Are you looking for some ways to pass the time inside on days when you can’t ride? We have just the thing to pass the time and keep your riding fresh until you can get outside again! Read on for some great horsey apps and games to both entertain and educate on all things equine. Be sure to get permission from a parent before downloading.
Online Horsey Sites/Games
Star StableÂ
Get ready to saddle up for the adventure of a lifetime! Create your dream horse from a variety of real-life breeds or from magical, mythical steeds, each with a personality of its own. You’ll not only have to care for your horse, you’ll need to train him, too. While the two of you travel over an enchanted island to complete quests and solve mysteries, you can make friends with other horse lovers, ride together, chat, and even make your own riding club. On Jorvik, kindness is key. Star Stable is free up to Level 5, then a subscription is needed.
Price varies by bundle; starstable.com.
AllPonyÂ
If you’re hungry for horsemanship, AllPony is the perfect app for you. This interactive online platform is great for students and instructors. Filled with all sorts of fun activities, you can learn more about horses and improve your riding skills. Create your own pony, then learn everything from horse breeds, markings and coat coloring to tack, bits and grooming. If you’ve wondered how to tie or trailer a horse safely, or about feeding, arena etiquette or riding aids, AllPony has a lesson for all of that. Test your horse knowledge with quizzes and receive a certificate of accomplishment for each one you complete.
$80/year; allpony.com.
Horse Fable
Horse Fable is a story-driven equine game where you must care for or arrange the care of your horses, each of which is designed by you. Your goal is to build your herd, grow your estate, and discover lands through exploration. You’ll focus on breeding, showing and training your horses, which participate in one of 18 disciplines, including barrel racing, trail, western pleasure, vaulting, dressage, driving, endurance and more. You can even catch your own wild horse and explore Dark Horse Mine.
Game is free but game currency can be purchased; horsefable.com.
Star Equestrian Â
Explore the rolling countryside with friends as you look for Snowdrop, a rescue horse that threw you and ran away before you had a chance to compete together. Play online with others as you plan trail rides and compete in the Star Championship, a variety of showjumping and cross-country events, where your goal is to become a Star Equestrian. Available for Android, iPhone and personal computer.
Game is free, but players can earn and buy currency to unlock new horses and tack; starequestrian.com.
Horsey Smart Phone Apps
RidelyÂ
Whether you compete or just want to have fun with your horse, the Ridely app is designed to help any rider in the world become better, no matter your discipline. The app is full of video inspiration, including clips on dressage, eventing, jumping, grooming, flatwork, western, junior training, hunters and equitation, in-hand, young horse inspo, rider fitness, mind training and handling. Share a pony? The journal option is a lifesaver, letting you log sessions and add comments, photos, or videos, making sure everyone has info on your rides. Available for iPhone or Android.
Ridely is free to use, but Ridely Pro offers unique riding exercises and extra functionality for $10/month; ridely.com.
Rival Stars Horse RacingÂ
Are you interested in horse racing? Rival Stars Horse Racing allows you to try your hand at Thoroughbred training and racing, immersing you in top-notch animation and realistic commentary. You can breed your mare and watch her foal being born, as well as be the jockey on your favorite mount as he gallops down the track. Some strategy is needed as you match your horse with races that play to his strengths and try to ride the race well. Available for Android and iPhone.
Free with in-app purchases; rivalstarshorseracing.com.
Polework Patterns
If you are looking for ways to shake up your winter riding, be sure to check out the Polework Patterns app. Helpful for every discipline, Polework Patterns offers an entire library of groundwork and riding pole ideas and layouts. Suitable for all experience levels, the app includes guides and difficulty ratings for exercises that use between one and 20 poles. You can even focus on what area of the horse you’d like to develop, such as core, balance, engagement and more.
$19.99; Available on iPhone and Google Play.
EquilabÂ
Track your ride, manage your horse, and connect with other riders on the Equilab app. The app provides detailed information on each ride, including gaits, speed, and elevation changes. It even shares your location with your pre-programmed contacts so they’ll know exactly where you are when you’re riding. You can also connect with other riders, whether they’re at your barn or around the world. Join or create a group to share photos, stories and tips. Available for iPhone and Android.
Equilab Premium is $11.99/month; equilab.horse.
This article about horsey games and apps appeared in the January/February 2024 issue of Young Rider magazine. Click here to subscribe!
