When I lived in Maryland, I rode English hunter/jumpers and participated in fox hunts with Elkridge Harford Hunt Club. It was an expensive sport, but a fun one. I helped around the barn and cleaned the horses and pulled manes,etc. in exchange for reduced rates on lessons and such. In addition to boots and a helmet, I would buy a pair of chaps - they will save your clothing bill! I went on a trail ride in Montana last summer on a huge horse and rode Western. I was very uncomfortable and didn't like it - I hadn't been on a horse in almost 20 years. Not as flexible as I used to be, so enjoy!.....Bekki