To really look the part, equestrian dress will give you the look you want, whether for essential horse riding or just show. In choosing what apparel to use, the criteria are functionality and style because the rider must feel both elegant and comfortable at the same time. It is also important that the cloths used are both light and hard-wearing at the same time so to start off, choose a cool cloth that provides ease of movement.
Equine dress is most commonly made of cotton fiber and Lycra cloths which draw moisture away from the skin. This versatile fabric functions well in a range of temperatures. In warmer times, the material keeps temperature low by allowing perspiration, while when colder it keeps warm by keeping sweat away from your body so you stay dry. Because the moisture doesn’t penetrate in the material weave it just evaporates quickly than usual it cause material to dry as quickly as well. As an added bonus, you can choose fabrics and fabric weaves that reduce moisture absorption, repel UV rays and insects - so what pieces of clothing make up equestrian apparel?
The basic piece is a shirt, generally made of cotton fiber or wool crepe, and is normally white and then you can add a waistcoat or vest to match. Even though numerous riders like jeans and jodhpurs and a few who prefer full-seat horseback riding breeches, jodhpurs and breeches are the most popular pieces of apparel for the lower body. Make sure that the piece fits well and choose one that can safe-guard you from heavy rains and winds so don’t forget the all important horseback riding gloves to match. Short boots worn with trouser socks are a wise choice for everyday training, while tall horseback riding boots give a polished and smart appearance for events such as shows and competitions. A horse riding jacket can easily complete the look you’re going for, but you should take note of the cloths used to make it. Look for things like silk lining, buttons, trims and double satin piping.
The regular piece of head gear is a equestrian helmet, although there are others who like to wear black top hats although equestrian helmets now have simple-fit systems incorporated, so they are safe to use. With equestrian dress, 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. Modern equestrian apparel includes tan show breeches. However, white breeches are still quite popular. Show jackets and dressage coats can be in any color, however, the trend is towards darker navy and black instead of the more popular light shades of brown and khaki. Coats are available in plain solid colors or in a variety of stripes and patterns.
Paddock boots and half chaps are quite functional and therefore favored by those into serious training, but tall leather boots with back zippers for easy removability are very fashionable for shows. With a diverse range of equestrian apparel available to horse riders, picking the type optimal for you as an athlete does not have to be a challenge.