Equestrian clothing, also known as equestrian attire or riding outfits, is an array of clothes and accessories designed specifically for use when horseback riding. It takes into account the unique history of the sport, the physical demands of the rider and varies widely from discipline to discipline. From the traditional breeches or jodhpurs worn by upper-level dressage riders to the decorative yokes and paisley wallpaper prints of Western riding, there is no shortage of fashion inspiration for this highly sought after wardrobe.
It’s not just high couture designers tapping into the natural, country elegance of equestrianism either; the humble saddle, whip and spur have all played their part in fashion trends. Ralph Lauren, in particular, is perhaps the name that springs to mind, with their women’s fashion range essentially having its heart rooted in the horsey world.
Riding apparel is incredibly diverse, with each discipline having its own specific requirements for riders to follow in order to keep themselves and their horses safe. For example, when competing in dressage, the standard attire is a plain black or navy riding jacket, with a pair of dark boots and a white stock tie. In addition to this, it is important for equestrians to wear correctly fitting pants and shirts when riding. Loose clothing can easily get tangled in the horse’s mane and legs and can cause uncomfortable chafing for both the rider and their mount.
In addition to this, it is also advisable for riders to wear gloves and a helmet to protect themselves in the event of an accident. This is a very important piece of safety equipment that can be bought from any reputable tack store.
Despite popular belief, it is generally not recommended to wear shorts while riding. This is because the friction from bare skin can cause discomfort for both the horse and the rider, and it can also lead to splinters being kicked up by the horses hooves as they are moved along. It is much safer for the rider to be dressed in long trousers, which will provide a good amount of protection from chafing and pinches from the saddle.
In addition to pants and shirts, many equestrians prefer to pair their breeches or jodhpurs with paddock boots and half chaps. This provides extra grip for the leg and is particularly useful in winter, when the cold temperatures can make it difficult to maintain a steady gait. The addition of the half chaps helps to prevent snow or mud from getting into the shoes and socks, which can quickly cause discomfort and could potentially lead to infections for both the rider and their mount. Riding boots are usually made from leather and come in a variety of different styles, from paddock boots to tall boots. Paddock boots are typically the most popular choice for new or young equestrians, while tall boots tend to be preferred by older, more experienced riders. This is because the extra height of the boots can help to give a more comfortable fit.