Horseback Riding Safety Tips to Prevent Injuries

Horseback riding is inherently risky—horses are large, powerful animals that can spook, buck, or bolt unexpectedly. But with proper safety practices, you can significantly reduce your risk of injury. Here’s what every rider needs to know.

The Reality of Riding Risks

Statistics show horseback riding can be dangerous:

Hospital visits for horse-related injuries exceed those for motorcycles and skiing
Head injuries cause 60% of horse-related deaths
Most accidents happen during routine activities, not high-risk maneuvers

The good news: Most injuries are preventable with proper precautions.

Essential Safety Equipment

Helmets: Non-Negotiable

A properly fitted, ASTM/SEI-certified helmet is the single most important piece of safety equipment.

Always wear one: Every ride, every time—no exceptions
Proper fit: Snug but comfortable, sits level on head
Replace after falls: Even minor impacts can compromise protection
Replace every 5 years: Materials degrade over time
No bicycle helmets: Equestrian helmets are designed differently

Footwear

Heeled boots: 1-1.5 inch heel prevents foot slipping through stirrup
Smooth sole: Allows quick release from stirrup
Ankle coverage: Protects from rubs and impacts
Never: Sneakers, flip-flops, or shoes without heels

Body Protection (Optional but Recommended)

Safety vest: Required for cross-country, recommended for all jumping
Air vests: Inflate on impact, excellent protection
Gloves: Prevent blisters and improve grip

Ground Safety

Around Horses

Approach at shoulder: Never from directly behind
Speak before touching: Announce your presence
Stay close or far: If kicked, being close reduces force
Lead from the side: Not directly in front
No running: Horses can spook at sudden movement

Tacking Up

Cross-tie or have someone hold horse
Check all equipment before mounting
Ensure cinch/girth is secure but not over-tight
Adjust stirrups to proper length

Mounting & Dismounting

Safe Mounting

Have someone hold horse (especially for beginners)
Check girth is tight enough
Use mounting block when possible (easier on horse’s back)
Hold reins to maintain control
Don’t pull saddle sideways while mounting

Safe Dismounting

Remove both feet from stirrups
Swing leg over, keeping hold of reins
Land softly on both feet
Move to horse’s shoulder immediately

Riding Safety

Arena Etiquette

Pass left to left: Like driving in the US
Call out: “Rail” when passing, “heads up” for jumps
Faster gaits inside: Walk on outside rail
Keep distance: One horse length minimum

Trail Riding Safety

Never ride alone: At minimum, tell someone your route and return time
Carry a phone: Fully charged, in secure pocket
Know your horse: What spooks them? How do they react?
Ride at the level of the least experienced rider
Check footing: Avoid unstable ground, hidden holes

What To Do If Things Go Wrong

If Horse Spooks

Sit deep in saddle
Keep legs on—don’t grip with knees
One rein stop if needed (pull one rein to hip)
Talk calmly to horse
Let horse see the scary object from a safe distance

If Horse Bolts

Stay calm (panic makes it worse)
Sit deep, don’t lean forward
Use pulley rein (one rein brace, pull other up)
Circle if space allows—horses can’t bolt in tight circles
Aim for soft ground if you must bail

If You’re Falling

Let go of reins
Tuck chin to chest
Try to roll with the fall
Protect your head
Get away from horse’s feet

After a Fall

Stay still: Assess for injuries before moving
Check for head injury: Headache, dizziness, confusion = seek medical help
Secure the horse: Have someone catch the horse
Report the fall: To trainer/barn manager
Replace your helmet: If you landed on your head

When to Seek Medical Attention

Any head impact (even with helmet)
Loss of consciousness
Difficulty breathing
Severe pain anywhere
Numbness or tingling
Visible deformity

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping helmet “just this once”—most accidents happen during routine rides
Riding a horse beyond your skill level—green + green = black and blue
Riding when fatigued—tired riders make mistakes
Ignoring your instincts—if something feels wrong, stop
Riding in bad weather—lightning, icy conditions, high winds

The Bottom Line

Horseback riding will never be completely safe—that’s part of working with large, living animals. But wearing a helmet, using proper equipment, following safety guidelines, and riding within your abilities dramatically reduces your risk. The goal isn’t to be fearful, but to be prepared. Safety allows you to enjoy horses for a lifetime.

Sources: American Association of Equine Practitioners, United States Equestrian Federation, Equestrian Medical Safety Association