You might have heard children talking about hobby horses, and perhaps, like me, you've thought: “Isn't that just a bit silly?” But did you know that hobby horse riding has actually become a sport, where both children and adults worldwide participate in competitions, earn rosettes, and train seriously?
This weekend, something happened that made me see the hobby horse game in a completely new light. My friend's daughter participated in her very first hobby horse competition, and she came home not just with one rosette but a whole handful! She was incredibly proud, and I have to admit, I felt proud too.
This summer, I was at a theme park with my kids, and one of the attractions was a hobby horse track, with optional hobby horses and a variety of jumps at different levels. We laughed at first, but of course, we had to try it as well. Although as an adult, I found it all a bit silly – I mean… running around with a hobby horse between your legs and pretending you're riding? Yet, I must admit that both I and the kids had a blast. We worked up a sweat and enjoyed plenty of laughter.
This made me realize that hobby horses are not just fun – they represent active play and role-play at a child's level, which strengthens both the body and imagination.
Why are hobby horses so popular?
I asked myself that question until I saw the children in action. The answer is actually quite simple:
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Hobby horses make the joy of riding accessible – you don't need a real horse to feel like a true rider.
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Hobby horses provide lots of exercise – children jump, run, and perform dressage exercises while playing.
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It’s role-play at a child’s level – children care for, groom, and equip their horses with saddles, bridles, and rosettes.
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There's a strong community – many children gather at hobby horse events and train together, just like in other sports.
And perhaps most importantly: it’s fun!
Hobby Horse - Where to Start?
If your child has also fallen in love with hobby horses, it's quite easy to get started. You begin simply! With a hobby horse, naturally. We recommend the popular hobby horses from By Astrup, which are in Danish design. They are realistic, beautiful, and made of high quality – making the game extra fun from the start. We have several different versions, so you can easily choose the horse in the version and color you desire.
Is Equipment Necessary for Hobby Horse?
No, a hobby horse alone already offers many hours of play. But many children find the play more enjoyable when they have hobby horse equipment like saddles, halters, or a small grooming set. It makes the play more realistic and encourages role-playing. We have many different products in accessories for hobby horses that could be great to have on a wishlist for future use.
Can children pursue hobby horse as a sport?
Yes! There are hobby horse clubs and competitions where children compete in both jumping and dressage. It provides a community where they gather around their interests and get exercise at the same time.
Is it a good gift idea?
Absolutely. A hobby horse is a perfect gift for both girls and boys who love horses, play, and imagination. Many children even wish for more than one hobby horse, so they can play with different “breeds” and create their own little stable. Both hobby horses and accessories for hobby horses are really great gift ideas.
Which hobby horse should you choose?
The fun part is that hobby horses come in many different varieties. With us, you can find among others:
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A black hobby horse – elegant and majestic, perfect for jumping.
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A brown or beige hobby horse – classic pony look, easy to care for.
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A white hobby horse with spots – magical and perfect for princess or Pippi Longstocking games.
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A sprinter – designed for speed and jumping, ideal for kids who want to compete.
Additionally, you will find many other varieties of hobby horses in our shop. Choose, for example, one with a detachable tail, or a Spirit or unicorn version.
Hobby Horse Equipment – Make Play Even More Fun
My friend’s daughter has already made a long wishlist. At the top is a jump for hobby horse, so she can create her own jumping course in the garden. She also wishes for a horse box for hobby horses, so her hobby horse can be stabled when not in use.
Other favorites include:
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Saddles and bridles for hobby horse – for a realistic riding experience.
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Grooming set for hobby horse – so the horse can be cared for after training.
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Rosettes and decorations – because what's a competition without prizes?
All of this is of course available from us, so you and your child can easily create a whole little hobby horse world at home.
Is Hobby Horse Riding Right for Your Child?
If your child loves horses, animals, or role-playing, the answer is almost always yes. Even if you – like me – initially think it seems a bit silly, you will quickly discover how much the children get out of it. It is an active play that strengthens motor skills, fitness, and imagination – and it’s a sport that can grow with the child.
Hobby Horses aren’t Silly, They're Brilliant!
I admit it: I have been converted. Hobby horse riding is not just a trend – it is a fantastic blend of sport, imagination, and role-play. It gives children exercise, joy, and lots of confidence.
And the best part? It doesn't take more than a hobby horse and a bit of space to start. The rest – jumps, saddles, horse boxes – can come along the way.
So next time your child says: “Mom, I want a hobby horse”, you can smile and know that it's actually a great gift idea for your child that strengthens their body, imagination, and makes good exercise a fun game.
