The ponies also have to get used to other ponies coming towards them at speed and to accept a hand over of equipment. The ponies are ridden with the reins in one hand in order to give the rider a free hand to pick up and place down equipment. This is called neck reining. When mounting during a race riders vault on whilst the pony is moving. The tack used by the riders is strictly defined in the rules and is not open to individual choice.
Most riders prefer to use a flat backed saddle to avoid any injuries whilst vaulting on.
The ponies may also wear boots to protect their legs from injuries. Spurs and whips are totally forbidden, even whilst practicing and warming up for a competition.