Rider Hub

Expert Advice for Every Rider

Whether you're buying your first pair of riding tights, preparing for Pony Club, or stepping into the competition ring, you've come to the right place.

With 22 years of experience designing equestrian apparel and working alongside riders across Australia, we've created this collection of helpful guides to answer the questions riders and parents ask most. From choosing the right riding gear to competition tips, sizing advice and caring for your clothing, our goal is to help you ride with confidence.

Browse our articles below, learn from our experience, and discover practical advice to make every ride your best.

Do You Need Your Own Horse to Join Pony Club?

No,not always.

Whether you need your own horse depends on how you join Pony Club in Australia.

Joining a Local Pony Club

Most local Pony Clubs require riders to have their own horse or pony, or exclusive access to one through a full lease, as members bring their own horses to rallies and events. Most clubs do not provide horses for members to ride.

Don't Own a Horse?

If you don't own a horse, Pony Club Australia offers Centre Membership through accredited riding centres across Australia. Centre Members ride trained school horses provided by the riding centre, making it a great option for beginners who want to experience Pony Club before owning or leasing a horse.

Some individual Pony Clubs also have shared horse programs or "Riders Without Horses" initiatives, but these vary from club to club and aren't available everywhere.

Our Tip:

If your child is new to riding and doesn't yet own a horse, contact your nearest Pony Club or Accredited Riding Centre. They'll be able to explain the options available in your area and help you choose the best pathway into Pony Club.

What Should My Child Wear to Pony Club?

Starting Pony Club is an exciting milestone for both children and parents. One of the first questions most families ask is, "What does my child actually need to wear?"

The good news is you don't need to buy everything at once. Most Pony Clubs across Australia focus on safety, comfort and neat presentation rather than expensive clothing. As your child gains confidence and begins competing, you can gradually build their riding wardrobe.

At Giddyupgirl, we've spent 22 years designing riding apparel for Australian riders, from beginners attending their very first Pony Club rally through to young riders competing at national level. This guide explains exactly what your child needs, what's optional and how to choose clothing that keeps them comfortable in the saddle.

The Essentials Every Pony Club Rider Needs:

Every rider should have:

✔ Approved riding helmet

✔ Riding boots

✔ Riding tights or jodhpurs (check with your club about the colour they prefer)

✔ Usually the Pony Club will have a club shirt for purchase when you join.  Reach out to the club to find out what their requirements are

✔ Comfortable socks

✔ Hair neatly secured

✔ Gloves (recommended)

These basics are enough for most Pony Club rallies.

1. Riding Helmet

A properly fitted riding helmet is the most important piece of equipment your child will own.

Your helmet should:

• Meet current Australian safety standards or your Pony Club's approved standard.

• Fit snugly without moving.

• Sit level across the forehead.

• Have the chin strap correctly adjusted.

Never buy a helmet that's too big in the hope your child will "grow into it."

2. Riding Boots

Correct footwear helps prevent feet slipping through the stirrups.

Suitable options include:

• Jodhpur boots

• Tall riding boots 

• Boots with a smooth sole and small heel

Avoid:

✖ Running shoes

✖ Gumboots

✖ Hiking boots

✖ Fashion boots with chunky soles

3. Riding Tights or Jodhpurs?

One of the most common questions parents ask is whether they should buy riding tights or traditional jodhpurs. 

For many Australian riders, riding tights have become the preferred choice because they're:

• More comfortable

• Stretchier

• Cooler in hot weather

• Easier to wash

• Lightweight

Traditional jodhpurs are still popular for some disciplines and formal competitions, but for everyday Pony Club riding, many children love the comfort of technical riding tights.

Check with your club to see what colour tights or jodhpurs they prefer at their club.

4. Do You Have to Wear Your Pony Club Shirt at Rallies?

In most Australian Pony Clubs, members are encouraged or required to wear their club polo shirt or official Pony Club uniform during rally days. Wearing the club shirt helps identify members, creates a sense of teamwork and makes it easier for instructors to recognise riders during activities.

If you're attending your first Pony Club rally, don't worry if you don't have a club shirt yet. Many clubs allow new members to wear a plain collared riding shirt or tidy riding attire until they have the opportunity to purchase the official club uniform.

Because uniform requirements vary between clubs, it's always a good idea to check with your local Pony Club before your first rally.

Australian summers can be extremely hot, so breathable clothing makes a big difference.

Look for tops that offer:

• Moisture-wicking fabric

• Four-way stretch

• Lightweight construction

• Long sleeves for sun protection

• Comfortable fit

Many riders wear technical base layers for training and save their competition shirts for events.

5. Gloves

Although not always compulsory, gloves improve grip and help prevent rubbing from the reins.  This can cause blisters.

They're especially useful during:

• Long Pony Club rallies

• Wet weather

• Winter riding

6. Riding Socks

Good riding socks are often overlooked.

They should be:

• Thin enough to fit comfortably inside boots

• Long enough to protect the lower leg

• Breathable

Avoid thick sports socks, which can bunch inside riding boots.

What Should My Child Wear to Pony Club Competitions?

Competition clothing is generally more formal than everyday riding.

Depending on the event, your child may need:

• Competition shirt, preferably with collar

• A navy show jacket is the ultimate equestrian staple, just like the little black dress is to fashion.

• White breeches if it's a dressage or show jumping comp or cream or beige for showing.

• Competition tie or stock

• Polished boots

Always check the current Pony Club Australia or your state Pony Club dress rules before competing.

Common Mistakes New Parents Make:

Buying riding clothes too big to allow for growth. Oversized clothing can affect a rider's position and presentation, while tights that are too loose may bunch, slip or rub, causing discomfort in the saddle.

Choosing fashion leggings instead of riding tights.

Buying cheap boots that don't fit correctly.

Forgetting gloves.

Ignoring helmet fit.

Buying heavy clothing for Queensland summers.

Frequently Asked Questions:-

Can my child wear leggings to Pony Club?

Ordinary fashion leggings are usually thin & not designed for horse riding. Riding tights are made with technical fabrics, reinforced seams and grip designed specifically for riding.

Are riding tights better than jodhpurs?

For many riders, yes. Riding tights are lightweight, breathable and extremely comfortable for everyday riding.

Does my child need a show jacket?

Not for most beginner Pony Club rallies. Show jackets are usually only required for competitions or formal events.  If you are tempted to buy one - make it navy ;)  This is a staple colour in the equestrian world.

Can children wear black riding tights?

Check with your club to see what colour preference they have.

Final Thoughts:

Starting Pony Club is about building confidence, learning new skills and enjoying time with horses. The right clothing helps your child stay comfortable, safe and ready to focus on riding rather than adjusting uncomfortable gear.

Choose clothing that fits well, allows freedom of movement and suits Australia's climate. As your child progresses through Pony Club and into competition, you can gradually build a riding wardrobe that grows with their experience.

Whether they're riding for the very first time or preparing for their next competition, comfortable, well-designed riding apparel helps every rider enjoy their time in the saddle.

What to Wear to a Dressage Competition (Australian Guide 2026)

Everything You Need to Know About Dressage Competition Attire

Whether you're preparing for your very first Preliminary test or competing at higher levels, dressing correctly for a dressage competition is an important part of presenting yourself professionally. Dressage is known for its elegant and traditional appearance, but today's competition clothing also offers the comfort and performance of modern technical fabrics.

This guide explains what riders are required to wear under the current Equestrian Australia dressage rules and provides practical tips to help you feel confident on competition day. Always check the latest Equestrian Australia National Dressage Rules and your event schedule before competing, as requirements can change.

Dressage Competition Clothing Checklist:

For most Preliminary to Advanced competitions, riders will generally require:

✔ Approved safety helmet

✔ Competition shirt, usually a mandarin high collared shirt and a stock is worn in dressage competitions

✔ Competition jacket, black or navy.

✔ White is the preferred colour for dressage competitions.  Our Rosette Breeches have been particulary popular because

• They are designed to give riders extra confidence and peace of mind, especially during those times when a little added reassurance makes all the difference.
• They give the appearance of a slimmer leg
• They keep your behind and inside legs from looking dirty

✔ Tall riding boots or approved short riding boots

✔ Gloves, usually white 

✔ Hair neatly secured with a hair net and decorative scrunchie

✔ Saddlecloth and tack that complies with competition rules

1. Dressage Helmet

An approved, correctly fitted safety helmet is compulsory for all riders competing under Equestrian Australia rules. Your helmet must meet the current approved safety standards and be securely fastened whenever mounted.

2. Competition Shirt

Usually a mandarin collared competition shirt is worn underneath your jacket. Many riders choose white for a timeless look, although other colours may be permitted under the rules provided they comply with current dress requirements. Technical, moisture-wicking fabrics are ideal for keeping you comfortable throughout the day.

3. Dressage Jacket

A fitted competition jacket completes the traditional dressage look.

The most popular colours are:

• Navy

• Black

• Dark charcoal

A well-fitted jacket should allow full freedom of movement while maintaining a polished appearance. Lightweight stretch fabrics are particularly popular for Australian conditions. Permitted jacket colours are outlined in the EA rules.  Our black Cleo Jacket or navy Ava Jacket have been very popular with dressage riders because they are affordable, made from quality fabric, well fitting and stretchy.

4. Breeches or Jodhpurs

For most EA dressage competitions from Preliminary through to Advanced, riders are required to wear.  Breeches normally have a thinner mesh or fabric at the hem to avoid bulk under tight tall boots.  Jodhpurs are the same weight fabric to the hem which are better suited to short boots.

• White

• Off-white

• Two-Tone - White with black seat

5. Riding Boots

Both long riding boots and approved short riding boots are permitted under the rules, provided they are suitable for competition. Black and brown remain the most popular choices.

6. Gloves

Gloves complete the overall presentation and help provide a secure feel on the reins.

White gloves are often seen at higher levels, while black, brown and other conservative colours are also commonly worn.

7. Hair

Hair should be neatly secured and off the face. Riders with long hair typically wear a hair net or bun for a tidy, professional appearance.  A great way to elevate your show outfit is with a decorative hair scrunchie. 

Can You Wear Riding Tights for Dressage?

Some club-level competitions may allow competition riding tights, while official EA competitions generally require breeches or jodhpurs that comply with the current rules. Always check your event schedule and the applicable rule book before competing.

What Colour Jacket Should You Wear for Dressage?

A classic navy jacket is the most versatile choice and remains one of the most popular options across Australia. Navy pairs beautifully with white, cream and beige breeches and suits riders across all levels of competition.

Think of a navy show jacket as the equestrian equivalent of the little black dress, timeless, elegant and always in style.

Black jackets are also a popular choice in the dressage ring.

Common Dressage Clothing Mistakes

• Wearing breeches that aren't an approved competition colour.

• Choosing a jacket that is too large or too tight.

• Wearing casual riding tops instead of a competition shirt.

• Forgetting gloves.

• Boots that aren't clean and polished.

• Hair not neatly secured.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to wear a jacket for dressage?

Most official competitions require a competition jacket unless the organising committee has announced a heat policy or specific exemption. Always check the event conditions.

Can I wear black breeches?

For most official EA dressage competitions, riders wear white, off-white or beige breeches or jodhpurs. Black breeches are generally not permitted in standard competition attire.

Can I wear tall riding boots?

Yes. Tall riding boots are commonly worn in dressage competitions and are permitted under the current rules.

What is the best colour show jacket for dressage?

Navy is the most versatile choice, followed by black and dark charcoal. A classic navy jacket is suitable for almost every rider and remains a favourite across Australian dressage competitions.  Our black Cleo Jacket or navy Ava Jacket have been very popular with dressage riders because they are affordable, made from quality fabric, well fitting and stretchy.

Final Thoughts:

Dressage is a sport where presentation reflects attention to detail. Choosing well-fitting, competition-compliant clothing not only helps you meet the rules but also allows you to feel comfortable and confident in the arena. Invest in quality pieces that fit correctly, keep them clean and well maintained, and you'll have a timeless competition wardrobe for years to come.