Your pony needs different preparation when you’re planning to ride in the rain. Let’s learn how to get your pony ready for a wet-weather ride!
Grooming before a rainy ride
You might wonder—why groom if your pony is just going to get wet and muddy? Here’s why it still matters:
Safety first: Grooming helps you check for any injuries, sore spots, or skin problems. You need to know about these before you tack up.
Tack fit: Mud and dirt under your saddle or girth can rub and create sores. Always brush where tack will sit, even if you skip the full groom.
A quick groom is fine: You don’t need to make your pony show-ring perfect. Just:
- Pick out hooves thoroughly (very important!)
- Brush where saddle and girth sit
- Quick brush over the rest
- Check legs for any cuts or heat
The essential hoof pick
Never skip picking out your pony’s hooves before riding in the rain! Here’s why it’s extra important:
Packed mud: Wet ground means mud packs into hooves. This can:
- Make your pony slip
- Hide stones or debris
- Lead to thrush (a smelly hoof infection)
- Affect how your pony moves
Check each hoof carefully: As you pick out each hoof, check for:
- Stones or sticks
- Any foul smell (sign of thrush)
- Loose shoes
- Any tenderness or heat
Tacking up for wet weather
Saddle: Your regular saddle is fine for light rain. Some riders use a rain sheet over their saddle, but this isn’t essential for short rides.
Girth: Make sure your girth is clean and not too tight. Wet girths can rub more easily.
Bridle: Your regular bridle is fine. Just make sure all leather is in good condition – wet leather can break more easily if it’s old or cracked.
Breastplate or martingale: If your pony wears these, they’re fine in the rain. Just check all the leather and stitching are sound.
Special considerations for wet tack
Reins: Wet reins can be slippery! Options include:
- Rubber reins (excellent grip when wet)
- Plaited/laced reins (better grip than plain leather)
- Rubberised grips on leather reins
If you only have plain leather reins, you’ll need to hold them more carefully when they’re wet.
Stirrup treads: Make sure your stirrup treads (the rubber part you put your foot on) are in good condition. Worn treads are extra slippery when wet.
Dealing with excited ponies
Some ponies get quite excited in the rain! If your pony is one of these:
Extra lungeing time: If you know how to lunge (or an adult can help), a few minutes of lungeing can help your pony settle.
Groundwork first: Spend extra time on groundwork before mounting.
Don’t rush: Take your time tacking up and mounting. A calm start helps create a calm ride.
Tell your instructor: Let your instructor know your pony seems more excited than usual.
If your pony dislikes rain
Some ponies really dislike being wet. They might:
- Pin their ears back
- Swish their tail more
- Be tense or grumpy
- Try to rush back to their stable or shelter
For rain-hating ponies:
- Give them extra time to adjust
- Be patient and reassuring
- Keep the ride shorter than usual
- Reward good behaviour with treats and praise
- Consider if riding is really the best choice today
Checking your tack in wet weather
Before mounting, double-check:
- All tack is secure
- No worn stitching that might break when wet
- Buckles are done up properly
- Girth is tight enough (leather girths can stretch when wet)
Mounting safely
Wet ground can be slippery for you too! When mounting:
- Use a mounting block if possible
- Make sure you’re on firm, non-slippery ground
- Ask someone to hold your pony if they’re excited
- Take your time – don’t rush
Re-checking after mounting
Once mounted, check your girth again. Leather can stretch as it gets wet, so you might need to tighten your girth a hole or two after a few minutes.
What to bring on your ride
Consider bringing:
- A phone (in a waterproof case)
- High-vis gear if riding outside an arena
Setting expectations
Riding in the rain might mean:
- Your pony moves differently on wet ground
- They might be more alert or spooky
- They tire more quickly in wet, heavy going
- Movements might feel less smooth
This is all normal! Adjust your expectations and focus on a safe, enjoyable ride rather than perfection.
After-ride tack care
We’ll cover pony care after riding in the rain in another article, but remember your tack needs attention too:
- Wipe down wet tack
- Clean off mud
- Check for any damage
- Let everything dry properly before storing
The positive side
Preparing your pony for a rainy ride teaches you:
- To be thorough with safety checks
- To read your pony’s mood
- To adapt your routine to conditions
- Important horsemanship skills
These skills make you a better, more capable rider!
Next: Caring for your pony after riding in the rain!
