Millbrook Tack Blog

Hobby horsing is more than just whimsical fun; it’s a dynamic and fast-growing sport that combines athleticism, creativity, and camaraderie. Though it originated as a playful pastime in Finland, hobby horsing has evolved into an organized sport with national and international competitions. In the U.S., it’s gaining popularity, particularly with the launch of the United States Hobby Horse Championships, which will be hosted in Michigan in August 2025. Learn more about the event here.

If you’re new to the sport or preparing for your next competition, this article will guide you through the ins and outs of hobby horsing, how it’s structured today, and the essential gear you need to get started. At Millbrook Tack, we have a wide selection of LeMieux hobby horses in-store, including their latest releases—perfect for budding hobby horse enthusiasts!

The Origins of Hobby Horsing: From Play to Sport

Hobby horsing began in Finland during the early 2000s, growing from a playful childhood activity into a structured sport modeled after traditional equestrian disciplines. By the 2010s, it had gained widespread popularity, especially among young athletes who enjoyed combining athleticism with creativity. Competitions now closely mirror real equestrian events, with categories such as show jumping, dressage, eventing, and in-hand showing.

Participants are judged not only on their athletic ability but also on how well they prepare and present their hobby horses. Riders often personalize their horses with tack and accessories like ear bonnets and bridles to reflect real equestrian style.

Modern-Day Hobby Horse Competitions in the U.S.

Hobby horse competitions have grown beyond Finland and are gaining momentum worldwide. In the U.S., the United States Hobby Horse Championships offer a platform for riders to show off their skills in a variety of disciplines. These events draw competitors from across the country and provide a space for participants of all ages to engage with the sport, both as athletes and enthusiasts. Competitions are structured to reflect the same sense of discipline and sportsmanship as traditional equestrian sports, but with hobby horses at the center.

Rules and Scoring in Hobby Horse Competitions

Hobby horsing competitions are organized similarly to real equestrian sports, with specific rules for each discipline. Here's a closer look at the scoring systems and rules:

1. Show Jumping:
   • In show jumping, participants navigate a series of obstacles, including poles and fences, set at varying heights.
   • Riders are judged on speed and accuracy, with penalties issued for knocking down poles or skipping jumps.
   • Time plays a crucial role, with the fastest clear round often declared the winner. Each jump knocked down typically adds penalty seconds to the rider's final time.
2. Dressage:
   • Similar to real dressage, riders choreograph routines performed to music.
   • Judges score based on precision, creativity, and how well the rider interprets the music with fluid movements.
   • Scores are given on a scale, with riders earning points for posture, transitions, and the smooth execution of complex movements such as half-passes and pirouettes.
3. In-Hand Showing:
   • This category focuses on the presentation of the hobby horse. Riders are judged on how well they "lead" their horse through a course.
   • Attention to detail in grooming, tack, and overall appearance is crucial for a high score.
4. Eventing:
   • Eventing combines multiple elements, including dressage, show jumping, and a cross-country course.
   • Competitors accumulate points across each phase, with the rider with the highest cumulative score crowned the winner.

These scoring systems promote creativity and technical skill, rewarding participants who can combine precision with flair.

Essential Gear for Hobby Horse Competitions

LeMieux Hobby Horse Ear Bonnet

Adding personality and professionalism to your hobby horse is easy with the LeMieux Hobby Horse Ear Bonnet. This stylish accessory gives your hobby horse a polished look, while also offering protection during events. Available at Millbrook Tack, it’s one of the many ways to make your horse stand out.

LeMieux Hobby Horse Grackle Bridle – Brown

The LeMieux Hobby Horse Grackle Bridle in Brown is perfect for riders aiming to elevate their performance. This bridle adds sophistication to your hobby horse, ensuring it looks as professional as possible during competitions. It’s designed to fit perfectly and provide a sleek, stylish look.

LeMieux Hobby Horse Showing Bridle – Black

If you’re preparing for a dressage event or an in-hand showing competition, the LeMieux Hobby Horse Showing Bridle in Black is an essential addition. This high-quality bridle reflects the elegance of professional tack, helping you and your hobby horse leave a lasting impression in the ring.

Other Disciplines in Hobby Horsing

While show jumping and dressage are the most popular categories, hobby horsing offers a range of disciplines to suit different interests and abilities.

• Freestyle Routines: Some competitions include a freestyle category, where riders create their own routines, blending dance, acrobatics, and equestrian movements.
• Cross-Country: A high-energy discipline that challenges riders to navigate natural obstacles, such as logs and uneven terrain, with their hobby horses.
• Team Events: In addition to individual competitions, some events feature team categories, where groups of riders perform coordinated routines, adding a layer of teamwork to the sport.

These additional disciplines reflect the diversity and versatility of hobby horsing, making it accessible to participants with various interests and skills.

How to Get Started with Hobby Horsing

Getting started with hobby horsing is simple and accessible. All you need is a hobby horse, some practice, and enthusiasm!

• Find Your Hobby Horse: At Millbrook Tack, we have multiple LeMieux hobby horses in stock, including the latest releases. Whether you're new to the sport or preparing for your next competition, we have the perfect hobby horse for you.
• Join a Club or Community: Look for local hobby horse clubs or online communities to connect with others and learn new techniques.
• Practice for Competitions: Many events include both individual and team categories, so practicing with other hobby horse enthusiasts can be beneficial. Developing routines early will give you a competitive edge.

Whether you’re competing for fun or aiming for top prizes at the United States Hobby Horse Championships, preparation and practice are key to standing out in any competition.

The Future of Hobby Horsing

As hobby horsing continues to grow, events like the United States Hobby Horse Championships will play a crucial role in bringing enthusiasts together and elevating the sport. The blend of athleticism, creativity, and community has made hobby horsing a beloved activity, attracting participants from all walks of life.

At Millbrook Tack, we are proud to support the hobby horsing movement by offering the best selection of LeMieux hobby horses and accessories. Whether you’re gearing up for a local competition or preparing for a national event, we have everything you need to ride in style.

Stop by our store to explore the latest arrivals, and don’t forget to mark your calendar for Michigan’s 2025 United States Hobby Horse Championships!

Conclusion

Hobby horsing is more than just a pastime—it’s a sport that promotes creativity, athleticism, and community. With competitions growing across the U.S. and the exciting championships on the horizon, now is the perfect time to get involved. Explore our LeMieux hobby horses and accessories in-store, and take your first steps toward mastering the art of hobby horsing today!