Are you unsure of what you’ll need for a cross country competition? Ever get overwhelmed with all the rules and safety standards? Well don’t panic, at Eland Lodge we’re here to help you get kitted out ready for the start box.
The most important aspect of Cross Country is safety, and having the correct equipment is a must have! We’ve picked our favourite XC hat & Body protector for you to take a look at.
A cross country hat needs to offer you maximum protection in fall, but in this modern day of technology they can also offer a rider so much more. From Charles Owen the 4 Star skull is certified to four top international standards. A technically superior deep fitting helmet, it incorporates the latest technology with a fiber-reinforced shell for improved crush resistance. Featuring the Free Fit system, the helmet allows increased airflow across the forehead, with a Coolmax mesh which evaporates sweat, and with the addition of 10 ventilation slots your head will certainly be comfortable.
With breathability being a key request for a cross country outfit, we’d now like to introduce you to the Racesafe Provent 3.0. Launching a new generation of body protectors, it is lightweight, flexible and breathable whilst still offering supreme protection. The combination of foams offer comfort along with protection. Heat generated is released through the perforated protection and the flex of individually hinged sections allows freedom of movement. Once you have the Provent on you really won’t notice, allowing to concentrate on your ride!
Although they’re not required by the rules, we think that and Air Jacket is a great investment for any XC rider. Designed to protect against impact, the air bag inflates when you come out of your saddle. From Point Two the Pro Air is ideal for cross country as it is adjustable allowing room for your body protector underneath. Offering more coverage on your back and neck this jacket will give you confidence during your round.
Want to take a closer look at the 2018 rules & standards for riding hats and body protectors? Click here.
Now who doesn’t want to look good whilst galloping around a cross country course? You also want your friends to be able to spot you and give you cheer as you go by. With matchy matchy all the rage this season and Le Mieux being one of the new biggest brands on the market, what could we choose but the Le Mieux matching base layers and hat silks. Available in a range of colours (we love the plum!) the smooth fabric of the base layer regulates temperature, ensuring the upmost comfort so you can keep your concentration face on. The bright stretchy hat silk it designed to stay put in the wind, though you’ll get a windswept fluffy pom pom which tops the hat silk (this is removable if you want a little less fluff!). You can even go all out and match with your horse in the same colours too!
All riders need support in the saddle, and with the Ariat Ladies Tri Factor Breeches you are sure to have that. The flexible Hex Silicone grip full seat will keep you secure in the saddle, whilst the cooling technology will keep you refreshed on those warm days.
To keep your foot in place, take a look at the Tredstep Medici Field Boots which are handmade using calfskin leather. These stunningly smart long boots are tailored to enhance the natural shaping of the leg, for that close contact fit.
Keep a tight grip on the reins with the Uvex Ceravent Gloves. Extremely durable they are ceramic-coated, abrasion-resistant, very hard-wearing and the innovative soft-touch material makes them extremely lightweight. Whoosh, that’s a lot in one pair of gloves!
Don’t forget that you will need a number bib to display your given cross-country number. The Shires number bib features elastic straps so you can pull it over your body protector before your mount. If you have a medical condition that may impact on your care in the case of an emergency then you are required to wear a medical armband. Shires also supply these, with the medical card inside ready for you to fill out.
