Choosing Your Horse Riding Gloves
Women’s Equestrian Clothing.
Riding gloves are an essential part of equestrian equipment. However, some mistakenly view riding gloves as unnecessary since they could make it difficult for some to read the horse’s muzzle signals, adversely impacting riding comfort.
Protection for The Hands
However, if chosen correctly, a pair of gloves enhance riding comfort and improve the reins’ feel. In addition, riding gloves protect the rider’s hands from possible chafing from holding the reins besides safeguarding the hands from harsh weather.
Considering that the gloves themselves are subjected to chafing from the reins, choose gloves that have been manufactured with this in mind. In addition, they should have a reinforcement to enhance durability around the fourth-fifth fingers, the thumb and the index finger.
Protection from The Weather
Manufacturers of equestrian equipment make riding gloves specialised for the different seasons of the year. Versatile gloves for use throughout the year are also available.
The rider should exercise care while choosing riding gloves. Gloves for use in winter are designed to keep the cold and humidity out and are made of thicker material, and are suitably padded.
The ones meant for use in summer are made from perforated leather to make them breathable.
Versatile gloves for year-round use combine the features of the winter and summer gloves.
Improving The Grip
Besides protecting the rider’s hands from the weather, gloves are also meant to improve the rider’s grip on the reins. Choose gloves with palms made with non-slip material such as silicone. Alternatively, pick gloves with slip-resistant leather.
The Right Size?
Gloves are available in a range of internationally standardised sizes (XXS to XXL). To check the size that is right for you, measure the circumference of your hand without the thumb and check with the manufacturer’s size chart. The sizes may vary slightly between brands. Also, take care to see that the gloves fit correctly. Ill-fitting gloves hinder riding comfort and reduce the feeling of the reins.