Horse Show Competition Outfit Guide

Everything You Need to Know Before You Step Into the Show Ring

Horse Showing is one discipline that's close to my heart.  My daughter competed in this discipline for many years, I've seen first-hand what works in the ring, what judges expect, and just as importantly, where families can save money without compromising on presentation.

One of the main reasons I started Giddyupgirl was because I saw how expensive equestrian competition clothing had become. Equestrian sports already cost families enough without having to spend a fortune on what you wear. I wanted to create quality competition clothing that looked smart, performed beautifully and was affordable, especially for riders who are just starting out. Looking great in the ring shouldn't have to come with a luxury price tag.

Let's get you ring ready.

Your Horse Showing Checklist

For most Horse Showing competitions you'll need:

✔ EA-approved riding helmet - check out the regulations here

✔ Competition shirt 

✔ Tie or ruffle neck shirt

✔ Navy, black or tweed (Hunter classes) show jacket

✔ Beige, cream, canary or old gold breeches, tights or jodhpurs

✔ Riding boots

✔ Gloves

✔ Hair neatly secured

✔ Clean, well-fitting tack

Choosing Your Show Jacket

If you're only buying one jacket, make it navy!

It's timeless, suits almost every horse colour and can be worn across several disciplines.

Our Georgina Open Navy Jacket (girls) and Ava Open Navy Jacket (ladies) are favourites because they're traditional, great quality & affordable.  If you are entering a hunter class check out our Hunter Jackets, Alexis (ladies) & Romy (girls) they are beautiful & affordable options.

My Tip: Young riders grow so quickly that a custom-made jacket rarely makes sense unless you are competing at a very high level. Buy a quality off-the-rack jacket and have it professionally altered if need be. As your child grows, those alterations can simply be let out, giving you several seasons of wear.

 Breeches or Jodhpurs?

This usually comes down to your boots.

Jodhpurs are traditionally worn with short boots and are most common for younger riders.

Breeches are worn with tall boots and are generally seen on older riders.

For Horse Showing, stick with traditional colours like beige, cream, old gold or canary. White is usually reserved for dressage and show jumping.

Whatever you choose, make sure they fit properly. Clothing that's too big never looks polished in the ring.

What Shirt Should You Wear?

A neat competition shirt finishes the look.

Most riders choose a traditional collared shirt with a tie or a ruffle neck shirt. White is always a safe choice, but pale blue, cream and other soft colours also look lovely.

Living in Australia, I'd always recommend technical fabrics. They're cooler, lighter and far more comfortable than heavy cotton on a hot competition day.

We have a great choice of collared and ruffle shirts show shirts available for you to choose from.  

Boots, Gloves & Hair

It's the little details that complete the picture.

* Boots should always be clean and polished.
* Gloves improve your grip and complete your presentation. I always recommend choosing a colour that blends with your jacket and reins rather than drawing attention to your hands.
* Hair should be neatly secured in a bun with a hair net.  Decorative hair scrunchies are on the rise in the show ring too.

Simple, tidy and traditional always wins.

 Can You Wear Riding Tights?

For official Horse Showing competitions, traditional breeches or jodhpurs are still the preferred choice.

That said, modern competition riding tights have come a long way. In the right colour, they can look identical to traditional jods or breeches in the ring.

If you're unsure, check the schedule before the day.

Mistakes I See All the Time

The biggest one? Buying everything too big.

Parents often buy oversized jackets and breeches hoping they'll last a few extra years, but loose clothing affects both comfort and presentation.

Other common mistakes include:

* Dirty boots or tack
* Wrinkled shirts
* Loose hair
* Forgetting gloves
* Bright accessories that distract from the horse

Remember, Horse Showing is all about creating a polished overall picture.

Questions I'm Asked All the Time

Can I wear a black jacket?

Absolutely. Black is perfectly acceptable, but navy is still the most versatile choice if you're only buying one.

Can I wear black breeches?

NO! Stick with beige, cream, canary or old gold.

Do I need gloves?

I wouldn't enter the ring without them. They improve your grip and finish off your outfit.

What should I wear to my first show?

Keep it simple:

* Approved helmet
* Competition shirt
* Navy show jacket
* Beige or cream breeches or jodhpurs
* Polished boots
* Gloves
* Hair neatly secured

A neat, well-fitted outfit always looks more professional than an expensive one that doesn't fit.

My Hot Tips:

⭐ Keep your competition clothes covered until it's time to compete. A pair of coveralls is a lifesaver when you're waiting around the showgrounds.

⭐ If you're only buying one jacket, make it navy. You'll never regret it.

⭐ Ride every corner as if the judge is standing there. The best show riders know that classes are often won in the corners, not on the long sides.