New Horse Owner Essentials: Everything You Need to Get Started
Having owned, cared for, started, trained and ridden my own horses for the past 19 years, combined with a passion for everything equestrian and a love of helping others, this is a blog post I've always wanted to write.
Bringing home your first horse is one of the most exciting milestones in your equestrian journey. It's also one of the easiest times to become overwhelmed by the sheer number of products, opinions and "must-have" items available.
The good news? You don't need everything at once.
In this guide, I'll share the equipment I personally recommend for new horse owners, based on years of practical experience. I'll cover the essentials, explain what each item is used for, and highlight where it may be worth investing a little more from the beginning.
Let's get started.
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Catching, Leading & Lunging
A good halter and lead rope are among the first pieces of equipment you'll use every day, whether you're bringing your horse in from the paddock, tying them up for grooming, or doing groundwork.
Halter
A traditional webbing halter with buckles is often the easiest option for new horse owners. They're simple to fit, easy to adjust and suitable for everyday handling. If you're interested in natural horsemanship or groundwork training, a rope halter can offer clearer communication and is a popular choice amongst trainers.
If budget allows, a leather halter is a good alterative to a traditional webbing halter as it will break in the event of an emergency, can be customised with a nameplate which could include your contact number in the event your horse gets loose at a competition and could be used for in-hand led competitions.
Standard Lead Rope
A 6-8ft lead rope is a versatile length that's ideal for everyday leading and tying. Cotton lead ropes are soft on your hands and easy to tie. While leads with nickel-plated snaps are common, leads with brass snaps tend to be stronger and more durable over time.
12ft Lead Rope
A longer 12ft lead rope provides additional flexibility when working with young horses, stronger horses or during groundwork sessions. They're also a staple for many natural horsemanship exercises and well worth the investment - mine lasted me 19 years and has only just been replaced!
Safe Tying Equipment
Every horse owner should learn how to tie a quick-release knot. For added safety, consider using a Safe-T-Tie or Blocker Tie Ring. These products help reduce the risk of injury should your horse pull back or become tangled while tied.
Lunge Line
A quality lunge line is a valuable training tool. Look for one that feels comfortable in your hands and isn't overly thin. An acrylic lunge line is a great starting point as the clip can be replaced when required and the weight of the line offers a better feel for beginners as it doesn't tangle as easily as lighter lines. For a softer feel, consider a padded lunge line - however these can be harder for kids or beginners to use.
Lunge Whip
For most beginners, a 160cm lunge whip is easy to manage and suitable for basic lunging. If you're interested in natural horsemanship, a horsemanship training stick may be a more versatile option for groundwork exercises.
Grooming
Regular grooming helps keep your horse clean, comfortable and healthy, while also giving you an opportunity to check for cuts, swelling or other issues.
Hoof Pick
A hoof pick is an essential part of every grooming kit. Whether you choose a plain pick or one with an attached brush comes down to personal preference.
Body Brush
A soft body brush is ideal for removing dust and dirt from your horse's coat and can also be used gently around the face. Brushes with synthetic bristles are cost effective and durable, where as brushes with natural bristles give a better finish.
Dandy Brush
A dandy brush has firmer bristles and is excellent for removing dried mud, loose hair and heavier dirt from the body.
Curry Comb
A rubber curry comb helps loosen dirt, mud and shedding hair while also providing a gentle massage that many horses enjoy.
Mane & Tail Brush or Comb
A Mane and Tail brush is usually the easiest option for everyday grooming, while a mane comb can be useful for plaiting or more detailed mane work.
Coat Shedding Tool
There is a few options here but I use the rubber Blue Tag Quik Groomer for general use on all horses and the bladed Zilco Shedz Groomer for more serious winter coat removal on less sensitive horses.
Shampoo
If you're unsure where to start, a tea tree-based shampoo is a versatile choice suitable for most horses and coat types. For a more economical option, be sure to check out the Heiniger Progroom Collection - it's a concentrated formula so each bottle = about 33 washes!
Mane & Tail Spray (Optional)
Mane and tail sprays can help reduce tangles, improve shine and make grooming easier, especially for horses with long or thick manes and tails. I use CDM Canter Mane and Tail Conditioner spray once a week or fortnight and it really makes a difference. It's also great to spray on your horses coat to prevent your rugs from rubbing!
Grooming Bag or Box
The best option depends on how you'll use it. Grooming bags are lightweight and often feature a long handle for hanging on stable doors or fences. Grooming boxes are more durable, waterproof and can even double as a handy step when grooming or plaiting.
Feeding
Good feeding practices start with accurate measuring and practical equipment.
Feed Bucket
I like to mix feeds in a flexible tub before transferring them into a more durable feed bucket that stays in the paddock. Choose something sturdy enough to withstand daily use and my colt relocating it daily!
Feed Scoop
Feed scoops can be found almost anywhere, including supermarkets, hardware stores and pet shops. Dog food scoops and garden scoops are often the perfect size. Horse specific feed scoops are great for chaff or if you need to feed big quantities of hardfeed.
Weigh Scales
Knowing exactly how much feed and supplement you're giving your horse is essential. Feeding by weight rather than volume helps ensure your horse receives the correct nutrition.
Weight Tape
A flexible weight tape provides an estimate of your horse's body weight, helping you calculate feed, supplements and medication dosages more accurately.
Hay Bag or Hay Net
There are many styles available. Standard hay nets are a great starting point, while smaller-hole nets help slow down horses that eat too quickly. Hay nets with larger holes or hay bags allow easier access to hay and may suit horses that are poor doers. Hay nets must be tied up high to prevent a horse from getting it's hoof stuck in the net.
Paddock Equipment
Your horse's paddock setup doesn't need to be complicated, but a few essentials can make day-to-day management much easier.
Water Trough
If your horse is respectful around water containers, a large flexible tub can be an affordable starting point. For a more permanent solution, a quality plastic trough is a worthwhile investment and can last for many years.
Electric Fencing
Where paddocks already have secure boundary fencing, electric fencing is ideal for temporary paddocks, strip grazing or pasture management. Two reels of 12mm electric tape and a set of standards will suit most situations and are easy to move as required.
To power your electric fence you will need to connect it to an energizer. If you don't have easy access to mains power, a battery or solar energizer is a good option. The size you require depends on how much fencing you need to keep "hot."
Travelling
Whether you're heading to a lesson, rally or competition, having a few dedicated travel items can make life much easier.
Water Bucket
Always carry a dedicated water bucket and clearly label it to avoid mix-ups...
Wash Bucket (Optional)
A second bucket for washing can be useful for competitions, clinics or overnight stays.
Poo Bucket
A dedicated muck bucket makes cleaning up after your horse quick and easy while away from home.
Hay Bag or Hay Net
Providing hay while travelling helps keep horses occupied and can encourage them to stay settled.
Trailer Camera (Optional)
I use a wireless trailer camera as a reversing camera to hook up my float and then in the float to watch my horse while we are traveling. This gives me piece of mind that they are okay and gives me an idea of how well new horses travel.
Safe Travelling Tie Setup
When travelling, my float has high tie points so I personally use a Safe-T-Tie combined with bungee trailer tie with double trigger snaps attached to the bottom ring of my horse's halter. This allows enough movement for the horse to lower its head and stay comfortable, while still providing an emergency release if the horse pulls back.
Rugs
Not every horse needs every rug, but understanding the different options can help you choose what's appropriate for your climate and management style.
Fly Rug
Fly rugs are designed to protect horses from irritating and biting insects during warmer months. Fly sprays and creams can also help, although they often require daily reapplication.
Summer Sheet
A lightweight rug that helps protect the coat from sun bleaching and offers additional protection from insects and dust.
Rain Sheet
A waterproof rug with no fill, ideal for wet weather. Synthetic linings are easy to clean, while cotton linings are often more breathable and comfortable in milder conditions.
Mid-Season Rug
Typically containing 50-100g of fill, these rugs are ideal for cooler weather and can sometimes provide better waterproof performance than an unfilled rainsheet due to the fill helping lift the outer fabric away from the horse's back. An relatively new alternative option, is a synthetic rug with a wool lining. I've found this perfect across a range of temperatures for my gypsy cobs!
Winter Rug
A heavyweight waterproof rug with 200-300g of fill is suitable for many New Zealand winters. Traditional canvas rugs paired with wool or brush blanket linings remain popular in some areas.
Under Rug
An under rug allows you to increase warmth without purchasing multiple heavyweight rugs. Common options include fleece, wool and lightweight quilted rugs.
Care
A few simple care products can help keep your horse comfortable throughout the year, particularly during summer when sun exposure and insects can become an issue.
Sunblock Cream or Powder
If your horse has pink skin around their eyes, nose or mouth, sun protection is often essential. Sunburn can be uncomfortable and may lead to more serious skin issues if left unmanaged.
Sunblock creams are usually the easiest place to start, as they're simple to apply and provide good coverage. Some horses, however, dislike the feeling of creams on sensitive areas and may be more comfortable with a powder-based alternative.
Fly Spray or Fly Cream
Flies can quickly make life miserable for both horse and owner. Fly sprays are ideal for protecting larger areas of the body and are quick to apply before riding or turnout.
Fly Creams are particularly useful around the face, eyes and ears, or for horses that don't tolerate being sprayed. Many owners find that using a combination of both products provides the best protection during fly season.
Riding Equipment for the Rider
While it's tempting to focus on buying equipment for your new horse, don't forget about yourself. Comfortable, well-fitting riding gear will make your time in the saddle safer and more enjoyable.
Riding Helmet
A helmet is the single most important piece of riding equipment you'll purchase.
My biggest piece of advice is to try on as many helmets as possible. Every brand fits slightly differently, and the safest helmet is one that fits your head correctly. Even if you don't intend to compete, choose a helmet that meets current competition safety standards. This gives you peace of mind that you're wearing a modern helmet designed to offer the best protection available.
Riding Boots
For most new riders, short riding boots are a practical and affordable starting point.
Synthetic boots are popular for children with growing feet, while leather boots generally offer greater comfort, durability and protection. Traditional short jodhpur boots remain popular in showing disciplines, while adults often pair short boots with leather chaps to achieve the appearance and feel of tall boots.
Stable and yard boots feature a more aggressive tread pattern and are excellent for everyday jobs around the property. They're also popular with riders using wider oxbows or stock saddle stirrups.
For riders who enjoy trekking or regularly walk alongside their horses, casual riding boots with laces or zips can offer the comfort of a hiking boot while still remaining suitable for riding.
Chaps
Chaps are a worthwhile addition to any rider's wardrobe. They help prevent pinching from stirrup leathers, improve lower leg stability and provide additional comfort during long rides. For adult competitors, leather chaps can also create the appearance of a traditional tall boot.
Jodhpurs, Breeches or Riding Tights
Modern riders are spoilt for choice when it comes to riding pants, and much of the decision comes down to personal preference.
Riding tights have become incredibly popular thanks to their all-day comfort, flexibility and lightweight feel. They're my personal favourite and are available with or without silicone grip seats.
Jodhpurs are a more traditional option (and hard to find!), often made from cotton-based fabrics and featuring suede knee patches or full seats. They tend to be longer in the leg and are commonly seen in showing disciplines.
Breeches offer a more structured fit and are typically made from advanced stretch fabrics that provide support while riding. Most feature either knee grip or full-seat silicone grip for added security in the saddle.
Riding Jeans
Riding jeans are especially popular amongst western, stock saddle and half-breed saddle riders.
When choosing riding jeans, leg length is important. A 32-inch leg is generally suited to everyday wear and non-riding use. A 34-inch leg is often ideal for riding with heeled boots, while a 36-inch leg provides extra length and flexibility for competitive riders wearing cowboy boots.
Riding Equipment for the Horse
Choosing tack can feel overwhelming when you're new to horse ownership, but starting with simple, well-fitting equipment is usually the best approach.
Bridle
The three most common bridles used with bits are English, Barcoo and Western bridles.
For most riders, an English cavesson or Hanoverian bridle is an excellent starting point. They're versatile, widely accepted across disciplines and easy to fit.
If you're riding in a stock saddle, a Barcoo bridle pairs nicely. They feature wider straps, generous adjustment and fewer parts than many English bridles, making repairs simple if something gets damaged.
Western riders typically prefer Western bridles, which also have a simpler design with fewer components and are well suited to western disciplines.
Bit
If I'm starting a young horse or helping a new rider, I often begin with a Dee Ring bit featuring a lozenge mouthpiece.
The Dee Ring design helps prevent the bit from sliding through the horse's mouth and can provide clearer steering aids than some other bit styles. The lozenge mouthpiece sits comfortably over the horse's tongue and is accepted by many horses.
Of course, if your horse was already going happily and comfortably in a particular bit before you purchased them, that's often the best place to start.
Reins
The best reins for you will depend on your riding discipline and personal preference.
For English riders, web reins are an affordable and practical entry-level choice, while soft leather reins offer a more premium feel. Riders who jump, hunt or event may prefer rubber grip reins for additional security.
Trail riders often enjoy rope or cotton reins, while western riders commonly choose rope reins or leather split reins.
Saddle
Finding a saddle that fits both horse and rider is one of the most important investments you'll make.
English saddles, stock saddles and half-breed saddles with adjustable gullets can be a great starting point, as they offer flexibility while you're learning what suits your horse. Regardless of the saddle you choose, I strongly recommend having a qualified saddle fitter assess the fit.
Western saddles are generally not adjustable, but saddle pads and shims can sometimes help fine-tune the fit where required.
Girth
The type of girth your horse requires depends on the type of saddle you are going to use, the shape of their girth groove and the length of the girth straps - as well as the size of your horse. Here is a guide to get you started on looking at options. Flair & Cavallino girths are custom made in New Zealand, so any size/color/style can be made to suit your horse.
English saddles with long girth points: Pair with a short dressage girth with girth strap keepers, elastic or non elastic.
English Saddles with short girth points: Pair with a long girth with double elastic.
Half Breed Saddles: Pair with a western cinch that has two buckles or use a girth converter to pair it with a short dressage girth instead.
Stock Saddles: Pair with a short dressage girth with girth strap keepers, elastic or non elastic.
Western Saddles: Pair with a western cinch that has two buckles.
Stirrups
If your budget allows, safety stirrups are one of the best upgrades you can make.
Available for English, stock and western saddles, safety stirrups are designed to reduce the risk of a rider's foot becoming trapped during a fall. They provide an extra layer of protection and are an investment I recommend whenever possible.
What Can Wait?
One of the biggest mistakes new horse owners make is trying to buy everything at once.
When you've finally found your dream horse, it's easy to get excited and start filling your cart with every gadget, rug and accessory you come across. The reality is that most horses only need a handful of essential items to get started, and you can add to your collection over time as you learn what works best for you and your horse.
If you're working with a limited budget, focus on the basics first:
- A well-fitting halter and lead rope
- Safe tying equipment
- A basic grooming kit
- Feed and water containers
- Appropriate fencing and shelter
- A correctly fitted saddle and bridle
- An approved riding helmet
My advice is simple: buy quality where safety matters, and upgrade the rest as your budget allows.
A good helmet, quality halter, safe tying equipment and a properly fitted saddle will contribute far more to your enjoyment and safety than having the latest matching saddle pad or trendy accessory.
Remember, every experienced horse owner started with a first horse and a small collection of gear. Your tack room doesn't need to be fully stocked on day one. Build your collection gradually, invest in quality where it counts, and enjoy the journey.
If you're unsure what is truly essential for your horse, feel free to get in touch. I'd much rather help you buy the right product the first time than spend money on something you don't need.
Happy riding,
Soph x
