You’ve put in the hours, worked hard in the saddle, and now it’s time for your first horse show! One of the most important steps to feeling confident in the ring is making sure you’re dressed appropriately for your class. This guide focuses specifically on what to wear for Hunter/Jumper shows, so you and your horse can step into the ring looking polished, professional, and ready to shine.

Horse Show Apparel and Accessories

Riding Helmet: Your helmet should first and foremost meet the current safety standards. Look for a label indicating it is ASTM F1163-15/SEI Certified, and most importantly, make sure it fits properly. A well-fitting helmet should sit snugly, fasten securely, allow a clear line of vision, and stay in place without shifting.

When it comes to style, opt for a simple design in black or dark blue. If you’re showing in Hunters or Equitation, a matte or suede finish is preferred for a traditional look. If you’re competing in the Jumper division, you have more flexibility and can consider a glossy finish or tasteful crystal embellishments.

Example: Tipperary Royal Helmet

Show Shirt: Any comfortable shirt that allows freedom of movement can work for riding, but show shirts are specifically designed with performance fabrics that offer added benefits. These lightweight materials wick sweat, provide breathability, stretch easily, and often include cooling technology or mesh inserts. Many also offer UV protection, helping to shield your skin from the sun.

Show shirts are designed with a formal collar, which may button or feature a hidden-style zipper, to create a clean, polished look when worn under a show coat.

For Hunter and Equitation classes, your show shirt should be white or a very subtle color where it is visible under your coat. Traditional show shirts are long-sleeved, but in warm weather, short sleeves may be acceptable—just be cautious. If jackets are waived due to heat, you may end up showing in just your shirt, so plan ahead as showing in short sleeves alone is not preferred.

In the Jumper division, there’s more flexibility. You can opt for a brighter-colored show shirt, and depending on the class specifications and your trainer’s preference, a jacket may not be required.

Example: IconEQ Showtime Long Sleeve Show Shirt

Jodhpurs: Jodhpurs are the traditional choice for young riders (generally 12 and under) for hunter and equitation classes. Paired with paddock boots and garter straps, create an age appropriate and comfortable look that the judges expect at horse shows. They are designed with an elastic strap that goes under the boot to keep them in place and a knee patch for grip and protection from the stirrup leather.

Example:  IconEQ Girls’ Wellesley Competition Jodhpur

Breeches: For riders over the age of 12, breeches are the appropriate choice for the show ring. The color is typically tan or white depending on your discipline and class. Look for breeches with reinforced or grippy knee patches, which provide added stability and support in the saddle. Your show shirt should be neatly tucked in and paired with a belt for a polished, ring-ready appearance.

Example:  IconEQ Dalton Tech Legacy Knee-Patch Breech

Show Coats: Choosing a show coat for you or your child’s first horse show is an exciting milestone! The most important factor is fit. A tailored coat helps achieve a polished look and makes the rider feel confident. For children, consider leaving a bit of room to grow; many brands offer adjustable features to extend wear. It’s also important to consider fabric; some coats offer no stretch, while others are designed with performance materials for added comfort. This often comes down to personal preference and the season or weather. Whether for a child or adult, be sure to stick to classic colors like navy, black, dark grey, or green, which are always appropriate for hunters and equitation. If you or your child is showing in the jumper ring, there’s more flexibility with color and style. Always check with your trainer for their preferences and guidance.

Examples:  RJ Classics Girls Hampton Basic Show Coat

Examples:  Kerrits® Ladies Stretch Competitor Koat

Riding Boots

Paddock Boots: Children about 12 years or younger should wear paddock boots and garters. The heel is a safety measure that helps prevent a foot from sliding through a stirrup. The boot or riding shoe should preferably be made of leather or synthetic leather (as opposed rubber) for overall foot protection. Zip- or lace-front paddock boots are an acceptable choice for showing. You may chose either brown or black as long as the garters match.

Garters: Leather Jodhpur Garter Straps complete a show ensemble in classic style. Use of garter straps helps keep the legs of jodhpur pants in place as well as protect the inside of the knee from rubbing against the stirrup leather while riding.

Example: Riding Sport™ Kids’ Provenance Zip Paddock Boots

Example: Leather Jodphur Garters

Tall Boots: Your boots are an essential part of your show apparel, offering both practical benefits and traditional style. Tall boots are the formal choice for the hunter, jumper, and equitation rings. A field boot has laces and is the traditional choice for the hunter ring while a dress boot has no laces and are often seen more in the jumper and equitation ring. Tall boots provide important ankle support, protect the leg from stirrup leathers, and the structured heel helps prevent your foot from slipping through the iron. Be sure your boots are clean and polished to maintain a professional appearance in the show ring.

Example: Ariat Heritage Contour II Field Boots

Pro Tip: Invest in comfortable, well-fitting apparel rather than focusing solely on the most “popular” brand. A proper fit will help you look polished—and more importantly, ride your best. Ill-fitting clothing, helmets, or boots can be distracting and uncomfortable, taking your focus away from your performance in the ring.

Additional Horse Show Accessories

Riding Gloves: Thin and stretchy, riding gloves protect your hands from friction caused by the reins. Key contact areas are reinforced for added durability and grip. For the show ring, choose black or navy gloves that match your show coat to create a streamlined look from your arm to the reins. This subtle coordination helps achieve a more polished and professional appearance.

Example:  SSG® Soft Touch™ Glove

Hair Bows: Pony bows are part of the classic show ring look for young riders. Paired with two low braids they help create a neat, and age-appropriate fun look for the leadline, short stirrup, walk-trot and other pony divisions. They come in various colors and styles and allow the rider to match their outfit and show a subtle touch of personality. 

Example: Belle and Bow Equestrian Hair Bows

Hair Net: A hair net helps keep all of your hair neatly tucked inside your helmet. Not only does it prevent distractions from flyaways and hair in your face, but it also creates a polished, professional look in the show ring. Hair nets are made from stretchy, durable elastic and come in a variety of colors to match your hair for a seamless appearance.

Example:  One Knot Hairnet

Pro Tip: Invest in comfortable, well-fitting apparel rather than focusing solely on the most “popular” brand. A proper fit will give you that polished look and more importantly, help you ride your best. Ill-fitting clothing, helmets, or boots can be distracting and uncomfortable, taking your focus away from your performance in the ring.

Shop our entire selection of show apparel here.

If you have any questions on fitting you or your young rider with show apparel, we’re here to help. We’re particularly careful about helmet fit. We also take pride in offering starter items at a great value, perfect for growing riders or those just getting introduced to equestrian sports. Stop by any of our Dover Saddlery retail locations or give us a call! On our website, our Equestrian Library is also a great free resource of information.

Share your show photos with us on Instagram and Facebook by tagging @doversaddlery!

Written by Aurora Sochan, CVT, VTS-EVN, CERP

Human athletic trainers have long recognized the value of cross-training to boost performance and reduce the risk of injury and the same principles can be applied to our equine athletes. Equestrian cross-training involves incorporating a variety of exercises and disciplines into a horse’s routine to build overall athleticism, enhance performance, and support long-term soundness. By diversifying their work through activities like pole exercises, trail rides, or introducing new disciplines, horses develop greater strength, balance, coordination, and mental engagement. This well-rounded approach helps keep them fit, focused, and more enthusiastic about their job.

Benefits of cross-training:

1. Reduction of Repetitive Strain Injuries

Many common injuries of the athletic horse are due to cumulative micro-trauma to soft tissue structures, bone and joints. This is typically due to the repetitive nature of training for one discipline. Adding some cross-training elements changes what structures are absorbing the most load, decreasing the risk that this micro-trauma will manifest as significant injury.

2. Fitness

Fitness comes in many forms. A thoughtful approach is necessary to ensure that all categories of fitness are being addressed. The training of an event horse exemplifies the need for a multi-faceted approach. Dressage training represents muscular strength while stadium jumping represents speed and agility. Lastly, these horses benefit from gallop sets and sustained gallop work to represent endurance. Although these training components are standard for event horses, most horses will benefit from this varied approach.

3. Proprioception

Proprioception is the perception of where one’s own body is, in space. Good proprioception is crucial for balance, stability, coordination and minimizing risk of injury. A horse with poor proprioception may be prone to stumbling or tripping. Proprioception can be improved by working in varied terrain/footing, pole exercises or with training tools such as the Equiband system or balance pads.

4. Mental benefit

The best horse/rider partnerships involve both being engaged and enthusiastic about their sport. Any training that is too repetitive can quickly lead to burnout, mentally as well as physically. Taking your show horse on some hacks through the woods can provide much needed relaxation, while simultaneously accomplishing some hill work and varied footing. The dressage horse may enjoy pole or cavaletti exercises, with both mental and physical benefits.

5. Rider benefit

Let’s not forget that one of the single most effective ways that we can help our horse perform better, is through our own riding. We should be challenging ourselves with cross training in the same way as our equine partners. A show jumper working on dressage, for example, can improve the rider’s seat, precision of the aids and feeling of the horse’s own biomechanics. For many of us, adding in some cardio like running or cycling plus strength training at the gym, supplements our workouts in the tack.

To add some cross training elements to your horse’s program, it is important to first consider a few factors:

1. Consider your horse’s discipline. What things does he need to be able to excel in the sport? For example, dressage horses need a high level of hind-end engagement, while jumpers need short bursts of high intensity work.

2. Consider your horse. A 6-year-old thoroughbred and a 17-year-old warmblood may both be capable of performing at the same level, yet their optimal training routines can vary significantly.

3. Consider the strengths and weaknesses. Work with your veterinarian, physiotherapist and trainer to identify what gaps in training need to be filled in. Some may need to work on mobility or suppleness, while others need more stability and strength.

Finding the right cross-training program starts with making small changes and evaluating each horse’s response. Don’t be afraid to add new tools to your toolbox. Lastly, remember to have fun!

Throughout history, horses have played a profound role in human healing, providing physical, emotional, and psychological benefits. Their ability to connect with people has been recognized for centuries, dating back to ancient Greece. Over time, this bond has evolved into structured equine-assisted therapy programs, offering support to individuals facing physical and mental health challenges. But beyond therapy, there is something deeply sacred (human) about the relationship between horses and people—a connection built on trust, empathy, and understanding.

One of the most well-known forms of equine therapy is hippotherapy, which utilizes the movement of the horse to improve balance, coordination, and strength in individuals with disabilities. This practice is widely used in rehabilitation centers and hospitals for patients with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, down syndrome, autism and spinal cord injuries among many others. The rhythmic motion of the horse mimics the human gait, helping riders develop muscle control and stability in a way that traditional therapy cannot replicate. More than just a treatment, hippotherapy fosters a connection between horse and rider, allowing individuals to experience not only physical growth but also emotional connection and confidence.

Beyond physical rehabilitation, horses have been instrumental in emotional healing. Equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) helps individuals struggling with PTSD, anxiety, and depression. The presence of a horse provides a non-judgmental and calming environment, allowing patients to build trust, gain confidence, and process emotions in a unique and effective way. Many veterans and trauma survivors have found solace through working with horses, as the connection fosters emotional resilience and personal growth. Horses, in their intuitive nature, seem to sense human emotions, responding with an understanding that is almost human-like. They mirror our feelings, offering silent support in times of need.

All of these experiences not only provide valuable skills but also help people build self-worth and emotional regulation. The deep connection formed through working
with these horses often gives inmates a sense of purpose and belonging, something many have lacked in their lives.

From ancient civilizations to modern therapy programs, the healing power of horses continues to change lives. Whether in hospitals, therapy centers, or correctional facilities, these majestic animals provide companionship, physical support, and emotional healing. As equestrians, no matter in what way, we pour our hearts into our horses, trusting them in ways that go beyond words. They become our partners, our safe haven, and the connection we crave after even the hardest, longest days. There’s a healing that happens just by being in their presence—the quiet understanding in their eyes, the steady rhythm of their breath, the way they ground us when the world feels overwhelming. They don’t just carry us in the arena; they carry our hopes, our struggles, and our unspoken emotion, reminding us that we will always have a place with them that offers infinite support and an unspoken connection.

As the holidays approach, it’s time to find the perfect gift for that special someone in your life—your horse! Sure, they’d be thrilled with a carrot, an apple, and a few extra pats, but it’s the holiday season! Our horses fill our lives with joy all year long, so let’s spoil them with something special this season. Here are some festive and thoughtful holiday gift ideas that are sure to have your horse nickering with cheer!

1. Fleece or Wool Rug

Dress your horse in style this holiday season with a cozy new fleece or wool rug. Kentucky Horsewear and Horseware Ireland offer beautiful, high-quality options that keep your horse warm on chilly days and looking sharp at winter shows. The sophisticated Kentucky Horsewear Show Rug serves as a toasty stable blanket, under rug, or transport blanket, combining warmth with elegance. Another standout choice is the Horseware Ireland Rambo Deluxe Fleece Cooler which has an anti-pill finish to maintain its fresh look. Made of high-quality, double-bonded, moisture-wicking fleece, it has a surcingle front closure, cross belly surcingles and a tail cord to keep it secure. A perfect after ride cooler to help your horse dry comfortably in cold weather. For a personal touch, add embroidery or monogramming!

2. Personalized Halter

Help your horse stand out from the herd with a custom halter! 🎁 Choose from our stylish selection and add a personalized nameplate or halter tag to make it truly theirs. From elegant and durable options to cozy, padded designs, these halters offer comfort and style that will keep your horse looking festive and fabulous all season long. Options like the LeMieux Vogue Halter & Rope Lead Set, Suffolk Leather & Rope Halter with Lead, or Perri’s Padded Leather Halter make for perfect holiday picks.

3. Grooming Tote Essentials

Give the gift of a high-end grooming kit to keep your horse looking fabulous all season! Stock up their grooming tote with premium finishing products like mane and tail conditioners and shine sprays. Try Carr & Day & Martin’s full collection, including Green Spot Remover, Dream Coat Spray, and Canter Mane & Tail Spray. Complete the look with top-notch brushes like the HAAS Diva Exklusiv Brush or the Winner’s Circle Brush Collection. Don’t forget the extras: massage curry mitts, hoof picks, mane trimmers, and soft face brushes for that flawless turnout. Keep everything organized in the stylish new LeMieux Elite Pro Grooming Bag!

4. Embroidered Stocking Full of Treats

Fill a custom holiday stocking with festive treats your horse will love! Think of delicious flavors, nutritious ingredients, and a mix of treats tailored to their taste. It’s a great way to spoil them during the season. Customize a stocking and fill it with sweet classic favorites such as Stud Muffins Horse Treats or Mrs. Pastures Cookies.

5. Preparedness Essentials: First Aid and Care Kits

Prepare your horse for anything by upgrading their trunk with essential first-aid supplies. A fully stocked care kit, complete with wound care and preventive items, is a gift of peace of mind this holiday season. Start with the Creative Pet HorseAid First Aid Kit, a basic equine medical kit that includes a first aid book and essentials like Corona Ointment, cohesive wrap, saline solution, iodine prep pads, surgical scrub brush, scissors, a thermometer, and more.

Consider adding other critical items, like EquiFit AgSilver CleanTalc Maximum Strength. This antimicrobial powder helps treat and prevent scratches, skin irritations, ringworm, thrush, and infections, using silver to inhibit a range of microorganisms.

Discover more perfect gift ideas for your barn bestie, trainer, or any equestrian in your life with our Holiday Gift Guide! Embrace the true joy of the season by sharing special moments with your equine partner. Whether you’re looking for a little something extra or a thoughtful present for everyone on your list, we’ve got you covered.

Happy Holidays – Enjoy The Ride

As winter sets in, proper horse blanketing becomes essential for equestrians looking to keep their horses comfortable and healthy. Knowing how to choose the right blanket weight, understanding warmth qualities, which denier is best for your horse, and how temperature shifts affect which blanket you choose, are all important factors for consideration. Understanding the blanketing why’s are important in making the best decision to ensure your horse is protected from the elements, stays warm, and helps prevent health issues.

Key Factors for Horse Blanketing: Denier and Gram Fill Explained

Horse blankets are crafted with specific denier and gram fill measurements, two crucial elements for warmth and durability. Here’s a breakdown of these metrics:

1. Denier (D) for Horse Blanket Durability

• Definition: Denier measures the strength and thickness of blanket fibers. A higher denier rating means thicker, more durable fabric, ideal for horses that rub or play in turnout.

Common Denier Ratings:

• 600D: Lightweight and less durable, best for stable blankets and horses kept indoors.
• 1200D: Medium durability, suitable for moderate turnout, balancing comfort and protection.
• 1680D: Heavy-duty, designed for horses in turnout prone to rough play or facing harsh winter weather.

2. Gram Fill for Blanket Warmth

• Definition: Gram fill measures the insulation level in the blanket. Higher gram ratings mean greater warmth, similar to the insulation used in jackets for people.

Typical Gram Fill Levels:

• 0g – No insulation (Sheet): Ideal for rainy or windy days to protect your horse from mild elements in temps that don’t require built in warmth.
• 50-100g (Lightweight): Minimal insulation, best for fall days or horses with thick winter coats.
• 150-250g (Medium Weight): Moderate warmth, ideal for winter temperatures that range from mild to cold.
• 300-400g (Heavyweight): High insulation, perfect for extremely cold weather or clipped horses needing extra warmth.

Additional Winter Horse Care Blanketing Tips

When deciding on horse blanket types and weights, consider these important factors:

Living Arrangements: Horses spending most of their time outdoors may require heavier blankets, while those kept indoors will likely need lighter options.

Is Your Horse Clipped? Clipped horses lack the natural insulation provided by their winter coats and generally need additional warmth.

Daily Temperature Monitoring: Checking both morning lows and daily highs ensures you blanket appropriately. It’s safer to keep your horse slightly cooler than too warm, as sweating can cause chills and increase the risk of colic.

Blanket Wizard: Our Dover Saddlery Blanket Wizard will recommend the optimal sheet or blanket for your horse based on key criteria and your local weather forecast. Find your local recommendations here: Dover Saddlery Blanket Wizard

Combining the right blanket weight, gram fill, denier, and paying close attention to daily temperatures can help you blanket your horse effectively all winter long. Use our temperature-based blanketing chart for quick guidance on choosing the best blanket to keep your horse warm and comfortable.

What does your horse’s wardrobe look like? Do you have a favorite blanket with a fun print? Share your photos with us on Instagram and Facebook by tagging @doversaddlery!

Peacock fillis irons have been the longtime standby in safety stirrups for English riding disciplines. These stainless steel stirrups feature a branch composed of an elastic band and a leather tab which together are intended to release a rider’s foot during a fall. Design innovations have given riders alternatives to the rubber-band-and-leather-tab breakaway feature. For riders desiring safety stirrups with a streamlined and discreet release feature or those that are much lighter in weight, the next generation of safety stirrups has arrived. And here are our current top sellers!

LeMieux^® Vector Control Stirrups

Weighing only about a quarter of a pound, this technical stirrup is machined from aviation grade aluminum to achieve an impressive strength-to-weight ratio. An integrated, spring-loaded safety arm boasts a two-stage release system that prevents unintentional opening. This safety arm locks into the base of the main frame. Under maximum pressure as when landing a fence, the rider’s weight is spread evenly across the stirrup and the safety arm remains closed. When pressure is put onto the safety arm, as during a fall, it is designed to release.

This stirrup also has an ergonomic and exceptionally grippy foot surface. The apex of the frame is recessed and offset to encourage a 45° outward orientation. This design promotes an optimal foot angle and makes regaining a lost stirrup easy.

Flex-On^® Safe-On Inclined Ultra Grip Stirrups
This stirrup is made of environmentally friendly composite material over a spring steel frame. A flexible outer branch is designed to release the rider’s foot in the event of a fall at 40kg (approximately 88 pounds) of force. If the outer branch release triggers, it is easily snapped back into place with no replacement parts necessary.

In addition to the quick-release feature, this ergonomic design has shock-absorbing elastomers that help alleviate joint fatigue in the rider. The inclined tread grips the bottom of the rider’s boot while promoting proper foot positioning and optimal riding posture. The pair weighs only about two pounds.

Herm Sprenger^® Aero Stirrups
Developed and precision-manufactured in Germany, this stirrup is designed to release a rider’s foot in the event of a fall by opening under foot pressure. The lateral movable element allows the foot to be released sideways, upward, forward or backward—all in a design that sets new standards.

This stirrup offers riders great support with an extra-wide, fiberglass-reinforced tread to which stainless steel spikes can be added. The tread is inclined 5° to help support the stability of the rider’s thigh and to increase comfort. Because the stirrup follows the natural curve of the rider’s leg, it aids leg positioning. A replaceable plastic stirrup pad has a shock-absorbing effect to help protect the rider’s joints and ligaments.

The angled and twisted stirrup-leather eyelet makes the Aero optimally balanced and easier to pick up. It also brings the rider’s leg closer to the horse. Aluminum of the type used in the aerospace industry ensures a long lifespan and a breaking load of over 1,600 kilograms.

With thoughts of safety, check out these quick-release stirrups and more here!

Are you riding in safety stirrups that you love? Share your photos with us on Instagram and Facebook by tagging @doversaddlery!

Whether you’re already a fan of Samshield helmets or you’d like to try something new, the Samshield 2.0 Helmet offers notable advances you’ll want to consider. The revolutionary, original Samshield helmet gave riders unprecedented comfort and elegance. The unique design eliminated pressure on the rider’s forehead, provided amazing—yet discreet—airflow and offered a sophisticated look appropriate for any ring.

Now, based on two decades of experience and four years in research and development, the enhanced design of the Samshield 2.0 Helmet delivers even more: ultimate safety, optimum airflow and unrivaled comfort.

Ultimate Safety

The 2.0 Helmet is designed in collaboration with professional riders and made from premium materials to deliver new standards in protection.

• Polycarbonate used in the shell is the same material used for elite motorcycle helmets.
• Inner shell is made of variable-density polystyrene to provide optimal dissipation of impact energy.
• Liner (removable and washable) has a much stronger clip system than hook-and-loop varieties.
• Memory foam in the liner maintains a perfect fit, ensuring constant thickness over years of use.
• Semi-rigid chin strap eliminates any risk of the helmet tipping over in the event of violent movement.
• Meets current safety standards: CE EN1384-17 and ASTM/SEI 2023 certifications.

Optimum Airflow

An innovative six-point ventilation system draws fresh air discreetly into the front of the helmet, through the shell, and pushes warm air out the back. The design keeps air moving over the rider’s head, yet the subtle vents maintain a polished look on the exterior of the helmet.

Unrivaled Comfort
In addition to the exceptional airflow for cooling, the 2.0 Helmet feels comfortable in any ride.

• Thermoregulatory materials in the liner help manage heat and moisture.
• Memory foam in the liner provides cushioning.
• A new, integrated chin strap works well with all hair styles and allows a perfect fit even in the presence of a hair bun.
• The liner is washable and replaceable, giving you the opportunity to maintain a hygienic helmet.

Extended Sizes

The 2.0 range brings great news for riders who struggle to find larger sized helmets. An extra-large size shell is available and covers sizes 61XL (7⁵/₈), 62 (7¾), 63 (7⁷/₈) and 64 (8).

Browse the new Samshield 2.0 Helmets, offered in Shadowmatt and Miss Shield styles.

Already a Samshield fan? Share your photos with us on Instagram and Facebook by tagging @doversaddlery!