Bows:  Only traditional recurved composite bows are used.  Bows cannot be compound nor have a mechanical trigger. Long bows or any type of bow with an arrow shelf are also not recommended (arrow shelves are also forbidden in many competitions). Most mounted archers use a bow with a 20 to 45 pound draw weight.  A higher poundage can be used, and some riders prefer it. However, a higher poundage bow will fatigue your arms much more quickly, which makes it harder to consistently pull a full draw. Because the farthest shot on any competition course does not exceed 45 meters, 30 to 45 pounds is plenty.

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Arrows:  Aluminum or carbon fiber (woven or spiral, no straight fibers, because of possible splintering) arrows are best.  A feather fletching is essential for mounted archery; plastic vanes are not suitable. Plastic vanes will misdirect an arrow if shot on the index feather side, due to their stiffness. Because there is no time to make sure your arrows and knocked on the right side, feathered fletchings give you more accuracy even if shot on the index feather. Feathers are also softer on your hand. When learning to shoot without an arrow shelf, many will accidentally use their hand as a shelf, and get fletching burns or cuts.

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Gloves/Protection:  Many mounted archers prefer the thumb draw, because of the incredibly fast shooting that can be accomplished with it. However, there are also many archers who prefer the three finger draw as well. All draw styles are fine for horseback archery.  You will find, especially when first starting out, that your thumb will become sore very quickly.  Athletic tape, paper tape or even good old fashioned duct tape will go a long way to protecting your thumb.  A bow hand glove is also strongly recommended.  It will protect you from the fletching cuts as you learn to shoot.  You may also want a forearm guard for your bow arm as many new archers experience what is known as "bow slap."  It can be quite painful and leave an impressive bruise. 

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Quivers:  Some competitions require that you shoot from a quiver, others require that you shoot from your hand. Always practice both. There are many quiver styles.  A thigh quiver will afford you the fastest and most secure draw.  However most any kind of quiver is allowed.  It is up to the individual archer to find what works best for them.