Frequently asked questions
Rider equipment
To start riding, the essentials are a pair of breeches (ideally with a silicone seat for better grip in the saddle), a CE-approved riding hat, and jodhpur boots or shoes with a small heel. La Sellerie de Marigny offers a wide choice of technical riding wear for women, men and children, suitable for every level.
Knee-patch breeches have silicone or leather reinforcement only on the inside of the knees and the seat. Full-grip covers the whole inner surface of the leg. Full-grip offers maximum grip, ideal for show jumping or cross-country. Knee-patch breeches are perfect for regular schooling in the arena.
A competition jacket must comply with FFE rules: plain colour (navy, black, grey), straight, fitted cut. Choose a technical stretch fabric for comfort in the saddle. La Sellerie de Marigny offers elegant competition wear that meets federation standards.
No, chaps are not compulsory, but they are strongly recommended. Half chaps (short) are worn over jodhpur boots and protect the leg from rubbing against the stirrup and the saddle. Full-length chaps are a cheaper alternative to long riding boots. They come in leather or synthetic.
For everyday use, short jodhpur boots (ankle boots) are the most practical: easy to put on and suitable for all types of riding. For competitions or hacking out, long leather riding boots offer more protection and ankle support. La Sellerie de Marigny offers women's, men's and children's models in genuine leather.
Horse & Equipment
The essentials for a horse are: a headcollar and lead rope to lead it, grooming brushes (soft brush, stiff brush, curry comb), a hoof pick, a rug suited to the season, and a snaffle bridle or double bridle depending on the discipline. La Sellerie de Marigny offers a complete range of equipment for the daily care of your horse.
A leather saddle should be cleaned with saddle soap after each use to remove sweat and dirt, then treated with balm or neatsfoot oil once a week to nourish the leather. Avoid too much water and store it away from damp and heat. La Sellerie de Marigny offers a professional repair and maintenance service.
The choice depends on how your horse is kept. A stabled horse will need a light or medium stable rug (150g to 300g depending on the temperature). A horse kept in the field needs a waterproof turnout rug. Ideally, match the fill weight to the weather and to how sensitive your horse is to the cold.
Yes, La Sellerie de Marigny offers a professional horse rug washing service. This service deep-cleans stable and turnout rugs, which are difficult to wash at home because of their size and waterproof treatments. We also offer rug reproofing and repair services.
Safety
In France, a riding hat must carry the CE EN 1384 or VG1 marking to be compliant. For FFE competitions, the EN 1384 standard is required. La Sellerie de Marigny only sells approved riding hats and helmets for adults and children, with adjustable, comfortable models.
It is recommended to replace your riding hat every 5 years, or immediately after a significant fall, even if there is no visible damage. The internal materials deteriorate over time and with sweat, gradually reducing their protective capacity.
An airbag vest is a piece of rider protective equipment that inflates automatically in a fall, absorbing impacts to the neck, back and ribs. It is particularly recommended for cross-country and show jumping. Some models work with a lanyard attached to the saddle, others electronically. La Sellerie de Marigny offers airbag vests at different levels.
The EN 13158 standard defines 3 levels of protection. Level 3 is the most protective (compulsory for cross-country competition); level 2 is suitable for everyday work and show jumping. The higher the level, the stiffer the body protector, but also the more restrictive. La Sellerie de Marigny can advise you according to your discipline.
A back protector (or body protector) is compulsory for cross-country (level 3) in all FFE competitions. In show jumping it is strongly recommended but not always required, depending on the level. Check with your club and consult the current FFE rules.
Shop & Services
At 432 avenue de Paris, 50000 Saint-Lô. You can reach us on 0233555031
Yes, La Sellerie de Marigny offers a custom embroidery service on your equestrian equipment: ear bonnets, saddle pads, jackets, bags, etc. You can have a first name, a yard logo or a monogram embroidered. Contact us for lead times and prices.
Yes, La Sellerie de Marigny has a craft repair service: stitching, re-tightening stitches, replacing buckles, repairing headcollars, bridles and saddles. Bring your equipment to the shop for a quote.
Yes, La Sellerie de Marigny is a physical shop where you can try on all our equipment: clothing, footwear, riding hats and protective gear. Our team is on hand to advise you on sizes and the right choices for your build and your level.
Advice & Shopping
Leather is more durable, breathes better and moulds to your foot with use, but needs regular care. Synthetic is cheaper, waterproof and easy to care for, ideal for children whose feet are still growing. For intensive use, leather remains the best long-term investment.
Breeches often size like jeans. If you are unsure between two sizes, go for the larger one: breeches that are too tight cause chafing and restrict your movement on horseback. Above all, check the thigh measurement and the leg length, which are critical for comfort in the saddle.
MIPS helmets (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) have an extra layer that reduces rotational forces during an oblique impact, which is common in falls from a horse. They offer increased protection compared with conventional riding hats. Recommended for regular riders and those who ride cross-country.
For a child starting to ride: a well-fitted approved riding hat (top priority), jodhpur boots or shoes with a heel, and breeches or thick leggings. A body protector is advisable as soon as the child rides on their own. La Sellerie de Marigny offers equipment specifically designed for children.
Yes, we have a whole selection of second-hand items, perfect for smaller budgets.
Western riding uses a specific saddle with a horn, chaps (full-length), western boots with a Cuban heel and a different bit. Classical riding (show jumping, dressage, cross-country) uses an English saddle and long riding boots, or jodhpur boots + chaps. La Sellerie de Marigny specialises mainly in classical riding.
To find out about ordering and delivery options, please contact La Sellerie de Marigny directly by telephone or via the site's contact page. Our team will get back to you and let you know the options available.
Equipment that complies with FFE competition standards carries specific markings. For riding hats: CE EN 1384 or VG1. For body protectors: EN 13158 level 3 for cross-country. La Sellerie de Marigny only sells approved equipment and can advise you according to your discipline and competition level.
