Frequently Asked Questions

How old does my child have to be to ride? We start at 5 years old with our Little Rider lessons. At 6 years old, riders can begin taking regular private lessons.

But kids aren't the only ones who get to have fun! We also offer our lessons for teens and adults of all ages - we've even had riders in their 70s and 80s ride with us!

What is a private lesson? A private lesson is 30 minutes of one on one time with an instructor. This is the best way to receive a lot of attention from the instructor and is recommended for students at all levels from beginner to advanced.

Do I need to have my own equipment? For every lesson, you should arrive in long pants and a boot with a heel. We have helmets that you can use, but as you get more advanced/interested you may want to purchase your own. 

Where can I get my own helmet or boots? Please see the list of recommended stores at the bottom of the page. There are many online stores, though we suggest going to a physical store to try on helmets.

What is a standing lesson and how do I get one? Booking a standing means that you will ride at the same time each week with the same instructor. This is ideal for many students, but especially those who have busy schedules, like their instructor, and who are really excited about the sport! Additionally, consistency is helpful, especially for beginners. Give our front desk staff a call for more information.

Can I ride [insert name of favorite pony/horse]? If you would like to request a pony or horse, please speak with your instructor. We cannot guarantee horse assignments. Keep in mind that it NEVER hurts to ride different horses, it just makes you into a better rider! 

What is leasing all about and how much does it cost? When you realize that you have fallen in love with horses (it's inevitable, we know) and in particular with one horse, then you might want to ride them all the time. The only way to make sure this happens is to lease. We offer several different kinds of leasing that vary in time commitment and cost. You should speak you your instructor about the various benefits of and options for leasing. 

How long will it take for me to become good/proficient? The short answer is: everyone is different. It could take a year or two, it could take five or six.  The important thing to remember is that everyone who is 'good' started from not knowing how to ride and after a lot of time in the saddle they are someone that you are looking to as an example! 

When can I go to a horse show? Whenever you are ready! Horse shows are for people of all levels and can be a lot of fun and very rewarding. If you are really serious about showing, then you can talk to your instructor about going to an 'away show.' Most people start out with our semi-annual schooling shows, which often takes place in April.

Tack Stores

Horsemen's Outlet - 37 Molasses Hill Road Lebanon, NJ 08833 908-238-1200 Horsemensoutletnj.com

Dover Saddlery - 3150 US-22 Branchburg, NJ 08876  908-704-0101 Doversaddlery.com

Ramapo Saddlery - 135 West Ramapo Avenue  Mahwah, NJ 07430 201-512-1418 Ramaposaddlery.com

Equitique - 2737 NJ-23 Stockholm, NJ 07460  973-864-2693  Equitique-usa.com

Outlaw Outfitters - 530 US-206 Newton, NJ 07860 844-780-3261 Outlawtack.com

Green Valley - 792 County Route 1  Pine Island, NY 10969  845-258-3564 / 866-316-1667  Greenvalleytack.com

Smartpak (Online Only) Smartpakequine.com

Amazon (Online Only) (under Sports -> All Sports & Fitness -> Equestrian Sports)