Equine clothing is right up your alley if you are a serious horse rider, or if you just wish to have that horseback rider look in your wardrobe choices. When deciding what apparel to use, the criteria are functionality and style because the horse rider must feel both graceful and comfortable at the same time. It is also essential that the cloths used are both light and hard-wearing at the same time so to begin off, choose a cool fabric that provides ease of motion.
The more common kinds of cloth used for equestrian apparel is cotton fiber and Lycra but choose a fabric that also acts as a moisture wick. This type of material works well in both hot and cold temperature ranges. In the heat the material will keep you cool by letting you sweat and when it’s cold it will help you stay warm by keeping perspiration off of your body and leaving your skin dry. This cloth prevents the moisture from getting in too deep, which allows the material to dry fast. On top of that, you can pick out materials and fabric weaves that lower the absorption of moisture and repel bugs and ultraviolet rays. So, what all types of equestrian dress are there?
The basic piece is a shirt, normally made of cotton or wool crepe, and is generally white and then you can add a waistcoat or vest to match. For the lower body, breeches and jodhpurs are the more popular pieces although some prefer full-seat horseback riding breeches, there are still those who like jeans and jodhpurs. Ensure the piece fits you and pick one out that protects from rain and wind. Don’t forget the matching riding gloves! Tall horseback riding boots look great for shows and contests, but trouser socks, worn with a short boot are better for training days. To finish the look is a horseback riding jacket, preferably one made of luxurious cloths like tweed so take note of details like silk lining or double satin piping, buttons and trims.
Most riders use equestrian helmets for head gear, but there are some others who like black silk top hats even though the equestrian helmets now include easy-fit system features that make them safer to use. With equestrian garments, specifically horse riding helmets, the current style is to individualize by using stickers or crystals and use of subtle and light colors of blues, greens, purples and pinks. This is also the same of show breeches with a light tan, though white remains fashionable. Equine garments show coats and dressage coats can be any color. Lighter shades of brown and khaki are very popular apparel colors, but trendier clothes lean more toward the darker shades of navy or even black. You can also see stripes and patterns in the coats instead of the plain, solid-colored ones.
Paddock boots and half chaps are quite functional and therefore favored by those into serious training, but tall leather boots with back zippers for simple removability are very popular for shows. Finding equestrian dress that is perfectly suited to you should be easy, with the vast array of fashionable, stylish apparel available today.