What is Horse Riding Gear?

Riding gear is what we call horseback riding apparel or clothing that's appropriate to the activity. These are things that the rider would wear, not the horse. Roughly speaking, you can think of riding gear as falling into two broad categories by style: English riding gear and Western riding gear. It also falls into two broad categories by function, horse show riding gear and casual riding clothes. Since casual riding doesn't have to follow any clothing style rules, riders will be found wearing just about anything that's comfortable. This website therefore concentrates on the specific riding apparel that is required for English and Western competition riding.

There are different guidelines for clothing depending on whether the event is for English or Western riding. Within those broad categories, each class has its own requirements for appropriate attire. An jumping class requires very different clothing than a Saddleseat equitation class, even though both are forms of English riding. A Western Pleasure class has different clothing requirements than Barrel racing.

The time of day also makes a difference. Generally, evening classes are more formal than daytime classes. Standard horse show classes will vary from games classes. The type of event and what organization is sponsoring or sanctioning the event will dictate what horse riding gear is appropriate for their events. They will have this information available to exhibitors in hard copy as well as on the web, so it's a good idea to get a copy of the rule book. National horse show clubs, breed clubs, local youth clubs and others all have rules and standard that need to be followed, although many will adopt a national standard to make it easier on exhibitors. Probably the best source of information on what is and isn't appropriate is from someone who's experienced in showing horses. This could be a private instructor, teaching staff at the stable, club leaders and others.

The horse show world is fun, challenging, exhausting, and exhilerating even if you never plan an international horse show career. As you've probably figured out, it is also expensive! We recognize that not everyone can afford brand new horse show clothes, so we've set up this site to provide you with options for both new and used English and Western show clothes and accessories. Here, you'll also be able to get exactly the right riding gear for your event and your budget.