Useful, desirable, and not a single bit of tat… Equestrians, share this with your nearest and dearest!
Christmas is fast approaching, and you might already be thinking about about finding that perfect little something for the equestrian in your life.
Forget the novelty items that gather dust! Riders are practical people. We spend our lives battling mud, cold, and time constraints. That’s why I believe the best stocking fillers should meet a strict set of criteria: they must be useful, genuinely desirable, and absolutely not ‘tat’.
This year, ditch the clichéd horse-head-shaped ‘anything’ and fill those stockings with things that will actually make yard life easier, pamper tired muscles, or add a necessary bit of polish for the show ring. I’ve curated a list of over 20 incredible ideas, from budget-friendly essentials to small luxuries, all guaranteed to earn a thankful smile.
Whether you’re shopping for a busy yard owner, a dedicated competition rider, or just someone who loves their horse time, these are the little treasures they’ll be thrilled to receive.
Ready to become the best gift-giver? Let’s dive into the list!
The ‘yard life’ essentials
This category focuses on items that protect riders from the elements and are indispensable when mucking out, riding or performing general yard duties.
- Yard gloves – A true essential and an equestrian can never have too many pairs; especially high-quality, waterproof, cold-weather ones.
- Hand sanitiser – Crucial for yard hygiene. Those which are travel-sized and have a clip to fasten on to clothing are especially handy!
- Lip balm (a stick not a tin!) – No-one wants chapped lips, and balms in stick form are much easier to apply when wearing gloves or if hands are cold or muddy.
- Hand cream – Ideally an intensive barrier or repair cream to help combat dry, chapped yard hands.
- Riding socks – Being thin yet warm, these really do make a difference in keeping feet comfortable when wearing boots for hours on end.
- Neck tube – Versatile for riding, hacking or working, providing warmth without bulk, and they can even double up as ear warmers!
Post-ride pamper and recovery
These items are small luxuries, designed to help the rider relax and recover after a long day in the saddle or at the yard.
- Bath bombs – Or bath pearls, salts or even a lovely bubble bath are all perfect for soothing tired, aching muscles.
- Nail brush – A must-have for scrubbing away dirt, mud and grit.
- Body lotion or oil – Essential after-care to moisturise and help the skin recover from its battle with the elements.
Competition and polish
These suggestions include accessories needed for showing, competition, or just adding a touch of rider-specific style
- Hair nets – An absolute show-ring essential. Easy to lose, always needed.
- Scrunchies – Practical for securing hair before adding a net or helmet.
- Stock or tie pin – Loads of different styles available, but whichever you choose will add a touch of elegance, whether in the show ring or out in the field.
- Sparkly bun cover – These are fun and add a bit of flair whether in dressage or hunter classes.
- Silk glove liners – A luxury item that provides incredible warmth under riding gloves without compromising on feel.
Safety and on-the-go preparedness
Every equestrian should have these small, essential items – whether they’re hacking out alone, on the show circuit, or simply dealing with things at the yard. These are the gifts that show you truly care about their wellbeing and readiness.
- Pen knife / multi-tool – Invaluable for cutting baling twine, freeing a stuck buckle or making an emergency repair.
- Folding hoof pick – Compact and safe to store in a pocket. These are great for clearing a stone from a hoof when out and about.
- Hi-vis – High visibility gear is crucial for safety, especially during winter months and low light. There are lots of options, but stocking-filler sized items include arm bands, hat bands, gloves and vests.
- Rider and horse identity tags – Small, clip-on tags with contact and emergency info are a vital, yet often overlooked, safety measure for both horse and rider.
Fuel and fun
These options address the need for quick energy and a little indulgence; perfect for the tack room, saddle bag (or coat pocket).
- Snack multipacks – Non-melting, easy-to-grab energy for busy days (think Haribo, dried fruit, quality biscuits…).
- Miniatures – A miniature or two of sloe gin, brandy or whisky is a nice little adult treat for a celebratory post-ride nip!
- Hip flask – Pairs perfectly with the miniatures – useful for a warming pick-me-up on a chilly winter’s day.
- Lesson voucher – A Champion Equestrian Coaching gift voucher is the ultimate gift of improvement and is also clutter-free!
So there you have it – my definitive guide to stocking fillers that will actually be appreciated, used, and loved long after the tinsel is put away.
Whether you choose a luxurious silk glove liner for ultimate warmth, a voucher to elevate their training with Champion Equestrian Coaching, or simply ensure they never run out of quality riding socks, you can be confident you’re giving the equestrian in your life a gift that is both thoughtful and practical. This year, let’s celebrate the dedication and hard work of the equestrians in our lives by giving them exactly what they need, wrapped up beautifully.
Happy gifting, and happy holidays!