How to Secure Your Phone While Horseback Riding
Riding with your cell phone can be very important for riders going on long trail rides, endurance rides, or simply just riding solo. It’s important to have a way to communicate if you, or your horse, get hurt.
Phones have gotten a bit bigger over the years and can be a bit uncomfortable to keep in your pocket. You definitely don’t want to sit on it in the saddle! Fortunately, there are some excellent options for safely transporting your cell phone in the saddle. We’ll take a look at the pros and cons of each below.
That said…it’s important to not text or scroll when you’re riding your horse for safety reasons!
Safety
Horses are inherently dangerous. It’s important to take as many precautions as possible when you’re riding a horse. Even the most broke and well-behaved horses can have their moments and suddenly spook or take off. Try to avoid texting or using your phone when you are actively riding to avoid any potentially unsafe situations.
Having a phone is important if you are going on a ride far away from other people or in any secluded areas.
Check out this article on Best Satellite Phones for horseback riding. It is not recommended to be on your phone while you’re actively riding, and some horse show organizations are starting to ban it entirely.
Where can you put your phone when horseback riding?
There are a few different ways you can carry your phone when riding a horse. Below are a few options to consider during your next ride:
- A side pocket of breeches (bonus points if it zips!) Check out this article on best breeches with pockets!
- Use a waist bag or running belt
- Carry your phone in an arm band
- Use a belt clip
- Use a saddle bag and place your phone in it
Your phone can be put in your pocket, into a bag, or placed on a clip while riding.
How do you hold your phone on a ride?
The way you carry your phone on a ride comes down to personal preference. Some options will protect your phone a bit better, while others, like a belt clip, may be the most convenient.
Best Cell Phone Options for Horseback Riding
| Cell Phone Holder Option | Description | Price Point | Key Feature(s) |
| Tribe Water Resistant Cell Phone Armband Case | This premium cell phone arm band comfortably fits all Apple, Samsung, Android, and Pixel phones. | $ | -Offers full protection for your phone and allows for easy access -Dual buckle loops -Adjustable elastic band |
| Western 600 Denier Horn Bag | No need to stop and dismount with what you need stored right at your saddle horn! | $ | -Velcro closures on the side bags -Adjustable straps
|
| Stronden Belt Case with Clip | Stronden Series Leather Holsters are designed to be secure and durable for everyday use. | $ | -Magnetic closure for secure and easy access -Strengthened metal clip and belt loops -Easy to clip on and off |
| SPIBelt Adult Original Pocket Running Belt | This running pack is made to hold and protect your phone, keys, earbuds, wallet, cash, credit cards, gels, or other essentials, and can be used while running, working out, jamming out at a music festival, or traveling the world. (Oh, and it works in the saddle, too!)
| $$ | -Buckle Closure -Expandable, secure, and low profile -Expands to accommodate essential supplies |
| Encased iPhone 11 Belt Clip Holster Case | This case and clip were designed with a reasonably slim profile to be comfortable and easy to use. | $$ | -Very durable clip -Has a secure top latch design making it easy to mount and dismount -Compatible with wireless chargers |
Our Top Choices
Tribe Water Resistant Cell Phone Armband Case
Using an armband is another great option for your phone when riding. With this band, you don’t have to worry about your phone potentially coming off your belt or out of your pocket.
Click to see it at Amazon
- Not discipline specific
- Very adjustable to fit most adults
- Fits a wide range of phones
CONS:
- May not fit larger than average upper arms
- Not fully waterproof
- May need to replace Velcro over time
Western 600 Denier Horn Bag
A horn bag is a great option to keep your phone along with a few other items while on a ride. This would be recommended for longer rides, or trail rides, as it could potentially get in the way during a shorter workout.
Click to see it at State Line Tack
PROS:
- Small enough to not get in the way during a trail ride
- Water resistant finish
- Very affordable
CONS:
- Only works with a western saddle
- May not be large enough for everything needed on a very long ride
- Not insulated
Stronden Belt iPhone Case with Clip
A phone holster is a great option for easy access to your phone. This particular option provides a bit more protection than using just a clip, as the phone sits in the holder. A strong magnet keeps the flap closed for added security.
Click to see it at Amazon
- Fits belts up to 1.75” wide
- Metal belt clip for durability and security
- Phone doesn’t rattle around
CONS:
- Doesn’t fit all models of iphone
- May be a bit bulky compared to just a clip
- Not water/weatherproof
SPIBelt Adult Original Pocket Running Belt
Similar to a horn or saddle bag, a running belt is a great way to store your phone along with other necessities. Since this is designed for runners, there is virtually no bounce and lies flat against you.
Because of the design, you won’t have to worry about it moving around or causing any distraction.
Click to see it at Amazon
- No bounce
- Won’t stretch out from use
- Very secure with zipper closure
CONS:
- Won’t accommodate very large phones
- May be hard to get things in and out
Encased iPhone 11 Belt Clip Holster Case
A belt clip is one of the more convenient options for your phone when riding. You will need to buy one specifically for the make and model of your phone, but most brands are affordable and durable.
The one below is for an iPhone 11 and comes with a case as well. This is a great option If you are worried about having to fidget with a zipper of magnet to retrieve your phone.
Click to see it at Amazon
- Comes with a kickstand
- Easy to get on and off the belt
- Clip rotates
CONS:
- Does not fit different models of phones
- May slide around in the holster
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should you not do when riding a horse?
You should not let go of the reins, panic, or get distracted. Horses can sense when their rider is nervous or panicked and may affect their mood as well.
Cell phones can be cause for distraction—don’t ride with your phone unless it’s going to help make your ride safer vs causing a distraction and putting you at risk.
Q: Can you ride a horse while on the phone?
It is not recommended to be on your phone while riding a horse. Even the safest and most broke horses can spook or have their moment and act up. If you’re on your phone while this happens you will likely not react properly, and risk falling off.
Also…phones are expensive! Dropping them from that kind of height can cause damage, not to mention what will happen if your horse steps on your phone.
Parting Thoughts
There are many options out there to help you stay comfortable while riding. Having your phone when riding along or on a long trail ride can be important in case you encounter any potentially unsafe situations.
Always check the rules of your barn and at a horse show before using your phone while mounted!
P.S. Enjoy this article? Trot on over to:
- Ultimate Beginners Guide to Horseback
Trail Riding at Night - Happy Trails Gear Guide: What to Wear Horseback
Trail Riding - 6 Genuinely Useful Apps for Tech-Savvy Equestrians
- What to Wear Horseback
Trail Riding in Montana - GPS for Rookies: Tracking Miles on Horseback
- The Ultimate Horse Trailering & Packing Checklist
- 6 Best Saddle Pads for
Trail Riding (And Happy Horses)
