Be Competition Ready!

With the eventing season upon us, it is an exciting time for those set to hit the start box. It has been a labour of love to get to this point, so you will want to make sure you look and feel the part on competition day. After all, you are more likely to impress the judges if you unite fashion and functionality, ensuring you are comfortable, as well as oozing style and sophistication.

With every British Eventing competition, there are rules to be followed concerning the correct competition dress. The rider’s turnout for dressage and show-jumping is based on traditional hunting attire, with modifications depending on the level at which you are competing. In general terms, every competition rider will require a pair of riding boots, a body protector, and a safety hat.

We pride ourselves on our great selection of competition wear here at Equine Essentials Direct. One of our most popular products is the customised Samshield helmet, which is made to every customer’s own specific measurements and available in a choice of four beautiful shell colours. We are also a specialist stockist of the classic leather DeNiro riding boots. Made from soft, textured calfskin ‘quick’ leather, these lovely boots will adapt to the shape of your leg to provide the perfect fit. Our customers regularly tell us how much they love these comfy riding boots, complete with a cushioned sole for extra attention to detail.

When it comes to dressage and show-jumping eventing, you will typically need to wear a black or dark blue tailcoat, a white tie, a white competition shirt, and white breeches. If you search ‘competition wear’ on our website, you will see that we stock a wide range of items to complete your competition look from brands including LeMieux, Dublin and Shires. If you are unable to find what you are looking for, please let us know, as our friendly team is always happy to help.

Cross-country competitions are generally a little more relaxed, with rules stipulating that riders wear a long-sleeved sweater and light-coloured breeches. Whether you are shopping for men, women or children, you will find everything you need here at Equine Essentials Direct in one fell swoop, plus gorgeous accessories such as leather riding gloves, which are mandatory for all types of competition.

Plus, that’s not forgetting your pride of joy! You will want to make sure that your horse is well-groomed, with many competitions requiring you to plait the mane, bridle path and tail. We provide an extensive range of grooming products to assist with your competition preparation including shampoos, combs and brushes, hoof care oils, coat shine and conditions sprays, plaiting bands, stain removers, and much more.

Keep your nerves at bay by getting yourself organised before the day of the competition. You could even plait your horse the night before to save time on the morning of the big event. Ensure all your equipment is clean and tidy, and it is in sound working order, as you don’t want any surprises on the day itself. Plus, give yourself enough time to get dressed because if you are happy with your appearance, you will ultimately feel more confident when the time comes.

Once your checklist is complete, our best advice is to have fun! There is no point in put yourself through a riding competition if you don’t enjoy it. A lot of customers describe their eventing experiences as nerve-wracking but thrilling at the same time. We just know you are sure to have the best day.

Last but not least, good luck! We would love to hear how you get on, so do keep us posted!

To view our complete competition wear collection