Staying Cool in the Saddle: Riding Safely and Mindfully in the Summer Heat

Staying Cool in the Saddle: Riding Safely and Mindfully in the Summer Heat

Summer is the season of long trail rides, sun-soaked lessons, and barn days that stretch into the golden hours of evening. But with all that fun comes one important reminder: heat and horses don’t always mix easily. High temps and humidity can take a toll on both rider and horse, so staying cool, hydrated, and heat-aware is key to making the most of your warm-weather rides.

Here’s your guide to riding smart and safe when the sun is blazing, so you and your horse can enjoy every summer stride together.

Dress the Part

Wearing the right clothing can make a huge difference in how you feel while riding in the heat.

Light & Breathable Fabrics
 Choose riding shirts made of moisture-wicking, technical materials that pull sweat away from the skin and dry quickly. Mesh panels and vented backs are a bonus.

Light Colors Reflect Heat
 Go for whites, pastels, and light grays over darker colors, which absorb heat and can leave you feeling baked.

Ventilated Helmets
 A helmet with built-in air vents can keep your head cooler without compromising safety. Most even have removable liners that you can wash.

Sun Protection
 Look for UV-protective shirts and remember to apply sunscreen to your face, neck, ears, and arms. SPF lip balm is another small but smart add-on.

Hydration is Non-Negotiable

It’s easy to forget just how much water your body needs on a hot day at the barn. Here’s how to stay ahead of dehydration:

  • Bring a large, refillable water bottle and sip throughout the day, not just before or after your ride.
  • Pack electrolyte tabs or sports drinks if you're riding intensely or for extended periods.
  • Set reminders to drink, especially if you’re not used to being out in the heat.

Know When to Ride

Sometimes the best way to beat the heat is to avoid it altogether:

  • Ride early or late in the day when the sun is lower and temps are cooler.
  • Shorten your ride time and spend more time on the ground grooming, stretching, or doing groundwork.
  • Find the shade like an indoor arena or a shady area to get a break from direct sun exposure.

Be Mindful of Your Horse

Just like us, horses feel the heat too and they can’t tell us when they’re overheating. Always check:

  • Respiration rate and sweat levels after riding.
  • Water availability to ensure your horse has access to cool, clean water at all times. Add an electrolyte to your horses’ feed regimen to help them replace minerals lost by sweating.
  • Post-ride care like giving your horse a nice cool down in the wash stall. Start at the legs and work up to avoid shocking them with cold water!

Make it a Barn Culture

Talk with your barn friends and instructors about staying heat smart. Set a good example for younger riders by making hydration and sun safety part of your routine.

And remember, it’s okay to swap a ride for a quiet grooming session, hose-down, or groundwork day when the sun is just too strong. Being heat-aware doesn’t mean canceling summer fun. It just means listening to your body, your horse, and your environment.

Stay Cool, Ride Smart

We love the sunshine, but safety always comes first. With a little preparation and awareness, you and your horse can enjoy all the best parts of summer riding without breaking a sweat (well, maybe just a little).

Got a favorite way to beat the heat? Share it with us. We’d love to hear how you and your horse stay cool!

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