Safety up.
IS SAFETY YOUR TOP PRIORITY AROUND YOUR horses? It’s a topic I constantly discuss with my kids around the barn. Whether you’re a novice rider learning the safety ropes or an experienced horseman whose safe habits are second nature, one thing is certain: Even the best safety practices can fall short of keeping you and your horse out of harm’s way.
There’s inherent risk when dealing with an unpredictable variable such as a horse. But you can lessen the possibility of harm in the choices you make.
Helmets at the Helm
No matter your event interest, you probably see more riders wear helmets when they ride. From low-key trail riders to amped-up barrel racers, the Western community has more widely embraced the choice to ditch traditional cowboy hats while in the saddle in favor of protective headgear. We share six riders’ stories about choosing to don helmets in “Why I Ride Safe,” beginning on page 43.
Their tips for staying comfortable in a helmet—both physically and socially— could help you decide to join the Helmet Movement or open your mind to the idea.
Make the Best of the Situation
“Green-plus-green equals black-and-blue.” We’ve all heard the equation. (And maybe seen it or experienced it.) Novice riders are drawn like magnets to green horses for a variety of reasons. If you take that leap—rescue a green horse or buy a young mount you aren’t ready for—you’ll require a solid plan. “Surviving Green + Green,” beginning on page 50, is your go-to blueprint to keep you and your horse safe while enjoying your journey.
The six tips offered combine riders’ experiences and experts’ advice for a realworld take on the hard work and time commitment required to get past a potentially dangerous venture.
Safety Review
Even lifelong riders need a safety refresher. “Your Best-Ever Safety Guidelines,” page 23, offers seven rules to keep top of mind every single time you’re around your horse. If you’re a novice, you can combine these rules with the plan in “Surviving Green + Green” to keep yourself out of harm’s way at the barn.
What’s your no-compromises safety rule? Did you learn it the hard way—by overlooking a risk and getting injured? Or was it drilled into your brain by a coach or trainer? Send me your Riding Golden Rule at the email address below. We’ll compile them to share with readers so we can all stay safe and have the most fun possible in the saddle.