Equine Competition Clothes: What to Wear for Events & Shows

When it comes to equestrian competitions, wearing the right attire isn’t just about looking the part — it’s about meeting safety standards, respecting tradition, and performing comfortably. Whether you’re preparing for your first local show or a high-level eventing competition, having the correct equestrian competition clothing is essential. Let’s break down the must-have items for different disciplines, along with the key UK safety regulations to keep in mind. 

1. Riding Hats: Safety First 

A properly fitted, safety-compliant riding hat is the most important piece of show riding wear you’ll own. In the UK, different disciplines require hats to meet specific safety standards. As of 2025, these include: 

• PAS 015 (2011) 

• VG1 01.040 (2014-12) 

• ASTM F1163 (2004a or 2015) 

• SNELL E2016 

• AS/NZS 3838 (2006) 

For disciplines like show jumping and eventing, fixed peak hats are discouraged (and even banned for the cross-country phase) due to the risk of rotational injuries if the rider was to land on the peak and twist their neck. Instead, opt for a skull cap that meets the required safety specifications. 

2. Show Jackets: Style Meets Tradition 

The style of your show jacket depends on the discipline: 

• Show Jumping: Fitted, shorter jackets in traditional black, navy, or grey. 

• Dressage: Longer-cut jackets or tailcoats for advanced levels, typically in darker shades. 

• Eventing: Tailored jackets for dressage and show jumping, with a body protector or air jacket required for cross-country. 

Breathable materials and stretch fabrics are becoming more popular for enhanced comfort without sacrificing the classic look. For high-performance equestrian competition wear, a well-fitting jacket that allows freedom of movement is a must. 

3. Breeches or Jodhpurs: Comfort in the Saddle 

For competitions, light beige, white, or canary breeches are the standard across disciplines. Dressage riders often stick to white for a clean, polished appearance. Look for high-quality, stretch materials that allow freedom of movement while keeping a professional finish — a key part of any equine competition clothes wardrobe. 

4. Boots: Tall and Polished 

Your footwear should provide support, style, and grip in the stirrups. 

• Dressage: Long, sleek dress boots with a stiffer outer shell for leg stability. 

• Show Jumping & Eventing: Either Long leather boots or short jodhpur boots with leather gaiters for flexibility and a close-contact feel. 

It is worth polishing your boots to perfection before each competition as presentation matters. 

5. Shirts and Stocks: Stay Smart and Cool 

Under your jacket, a competition shirt is essential. Many now feature moisture-wicking technology to keep you cool under pressure. 

• Show jumping and eventing: Polo-style or traditional button shirts with a white collar. 

• Dressage: A crisp stock shirt paired with a white stock tie for a classic look. 

6. Body Protectors and Air Jackets: Safety Regulations 

For eventing, a BETA Level 3 body protector (2018) is mandatory for cross-country. Many riders also wear air jackets for additional protection in case of a fall — these jackets inflate before impact to reduce injury. 

Even in non-mandatory disciplines, body protectors, back protectors or air jackets are highly recommended, especially for young or inexperienced riders. 

7. Gloves: Practical and Polished 

Riding Gloves are a must for dressage, where rules require black, white, or cream gloves to complete your outfit. For other disciplines, gloves offer grip and protection while maintaining a smart, professional look — another key part of your equestrian competition clothing setup. 

8. Accessories: Finishing Touches 

• Hairnets: Essential for tidiness, especially in dressage and show jumping. 

• Spurs: Permitted in many disciplines but must be worn correctly and meet specific length regulations. 

• Whips: Show jumping allows a 45cm max whip, while dressage limits whips to 120cm (horses) or 100cm (ponies). 

When it comes to equestrian competition wear, your wardrobe plays a key role in safety, comfort, and presentation. Always check the latest British Eventing (BE), British Showjumping (BS), British Dressage (BD), or Pony Club guidelines before competing — rules can and do change. 

Whether you’re aiming for style, safety, or both, Elite Saddlery has everything you need to build the perfect equine competition clothes collection. From safety-approved helmets to tailored show jackets and competition breeches, you’ll look and feel ready to take on the arena with confidence. 

Ready to gear up for your next event? Explore our equestrian competition clothing collection today – if you’re not sure what you need or can’t find what you’re looking for simply contact us and we’ll do our best to help you.