Equestrian Equipment Market By Product Type (Riding Equipment, Apparel & Footwear, Horse Care Products, Smart Equestrian Devices, Stable Equipment); By End Use (Recreational Riders, Competitive Athletes, Therapy Centers, Riding Schools & Clubs, Military Units); By Distribution Channel (Offline Retail, Online Stores, Institutional Procurement); By Geography, Segment Revenue Estimation, Forecast, 2024–2030

Introduction And Strategic Context

The Global Equestrian Equipment Market will witness a steady CAGR of 4.9% , valued at approximately USD 3.2 billion in 2024 , and is projected to reach nearly USD 4.3 billion by 2030 , confirms Strategic Market Research.

 

This market sits at the intersection of sport, tradition, and lifestyle. Equestrian equipment includes saddles, bridles, riding apparel, protective gear, and grooming tools — and increasingly, smart technologies like biometric wearables and GPS-enabled saddles. While the core of the market is built around leisure and professional horseback riding, recent years have seen a growing crossover into wellness, fashion, and even veterinary tech.

 

From 2024 to 2030, the market is gaining renewed relevance. The post-pandemic rebound in outdoor recreation, combined with a rise in equine-assisted therapy and therapeutic riding programs, is expanding the customer base beyond competitive riders. Countries like the U.S., UK, Germany, and Australia are investing in equestrian tourism and rural sports infrastructure. Meanwhile, younger demographics are entering the space through social media exposure to equestrian influencers and Olympic sport culture.

 

There’s also a broader macro shift: consumers are willing to spend more on premium, sustainable gear. Biodegradable grooming kits, cruelty-free leather alternatives, and helmet designs using recycled materials are gaining traction. Add in the rise of wearable tech for horse health and rider posture — and the result is a traditional category quietly undergoing modernization .

 

The strategic relevance of this market spans several stakeholder groups:

• OEMs and saddle makers , many of which are family-run or artisan-based, but now adopting CAD and 3D scanning for custom fit.

• Sporting goods brands expanding their portfolios into technical riding apparel and high-performance helmets.

• Veterinary tech startups offering smart girths and real-time monitoring devices to detect lameness or stress in horses.

• Riding schools and therapeutic centers , whose demand drives recurring purchases of safety gear, tack, and feeding accessories.

• Investors and private equity , especially those targeting niche luxury or wellness categories tied to affluent and brand-loyal consumers.

To be honest, equestrian gear used to be a fairly static industry. But that’s changing. Equipment that was once purely functional is now also fashionable, personalized, and — in many cases — connected. This evolving identity is creating new growth paths for both legacy brands and tech newcomers.

 

Market Segmentation And Forecast Scope

The equestrian equipment market breaks down along four core dimensions: Product Type , End Use , Distribution Channel , and Region . These groupings reflect both how consumers engage with the sport and how brands position themselves — from entry-level gear for beginners to elite offerings for professional riders and competitive circuits.

By Product Type

This segment includes the physical gear and apparel needed for horse riding and care. It spans:

• Riding Equipment : Saddles, bridles, stirrups, reins, bits, and girths.

• Rider Apparel & Footwear : Breeches, riding boots, jackets, gloves, helmets, and body protectors.

• Horse Care Products : Grooming kits, blankets, fly masks, wraps, and therapeutic gear.

• Stable Equipment : Buckets, feeders, tack boxes, and bedding supplies.

• Smart Equestrian Devices : GPS saddle pads, pressure sensors, training monitors (still niche but growing fast).

In 2024 , riding equipment holds the largest market share — close to 38% — due to high unit costs and replacement cycles. However, smart equestrian devices are set to outpace traditional segments in terms of CAGR through 2030 as tech-savvy riders and trainers look for data-driven performance insights.

 

By End Use

The market serves a wide range of user profiles:

• Individual Recreational Riders : Largest user base; includes hobbyists, trail riders, and casual enthusiasts.

• Professional Athletes & Competitors : Eventing , dressage, show jumping, rodeo, endurance racing.

• Therapeutic & Rehabilitation Centers : Equine-assisted therapy for physical, cognitive, and emotional conditions.

• Riding Schools & Clubs : Institutions offering training, coaching, or horse leasing.

• Military & Police Forces : Mounted divisions still present in many national defense or civic units.

While recreational riders make up the bulk of the volume, the professional and institutional users drive most of the high-value purchases — especially for custom saddles, safety gear, and digital monitoring tools.

 

By Distribution Channel

Buying behaviors vary greatly depending on price point and region. Channels include:

• Offline Retail : Specialty tack shops, sporting goods stores, and equestrian trade fairs.

• Online Stores : E-commerce sites, brand-direct platforms, and equestrian gear marketplaces.

• Institutional Supply Contracts : Direct sales to clubs, academies, or military units.

Online retail is the fastest-growing segment — particularly among millennials and Gen Z riders who value convenience, personalization, and user reviews. That said, offline sales still dominate due to the need for fit testing, consultations, and in-person saddle fitting.

 

By Region

The global market is distributed across:

• North America

• Europe

• Asia Pacific

• Latin America

• Middle East & Africa

Europe leads in 2024 with the highest revenue share — driven by legacy equestrian cultures in Germany, the UK, and France. But Asia Pacific is catching up fast, particularly in China and India, where riding is gaining visibility as a sport and lifestyle activity. Notably, Southeast Asian equestrian tourism is also attracting gear investments from local operators.

To sum it up: This is a market shaped by duality — heritage and high-tech, tradition and trend. The opportunity lies in knowing where those currents overlap. While saddles and reins will always be core, the future could very well be about wearables for both horse and rider , data-backed training equipment , and green-certified gear for climate-conscious consumers.

 

Market Trends And Innovation Landscape

At first glance, the equestrian equipment market might seem slow-moving — rooted in centuries-old designs and traditions. But take a closer look, and you’ll see an ecosystem quietly evolving. Innovation isn’t always loud here. It’s incremental, practical, and increasingly digital. From biomechanical insights to sustainable materials, this market is beginning to ride new waves of change.

Tech-Enabled Riding Gear

Smart gear is no longer just a novelty. The integration of wearable sensors for horses and riders is gaining ground. Examples include:

• Pressure-sensitive saddle pads that track weight distribution and posture.

• Equine heart-rate monitors synced to mobile apps for performance diagnostics.

• Posture-correcting vests for riders using haptic feedback.

• GPS tracking systems embedded in tack to monitor location, gait, and ride intensity.

While adoption is still limited to higher-end users and professional trainers, the utility is undeniable . These tools offer data that can prevent injury, optimize conditioning, and fine-tune competitive routines. The real unlock? Making these systems user-friendly and affordable for everyday riders.

 

Sustainability-Driven Materials

Eco-conscious buyers are reshaping preferences — especially in Europe and North America. Leather alternatives like vegetable-tanned hides , cork-based stirrups , and recycled polyester riding jackets are gaining traction.

Brands are also experimenting with:

• Biodegradable grooming kits

• Natural-fiber saddle pads

• Zero-waste packaging

One UK-based brand recently reported that its plant-based boot polish outpaced synthetic alternatives for the first time in Q1 2024 — a sign that niche green products are going mainstream.

 

Ergonomic and Custom Fit Solutions

Custom saddlery is no longer reserved for the elite. With 3D body scanning and CAD-based moldings , mid-tier brands are offering semi-custom tack with precise ergonomic fits. That’s driving demand for:

• Custom-molded saddles for individual horses.

• Helmets with adjustable ventilation and memory foam lining.

• Footwear with orthotic-grade insoles.

These features aren't just about comfort — they’re about preventing injury and improving rider-horse communication. One French brand now offers a smart saddle that alerts trainers if a horse is showing early signs of back strain, based on usage data .

 

E-Commerce and Virtual Fitting Rooms

The shift online isn’t new — but what’s notable is how brands are tackling one of the industry's biggest e-commerce hurdles: fit .

Several equestrian retailers now use:

• Virtual saddle fitting tools based on uploaded horse photos or dimensions.

• Augmented reality apps that let riders “try on” helmets or boots virtually.

• AI chatbots trained in gear recommendations based on user skill level, discipline, and horse breed.

These tools help reduce return rates and build trust in first-time buyers, especially in Asia Pacific and Latin America, where in-store fitting options are limited.

 

Collaborations and Brand Crossover

Luxury fashion labels and sporting brands are entering the equestrian space — not just for show, but to co-develop high-performance, high-style gear. Recent examples include:

• A premium helmet brand partnering with a luxury automaker on an aerodynamic riding helmet line .

• A German saddlery collaborating with a Swedish tech company to produce climate-adaptive saddle pads that wick moisture in summer and insulate in winter.

These collabs elevate the category and attract new consumer segments — especially younger riders drawn to performance-meets-aesthetic gear.

Bottom line: innovation here isn’t about revolution — it’s about refinement. Smart tech, sustainable fabrics, ergonomic design, and digital tools are each making modest but meaningful inroads. The brands that win in this market are those that don’t just sell gear — they solve problems for both horse and rider.

 

Competitive Intelligence And Benchmarking

The equestrian equipment market isn’t dominated by a few giants — it’s a mix of legacy brands, specialized artisans, and niche tech startups. Competition is fragmented but fiercely loyal, with customer trust playing a larger role than pricing alone. Many buyers stick to the same helmet, saddle, or boot brand for years. So while market share may be hard to shake loose, innovation and cross-discipline marketing are starting to tilt the playing field.

Ariat

One of the most recognizable names in equestrian apparel and footwear. Ariat blends performance and fashion, with riding boots and breeches that double as lifestyle wear. They focus on:

• Durable, weather-resistant gear

• Western and English disciplines

• Expanding their presence via equestrian influencers and social content

Their competitive edge? They’ve made riding apparel cool beyond the arena.

 

Hermès Sellier

A luxury powerhouse, Hermès operates in a league of its own. Its saddles and bridles are hand-stitched in France and priced accordingly. While it’s a tiny slice of total volume, the brand:

• Dominates the ultra-premium tack market

• Has major visibility at elite show jumping and dressage events

• Benefits from crossover appeal with high-net-worth fashion consumers

For Hermès, equestrian is about prestige and heritage — and they own that niche.

 

Charles Owen

A British company specializing in high-performance riding helmets. Charles Owen is trusted by Olympic-level riders and is known for:

• Multi-impact safety certifications

• Ventilated designs

• Strong distribution across Europe and North America

They're currently investing in smart helmet integrations — think concussion sensors and ride tracking.

 

Prestige Italia

A top-tier saddle manufacturer focused on anatomical design and leather innovation. Prestige Italia stands out for:

• Custom-fit options based on rider and horse biometrics

• Strong dealer networks across Europe and Asia

• Use of carbon fiber reinforcements and shock-absorbing tech

Their R&D pushes the edge of performance, especially in show jumping and endurance riding.

 

Decathlon ( Fouganza brand)

Fouganza , a private label under Decathlon, is democratizing equestrian gear with:

• Affordable price points

• Mass-market reach across Europe, LATAM, and Asia

• Full gear kits for new riders — from helmets to grooming kits

They’re not after luxury riders — they’re growing the next generation of riders by making it accessible.

 

Tredstep Ireland

Focused on apparel and boots, Tredstep blends technical fabrics with classic design. Their breeches and tall boots are especially popular among eventers and dressage riders. They compete on:

• Slim, performance-focused silhouettes

• Cross-discipline designs

• Strong presence in the U.S., UK, and Ireland

Tredstep positions itself as the choice for serious amateurs — riders who want style and substance.

 

Equilab (Tech Startups)

An emerging player, Equilab offers ride-tracking and horse health monitoring through a smartphone app. While not a gear maker, their tech is quickly being embedded into:

• Smart girths

• Training programs

• Vet diagnostics

They're partnering with traditional gear makers to integrate software into hardware — an early mover in equestrian tech ecosystems.

 

Competitive Dynamics

• Legacy tack brands like Stubben or Passier focus on craftsmanship and rely heavily on dealer loyalty.

• Tech startups are inserting themselves via app integrations, wearables, and digital coaching platforms.

• Retail giants like Decathlon are bringing pricing pressure but are mostly limited to casual or beginner segments.

• Sustainability-focused D2C brands (especially in Europe) are winning with vegan tack, recyclable boots, and transparency around sourcing.

The biggest shift? It’s not just about who makes the best saddle anymore . It’s about who understands the rider’s lifestyle — from training analytics to fashion to ethics. That’s opening space for new entrants who don’t look or sound like traditional equestrian brands.

 

Regional Landscape And Adoption Outlook

The equestrian equipment market varies significantly across regions — not just in terms of spending power, but also in how equestrianism is woven into sport, culture, and tourism. While Europe and North America dominate in revenue, growth pockets are emerging in Asia and Latin America, driven by rising affluence, sport diversification, and growing awareness of equine therapy programs.

North America

Still the largest market globally, North America is shaped by:

• Strong demand from competitive disciplines like rodeo, hunter-jumper, and dressage

• A robust base of recreational riders , particularly in the U.S. and Canada

• Expanding adoption of smart riding gear , especially in California, Texas, and Florida

The U.S. is also a global hub for equestrian real estate and tourism — driving demand for stable gear, grooming supplies, and high-end tack. Programs like 4-H and the United States Pony Clubs ensure that new riders are constantly entering the market.

One standout trend here? Western riding apparel is crossing into streetwear , opening up additional revenue streams for brands that straddle both function and fashion.

 

Europe

Europe holds the highest concentration of equestrian clubs per capita , with legacy players dominating the gear space. Key countries include:

• Germany : Technically advanced saddlery and widespread training infrastructure

• UK : Large base of amateur riders, eventers, and a thriving second-hand tack market

• France and the Netherlands : Strong dressage and jumping cultures

What makes Europe unique is its balance between tradition and innovation . Riders here expect both craftsmanship and eco-credentials. Brands offering vegan tack, carbon-neutral packaging, or fair-trade leather are seeing stronger uptake in Germany and Scandinavia in particular.

There’s also growing institutional demand — therapeutic centers, school riding programs, and club-based procurement are all scaling post-COVID.

 

Asia Pacific

The fastest-growing region — but also the most varied. Here’s the breakdown:

• China : A rising luxury equestrian market, concentrated in urban elites. Riding schools in Beijing and Shanghai now import high-end tack and sponsor European trainers.

• India : A mix of traditional cavalry influence and new-age sport riding. Military stables remain influential purchasers of saddles and uniforms.

• Australia and New Zealand : High recreational participation, strong rural horse ownership, and growing interest in equestrian tourism.

Growth here is less about sheer volume — and more about prestige, modernity, and rising middle-class spending . Still, price sensitivity and limited access to advanced fitting services can limit smart tech adoption.

That said, several mobile saddle-fitting startups have launched in India and Thailand, aiming to bridge that very gap.

 

Latin America

A historically underrepresented market, but change is happening.

• Brazil : The standout. Home to growing competitive dressage and show jumping scenes. Government programs are funding youth riding centers in São Paulo and Rio.

• Argentina : Polo remains dominant — but general equestrian sport is expanding among the upper middle class.

Local gear manufacturing is expanding, but quality still trails imports. Import taxes can restrict access to premium products, which creates a white space for mid-tier brands that can balance cost and compliance.

 

Middle East & Africa (MEA)

In the Middle East:

• UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar have poured investment into elite horse racing and show jumping.

• Royal patronage fuels demand for luxury saddles and bespoke gear .

• Several riding academies offer full-service packages — tack, coaching, vet — driving recurring bulk gear procurement.

In Africa:

• Pockets of growth in South Africa, Kenya, and Morocco

• NGOs and equine therapy initiatives are introducing riding into education and rehabilitation sectors

• Supply chain challenges remain, especially for maintenance and repair parts

To be honest, Africa is still a long-term play . But regions like Nairobi and Cape Town are quietly building stable infrastructure and a small but loyal consumer base for basic equestrian supplies.

 

The Big Picture

• North America and Europe lead in size and stability.

• Asia Pacific is where the volume growth is — if brands can localize and scale.

• Latin America is becoming a middle-tier battleground.

• MEA is a luxury oasis — but patchy in access and regulation.

If vendors want to win globally, they’ll need a mix of approaches: prestige in Doha, affordability in São Paulo, and precision fitting in Berlin. This is not a one-size-fits-all market — and that’s where the opportunity lies.

 

End-User Dynamics And Use Case

The equestrian equipment market serves a broad and diverse audience — from seasoned competitors with custom tack to recreational riders picking up their first grooming kit. What’s striking is how motivations and priorities shift across user groups. Some chase performance and precision. Others prioritize comfort, cost, or even aesthetics. Understanding these dynamics helps explain why no single brand dominates the space — and why customization and adaptability are winning strategies.

Recreational Riders

This is the largest end-user group by volume. Often riding for leisure, trail use, or in beginner lessons, these riders:

• Focus on affordability, safety, and ease of use

• Often purchase starter kits (helmet, grooming gear, saddle pad)

• Rely heavily on online reviews, influencers, or riding school recommendations

This segment includes everyone from rural horse owners to weekend hobbyists. They may not invest in high-end tack — but with proper engagement, they’re highly loyal and tend to grow into higher-tier buyers over time.

 

Professional Athletes and Competitive Riders

These are the high-spending, low-volume users driving innovation. They ride in:

• Dressage, show jumping, eventing , endurance, and polo

• Need precision-fit saddles, carbon-reinforced boots, and custom apparel

• Frequently demand brand collaborations , tech integrations, and travel-ready equipment

These riders often have coaching teams, sponsorship deals, or club affiliations. Their preferences set trends for the rest of the market — especially in helmet safety, boot styling, and technical fabrics.

 

Therapeutic Riding and Equine-Assisted Therapy Centers

A fast-growing and highly specialized segment. These centers:

• Serve individuals with physical, emotional, or cognitive disabilities

• Require gear that is extra safe, adjustable, and easy to sanitize

• Often purchase in bulk (multiple helmets, saddles, adaptive reins)

Therapy programs are gaining popularity in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. They're funded by hospitals, schools, and nonprofits — so their procurement process emphasizes durability, grant-eligibility, and insurance compliance .

 

Riding Schools and Equestrian Clubs

These institutional users are major buyers of:

• Entry-level tack and apparel

• Grooming and stable gear

• Safety equipment for lesson programs

What sets them apart is volume and frequency of replacement . With dozens of students sharing gear, wear and tear is high. Some schools partner with brands for exclusive deals or logoed apparel, creating built-in marketing channels.

 

Military and Mounted Police Units

Still relevant in many countries, especially:

• India, the UK, and several Middle Eastern states

• Units use custom saddles, tactical riding boots, and ceremonial tack

• Orders are often centralized, formalized, and high-value

Though not a growth segment, it represents consistent baseline demand, particularly for suppliers able to meet strict uniformity and regulatory standards.

 

Use Case Highlight:

A therapeutic riding center in Canada was facing difficulties fitting children with sensory sensitivity into traditional helmets. The standard hard-shell models were too rigid, triggering anxiety and discomfort. The center partnered with a local gear company to co-develop a lightweight, padded helmet with modular lining and color options.

Within 12 months, the center reported a 27% increase in session completion rates among neurodiverse riders. The new helmet design has since been adopted by three other therapy programs in Ontario — and earned coverage in a national disability sports journal.

This is a textbook example of how small innovations can unlock big outcomes — both for rider experience and brand reputation.

 

Bottom Line

Different end users want different things. Competitive riders want precision. Recreational users want value. Therapists need adaptability. Institutions prioritize durability. And tech-forward riders want it all — function, style, and connectivity.

The brands that understand these nuances — and build with them in mind — are the ones turning one-time buyers into lifelong customers.

 

Recent Developments + Opportunities & Restraints

Recent Developments (2023–2025)

• Ariat launched its first smart riding boot in early 2025, embedding temperature-regulating soles and motion-sensing insoles to reduce fatigue during extended rides.

• Equilab , the ride-tracking app, partnered with a leading tack brand to co-develop a line of data-synced girths and saddle pads , offering live feedback on horse posture and symmetry.

• Fouganza (Decathlon) expanded into Latin America with dedicated storefronts in Brazil and Chile, focusing on affordability and entry-level kits for youth riders.

• A UK-based startup , RideSafeTech , introduced a smart rider safety vest that auto-inflates upon fall detection and transmits GPS coordinates to emergency contacts.

• Tredstep Ireland rolled out a sustainable apparel line in 2024 featuring recycled elastane breeches and bamboo fiber riding shirts , responding to growing EU eco-label mandates.

 

Opportunities

• Tech-Integrated Gear : As sensors, biometric tools, and smart textiles mature, more riders — even amateurs — are exploring gear that delivers insights without complexity.

• Equestrian Tourism Growth : Rising interest in horseback retreats and trail experiences in regions like Costa Rica, South Africa, and Thailand is creating new gear demand from non-traditional users.

• Therapy and Inclusion Programs : The rise of equine-assisted therapy in public schools, VA hospitals, and rehabilitation centers is creating institutional demand for adaptive, safety-first equipment.

 

Restraints

• High Cost of Custom Gear : Saddles and helmets with advanced ergonomics or smart features remain expensive, limiting access for budget-conscious riders or small clubs.

• Fragmented Distribution : Many global buyers face limited access to fitters, certified dealers, or after-sales support — especially in emerging markets where online-only models fall short on service.

To be honest, innovation is here — but it's unevenly distributed. The path to growth isn't just about better gear; it's about smarter access, clearer sizing, and solving real-world rider pain points.

 

7.1. Report Coverage Table

Report Attribute	Details
Forecast Period	2024 – 2030
Market Size Value in 2024	USD 3.2 Billion
Revenue Forecast in 2030	USD 4.3 Billion
Overall Growth Rate	CAGR of 4.9% (2024–2030)
Base Year for Estimation	2024
Historical Data	2019-2023
Unit	USD Million, CAGR (2024–2030)
Segmentation	By Product Type, End Use, Distribution Channel, Geography
By Product Type	Riding Equipment, Apparel & Footwear, Horse Care Products, Smart Equestrian Devices, Stable Equipment
By End Use	Recreational Riders, Competitive Athletes, Therapy Centers, Riding Schools & Clubs, Military Units
By Distribution Channel	Offline Retail, Online Stores, Institutional Procurement
By Region	North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa
Country Scope	U.S., UK, Germany, China, India, Brazil, Australia, UAE
Market Drivers	- Growing rider participation across demographics - Surge in tech-integrated and ergonomic gear - Expansion of therapy and tourism-based equestrian programs
Customization Option	Available upon request