GITNUXREPORT 2025

Equestrian Industry Statistics

Global equestrian industry exceeds 300 billion, with growing markets and participation.

Jannik Linder

Co-Founder of Gitnux, specialized in content and tech since 2016.

First published: April 29, 2025

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Statistic 1

The global organic equestrian products market size was valued at $250 million in 2021 and is forecasted to expand at a CAGR of 5.3% through 2028

Statistic 2

The United States has over 2 million professional and amateur equestrians

Statistic 3

There are roughly 7.1 million horses in the United States

Statistic 4

Approximately 6 million Americans participate in equestrian activities at least once a year

Statistic 5

The number of equestrian clubs worldwide exceeds 12,000

Statistic 6

The majority of equestrian riders are women, accounting for approximately 66% of participants globally

Statistic 7

Approximately 35% of horses in the U.S. are used for recreational riding, while 20% are involved in competitive sports

Statistic 8

The number of registered horses in Europe is estimated at over 10 million, with Germany and France being the largest markets

Statistic 9

Approximately 13% of U.S. households own at least one horse-related pet or animal

Statistic 10

The number of riding schools worldwide exceeds 5,500, serving around 15 million students annually

Statistic 11

The average age of an equestrian rider is approximately 42 years old, with younger participation increasing

Statistic 12

The average lifespan of a well-cared-for horse is around 25-30 years, with some living past 40, depending on breed and care

Statistic 13

Approximately 20% of the horses in the U.S. are used for leisure riding, with the remainder engaged in racing, breeding, or work-related activities

Statistic 14

The top three breeds used in competitive equestrian sports are the Thoroughbred, Warmblood, and Quarter Horse, accounting for over 70% of registered competitive horses

Statistic 15

Approximately 55% of equestrian enthusiasts participate in trail riding, making it the most popular activity in the industry

Statistic 16

The average number of horses per stable in the U.S. is around 20, with some large facilities housing over 100 horses

Statistic 17

Around 65% of young riders in the U.S. participate in 4-H or similar youth programs, promoting early engagement in equestrian sports

Statistic 18

The percentage of riders competing in international events increased by 12% over the past five years, indicating rising competitiveness in the industry

Statistic 19

The leading countries in equestrian sports investment are the USA, Germany, and Great Britain, accounting for over 60% of global sponsorships

Statistic 20

The world’s largest equestrian expo, the All American Quarter Horse Congress, draws over 650,000 visitors annually, highlighting the industry’s popularity

Statistic 21

The annual attendance at major equestrian trade shows exceeds 100,000 industry professionals and enthusiasts worldwide, showcasing the industry’s vibrancy

Statistic 22

The global equestrian industry was valued at approximately $300 billion in 2021

Statistic 23

The U.S. horse industry contributes over $122 billion annually to the economy

Statistic 24

The global riding helmet market is expected to reach $1.1 billion by 2027, with a CAGR of around 4.8%

Statistic 25

The U.S. equestrian apparel market is projected to reach $1.8 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 4.2%

Statistic 26

The number of annual horse-related injuries in the U.S. is estimated at around 60,000, with 25% requiring hospitalization

Statistic 27

Equestrian tourism accounts for approximately 7% of the global travel market, contributing over $225 billion annually

Statistic 28

The average cost of a thoroughbred racehorse is around $60,000, with some high-end horses exceeding $1 million

Statistic 29

Around 40% of equestrian businesses report an increase in online sales during the pandemic

Statistic 30

The global market for equestrian footwear is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.9% reaching $560 million by 2028

Statistic 31

The global equestrian equipment market was valued at approximately $1.9 billion in 2020, expected to reach $2.5 billion by 2026

Statistic 32

The number of equestrian events held worldwide exceeds 50,000 annually, including shows, competitions, and rodeos

Statistic 33

Equestrian sport is included in the Olympic Games, with over 300 athletes competing in events such as dressage, show jumping, and eventing

Statistic 34

The global market for equestrian event technology is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.2%, reaching $320 million by 2027

Statistic 35

The annual export value of U.S. horse-related products exceeds $4 billion, including saddles, riding apparel, and equipment

Statistic 36

The horse racing industry alone employs over 1 million people globally, with the U.S. being the largest market

Statistic 37

The global horse bedding market is expected to reach $680 million by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 4.5%, driven by increased focus on animal welfare

Statistic 38

The global online equestrian marketplace grew by 50% during the pandemic, enabling more direct sales and connections between buyers and sellers

Statistic 39

The average crop yield per hectare for hay production in the U.S. has increased by 12% over the last decade, supporting the growing demand for horse feed

Statistic 40

The U.S. equine veterinary market is projected to reach $790 million by 2025, reflecting increased investment in horse health services

Statistic 41

The popularity of equestrian sports in Asia is on the rise, with China and Japan investing heavily in infrastructure and training programs

Statistic 42

The global synthetic saddle market is projected to reach $200 million by 2024, driven by advancements in materials and rider comfort

Statistic 43

The global market for riding gloves is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.1%, reaching $250 million by 2027, driven by safety standards and fashion trends

Statistic 44

Investment in equestrian infrastructure, such as riding arenas and stables, increased by 25% in North America in 2022, reflecting industry growth

Statistic 45

The global market share for veterinary medicines in the equine sector is projected to reach $1.1 billion by 2025, driven by increased health awareness

Statistic 46

The average annual expenditure on horse care per horse in the U.S. is approximately $3,000, covering feed, veterinary care, and equipment

Statistic 47

The global market for equestrian-themed apparel, including riding gear and casual wear, is estimated at $1.5 billion, with steady growth expected

Statistic 48

The market for durable, high-performance riding apparel is projected to reach $2 billion by 2026, driven by better materials and rider needs

Statistic 49

The equine genetics industry is valued at over $180 million globally, focusing on breeding, health, and performance traits

Statistic 50

The growth of urban riding schools in metropolitan areas has increased by 20% over five years, providing accessible riding opportunities in cities

Statistic 51

The number of annual equestrian sponsorship deals exceeds 500 worldwide, with sponsorship revenue surpassing $150 million, focusing on equipment, apparel, and event sponsorships

Statistic 52

The consumption of organic horse feed increased by 15% in North America in 2022

Statistic 53

The adoption of digital platforms for horse health records has increased by 45% in the last three years, improving veterinary care and management

Statistic 54

The number of equestrian-specific GPS devices on the market has increased by over 60% in the last five years, reflecting a growing demand for technology in riding training

Statistic 55

The percentage of U.S. households with at least one horse-related insurance policy increased by 8% in 2022, indicating rising awareness of equine liability and safety

Statistic 56

The adoption of eco-friendly and sustainable practices in the equestrian industry has increased by 30% in the past five years, including sustainable feed and biodegradable equipment

Statistic 57

The number of patents filed for equestrian-related innovations increased by 18% over the last three years, indicating technological advancement in the industry

Statistic 58

Over 50% of health-conscious equestrians prefer using natural and herbal supplements for their horses, indicating a trend toward holistic care

Statistic 59

The proportion of equestrians using wearable fitness technology increased by 40% in 2023, aiding in training and performance monitoring

Statistic 60

The majority of equestrian destinations now offer eco-tourism options, with a growth rate of 15% annually, reflecting sustainability concerns

Statistic 61

The number of women dominating the equestrian sports scene has increased by 25% in the last decade, leading to a shift in industry marketing strategies

Statistic 62

An estimated 30% of equestrians participate in online training courses or webinars, reflecting increased engagement with digital education

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Key Highlights

The global equestrian industry was valued at approximately $300 billion in 2021
The United States has over 2 million professional and amateur equestrians
There are roughly 7.1 million horses in the United States
The U.S. horse industry contributes over $122 billion annually to the economy
Approximately 6 million Americans participate in equestrian activities at least once a year
The global riding helmet market is expected to reach $1.1 billion by 2027, with a CAGR of around 4.8%
The number of equestrian clubs worldwide exceeds 12,000
The U.S. equestrian apparel market is projected to reach $1.8 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 4.2%
The majority of equestrian riders are women, accounting for approximately 66% of participants globally
The consumption of organic horse feed increased by 15% in North America in 2022
The number of annual horse-related injuries in the U.S. is estimated at around 60,000, with 25% requiring hospitalization
Equestrian tourism accounts for approximately 7% of the global travel market, contributing over $225 billion annually
The average cost of a thoroughbred racehorse is around $60,000, with some high-end horses exceeding $1 million

Discover how a $300 billion industry with over 7 million horses and a global community of enthusiasts is riding high amidst technological advancements, sustainable practices, and vibrant competition—reshaping the future of equestrian sport and commerce worldwide.

Equestrian Product Markets

The global organic equestrian products market size was valued at $250 million in 2021 and is forecasted to expand at a CAGR of 5.3% through 2028

Equestrian Product Markets Interpretation

With the organic equestrian products market riding steadily at a 5.3% CAGR to reach beyond $300 million by 2028, it’s clear that both horse and human alike are galloping toward greener pastures—riding high on sustainability’s saddle.

Horse Population and Participation

The United States has over 2 million professional and amateur equestrians
There are roughly 7.1 million horses in the United States
Approximately 6 million Americans participate in equestrian activities at least once a year
The number of equestrian clubs worldwide exceeds 12,000
The majority of equestrian riders are women, accounting for approximately 66% of participants globally
Approximately 35% of horses in the U.S. are used for recreational riding, while 20% are involved in competitive sports
The number of registered horses in Europe is estimated at over 10 million, with Germany and France being the largest markets
Approximately 13% of U.S. households own at least one horse-related pet or animal
The number of riding schools worldwide exceeds 5,500, serving around 15 million students annually
The average age of an equestrian rider is approximately 42 years old, with younger participation increasing
The average lifespan of a well-cared-for horse is around 25-30 years, with some living past 40, depending on breed and care
Approximately 20% of the horses in the U.S. are used for leisure riding, with the remainder engaged in racing, breeding, or work-related activities
The top three breeds used in competitive equestrian sports are the Thoroughbred, Warmblood, and Quarter Horse, accounting for over 70% of registered competitive horses
Approximately 55% of equestrian enthusiasts participate in trail riding, making it the most popular activity in the industry
The average number of horses per stable in the U.S. is around 20, with some large facilities housing over 100 horses
Around 65% of young riders in the U.S. participate in 4-H or similar youth programs, promoting early engagement in equestrian sports
The percentage of riders competing in international events increased by 12% over the past five years, indicating rising competitiveness in the industry

Horse Population and Participation Interpretation

With over two million Americans saddling up and a global horse count surpassing 20 million, the equestrian industry demonstrates that whether for leisure, sport, or community, riding remains a serious yet spirited pursuit — a century-old tradition that continues to gallop into the future with women leading the charge and trail riding reigning supreme as the most popular activity.

Industry Events and Sponsorships

The leading countries in equestrian sports investment are the USA, Germany, and Great Britain, accounting for over 60% of global sponsorships
The world’s largest equestrian expo, the All American Quarter Horse Congress, draws over 650,000 visitors annually, highlighting the industry’s popularity
The annual attendance at major equestrian trade shows exceeds 100,000 industry professionals and enthusiasts worldwide, showcasing the industry’s vibrancy

Industry Events and Sponsorships Interpretation

With over 60% of global sponsorships, a half-million-strong audience at the All American Quarter Horse Congress, and hundreds of thousands attending major trade shows, the equestrian industry gallops ahead as a powerhouse of global passion and investment—proof that horses aren’t just a hobby, but a billion-dollar affair.

Market Size and Economic Impact

The global equestrian industry was valued at approximately $300 billion in 2021
The U.S. horse industry contributes over $122 billion annually to the economy
The global riding helmet market is expected to reach $1.1 billion by 2027, with a CAGR of around 4.8%
The U.S. equestrian apparel market is projected to reach $1.8 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 4.2%
The number of annual horse-related injuries in the U.S. is estimated at around 60,000, with 25% requiring hospitalization
Equestrian tourism accounts for approximately 7% of the global travel market, contributing over $225 billion annually
The average cost of a thoroughbred racehorse is around $60,000, with some high-end horses exceeding $1 million
Around 40% of equestrian businesses report an increase in online sales during the pandemic
The global market for equestrian footwear is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.9% reaching $560 million by 2028
The global equestrian equipment market was valued at approximately $1.9 billion in 2020, expected to reach $2.5 billion by 2026
The number of equestrian events held worldwide exceeds 50,000 annually, including shows, competitions, and rodeos
Equestrian sport is included in the Olympic Games, with over 300 athletes competing in events such as dressage, show jumping, and eventing
The global market for equestrian event technology is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.2%, reaching $320 million by 2027
The annual export value of U.S. horse-related products exceeds $4 billion, including saddles, riding apparel, and equipment
The horse racing industry alone employs over 1 million people globally, with the U.S. being the largest market
The global horse bedding market is expected to reach $680 million by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 4.5%, driven by increased focus on animal welfare
The global online equestrian marketplace grew by 50% during the pandemic, enabling more direct sales and connections between buyers and sellers
The average crop yield per hectare for hay production in the U.S. has increased by 12% over the last decade, supporting the growing demand for horse feed
The U.S. equine veterinary market is projected to reach $790 million by 2025, reflecting increased investment in horse health services
The popularity of equestrian sports in Asia is on the rise, with China and Japan investing heavily in infrastructure and training programs
The global synthetic saddle market is projected to reach $200 million by 2024, driven by advancements in materials and rider comfort
The global market for riding gloves is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.1%, reaching $250 million by 2027, driven by safety standards and fashion trends
Investment in equestrian infrastructure, such as riding arenas and stables, increased by 25% in North America in 2022, reflecting industry growth
The global market share for veterinary medicines in the equine sector is projected to reach $1.1 billion by 2025, driven by increased health awareness
The average annual expenditure on horse care per horse in the U.S. is approximately $3,000, covering feed, veterinary care, and equipment
The global market for equestrian-themed apparel, including riding gear and casual wear, is estimated at $1.5 billion, with steady growth expected
The market for durable, high-performance riding apparel is projected to reach $2 billion by 2026, driven by better materials and rider needs
The equine genetics industry is valued at over $180 million globally, focusing on breeding, health, and performance traits
The growth of urban riding schools in metropolitan areas has increased by 20% over five years, providing accessible riding opportunities in cities
The number of annual equestrian sponsorship deals exceeds 500 worldwide, with sponsorship revenue surpassing $150 million, focusing on equipment, apparel, and event sponsorships

Market Size and Economic Impact Interpretation

With a global value surpassing $300 billion and over 50,000 annual events, the equestrian industry proves that whether for sport, leisure, or commerce, humanity’s passion for horses gallops ahead—albeit with a cautious eye on safety, innovation, and the increasing digital saddle of online markets.

Trends and Industry Development

The consumption of organic horse feed increased by 15% in North America in 2022
The adoption of digital platforms for horse health records has increased by 45% in the last three years, improving veterinary care and management
The number of equestrian-specific GPS devices on the market has increased by over 60% in the last five years, reflecting a growing demand for technology in riding training
The percentage of U.S. households with at least one horse-related insurance policy increased by 8% in 2022, indicating rising awareness of equine liability and safety
The adoption of eco-friendly and sustainable practices in the equestrian industry has increased by 30% in the past five years, including sustainable feed and biodegradable equipment
The number of patents filed for equestrian-related innovations increased by 18% over the last three years, indicating technological advancement in the industry
Over 50% of health-conscious equestrians prefer using natural and herbal supplements for their horses, indicating a trend toward holistic care
The proportion of equestrians using wearable fitness technology increased by 40% in 2023, aiding in training and performance monitoring
The majority of equestrian destinations now offer eco-tourism options, with a growth rate of 15% annually, reflecting sustainability concerns
The number of women dominating the equestrian sports scene has increased by 25% in the last decade, leading to a shift in industry marketing strategies
An estimated 30% of equestrians participate in online training courses or webinars, reflecting increased engagement with digital education

Trends and Industry Development Interpretation

As the equestrian industry gallops toward innovation with a 60% surge in GPS tech and a 45% boost in digital health records, it’s clear that horse enthusiasts are increasingly embracing holistic wellness, eco-conscious practices, and gender diversity—proving that in the saddle of progress, both tradition and technology are riding side by side.