Show Jumping Competition Outfit Guide

Everything You Need to Know Before You Enter the Ring

There's nothing quite like the buzz of Show Jumping. Whether you're heading to your first 60cm class, competing at Pony Club or chasing bigger tracks, the right competition outfit should let you focus on your round, not on adjusting your clothes.

Over the years I've worked with plenty of Show Jumping riders, and one thing they all agree on is this: your competition clothing needs to move with you. Comfort, stretch and breathability are just as important as looking polished.

Let's get you ready to jump.

Your Show Jumping Checklist

For most Australian competitions you'll need:

✔ EA-approved riding helmet - check the rules our here

✔ Competition shirt

✔ Competition jacket

✔ White or off-white breeches, jodhpurs or competition riding tights

✔ Tall riding boots (or approved short boots where permitted)

✔ Gloves

✔ Hair neatly secured

✔ Correctly fitted tack

Always check the latest EA rules or your event schedule before competing.

Choosing Your Competition Jacket

Your jacket should look smart, but more importantly, it should let you ride without feeling restricted.

Navy and black are still the most popular colours, but Show Jumping has become much more relaxed when it comes to expressing your personality. Coloured jackets are becoming increasingly popular, provided they comply with competition rules.

Our youth SOL Show Jackets were designed with Show Jumpers in mind. They're lightweight, breathable and stretchy, with a perforated back panel and concealed front zip, so you can move freely without compromising on presentation.

Breeches, Jodhpurs or Riding Tights?

Unlike some disciplines, competition riding tights are now widely accepted in Show Jumping and have become incredibly popular.

Most riders choose white or off-white, whether they're wearing breeches, jodhpurs or competition tights.

Our Rosette Breeches have become a customer favourite because the darker full seat creates a flattering silhouette, disguises dirt and gives riders a little extra confidence without taking away from the traditional competition look.

The most important thing is choosing something that fits well, stays in place and lets you move freely over every fence.

Competition Shirts

A competition shirt should keep you cool while looking smart under your jacket.

Technical fabrics make a huge difference, especially during Australian summers. Look for shirts with:

* Moisture-wicking fabric
* Four-way stretch
* Breathable mesh panels
* UV protection

Our youth SOL Aero-Flex Competition Shirt ticks all those boxes and is designed for long days at competitions.

Boots, Gloves & Hair

The finishing touches matter.

* Tall boots are the most popular choice
* Younger riders often compete in approved short boots.
* Gloves improve your grip and complete your competition outfit.
* Hair should be neatly secured, usually in a bun or hair net & decorative scrunchie

Simple, tidy presentation always looks professional.

What About Safety Vests

Safety vests aren't compulsory for most Show Jumping competitions, but many riders choose to wear one, particularly when training or jumping bigger tracks.

Modern vests are much lighter than they used to be and offer excellent protection without restricting your movement.

Mistakes I See All the Time

One of the biggest mistakes riders make is buying clothing that's too big so they'll "grow into it."

Competition clothing should fit properly. Oversized jackets, breeches and shirts can feel uncomfortable, affect your position and simply don't look as polished.

Other common mistakes include:

* Dirty boots
* Wrinkled shirts
* Forgetting gloves
* Heavy fabrics in summer
* Helmets that don't fit correctly

Questions I'm Asked All the Time

Can I wear riding tights?

Absolutely. Competition riding tights are now worn at every level, from Pony Club through to FEI competition.

Can I wear black breeches?

For official competitions, white or off-white remains the traditional choice.

Do I need a show jacket?

Usually yes, unless a heat policy has been announced for your competition.

Should I choose a navy or coloured jacket?

If it's your first competition jacket, I'd still recommend navy because you'll wear it across multiple disciplines.

But if you're looking to show a little personality, Show Jumping is definitely the discipline where coloured jackets feel right at home. Life's too short not to have a little fun!

My Hot Tip:

One of the best pieces of advice I heard a highly accredited jumping coach use was:

Never ride the fence you're jumping. Ride the one after it.

The best Show Jumping riders are always thinking ahead. As your horse lands over one fence, your eyes should already be looking towards the next line, turn or distance. Planning ahead creates smoother rounds, better rhythm and gives your horse the confidence to jump cleanly.

Final Thoughts

Show Jumping is fast, exciting and full of adrenaline, but presentation still matters.

Choose competition clothing that's comfortable, lightweight and designed to move with you. When your outfit fits well and feels good, you can stop thinking about what you're wearing and concentrate on riding your best round.

And that's exactly how it should be.