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Clothing for Equestrian competition is as much about functionality as it is for display. It is meant to be comfortable, practical and safe. Basic competition clothing for equestrian events involves the wearing of a suitable hat to protect the head; a jacket and waistcoat to provide body safety for the torso; and boots, breeches and jodhpurs to take care of the legs and feet. However, clothing can differ for different events. This can range from a tweed hacking jacket to a black, blue, green or red show jacket for showing, show jumping, dressage and eventing; or top hat and tails for dressage and top level eventing. The jackets you wear will also depend on the level you have reached for the sports event in which you intend to participate. Equestrian competition includes different events and demands different skills from the riders.

Hence competition clothing is also of various kinds suitable for each event.

Riding hat or Helmet

A riding hat or helmet is the most important part of competition clothing. It protects the rider when falling. A riding hat has a strong shield and a soft lining for absorbing shocks in falls. It is advised to wear the hat not only for riding but also for training the horse. Hats should be replaced at least every three or four years. This is because its capacity to safeguard the head it is worn upon reduces with use. Riding hats are of two kinds: Classic velvet hat with a hard peak, which is traditional and is available in different colours like brown, black or navy blue. Jockey cap with no peak, which is also known as a skull cap. This was first worn by jockeys in the sport of horse racing but is also becoming popular for leisure and equestrian competition.