 minutes of rest
• Excessive sweating — or conversely, a lack of sweat despite the heat
• Flared nostrils and a glazed expression
• Elevated heart rate that stays high well after stopping work
• Stumbling, weakness, or reluctance to move

If you notice any of these signs, stop riding immediately, move your horse to shade, apply cool (not ice cold) water to the large muscle groups and neck, and call your vet if symptoms don't improve quickly.

On days when the heat index is extreme, consider groundwork, hand-grazing, or simply spending quality time with your horse without the added exertion of a ride. Your horse will be safer — and they'll still appreciate the company.

 

Affordable Summer Gear at Sunset Bay Equestrian

At Sunset Bay Equestrian, we believe great riding gear shouldn't cost a fortune. Our summer collection features trusted brands like Equine Couture, Dapplebay, and TuffRider — all at prices that make it easy to gear up without guilt.

Whether you're a beginner building your first kit or an experienced rider refreshing your summer wardrobe, we've got you covered from helmet to hoof.

 

Happy riding!