By Audrey Pavia

In order to really enjoy your horseback trip, you must have the right equipment to feel safe as well as comfortable (nothing'll chap your hide faster than a pair of ill-fitting breeches). The following riding gear can be purchased at tack and feed stores or through mail order and online catalogs.

Helmet
One reason riding is considered risky is because of the potential for head injury. While it's unlikely you'll fall during your ride, it pays to play it safe and wear a specially designed equestrian helmet at all times. A number of different helmet designs are on the market, each tailored for different types of riding. The best helmets for long distance treks are lightweight, vented styles that are designed for comfort as well as safety. Whatever helmet you buy, make sure it's approved by the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI).

Footwear
What you wear on your feet is not only important for comfort's sake, but also for safety. Shoes or boots designed for riding are worlds safer than sneakers or hiking boots. Basically, riding footwear is specifically designed to keep your foot from slipping through the stirrup--and your leg getting caught--should you fall from the horse.

Riding boots and shoes come in a variety of styles. For long trail rides in a Western saddle, leather riding shoes or paddock boots are most comfortable. Rides in English tack require high boots (leather or PVC) or a pair of half-chaps to protect the lower part of the leg if paddock boots or riding shoes are worn.

Breeches
To stay comfortable during those long hours in the saddle, a pair of good cotton-and-Lycra riding breeches is a must. While breeches are traditionally considered proper apparel only for English riding--and jeans the item of choice for fashion-conscious Western riders--breeches are most comfortable on any long ride.

Audrey Pavia is the author of Horses for Dummies.