Getting Started

[swain21]

My daughter is 12 and wants to start riding. I'm prepared for the investment in apparel - but if she gets into it, how often will i have to replace the tack?

[Showjumper]

I take it she'll be learning on a riding school pony in which case you won't have to contribute to tack costs. If you eventually decide to get her one of her own, then whenever necessary...

[eml]

If you are in the UK you will find most schools loan essential equipment such as boots and hat to start with. We run a second hand clothing table which most people start off equipping themselves from. Your main cost if she enjoys it will be a hat which you must buy new.

Oh and welcome to New Rider by the way!

[Wally]

Tack is generally refering to saddles and bridles and generally applies to folk with their own horses. So tack as such won't be a problem until you fiinally crumble and buy her her own pony.

If she gets into it and you buy a good saddle and bridle it should, with minor adjustments and repair , last a lifetime...of the horse anyway. I have a bridle made in 1969 and I still use it on a daily basis.

Welcome to the board.

[SmokinPRanch]

The biggest factor in tack life is in how it is cared for. Take the time to teach your daughter how to properly clean and maintain her tack or find someone who can teach her. Show her how to inspect for wear every time she uses it...for safety as well as maintenance. Most tack shops are more than happy to help with the kids on such things.

My saddle is over twice as old as your daughter. It's been through some rough horses and rough country. It's not really pretty anymore, but I basically trust it with my life when I swing it onto a colt's back.

But that same saddle with neglectful care probably wouldn't last but a few years.