English riding advice needed!

[sgttibbs521]

So, I'm going to start showing English in Paint shows and maybe other shows. Now I've ridden english before and know all the basics of riding, but what I need help with is the "proper" attire/what to wear. I know that you need breeches, field boots (?), jacket, helmet, etc...What do you guys recommend? I know the show ring can be pretty competitive (I've shown APHA western). HHHEELLLLPPP!!! :p

[Blue]

Jacket (not too tight, but not really loose either!)
Button up shirt with collar
Gloves
Breeches (I think the Khaki ones look best)
Tall boots or Paddock boots with leather Half Chaps
Certified Helmet (velvet cover is okay)
Hair Net Clip thingy

[Palogal]

yeah, what she said, I'd go with a short sleeved shirt since you're wearing a jacket anyway. See you in Ft Worth!

[MNHorsegal]

You do not want to show in half chaps. half chaps are for the schooling ring :)

Make sure your collar is clean, your helmet fits well, and your boots are polished. Also, you will need to use the same tail you use for WP, if you show WP.


wait wait.... are you showing Hunter under saddle? Or actually Hunter, over fences? Makes a huge difference.

[WashingtonBay]

Lots of subtle differences, and the breed shows are different yet.

Best bet is to go to a show and look real close at what the winners are doing, from head to toe.

[HeartofSteel]

Don't forget a stock pin :D

[sgttibbs521]

You do not want to show in half chaps. half chaps are for the schooling ring :)

Make sure your collar is clean, your helmet fits well, and your boots are polished. Also, you will need to use the same tail you use for WP, if you show WP.


wait wait.... are you showing Hunter under saddle? Or actually Hunter, over fences? Makes a huge difference.

just the regular flat work (i don't know all the correct terms for english :huh:), nothing with jumping or stuff like that....just english pleasure, pattern classes, etc...

[Mandzanita]

From the hunter shows I've done this would be my list of what I think is proper attire: (some things are just added to make you stand out from the crowd)

YOU:

*Properly-Fitted Hunt Coat-- classic colors like black, navy, gray, brown are a safe choice

*Long-sleaved show shirt with matching collar--one that accents the coat's color nicely and to add a little more you can get your collar monogrammed or get a pretty pin.

*Black Leather Gloves

*Black Velvet Helmet-not sun bleached or covered or plastic

*Tan/Olive/Rust breaches-most wear Taylored Sportsmen or Pytchley

*Tall Black Field Boots that come up to you knee

*Hair pinned neatly back--most wear hair nets

*Tiny stud earings and a classy amount of make-up---just to add some polish to your appearance



YOUR HORSE:

*Close Contact Saddle-nicely cleaned and oiled, brown tack is usually best.

*White Fleace Fitted Pad-A brand new one always looks best and just ONE pad is best.

*Matching English Girth--can be just be plain leather or fleece lined, it's frowned upon to have a fleece cover.

*Bridle that matches your saddle with simple bit--full cheak or D ring is most popular. Keep the bridle as simple looking as possible, no flashes, rhinestones or other gadgets.

*Braided mane ALWAYS gives the ultra classy look.

*Tail braiding is option, red ribbon if your horse is known to kick.

*No boots or wraps of anykind

*Hoof Polish

*Baby Oil around eyes and muzzle---clip everything up nicely...ears too if your horse allows it.

****Make sure everything is as neat, well fitted and CLEAN/SHINY as possible!!

[rums_mom]

What size do you wear? My daughter has a nice hunt show coat that she is about grown out of, some breeches (black and white ones, I think), and Emerson tall boot that do not fit her.

I still see some riders wearing the hair net clips with bows but for the most part they are not in style anymore.
My daughter events now but depending on what college she gets into, she may be getting back into H/J.

[sgttibbs521]

Thanks Mandzanita for all the info! Thanks everyone! you are all soo helpful! If there' s anything else, let me know!