Market Analysis: Trends and Growth Drivers in The Equestrian Equipment and Consumer Goods Market

The equestrian equipment and consumer goods market encompasses a broad range of products for both riders and horses, from saddlery and riding apparel to helmets, safety gear, grooming tools, nutritional supplements, and feed. It is a substantial global industry with a rich heritage, yet it continues to evolve rapidly in response to changing consumer demand and technological innovation. In recent years (mainly since 2020), new trends have reshaped this market, including a surge in online retail, the integration of smart technology into riding gear, and a growing emphasis on lifestyle branding and sustainability. Investors and industry professionals are paying close attention, as this sector’s growth opportunities span both traditional equestrian strongholds (Europe, UK, and the US) and emerging markets in regions like Asia, Australia, and the Middle East. This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the market’s size and structure, examines shifting consumer behaviors, highlights technological and safety innovations, explores the luxury crossover into mainstream fashion, compares regional dynamics, and discusses the future outlook for equestrian equipment and goods.

Market Size & Structure

dressage-rider

A dressage rider exemplifies the need for specialized equestrian equipment, from a well-fitted saddle and bridle to boots and protective riding apparel. The global market for equestrian gear, apparel, and horse care goods is both sizable and segmented, driven by passionate participation in horse sports and leisure riding.

The global equestrian equipment and consumer goods sector is valued in the tens of billions of dollars and shows steady growth. Recent estimates put the worldwide equestrian equipment market,covering gear and apparel but often excluding feed,at around $12 billion in 2024, with a projected rise to $18.3 billion by 2034 (around 4.3% CAGR). This figure reflects core products such as saddles, bridles, riding apparel, and safety gear, underscoring how essential these items are to millions of riders worldwide. In the United States, with its large population of horses and active equestrians, equipment revenues exceeded $3.5 billion in 2024. The European market is similarly robust: Germany alone accounts for more than two million riders and well over a million horses, supporting an equine sector valued at several billion euros. In the United Kingdom, the broader equestrian industry is estimated at around £5 billion annually, with over three million people riding at least once a year. These figures highlight that the most mature Western markets maintain a solid base that continues to drive equipment demand.

Industry valuations differ depending on which categories are included. Many analyses separate rider equipment (helmets, boots, clothing) from equine equipment (saddles, bridles, rugs), as well as feed and care products. In 2024, rider equipment represented more than half of the global market value, driven by consistent demand for apparel and safety gear, while horse-specific gear accounted for the remainder. Beyond this, horse feed and supplements represent a significant adjacent segment: The global horse feed market alone reached $8.7 billion in 2024 and is forecast to exceed $12 billion by 2029. Combined, all equestrian consumer goods,from saddles and safety gear to feed and supplements,comfortably exceed tens of billions of dollars in annual global sales. The market serves diverse consumer groups, ranging from individual horse owners and riders to large institutions such as riding schools, livery yards, and professional competition stables. In 2024, individual consumers accounted for more than half of total equipment sales, reflecting how much of the sector is driven by hobbyist and leisure spending.

Regionally, Europe and North America remain the largest and most mature markets, underpinned by well-established horse cultures and higher disposable incomes. Europe’s equestrian industry across sport, leisure, and racing has an estimated annual economic impact of over €100 billion and supports hundreds of thousands of jobs, creating strong downstream demand for equipment and consumer goods. The United States contributes similarly high value when including services and horse-related activities, with billions spent annually on equipment alone.

By contrast, emerging markets are expanding from a smaller base but at a faster pace. In Asia, a rising middle class has accelerated interest in equestrian pursuits. China, for instance, has seen a dramatic increase in riding clubs since the mid-2010s, and by 2019 counted more than 2,000 clubs and nearly 700,000 riders. Its domestic horse industry is valued at over a billion dollars and continues to grow, with equipment sales forming a central component. In the Middle East, equestrian sports enjoy strong cultural importance and benefit from state and private investment. While the absolute market size is modest compared to Europe or the U.S., average spending per rider is considerably higher, as consumers here often purchase high-end goods. The equestrian equipment market in the Middle East and Africa together was valued at more than $120 million in 2023, with growth projected at around 7, 8% CAGR in the coming years.

Australia represents another secondary yet significant market. Its equestrian culture blends English-style disciplines with stock horse traditions, creating consistent demand for both technical competition gear and leisure riding equipment. Despite the relatively small population, Australian producers have achieved international recognition, demonstrating how regional innovation can compete globally.

Overall, the equestrian equipment and consumer goods market is broadly structured yet interconnected: mature regions provide a stable foundation of demand, while emerging markets offer fast-paced growth opportunities. Global supply chains ensure products are widely accessible, while local producers continue to compete by catering to specific cultural preferences and traditions. Together, these dynamics highlight a sector that is at once globalised, diversified, and resilient.

Consumer Behavior Shifts

Riders now anticipate the same level of convenience found in other retail sectors: prompt delivery, easy returns for fit-dependent products, and customization opportunities.

Consumer behavior in the equestrian market has been shifting notably since 2020, reshaping how products are bought, marketed, and valued. One major trend is the pivot to online retail. While traditional brick-and-mortar tack shops and equestrian outfitters still generate the majority of sales (in 2024, offline channels accounted for well over half of equipment revenues), e-commerce has been rapidly gaining ground. Riders increasingly appreciate the convenience and broader selection online platforms offer. Dedicated equine e-tailers, general marketplaces, and even social media have become important channels for purchasing tack, apparel, and feed. For example, several retailers have robust online stores, and global marketplaces (Amazon, eBay) list thousands of horse products. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this digital shift, during lockdowns, many equestrians turned to online shopping for their horse needs, prompting brands and local stores alike to bolster their web presence. Even as physical stores reopened, this habit of online research and buying has stuck, especially among younger, tech-savvy riders.

Another behavioral shift is the rising acceptance of second-hand and rental equipment as a savvy consumer choice. Riding is an expensive pursuit, and many participants, particularly newcomers or budget-conscious riders, are turning to pre-owned tack exchanges and gear rental services to save costs. Online platforms such as Equestrian Closet (a consignment marketplace for used riding apparel and tack) and ubiquitous sites like eBay facilitate the buying and selling of used equestrian equipment, making high-quality gear more accessible and affordable. This trend has a double-edged impact on the industry: On one hand, it broadens access to the sport (a positive for overall participation), and also reflects consumer interest in sustainability through reuse. On the other hand, it poses a challenge for manufacturers and retailers, as some sales of new products are being cannibalized by the thriving second-hand market. In response, a few forward-thinking companies are exploring trade-in programs or their own used-goods sections to recapture value, and emphasizing the benefits of buying new (warranties, latest safety technology, custom fit, etc.). Similarly, short-term gear rental services (for example, Ride on Reserve in the U.S.) have emerged, allowing riders to rent premium items like safety vests or saddles for events, a flexible model that challenges the traditional outright purchase model.

Lifestyle branding and the convergence of equestrian identity with personal style have also become pronounced in consumer behavior. Riding has always been more than a hobby, for many it’s a lifestyle, and this is increasingly reflected in purchasing patterns. Equestrian consumers, especially younger riders and the large female demographic in English riding, often seek products that are not only functional but also fashionable and reflective of their identity. This has driven growth in aesthetically appealing riding apparel and in everyday clothing that sports equestrian themes. The lines between “barn wear” and casual street wear have blurred - riders now look for clothes that can transition from the stable to social settings, a demand brands are answering with equestrian-inspired athleisure collections. On social media, the hashtag #HorseGirl has garnered over a million posts, showcasing how even non-riders embrace the equestrian look. Influencers and riders share their “outfit of the day” for the barn alongside fashionistas donning riding boots in city streets. This crossover means equestrian equipment companies are marketing more on lifestyle platforms and collaborating with fashion designers, while mainstream retailers sometimes include equestrian-styled items in their offerings (as seen when ASOS launched a “Stable Girl” fashion edit due to strong consumer appetite for equestrian dressing).

Underpinning many purchasing decisions now is a greater consciousness of sustainability and ethics. Consumers in the equine sector, mirroring broader retail trends, are asking more questions about how products are made and their environmental impact. There is a noticeable shift toward eco-friendly and socially responsible options. For example, riders are interested in sustainable materials like organic cotton riding shirts, bamboo fiber socks, or synthetic leather alternatives for bridles and boots (to avoid traditional leather). Some companies have started highlighting green initiatives: WeatherBeeta’s 2024 line included a turnout rug made from recycled plastic bottles (the Green-Tec Airflow Mesh Fly Sheet) and other eco-conscious horse apparel. Another facet is packaging and waste, feed companies are exploring recyclable or biodegradable packaging for grain and supplements, though challenges remain (paper feed sacks often require plastic coatings, complicating recycling). “Social license to operate” (SLO) has become a buzzword in the equestrian world, essentially the idea that horse sports and businesses need public approval to continue. High-profile welfare and environmental concerns (from horse safety in sports to the carbon footprint of equine breeding) are prompting the industry to improve its image. For equipment consumers, this translates into more demand for transparent supply chains (knowing where leather or materials come from), cruelty-free products (like vegan riding boots or grooming products not tested on animals), and durable goods that don’t quickly end up in landfills. Brands that position themselves as sustainable or ethical are likely to gain favor with the growing segment of conscientious riders.

Lastly, consumer behavior is influenced by convenience and personalization in new ways. Riders today expect a retail experience comparable to other sectors: quick delivery, easy returns (important for fitting items like helmets or saddles), and even customization options. The rise of digital tools means many shoppers now use online fit guides or even augmented reality apps to gauge, say, how a riding helmet might look or to virtually place a saddle on a digital horse model. Customization, from monogrammed saddle pads to bespoke tailors for show coats,is in demand for those wanting unique gear. All these shifts point to a consumer base that is more connected, style-aware, value-conscious, and sustainability-minded than ever before. Companies in the equestrian market are adapting by expanding e-commerce, engaging with the community on social platforms, launching greener product lines, and emphasizing the lifestyle aspect of riding in their branding.

Technology & Safety Innovations

Technological innovation is galloping into the equestrian equipment space, bringing new levels of safety, performance tracking, and convenience for riders and horse owners. Since 2020, there’s been an upsurge in high-tech riding gear and stable equipment that would have seemed futuristic a decade ago. One key area is wearable technology for both horse and rider, which has emerged as a notable market trend. Companies are now offering equine motion sensors that analyze a horse’s movements, from rhythm and stride symmetry to impulsion,and alert riders to early signs of irregularities. Similarly, girth sensors and leg bands can track vital signs such as heart rate and respiration during workouts. These tools empower riders, trainers, and veterinarians with data to customize training plans and catch potential health issues early.

And it’s not just equestrian-focused companies driving innovation. In August 2025, Garmin, one of the world’s leading sports technology brands, entered the equestrian space with Blaze, its first dedicated horse fitness tracker. The system pairs a tail-mounted sensor with a neoprene wrap to capture heart rate, stride, distance, and skin temperature, feeding real-time insights into a companion app and Garmin smartwatches. This move by a mainstream sports tech giant validates equine wearables as a serious growth category and signals broader consumer adoption ahead.

For riders themselves, smart helmets and airbag vests are becoming increasingly popular. While traditional helmets have long focused on improving impact absorption, newer designs integrate impact sensors, concussion-detection features, and even emergency alert systems. Airbag vests, which inflate in milliseconds upon detecting a fall, are no longer confined to high-risk disciplines. They are now appearing across show jumping, dressage, and even leisure riding, reflecting a heightened focus on safety and welfare. Their growing adoption is supported both by anecdotal evidence of reduced injury severity and by competition organizers who encourage or mandate their use.

Advances in materials science are also transforming riding apparel and tack. Performance fabrics now offer moisture-wicking, breathability, stretch, UV protection, and antibacterial properties, allowing riders to train comfortably in varied conditions. Riding jackets and breeches increasingly blend technical function with style, while saddlery, saddle pads, and protective boots use shock-absorbing or lightweight materials to reduce strain on both horse and rider. For horses, thermoregulatory blankets and therapeutic materials are improving recovery and comfort, blurring the line between everyday gear and health-supporting equipment.

Digital tools are enhancing training and riding experiences as well. Smartphone apps now track ride data via GPS, logging distance, speed, and schooling patterns, while AI-powered video systems provide immediate feedback on technique, a boon for riders training without a coach. In stables, smart management systems automate feeding, watering, and climate control, while sensors monitor hydration and air quality to safeguard equine welfare.

Therapeutic technologies, once reserved for elite competition, are also moving mainstream. Products like electromagnetic therapy rugs, light therapy devices, and wearable cooling systems are increasingly used in everyday horse care. These approaches support performance, recovery, and long-term soundness, reflecting a wider focus on proactive welfare.

The infusion of technology is not without its challenges, high costs, education, and accessibility remain barriers, but the direction of travel is clear. Equestrian consumers are steadily embracing tools that combine tradition with innovation. Whether in the form of smart wearables, advanced safety equipment, or digital training aids, technology is reshaping the market and reinforcing its alignment with welfare and safety priorities.

Luxury Crossover: Equestrian Style and the High-End Market

luxury-equestrian-goods-market

Many people now incorporate equestrian-style pieces into their daily wardrobes, despite having no connection to riding or horse sports.

Equestrian style has long occupied a cherished place in luxury fashion and is now experiencing a fresh surge of popularity in mainstream culture. The relationship between horseback riding and high-end branding is deeply rooted,many luxury houses originally built their reputation on saddlery or riding apparel, and their aesthetic signatures continue to borrow heavily from equestrian motifs. This heritage positioning created an aura of prestige around equestrian-inspired products, historically appealing mostly to affluent consumers and active riders.

What is notable in recent years is how equestrian fashion has broken out into the broader “street” market, influenced by both luxury collections and mass-market retailers, and fuelled by media and celebrity trends. Designers frequently reference the equestrian silhouette in footwear, tailoring, and accessories, while high-profile models and public figures have embraced riding aesthetics in photo shoots and on the runway. Pop culture has also contributed, with mainstream appearances of equestrian imagery sparking wider consumer interest.

On the high street, demand for “riding core” fashion has become particularly visible. Retailers have reported surges in searches for riding boots, blazers styled like show jackets, and even equestrian-themed prints, demonstrating how the aesthetic resonates well beyond active riders. Many consumers now wear equestrian-inspired pieces as everyday fashion, often without any direct connection to horse sports. Social media has amplified this crossover, with equestrian hashtags gaining millions of posts and influencers showcasing barn-inspired looks alongside urban styling.

Within the equestrian sector itself, this crossover has fuelled demand for apparel and equipment that not only perform well but also reflect broader fashion sensibilities. Riding jackets are now often tailored in contemporary cuts and made from fabrics that blend technical function with sleek style. Helmets, boots, and even saddle pads are available in diverse finishes and colourways, with personalisation increasingly valued. This reflects a broader shift: riders want their equipment to serve both as high-performing gear and as an expression of personal identity.

This trend benefits the equestrian goods market in two ways. First, it sustains high-end prestige consumption, as affluent riders and lifestyle consumers continue to associate equestrian products with luxury and exclusivity. Second, it makes equestrian-inspired products aspirational for the wider public, thereby expanding the market’s cultural reach. While the association of equestrian style with elite leisure activities can be a double-edged sword in terms of public perception, its recurring return to mainstream fashion demonstrates the enduring symbolic power of equestrian aesthetics.

Regional Dynamics

Geographical regions show distinct dynamics in the equestrian equipment and consumer goods market, shaped by cultural traditions, economic conditions, and local industry structures. Europe and the United States stand out as the largest markets, but growth hotspots exist in regions like Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, where equestrian activities are expanding quickly.

In Europe, deep-rooted equestrian heritage underpins strong demand across multiple segments. Centuries-old traditions of saddlery, riding apparel, and horse care create a consumer base that values craftsmanship, durability, and safety. Many countries support large equestrian populations, with riding clubs and competitive sports providing a stable foundation for market demand. The European Union’s strict safety standards have also driven high adoption of certified helmets and protective equipment, making safety gear one of the most resilient segments of the market even during economic downturns. Recent years have seen the region grapple with both boom and correction: demand surged during the pandemic as equestrians invested in new equipment, but oversupply and economic pressures led to inventory challenges in subsequent years. Nevertheless, safety products and essential gear have remained steady, reflecting their prioritisation among consumers. Sustainability is emerging as a defining theme, with European producers increasingly emphasising eco-conscious materials, waste reduction, and supply chain transparency to align with both consumer expectations and regulatory requirements.

In the United States, the equestrian market is equally significant but more diverse in its structure. The country’s horse culture spans a wide spectrum of disciplines,from English competition sports such as show jumping, dressage, and eventing to Western traditions including rodeo, reining, and trail riding. This diversity translates into a broad product mix, ranging from Western tack and boots to English saddlery and competition wear. Recreational riding also contributes heavily, particularly in semi-rural regions where horse ownership is part of lifestyle identity. The U.S. market is shaped by its reliance on both domestic and imported goods, with trade policies in recent years influencing pricing and supply chains. Nevertheless, the market remains robust, supported by strong participation, collegiate and youth riding programs, and an affluent consumer base willing to invest in quality and safety equipment.

Australia maintains a vibrant equestrian culture despite its smaller population base. The country’s equestrian landscape is characterised by a combination of English-style competition disciplines and long-standing stock horse traditions, creating a blended demand profile for equipment. The geographic size of the country, combined with its varied climate, has encouraged innovation in lightweight, breathable apparel and gear adapted to high UV conditions. Local producers have also achieved international reach, particularly in horse apparel and saddlery, highlighting the potential for smaller markets to exert global influence.

In Asia, equestrian markets are developing rapidly, particularly in countries where riding has recently become a popular leisure pursuit among the growing middle class. China, in particular, has experienced a notable riding boom, with new clubs, academies, and a surge of participation in sports such as show jumping and polo. Much of the equipment in these regions is imported, as consumers often equate European and North American products with prestige and quality. At the same time, countries such as India and Pakistan remain important as global suppliers of saddlery and leather goods, producing large volumes of equipment for export to Western markets. This illustrates the dual role of Asia as both a rising consumer market and a longstanding production hub.

The Middle East combines cultural heritage in equestrian sports with significant levels of state and private investment. Gulf states have invested heavily in infrastructure, hosting high-profile racing and show jumping events that attract international attention. Domestic demand is relatively small in absolute numbers but very high in terms of average spend per rider, as consumers in these markets often purchase premium horses and equipment. National initiatives to position equestrian sport as a cultural and tourism asset further support the market’s growth in this region.

Across all regions, the interaction between local producers and global suppliers remains a defining feature. Traditional craftsmanship and smaller-scale manufacturers thrive alongside international suppliers, with online retail platforms increasingly making both accessible to consumers worldwide. This balance of heritage, modernisation, and globalisation will remain central to the industry’s future evolution.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, the equestrian equipment and consumer goods market is poised to continue growing, with several key trends likely to steer its trajectory. Broadly, the future is being shaped by a blend of sustainability imperatives, digital transformation in retail, and demographic shifts bringing new participants into the horse world. Market analysts forecast steady expansion in the coming decade, for instance, one projection sees the global equestrian equipment market mounting a CAGR around 4,5%, adding a few billion dollars in value by the late 2020s. But beyond the dollar figures, the qualitative changes could be just as significant.

Sustainability will almost certainly move from buzzword to baseline expectation. As discussed, both consumers and regulators are pressing for greener practices. In the near future, we can expect more brands to adopt eco-friendly materials (recycled plastics in blankets, plant-based leather alternatives for saddlery, natural dyes for fabrics) as standard offerings rather than special editions. Companies that can innovate with biodegradable or recyclable components,for example, finding a way to make helmet foams or protective vest materials recyclable at end-of-life,stand to gain a competitive edge, as this addresses a current pain point (today’s safety gear often ends up in landfill due to material composition). Moreover, the concept of a circular economy might take hold: Perhaps we will see take-back programs where old gear can be returned to manufacturers for recycling or repurposing (already some riding boot makers resole and refurbish boots, and there are nascent efforts to recycle bits and metal hardware). The pressure for sustainability also ties into the “social license” issue,to keep public support, the equestrian sector needs to show it’s aligning with societal values on animal welfare and environmental care. This might result in stricter self-regulation: For instance, feed companies reducing plastic, or event organizers mandating environmentally friendly practices (no single-use plastics at events, encouraging reuse of materials, etc.). Overall, embracing sustainability is both a moral imperative and a market opportunity; it can attract environmentally conscious customers and reduce long-term costs.

The digitalization of retail and engagement will further transform how equestrian products are marketed and sold. By 2030, it’s likely that online sales could approach parity with offline sales in this sector, especially in regions with high internet penetration. We will likely see more immersive e-commerce experiences,imagine virtual tack stores where you can “walk” through a 3D showroom, inspect products, or use augmented reality to virtually try a riding jacket on yourself or fit a bridle on a 3D horse model. Enhanced logistics and niche marketplaces could also appear, where perhaps specialized platforms for custom-made gear that use digital fitting (riders might upload measurements or 3D scans to get tailor-made boots or helmets). Social media and influencer marketing will remain powerful; the equestrian influencer sphere on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube is growing, and these personalities often guide trends (whether it’s a new safety stirrup design or a matching rider-and-horse outfit). However, regulatory frameworks are tightening in some regions. In the United Arab Emirates, for example, recent amendments require influencers to hold a license in order to operate legally. This change has implications for equestrian brands seeking to work with regional content creators, as partnerships must now comply with licensing rules to avoid penalties. It underscores the need for companies to not only leverage influencer reach but also remain aware of the evolving legal landscape around digital marketing.

Brands will continue partnering with riders and even with mainstream celebrities who enjoy equestrian pursuits, to reach broader audiences. Importantly, the convenience factor will keep rising: swift home delivery of bulky items like feed or bedding through online orders could become standard in more areas, possibly via subscription models (some companies already offer auto-ship for horse feed and supplements). Tack and apparel fitting, traditionally a challenge online, will be helped by tech like AI sizing recommendations or virtual consultation with saddle fitters through video calls. All these digital shifts improve discoverability for small brands as well, allowing artisans or newcomers to directly reach customers globally without massive distribution networks.

Fitting tack and apparel online has traditionally been a barrier to purchase, but emerging technologies like AI sizing recommendations could help address this in the future.

Demographics will play a role in who drives growth. In Western countries, the core equestrian population has historically skewed young and female in English riding, and more evenly mixed (including older adults) in some segments like trail riding or Western. Efforts to diversify the sport,in terms of age, gender, and ethnicity,could gradually expand the customer base. For example, if initiatives to involve more urban youth or different communities in riding succeed, there may be fresh demand for affordable starter gear and training equipment. At the other end, an aging population in Europe/America might mean more older riders who prioritize comfort and safety, spurring products like mounting aids, extra-protective gear, or even adaptive equipment for riders with physical limitations. Globally, the rising middle class in Asia and the Middle East is arguably the biggest demographic engine of growth,tens of thousands of new riders in China, India, and the Gulf states will be picking up a helmet and boots for the first time in the next decade if current trends continue. These new entrants often start with lessons and rentals, but as they commit to the hobby, they become buyers of their own horses and full kits of equipment, representing a sizeable opportunity for brands that can tap into those markets.

The fusion of technology with equestrian pursuits will also deepen in the future, creating new product categories that drive spending. We can expect even smarter wearables (perhaps implantable health chips for horses for continuous monitoring, or rider smartwatches with integrated fall detection tailored to riding), and maybe the rise of data subscription services (for instance, a service that analyzes all your ride data in the cloud and gives you training tips, which could be bundled with a sensor purchase). Virtual reality (VR) and simulators might become affordable enough to be common in riding schools,giving prospective riders a taste of the experience or allowing seasoned riders to practice virtually (this might not directly sell saddles, but it sells the idea of riding and may pull more people into real riding). The horse world may also see tech in feed and stable management, such as app-controlled feed dispensers or more sophisticated health supplements personalized to a horse’s metabolic needs (with feed companies leveraging biotech).

From an industry perspective, we’ll likely witness continued consolidation and competition. Larger companies may acquire niche innovators (for example, a big apparel brand buying a startup that makes a popular smart saddle pad) to integrate new tech and offerings. Simultaneously, direct-to-consumer models could let new brands flourish without huge capital,e.g. a small sustainable grooming product line gaining global customers via an online store and savvy social marketing. Supply chains might shift too: geopolitical changes could encourage more local production in some Western countries (to reduce reliance on imports), or conversely, improved manufacturing in Asia might elevate those producers into stronger competitors internationally. In any case, companies will need to remain agile,as one market report emphasized, the ability to launch innovative products that meet evolving demands (like WeatherBeeta’s research-driven new collections) is crucial to staying competitive.

Finally, the future outlook must consider the resilience and passion that underpin the equestrian sector. Horse riding has existed for millennia, and despite being a niche in the global sports landscape, it commands fierce loyalty among enthusiasts. This passion means that even through economic ups and downs, many riders prioritize spending on their horses and riding hobby. As one executive quipped during a recent tight market, “One area that has stayed immune is safety. Hats and body protectors are still in demand”. This is a testament that certain core products will remain steady. The key growth drivers ahead, a focus on safety, sustainability, and lifestyle integration,all align with the values and interests of the next generation of riders. If the industry can harness technology wisely, promote inclusivity, and respond to social and environmental expectations, it stands to not only grow in size but also secure its place in the modern recreational landscape. In essence, the equestrian equipment market’s future will be shaped by how well it balances the traditional (heritage, quality, community) with the transformative (innovation, inclusivity, eco-consciousness). Those companies and regions that strike this balance will likely lead the field in the coming years, keeping the sector both prosperous and in tune with the times.


Sources:

  • Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), ‘FAOSTAT: Livestock Primary – Horses, Global Dataset’ (accessed 2025).

  • Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), Annual Report 2023 (2024).

  • FEI, Equestrian Statistics: Global Participation Trends (2023).

  • FEI Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Commission, A Good Life for Horses: A Vision for the Future of Equestrianism (Final Report to the FEI Board, 14 November 2023).

  • European Commission, Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs, Sport and Active Leisure Sector Study: Equestrian Equipment (2023).

  • European Commission, Implementing Decision (EU) 2024/3260 on animal health measures concerning the movement of equidae (18 November 2024).

  • European Horse Network (EHN), EHN Annual Report 2024 (2024).

  • World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), Equine Welfare Global Strategy 2023–2033 (2023).

  • World Horse Welfare, Improving Equine Welfare Worldwide: Strategic Report (2023).

  • British Equestrian, A Literature Review of the Social Value of Equestrianism (2024).

  • British Horse Society (BHS), Equestrian Statistics Report 2023 (2023).

  • American Horse Council, ‘Results from the 2023 National Equine Economic Impact Study Released’ (31 January 2024).

  • American Horse Council, 2023 Economic Impact of the Horse Industry (resources overview; accessed 2025).

  • United States Equestrian Federation (USEF), Annual Report 2023 (2024).

  • EQuerry Co., 2024 Report: Consumer Perceptions & Trends in the Equestrian Industry (2024).

  • EQuerry Co., Do Micro-Influencers Deliver Better ROI in the Equestrian World? (Insights Report, 2025).

  • International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA), International Statistics Database (accessed 2025).

  • International Federation for Equestrian Tourism (FITE), World Report on Recreational Riding (2023).

  • Asian Equestrian Federation (AEF), Equestrian Sport Development in Asia: Annual Report 2024 (2024).

  • Chinese Horse Industry Association (CHIA), China Equestrian Industry Report 2024 (2024).

  • Japanese Racing Association (JRA), Annual Fact Book 2023 (2024).

  • Middle East Equestrian Federation, Annual Development Report 2024 (2024).

  • Dubai Sports Council, Equestrian Sector Contribution to UAE Sport Economy (2024).

  • UAE Ministry of Economy, ‘Amendments to Social Media and Influencer Licensing Regulations’ (2023).

  • Saudi Equestrian Federation, Annual Report 2023 (2024).

  • Australian Horse Industry Council (AHIC), Horse Industry Strategic Plan 2024–2030 (2024).

  • Equestrian Australia, Annual Report 2023 (2024).

  • Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (Australia), Horse Industry Overview 2023 (2023).

  • UNESCO, ‘Equestrian Traditions and Cultural Heritage Listings’ (accessed 2025).

  • World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), Economic Impact Report: Equestrian Tourism 2024 (2024).





Next
Next

Equestrian Sport: The Hidden Economic Engine