So much to buy - so little time!

Long-reining, sometimes called long lining, is a useful progression from lungeing, and requires little extra equipment. Your second lunge rein should be as similar as possible to the first; and some prefer to use a roller with d-rings (either canvas or leather) to thread the reins through, although you can make do with using a saddle with the stirrup irons run-up.

It's also a good idea to buy some leg protection for your horse: young horses are prone to jumping suddenly, and being generally less in control of their limbs, so they are at risk from cutting into themselves. A pair of overreach boots for the front feet, and brushing boots - either just front legs, or front and back if you are really cautious - will be fine.

The fourth year and beyond
Shopping list: One pair of leather side-reins

You will now have almost all the equipment you need for your horse to take him through his riding career.

The only extra you will need to buy in his fourth year is a pair of good, leather side reins to help him with learning to round his shape and work his hind end. Leather side reins are better, because they are weightier and don't flap around so much: the ones with rubber "donut" shapes in them are ideal.

As your horse progresses through his career, you may find you want some specialist equipment: a dressage saddle, for example, or a breastplate for a showjumper. But if anyone tells you to put your horse in a martingale, or to use a sharper bit, or to lunge in some fancy piece of strappery - treat their advice with caution. It may be well-meant, but most problems are best solved with thorough, painstaking training and through developing a trusting relationship between you and your horse - not with yet another expensive purchase from the tack shop.

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