English Riding Apparel, and the correct attire.

ENGLISH RIDING APPAREL STANDARDS

English riding apparel is perhaps a bit more conservative than Western, and for sure is more formal; often based on long tradition. Such attire also is geared to the demands of specific performance, such as show horse classes in the ring, to hunting, jumping, eventing, dressage, and endurance. There is also proper attire for driving. While requirements for this or that class can vary of course, and in some instances. daytime can vary from night attire, safely is paramount for all riders, so our business section ads will include helmets and boots with a proper heel to keep feet from sliding through English stirrups.

English riding apparel is always suitable for specific classes or events and is on the whole, attire that complements the horse and does not distract from the performance of the horse. Riders with long hair always pull the hair backward and secure it neatly. Females frequently use a neat bun, and hair nets are recommended.

While class or event requirements may vary somewhat there are a few general guidelines.

ENGLISH RIDING APPAREL FOR THE HUNTER, JUMPER & DRESSAGE COMPETITION

For the Hunter, helmets are a must. Coasts are conservative in color and jodhpurs are light in color. Shirts are white or pastel with a white stock tie or choker. Hunt boots are tall and black.

For the Jumper, the attire is basically the same as that of the Hunter, with light or white breeches, but the coat is black or scarlet in FEI classes.

In the beginning levels or lower levels of Dressage, a hunt cap, bowler or derby hat and black gloves is standard, along with the usual black hunt books with dressage tops. Spurs are optional. The breeches are white and the hunt coat, black. Shirts are white with a white stock tie or choker. Upper levels, or FEI level, sees a formal coat with tails. The hat is a top hat. The gloves are white. Spurs become mandatory. All else is the same as is worn in the lower levels of competition.

ENGLISH RIDING APPAREL FOR SADDLE SEAT RIDING

Various breeds have slightly different requirements, but jodhpurs and coat is mandatory, with dark jodhpur boots. Colors of fabric have traditionally been laid back, but these days color in the coat is not only acceptable but often seen, although the traditional solid color riding habit is most standard. Vests, or the three piece suit is the norm. A Derby is the hat of choice for females during daytime classes with the more formal top hat used at night. Dark gloves are used during the day and if wearing a formal suit at night, the gloves are white. Evening or formal riding habits always use a white shirt. Spurs are always optional. Whips and crops are optional except for some equitation classes. Boutonnieres are often worn on coats. Tie downs to keep jodphurs down, and neat looking are both standard and functional.


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