Sun Protection Tips to Consider When Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is an outdoor activity that often means long hours under direct sunlight. Without proper sun protection, riders face increased risks of sunburn, premature skin aging, and long-term skin damage. Whether you ride casually or competitively, these sun protection tips for horseback riding will help keep your skin safe while you enjoy time in the saddle.
Horseback riding remains popular across the United States, with millions of Americans participating in equestrian activities each year. With over nine million horses nationwide and millions of riders spending time outdoors at barns, arenas, and trails, sun exposure is a year-round concern, especially in open riding environments with little shade.
If you’re considering horseback riding for yourself or your children, sun protection should be part of your riding routine from day one.
Limit Midday Sun Exposure While Riding
One of the most effective ways to reduce sun damage is to limit exposure during peak UV hours, typically between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. During this time, ultraviolet rays are strongest and most damaging to the skin.
Whenever possible, schedule horseback riding lessons or trail rides early in the morning or later in the afternoon around 7:00 a.m. or after 5:00 p.m. Even with sunscreen and UPF clothing, avoiding peak sun hours significantly lowers cumulative UV exposure.
Wear UPF Sun-Protective Clothing for Horseback Riding
Wearing UPF-rated sun-protective clothing is one of the best ways to protect your skin while riding. Unlike regular clothing, UPF apparel is specifically designed to block harmful UVA and UVB rays.
BloqUV offers lightweight, breathable UPF 50+ tops, leggings, sun sleeves, and hand covers ideal for horseback riding. These pieces provide consistent sun protection without restricting movement making them perfect for long rides, lessons, or barn days.
Unlike sunscreen, BloqUV's built in UPF protection does not wash out, making it a reliable option for riders who spend hours outdoors. BloqUV clothing is also versatile enough to wear beyond the barn, from running errands to casual outings.
Apply and Reapply Sunscreen Properly
Sunscreen is still essential, especially for areas not covered by clothing. Apply sunscreen 15–20 minutes before riding so it has time to absorb into the skin.
For best results:
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Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30–50
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Reapply every one to two hours
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Reapply more often if sweating heavily or riding in hot, humid conditions
When wearing UPF clothing, sunscreen only needs to be applied to exposed areas such as the face, neck, ears, and hands, making sun protection easier and more effective.
Schedule Regular Dermatology Skin Checks
Spending significant time outdoors increases your risk of skin damage. Skin cancer remains one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in the U.S., making early detection essential.
If you notice any new, changing, or unusual moles, schedule a dermatology appointment promptly. Annual skin checks or every six months for those with a personal or family history of skin cancer help ensure early treatment when necessary.
Remember, small spots can sometimes indicate deeper issues beneath the skin’s surface.
Wear a Wide-Brim Hat and UV-Blocking Sunglasses
Protecting your face and eyes is just as important as protecting your body. A wide-brimmed hat helps shield your face, ears, and scalp, while UVA/UVB-blocking sunglasses protect your eyes from sun damage.
These simple additions to your riding outfit significantly reduce long-term sun exposure, especially during extended time outdoors.
Teach Children Sun Safety Early
Many cases of skin damage later in life can be traced back to repeated sun exposure and sunburns during childhood. Children’s skin is more sensitive and vulnerable to UV rays.
Help protect young riders by:
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Applying sunscreen before every ride
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Reapplying frequently
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Dressing them in UPF-rated sun-protective clothing
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Encouraging hats and sunglasses
Teaching sun-safe habits early builds lifelong protection.
Choose the Right SPF for Outdoor Riding
There’s a lot of confusion around sunscreen strength. SPF 30–50 is widely recommended for outdoor sports like horseback riding.
Make sure your sunscreen is:
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Broad-spectrum (UVA & UVB)
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Non-comedogenic
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Applied generously—about one ounce (a palmful) for full-body coverage
If you ride often, using sunscreen regularly is a good sign you’re protecting your skin properly.
Enjoy Horseback Riding With Proper Sun Protection
Horseback riding should be enjoyable not stressful. With the right sun protection strategies in place, you can focus on your ride while keeping your skin safe from harmful UV rays.
By combining UPF sun-protective clothing, sunscreen, and smart scheduling, you’ll reduce sun exposure risks for yourself and your family especially if skin cancer runs in your family.
Looking for reliable, stylish sun protection? Explore BloqUV’s UPF 50+ sun-protective clothing collection designed for active outdoor lifestyles.
