Learn how to fit cowgirl & cowboy boots. You'll find out how the boots should fit & which toe shape you should choose.
Learn how to fit cowgirl & cowboy boots. You'll find out how the boots should fit & which toe shape you should choose.
Show jumping is renowned for its elegance and style, and so dressing to fit the part is key. There is a stricter dress code for affiliated competitions versus unaffiliated, in most events including show jumping, however, unlike other events, show jumping rules are similar regardless of which class you enter. That is why our guide on what to wear outlines everything you need to know.
What to Wear to an Affiliated Show Jumping Event
When you enter the arena of any affiliated showjumping event, you must be dressed correctly. The British Showjumping rule book will guide you on detailed directives, but the following must be adhered to:
- Jackets: should be traditional style tailored jackets (including hacking jackets, or new style jackets). These must not be in the British Team colours.
- Shirts: may have long or short sleeves with white cuffs and a white collar and must be done up properly at all times.
- Breeches: or jodhpurs should be worn in light colours including white, pale yellow, beige, grey, or fawn, but should not be black or navy.
- Boots: traditional style riding boots must be worn, and although there are some variations, we recommend sticking with classic black tall boots, or black paddock boots paired with black leather ‘gaiters’
- Gloves: are not compulsory but can add an elegant finish to your show jumping outfit.
- Body protectors: are not compulsory but can be worn if preferred.
- Helmet: must be worn at all times, properly fastened and, in the UK, must adhere to PAS 015 (2011), VGI (provided they are BSI kitemarked).
There are some things that are strictly not permitted including:
- Polo neck sweaters
- Chaps
- Half Chaps (unless you are a junior rider)
What to Wear to an Unaffiliated Show Jumping Event
We recommend sticking to the rulebook laid out by the British Showjumping association, however in most cases you’ll find that the dress code is a little more lenient.
What is required is a protective helmet that adheres to the regulations we’ve noted above, but otherwise, you’ll want to dress smartly with a darker jacket and light breeches, a white collared shirt. hair tied back neatly, and wearing traditional footwear.
We’ve styled a sophisticated show jumping outfit for inspiration.
Show Jumping Outfit Guide
Lightly Coloured Breeches
Firstly, we recommend starting your show jumping outfit with a clean and sophisticated base with some lightly coloured breeches. Our favourites right now include the Tri Factor Grace Knee Patch Breech in white. The clever technology paired with the elegant look of these breeches make them perfect for any show event. Riding breeches are unique to every individual though, so take a look at our guide to the best breeches to make sure you’re getting the right fit for you.
White Collared Shirt
Pair those lightly coloured breeches with a sleek white collared and cuffed shirt. The Sunstopper 3.0 Pro Show Shirt is perfect here, but if you’re after an all-white option for the summer months then we recommend the Bellatrix Show Shirt, a sleek addition to your Show wardrobe.
Smart Show Jacket
The jacket is often the star of the show when it comes to show jumping outfits, so it needs to be both stylish and comfortable. This Meridian Show Jacket is one of our favourites and is perfect; it’s sleek finish, elegant notches at the sleeves and hem, and tailored cut will get you looking competition ready, whilst additional features like 360-degree breathability and dynamic body temperature regulation will allow you to ride in comfort.
Traditional Riding Boots
To finish off your look, we recommend a chic pair of tall riding boots. The Palisade Show Tall Riding Boots and the Ravello Tall Riding Boots, crafted in Italy, are our top choices, pairing simple but elegant style with comfort, support, and stability. If you’re still not sure what works best for you, read our guide to the best riding boots.
We know that each discipline can have varying outfit elements, so take a look at our full guide to horse riding competition clothing for more information on riding outfits.
