What to Wear for Show Jumping

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 Tri Factor Grip Full Seat Breech comes in a range of neutral tones, so you can pair your breeches to the rest of your show outfit with ease. These breeches are also packed with technology to aid when you ride, including ClimateTEK™ which responds to your body temperature to keep you cool, Moisture Movement Technology™ to wick moisture away from the skin and Full Seat Ariat® silicone grip to keep you secure in the saddle throughout your show. 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 your breeches with a white show shirt for a sleek head to toe look. Our range of white show shirts, both long sleeved and short sleeved, means you can choose how much movement you want within your top without breaking regulations. 

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. To finish off your look, we recommend a chic pair of tall riding boots. Our Palisade Dress Tall Riding Boot is an ideal choice for showjumping, as they offer an enhanced look whilst also boasting technology that aids in keeping you supported and stable throughout your ride.  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.