Gear Check

New gear rules have come into effect as of December 2022. Please refer to the link for the latest gear rules

https://ponyclubaustralia.com.au/sports/national-gear-rules/

Gear checks take place at the start of every mounted rally day and at events, be they club, zone or state events. The gear check is to ensure safety, comfort and well being of both the horse and rider.

All pony club members are encouraged to ride in ordinary snaffle bridles. If they use other than an ordinary snaffle, they should know what it is called, how it works, and why it is necessary to use it.

All gear is checked for soundness of stitching, leather and holes. Nickel bits and stirrup irons are not recommended.

Note: Helmets must be one of the approved standards listed in the table below and are specifically designed for equestrian use or you will be unable to ride.

Checking the Horse

Head and Bridle

• The head must be clear of dried sweat and mud, especially around the ears.
• Soundness of stitching, leather, holes and keepers is checked.
• Cheek pieces level, noseband at the correct height, level and tightness, browband and throat lash.
• Bit right way up, correct size and height. Curb chain, if any, flat and correct length.
• Mouth is checked for injury or soreness

Reins

• The reins should be the correct length. They can often be too small on ponies so they can be knotted although a large loop can not be left (double knot or knot tightly and unbuckle the reins)
• If a martingale is used, stops must be present

Saddle

• The saddle must fit the horse and rider
• The saddle needs to be clear of the spine for its entire length and not pinching the withers (as a guide 3 fingers should fit between the horse’s back and the saddle).
• Risers and gel pads are acceptable providing they are comfortable for the horse with rider mounted.
• Pads and clogs may be used by riders under 8 years old.
• Saddle blanket needs to be larger than the saddle, lifted up into the gullet without tucks or wrinkles.
• Girth and straps are checked for safety with particular attention paid to the stitching and holes. The girth needs to have at least 2 buckles. If a 1 buckle girth is used, a surcingle should also be present. The surcingle must not restrict the release of the stirrup leathers from the bars. The girth should be tight.
• Stirrup leathers are checked for overall soundness – stitching, holes, same level on both sides.
• Stirrup leathers should hang free from the bar of the saddle and outside the flap.
• Stirrup irons need to be the correct size (finger width between iron and boot each side) and on the correct way round. Rubber tread is recommended for safety.

Girth Area

• Clean of dried sweat and mud liable to cause galls. The horse is checked for actual galls.

Martingale and Breastplate

• Ensure non interference of breathing and action. Correct length. Stops at neck strap and on reins.

Horse’s Legs

• The horse’s legs are checked for injuries. Bandages and boots are checked for correct fit. Loose shoes are checked and if the horse is not shod, the hooves should be trimmed.

Gear – General

• Should be clean, clean of dirt, mud, sweat, saliva and show signs of regular care and reasonable oiling. Over oiling of gear can be as bad as no oil. Do not be concerned by the age of your gear, provided it will pass all of the checks above, the age of gear is irrevelant.

Checking the Rider

Headgear

• Correctly adjusted approved safety helmet See Chart below for accepted standards: