Answers to all of your questions about riding at Churchill Stables
Why do I need a riding helmet?
We take safety very seriously and hope that you will also.
Helmets are not “one size fits all” and neither are they interchangeable among various sports. You will need an ASTM- SEI approved riding helmet. No rider will be allowed to participate in a lesson or any riding activity without an approved helmet.
Bike helmets are designed to protect the top of the head since most falls from bicycles are forward. Equestrian helmets are tested by the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI) for Chinstrap retention, penetration by a sharp object, and for impact absorption. These tests are specifically for horseback riding related accidents.
For more information about helmet safety: https://www.cdc.gov/headsup/pdfs/helmets/headsup_helmetfactsheet_equestrian_508.pdf
Where can I find a riding helmet?
We recommend Complete Equestrian in Carlisle. The owner, Nancy Kean is a Bedford resident and very knowledgeable. http://www.completeequestriansaddlery.com We recommend a professional fitting for your helmet.
Helmets and boots can also be found at the following retailers: Dover Saddlery in Wellesley, Smartpak in Natick and Horseman’s Exchange in Littleton.
What kind of boots do I need?
We recommend a paddock boot designed for riding. However you may use cowboy boots or another heeled boot as long as there are no zippers on the inside leg. The zippers damage our saddles and irritate riders legs. You can purchase paddock boots at any of the above retailers.
What can I wear to my riding lesson?
You must wear long pants at all times while riding. Equestrian breeches are the most comfortable riding attire however you may ride in any long pant such as jeans/ yoga pants or other sport pants.
What is your weather policy?
When the weather is incompatible with riding safely due to the footing in the arenas we move our lessons indoors and focus on horsemanship and horse care. Please come prepared to ride in the rain - which we will do if the arena footing is in good condition. If we have to cancel due to a winter travel ban or other weather event we will send out an email as early as possible with a make-up date.
What is Eventing?
Eventing (also known as horse trials) is an equestrian event where a single horse and rider combination compete against other combinations across the three disciplines of dressage, cross-country, and show jumping. The focus for the Churchill-Mango Bay Event Team will be on camaraderie, good sportsmanship, skill development and building confidence by increasing individual equestrian skills. This is a great opportunity to increase your skills and move up a level.
When do I know if I'm ready to show?
There are shows that have a level appropriate for almost everyone- from walk/trot through upper level. Our on farm Churchill Shows are a perfect place to start.
We take safety very seriously and hope that you will also.
Helmets are not “one size fits all” and neither are they interchangeable among various sports. You will need an ASTM- SEI approved riding helmet. No rider will be allowed to participate in a lesson or any riding activity without an approved helmet.
Bike helmets are designed to protect the top of the head since most falls from bicycles are forward. Equestrian helmets are tested by the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI) for Chinstrap retention, penetration by a sharp object, and for impact absorption. These tests are specifically for horseback riding related accidents.
For more information about helmet safety: https://www.cdc.gov/headsup/pdfs/helmets/headsup_helmetfactsheet_equestrian_508.pdf
Where can I find a riding helmet?
We recommend Complete Equestrian in Carlisle. The owner, Nancy Kean is a Bedford resident and very knowledgeable. http://www.completeequestriansaddlery.com We recommend a professional fitting for your helmet.
Helmets and boots can also be found at the following retailers: Dover Saddlery in Wellesley, Smartpak in Natick and Horseman’s Exchange in Littleton.
What kind of boots do I need?
We recommend a paddock boot designed for riding. However you may use cowboy boots or another heeled boot as long as there are no zippers on the inside leg. The zippers damage our saddles and irritate riders legs. You can purchase paddock boots at any of the above retailers.
What can I wear to my riding lesson?
You must wear long pants at all times while riding. Equestrian breeches are the most comfortable riding attire however you may ride in any long pant such as jeans/ yoga pants or other sport pants.
What is your weather policy?
When the weather is incompatible with riding safely due to the footing in the arenas we move our lessons indoors and focus on horsemanship and horse care. Please come prepared to ride in the rain - which we will do if the arena footing is in good condition. If we have to cancel due to a winter travel ban or other weather event we will send out an email as early as possible with a make-up date.
What is Eventing?
Eventing (also known as horse trials) is an equestrian event where a single horse and rider combination compete against other combinations across the three disciplines of dressage, cross-country, and show jumping. The focus for the Churchill-Mango Bay Event Team will be on camaraderie, good sportsmanship, skill development and building confidence by increasing individual equestrian skills. This is a great opportunity to increase your skills and move up a level.
When do I know if I'm ready to show?
There are shows that have a level appropriate for almost everyone- from walk/trot through upper level. Our on farm Churchill Shows are a perfect place to start.