Gear is one of the most important things, especially when we are talking about dangerous activities like riding a motorbike or horse. There are so many elements that you need to protect yourself from, which is why in most cases there isn’t cutting corners when it comes to safety.
If you are passionate about motorbikes, your first online search should be about gear, which is necessary, and how much it costs. Horse riding, on the other hand, is a similar activity but instead of a road, you are riding a horse on a ranch, racetrack, or in nature.
Horses might not achieve as high speeds as motorbikes, but that doesn’t mean that riding a horse isn’t dangerous. Remember, you are operating a 1,000-pound animal riding at 30-40 mph where you cannot predict every action of your horse no matter how much you trust the animal.
Therefore, getting the right gear is also crucial in order to stay safe in case something unexpected happens.
Since these two are quite similar activities, let’s compare the gear cost of both. Which gear is more expensive, motorbike or horse-riding gear?
Let’s find out.
Motorcycle Riding Gear
Motorcycling isn’t a cheap passion, especially when it comes to gearing up. There are many different accessories, and the technology is constantly moving forward with new innovative inventions like the jacket airbag that are designed to soften our fall and keep our most important body parts safe in case of an accident.
Motorbike gear really works, and we’ve seen countless evidence where people got off with a few bruises or minor injuries in a serious accident just because of their gear. So, in order to feel safe while riding your bike, make sure you get all the necessary things that keep you safe.
But is the cost of the gear related to its quality? Well, in some cases yes, but it is safe to say that even cheaper helmets will do a better job than no gear at all.
Let’s break down the costs:
Helmets
A quality motorcycle helmet is non-negotiable. Prices range widely:
- Entry-level helmets: $100 – $200
- Mid-range helmets: $200 – $500
- High-end helmets: $500 and up
Jackets
Motorcycle jackets aren’t just about looking cool—they’re about protection. Here’s what you might spend:
- Textile jackets: $100 – $300
- Leather jackets: $200 – $600
- High-tech jackets with airbag systems: $800 – $1,200
Gloves and Boots
Your hands and feet need protection too:
- Gloves: $50 – $200
- Boots: $100 – $400
Pants and Armor
Even though it is less likely to suffer a lethal injury from your legs, it is still very important to protect them, right? Well, you’ll need pants, heavy-duty ones capable of softening your fall and protecting you from friction caused by the fall. You’ll also need body armor, which is more important than pants, but it is still great if you have them both.
- Pants: $100 – $400
- Body armor: $150 – $500
In total, a full set of motorcycle gear can easily set you back $1,000 to $2,500, and that’s without considering the bike itself.
Horse Riding Gear
Although the gear might be similar to motor riding, there are a few key differences that make up for a huge price difference.
Plus, there is a big gear difference depending on your riding style and skills. For example, professional jockeys racing at Belmont Stakes don’t use the same gear as casual riders.
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Helmets
Just like motorcycling, safety first:
- Riding helmets: $50 – $400
Saddles and Tack
The most significant investment in horse riding is the saddle:
- Saddles: $300 – $3,000
- Bridles: $50 – $300
- Girths and saddle pads: $30 – $200 each
Boots and Apparel
What about your riding outfit?
- Riding boots: $100 – $500
- Riding pants (breeches): $50 – $200
- Riding gloves: $20 – $100
Additional Gear
Don’t forget the extras:
- Body protectors: $100 – $400
- Miscellaneous tack (stirrups, bits, etc.): $50 – $200 each
Overall, a complete horse-riding setup can range from $1,000 to $4,000, with the saddle being the most significant variable.
Which One Is More Expensive?
If you’re just looking at the gear, horseback riding can be more expensive, primarily due to the saddle. However, there are a few nuances:
- Initial Cost: Motorcycle gear tends to be pricier upfront if you go for high-end helmets and jackets.
- Ongoing Costs: Horse riding gear can add up over time with regular maintenance and replacement of tack.
FAQs
Q: Can you find budget-friendly options for both?
A: Yes, both motorbike and horse riding gear have budget-friendly options, but skimping on essential safety gear isn’t recommended.
Q: Is used gear a good option?
A: For motorcycles, always buy new helmets for safety. Used jackets and boots can be fine if they’re in good condition. For horse riding, used saddles and tack can be a good way to save, but ensure they fit properly to avoid discomfort for you and your horse.
Q: What about maintenance costs?
A: Motorcycle gear mostly needs occasional cleaning and maintenance. Horse tack, however, requires regular care and sometimes professional fitting, adding to the overall expense.
