As all equestrians know, owning a horse can be expensive! While many riders have their own horses, it is a common misconception that you have to own a horse to ride regularly. Many riders often begin their journey by taking lessons on a school horse, which is a great way to explore the sport without the commitment of owning a horse.  

Another alternative to horse ownership is leasing a horse, which gives people the chance to ride more frequently and consistently than they would in a lesson program. Leasing also allows for a deeper partnership with a horse outside of lessons and can prepare riders for the realities and responsibilities of owning a horse or pony without the long-term commitment.  

Common Types of Leases 

There are plenty of types of leasing agreements, so before entering into a lease of your own, be sure to explore all the options and decide which type best suits your riding goals, budget, and lifestyle. Please note that every lease is unique, depending on the needs of the horse owner and the lessee.  

Full Lease 

With a full lease, the rider, known as the lessee, is responsible for all the horse’s expenses, which could include boarding, feed, veterinary and farrier services, training programs, and any other care the horse may need. The lessee will pay an agreed-upon fee to the owner, or the lessor, and this allows them full access to the horse — usually five or six days a week — and the freedom to take the horse to shows. While a full lease can be one of the most expensive types of leases, it allows for the most riding and training time.  

Half Lease 

A half, or partial, lease is a popular option for riders who have less time to care for a horse, and who may want a cheaper alternative to a full lease. With a half lease, the lessee will share the horse with the owner or another rider and have a set amount of days each week to ride — typically around three days a week. The lessee will also split the horse’s expenses with the owner or other lessee and may be able to take the horse to a limited number of shows to compete. With a half lease, it’s important to map out a schedule with the other rider so you don’t end up showing up at the barn to ride at the same time. 

Care or Feed Lease 

A care lease, otherwise known as a feed lease, means the lessee pays no upfront fee to the lessor, but does cover costs associated with the horse, similar to a full lease. This is about as close to owning a horse as a rider can get while still leasing. The agreement can be for a set time or month-to-month, so that if they outgrow the skill level of the horse or the horse is simply not the right fit.  

Show Leases  

Some trainers or owners will lease out their horses for a specific show, circuit, or season, allowing riders who may not have time to care for a horse full-time to still show. Although riding a horse you’re unfamiliar with can be a challenge, horses leased for show are typically highly trained and require minimal schooling to get to the ingate. While leasing a horse for a major show like Pony Finals or NAYC can be costly, riders avoid the costs associated with travel and extended care and maintenance. Show leases are also popular with riders who may own a young or injured horse that is unable to show at that time. 

When competing in a USEF-sanctioned show as a lessee, it’s important to register the lease with USEF prior to the first day of competition. For points to count, the lease must be registered with USEF, making the lessee the bona fide owner of the horse for the period of the lease. For more information, refer to GR1108 in the USEF Rule Book.  

Benefits of Leasing 

Experience 

Leasing allows riders to try riding horses of different breeds, skill levels, and disciplines. If you’re not quite sure what discipline is right for you, leasing is a great way to determine which ones you enjoy and may want to show in.  

Cost-Effective 

Leasing is significantly cheaper than owning a horse, from the initial cost of buying a horse to ongoing care for its entire life. With the cost of basic care necessities like boarding, veterinary services, feed, and farrier services, along with general enjoyment items like treats and toys, horse owners can end up spending hundreds of thousands of dollars over the lifetime of their horse. 

Flexibility  

As we age, our interests and life circumstances change. A child may be interested in riding now, but as they grow up, their passions could turn to something else — or they may simply outgrow their beloved pony and need to move on to a bigger horse. An adult equestrian may currently have time to ride regularly, but if their job changes or they start a family, the commitment of owning a horse might become too much for them. Leasing avoids pitfalls, and agreements can be tailored to fit the rider's needs, whether they are looking for a long-term or short-term lease.  

Considerations 

Before taking on the responsibility of caring for a horse, whether you are leasing or owning, it’s important to consider factors such as budget, available riding time, barns in your area, trainers who fit your needs and personality, and your dedication to the sport.  

A written legal contract is essential before entering into a lease to clearly outline the expectations and responsibilities of all parties involved. It should specify key terms such as the duration of the lease, financial obligations including lease fees and care costs, and the duties of both the lessor and lessee regarding the horse’s management. It should also address important contingencies, such as if the horse becomes injured, ill, or otherwise unable to perform, including who is responsible for veterinary decisions and expenses. By setting these terms in writing, the contract protects both the horse’s welfare and the interests of the owner and rider, reducing the risk of misunderstandings or disputes.   

By understanding the responsibilities involved and thinking through all your options, you can ensure a positive, fulfilling experience that may lead to future horse ownership.