Bullriding Equipment

At first glance, there does not appear to be a lot of equipment used in bull riding. This is somewhat true, but the equipment is crucial for the safety of the riders. In such a dangerous sport anything that may keep the rider safe is paramount. Most riders wear special gloves, a strong chest protector, chaps, cowboy boots and a few other pieces of equipment.

When the rider mounts the bull, they grip a braided rope that is attached to the bull. This rope has a braided handle. Due to the extreme force of the bull, gloves are necessary to protect the hand of the rider. Without leather gloves, the riders hand would easily be destroyed. The rider also wears a protective vest. This is to lessen the chance of injury and pain when chest impact occurs.

Bull riders also wear chaps. These are often made of leather and offer leg protection due to the friction produced while riding the bull. Chaps also allow the rider a chance to express their creativity. Many riders are known for their expressive chaps. Boots are the foot wear of choice for bull riders. In the past, most riders wore spurs in an attempt to get the bulls to kick and move harder. However, these are used infrequently these days due to concerns for the animal.

Many riders wear helmets as well. This varies widely, but it is becoming more and more common. Bull riding is a dangerous sport that often involves serious injury. Riders take their safety equipment seriously. In addition to the safety equipment, there are other pieces of equipment necessary for bull riding.

Bull riding always takes place in some type of an enclosed structure. Most frequently, this sport takes place in a fenced in rodeo arena. However, with the growth of the sport, many times these events are taking place inside arenas and other sporting venues. Regardless of the location, bull riding always takes place in an enclosed area.