Buyer's Guide to Competition Riding Jackets: How to Choose the Best Style for Your Discipline

Why Your Competition Riding Jacket Matters

A competition riding jacket, often referred to as a show coat, is a quintessential component of equestrian attire. The importance of a well-tailored show coat extends beyond aesthetics; it also plays a critical role in enhancing performance and meeting the stringent dress codes of equestrian disciplines.

First and foremost, a competition riding jacket is meticulously designed to offer elegance, comfort and practicality. The tailored fit ensures that the rider presents a polished and professional appearance, an essential aspect of any competitive event. However, freedom of movement, enabling riders to perform at their best, is also crucial. Features such as a double vent in the back are specifically incorporated to provide a smart silhouette in the saddle and offer the rider ease of movement, especially in a dressage jacket or in jumping jackets, where the riders need to move without restriction.

If you choose a jacket designed well, it should embrace a breathable fabric and offer complete comfort. High-quality fabrics ensure that the rider remains comfortable even during extended periods of wear, regardless of the weather conditions. Whether facing the heat of a summer competition or beating the chill of an autumn event, a competition riding jacket can provide the necessary protection while maintaining a sophisticated look.

Your choice of competition riding jacket must adhere to the dress codes of your chosen equestrian discipline. Different events and at championship level could change the requirements of the style, color, and embellishments of the jacket. By selecting a show coat that aligns with all these guidelines, you'll be sure to have that winning style!

Remember, your competition riding jacket is a vital element of your equestrian attire, so it makes sense to do your research and choose one that embraces high-quality materials, is designed for your body shape, and is the correct size. Our curvy rider collection embraces UK sizes 18 - 24.

How do I choose a Riding Jacket?

Choosing a competition riding jacket is a considered investment, so look for a jacket to enhance your performance and comfort in the arena. Here are some key elements to consider:

1. Fit and Comfort: A well-fitted jacket is essential for movement and elegance. Look for jackets made of stretchy fabrics like jersey or nylon with spandex, which accommodate a full range of motion. The jacket should fit snugly but not restrict your movements, allowing for ease in the saddle. Look at the brand's size guide to ensure you get the right fit.

2. Breathability: Riding can be physically demanding, so opting for a jacket with breathable materials, mesh panels, or linings, like many of our competition jackets, can help regulate your body temperature, keeping you cool and comfortable throughout the competition.

3. Machine Washable: Machine washable jackets are advantageous for all levels of competition riding, ensuring your jacket remains pristine despite the elements. The majority of our modern competition jackets are machine washable.

4. Closure and Fastening: Jackets with hidden front zipper closures beneath traditional buttons offer a sleek appearance while providing practicality and ease of use.

5. Style and Aesthetics: While functionality is paramount, style should not be overlooked. Features like contrast stitching, jewelled buttons, metallic piping, and contrasting collars add elegance and a polished look to the jacket, depending on your discipline.

6. Details: Rear vents, for example, in a showjumping jacket, are crucial for providing additional comfort in the saddle and allowing dressage riders freedom of movement.

7. Compliance with Dress Codes: Always ensure that the jacket adheres to the regulations of your specific equestrian sport, whether that's show jumping, eventing, or dressage. For the show ring, more conservative styles are preferred.

What Materials Are Best for Competition Riding Jackets?

Selecting the right material for your competition riding jacket is crucial for performance and comfort. Here's a guide to the best materials:

1. Jersey Fabric: Known for its stretch and breathability, jersey is a popular choice because it adapts to movement while keeping the rider comfortable. Our Jersey Deluxe Competition Jacket is a perfect example.

2. Nylon with Spandex: This combination provides excellent stretch and resilience, allowing for a full range of motion without losing shape over time.

3. Tweed: When looking for a traditional style, high-quality tweed fabrics offer a classic look with durability, which is ideal for a classic look in the competition arena and for showing. Equetech makes the best tweed riding jackets. Our exclusive hybrid tweed looks like a traditional hacking jacket, but incorporates a four way stretch in a lighter-weight cloth.

How Should a Competition Riding Jacket Fit?

When selecting a competition riding jacket, the fit is crucial to ensure both the style of the jacket and functionality work in harmony. A well-fitted jacket can enhance your confidence and performance in the arena. Here are key aspects to consider for an ideal fit:

1. Overall Fit: The jacket should contour your body without being too tight or too loose. It should allow for a full range of movement while riding, whether you are competing in British Dressage, British Eventing, or showjumping events. The lapels should lie flat and avoid bunching or pulling at the buttons. Similarly, the fabric across your back should be smooth without any wrinkling. Go up a size if it feels too tight. Equetech offers a wide range of adult sizes, so you can find the perfect fit!

2. Button Placement: The bottom button of the jacket should sit around your belly button and natural waistline. If the button is higher, the jacket might be too short; if it's lower, it could be too long. Proper button placement helps maintain a balanced appearance. Our range of 'off the peg' competition jackets offers a range of styles to suit all body shapes, and if you want some extra advice, get in touch with one of the team, who will be happy to help.

3. Shoulder Fit: Ensure that the jacket fits nicely across your shoulders. This area should be snug but not restrictive, allowing for comfortable movement and posture in the saddle, especially if you wish to wear an air jacket over the top or are looking for a comfortable showjumping jacket.

4. Sleeve Length: The sleeves should be long enough to cover your wrists when your arms are bent but not so long that they extend over your hands. This ensures that your jacket maintains a neat appearance without affecting your grip on the reins.

5. Ease of Buttoning: You should be able to button the jacket easily without any pulling or stretching. Try the jacket on with any additional layers if you choose to wear a body protector underneath to ensure it accommodates all your attire comfortably.

Comfort Considerations for Competitions

Comfort is paramount for maintaining focus and performance during your competitions. The last thing you need to be focusing on is how uncomfortable your competition jacket feels! Here are some considerations to enhance comfort:

1. Material Selection: If you plan to wear your jacket mostly in warmer weather, opt for jackets made from lightweight materials and those that allow for greater airflow, such as those with mesh panelling or lining. These fabrics help regulate your body temperature and keep you dry, even during intense activities.

2. Stretch and Flexibility: Look for jackets with stretch materials that allow freedom of movement. This flexibility is essential for maintaining comfort during dynamic riding activities, especially if you want to wear a body protector.

3. Weather Adaptability: Choose jackets that offer protection against various weather conditions. A dressage show coat like our Crystal Showerproof Competition Jacket will be particularly beneficial for outdoor competitions.

4. Layering Capability: If you want a jacket for all-year-round use, such as a thicker thermal base layer, ensure it can be comfortably worn over other layers without compromising fit. This adaptability allows you to adjust to varying temperatures and conditions throughout the day.

5. Weight and Breathability: Lightweight jackets are ideal for reducing fatigue during extended wear. In comparison, heavier tweeds and wool fabrics protect you against the elements and keep you warm during colder weather wear.

Focusing on these elements can help you find a competition riding jacket that not only looks great on your body type but also enhances your performance and enjoyment in the saddle.

What Safety Features are Necessary in a Riding Jacket?

When it comes to horse riding, safety is always paramount, and selecting the right riding jacket plays a crucial role in ensuring you stay comfortable and safe. A well-designed riding jacket incorporates several safety features that not only enhance performance but also provide peace of mind.

1. Durable Materials: Riding jackets should be constructed from durable materials that resist wear and abrasion. Our range of competition jackets embraces longevity and protection against the elements.

2. Breathability and Ventilation: Maintaining comfort and preventing overheating is imperative if you ride in hot climates. Features like mesh panels or vented designs ensure riders stay cool, focused, and less prone to heat-related stress.

3. A Good Fit: A too tight or loose jacket can restrict movement, making it difficult to ride your horse effectively. This could lead to accidents during competitions. Ensure the jacket fits snugly but allows for a full range of motion, particularly around the shoulders, arms, and chest.

4. Ensure It's Designed For Riding: Always wear a jacket designed for horse riding. The style of the jacket will combine comfort and safety over a fashion jacket and be correct for your discipline.

How Do Competition Jackets Provide Added Protection?

Competition jackets are designed to meet regulatory standards and present a polished appearance. They can also offer added protection to riders during equestrian events.

1. Reinforced Construction: Competition jackets often feature reinforced stitching and durable materials that withstand the rigorous movements associated with competitive riding. This reinforcement offers some degree of protection against abrasions or minor impacts.

2. Freedom of Movement: While it might not seem like a direct safety feature, competition jackets' tailored cut and stretch fabric are crucial for allowing freedom of movement. This flexibility ensures that riders can perform without restriction, reducing the likelihood of accidents due to constrained movements.

3. Smart Closures: Hidden zippers and secure button closures are designed to stay fastened during riding, ensuring you stay focused on your riding, not on a possible wardrobe malfunction!

4. Ventilation and Moisture Management: Effective moisture management is critical to keep riders comfortable and focused in competition settings. Breathable materials that wick moisture away are standard in competition jackets, aiding in maintaining an optimal body temperature and reducing fatigue.

5. Traditional and Modern Protective Features: With more riders wearing air jackets over their riding jackets, attention to details such as engraved buttons on the cuff and a sleek, fitted silhouette are becoming more common in jacket design. 

6. Protection against the Elements: Your competition attire should offer some level of protection against the elements. Whether it's a showerproof coating for riding in wet weather or a thicker tweed fabric for beating the chill in the air.

How Do You Choose a Jacket for Different Weather Conditions?

Choosing the right jacket for equestrian activities involves considering the weather conditions, the seasons where you will primarily wear it and the specific demands of horse riding. Wearing the right jacket can make a significant difference in comfort and performance.

Hot Weather

In hot weather, breathability and moisture-wicking are paramount. Opt for jackets made from lightweight technical fabrics that offer excellent ventilation. Fabrics like polyester blends, mesh panels, and mesh linings allow for air circulation, helping regulate your body temperature and prevent overheating. Look for jackets with moisture-wicking properties to draw sweat away from the skin and accelerate evaporation. This keeps you dry and comfortable, even during intense activity.

Cold Weather

When riding in cold weather, insulation and layering are key. Start with a thermal base layer to trap warmth, then select a jacket that can provide warmth without bulk, such as a wool or tweed jacket, which are ideal for riding in the colder months and British Riding Clubs events. 

Rainy Conditions

For rainy weather, waterproofing and water resistance are critical. Choose jackets made from materials such as treated nylon or polyester that offer a reliable barrier against rain. Look for features which help direct moisture away from the lining. 

How do you Choose a Jacket for Different Weather Conditions (e.g., hot, cold, rainy)?

These days, most quality equestrian jackets are designed with advanced fabrics and technologies to enhance comfort and performance. What fabrics or technologies make a jacket breathable and moisture-wicking? Here are some key materials and features to look for:

• Technical Fabrics: Polyester and nylon blends are commonly used in riding jackets for their durability and lightweight properties. Technical fabrics often incorporate elastane or spandex to provide stretch, allowing for a full range of motion.

• Moisture-Wicking Technology: Fabrics treated with moisture-wicking technology draw sweat away from the skin, promoting quick evaporation. This ensures that you remain dry and comfortable, even during vigorous activities.

• Mesh Panels and Ventilation: Jackets with strategically placed mesh panels or ventilation zippers improve air circulation, enhancing breathability and drawing moisture away from the body. These features are especially beneficial in warmer weather, preventing heat buildup.

• Jersey Materials: Jersey jackets are popular for their balance of comfort and excellent shape retention, making them popular with British Dressage riders and British eventing competitors for the dressage phase.

• Breathable Membranes: Some jackets include a level of breathability. This technology is particularly effective in rainy and humid conditions.

By understanding the specific needs of different weather conditions and selecting jackets with the right fabrics and features, you can ensure optimal comfort and performance while enjoying your equestrian activities.

What Makes a Riding Jacket Durable Enough for Competition Use?

When it comes to competition riding, durability is a crucial factor in selecting the right jacket. A riding jacket that can withstand the rigours of regular use while maintaining its appearance and functionality is a valuable investment for any rider. Several key features contribute to the durability of a riding jacket, ensuring that it performs reliably.

1. Quality of Materials:

Durability starts with the materials used in the jacket's construction. High-quality fabrics such as jersey, gabardine, and nylon, often blended with spandex, offer the necessary stretch and resilience for active movement. These durable and breathable materials allow riders to remain comfortable during intense physical activity. 

2. Machine Washable:

Competition jackets are frequently exposed to mud, dirt, horse hair, and horse slobber! Riding jackets that can be washed in your machine at home are easy to care for and ensure they look pristine for each competition.

3. Quality Construction:

The construction quality of a jacket can significantly influence its durability. As a competitive rider, look for features such as reinforced seams and high-quality stitching, which strengthen and prevent the jacket from falling apart over time. A front zipper closure hidden behind traditional buttons adds to the jacket's aesthetic appeal and provides a secure closure that withstands repeated use.

4. Design Features:

Design elements such as mesh panels or mesh linings enhance breathability without compromising durability, allowing optimal ventilation. Additionally, tailoring details like contrast stitching and pocket designs not only add a touch of elegance but can add extra resilience to your jacket.

How Can You Determine the Longevity of a Jacket?

Determining the longevity of a riding jacket involves evaluating several factors that provide insights into its potential lifespan.

1. Customer Reviews:

Look for reviews or tests that highlight their durability. Look for reviews on the brand's jackets, even if you can't find one specifically related to the jacket you are considering buying—generally speaking, reading reviews on other additions in their range will give you a good indication of whether to purchase one for your equestrian wardrobe.

2. Brand Reputation:

Consider the reputation of the brand manufacturing the jacket. Established brands like Equetech with a history of producing durable and high-quality riding apparel are more likely to offer products that meet the demands of competition use.

3. Construction Quality:

Inspect the jacket's construction for indicators of durability. High-quality stitching, reinforced seams, and robust zippers are all signs of a well-made jacket that will likely last. Pay attention to any additional reinforcements that might be present in high-stress areas. Equetech competition jackets offer exceptional quality at an affordable price point.

4. Choose Colours To Complement Your Horse:

With so much choice, you could be tempted to choose a jacket in bright colours, but choose wisely. Dark colours, such as a navy blue jacket or a jacket with muted tones, might be a better choice for you and your horse. A grey competition jacket will look stunning if you ride a grey horse. Choose a classic style if you plan to show your horse with an eye-catching plaid and team with subtle pinstripes through your tie and scrunchie.

By focusing on these key aspects, riders can select a competition riding jacket that meets their style and functional needs and offers the durability required to withstand the challenges of competitive equestrian sports.

5. Look After Your Competition Jacket:

Care for your competition jacket! Store it in a garment bag away from direct sunlight for extra protection. Equetech competition jackets come with our garment bag to keep your jacket clean, dry, and ready for your next outing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Competition Riding Jackets

How do I maintain my competition riding jacket?
Look after it by storing it in a garment bag, and if you ride in wet weather, ensure you naturally air-dry it thoroughly before storing it away. 

Can I use my jacket for multiple disciplines (e.g., dressage, show jumping)?
Yes, if you choose a classic tweed or smart, grey, navy, or black competition jacket, there is no reason why you can't wear it across numerous events, including showing, showjumping, and dressage, especially at unaffiliated events. What to wear eventing will depend on the rules, so if you plan to compete through a society or at an affiliated level, always check with the organisation to ensure you can wear your jacket.

What color show jacket for dressage?
Traditionally, dressage show coats were invariably black or navy, but these days, they are available in a range of colours and styles. However, always check the rule book before purchasing to ensure they are permitted. 

Can you wear a tweed jacket for show jumping?
Yes, you can wear tweed at unaffiliated and affiliated showjumping events, but check the latest rulebook to ensure they comply.

What’s the average cost of a good competition riding jacket?
A good competition riding jacket will cost between £125 and upwards for a good fit, lasting quality and design. Our range of jackets embraces an extensive size range, so there is plenty of choice.

What’s worth splurging on, and where can you save?
Invest in a quality competition jacket, and you will save on replacing it for years to come! Cheap is a false economy when it comes to equestrian show coats.

Which brands are known for making high-quality competition riding jackets?
Equetech, of course! We've been dressing riders like you for over 30+ years, and because our collection is designed by riders for riders, we know exactly what you want and demand in your competition gear!

Are there budget-friendly options without sacrificing quality?
Yes, our Jersey Deluxe Competition Jacket is our entry-level competition jacket. It has all the quality and design details you expect from Equetech and is at a great price! Alternatively, if you are lucky, you may find one of our pre-loved jackets for sale through second-hand sites!

What are the latest trends in competition jacket styles?
For the showring, playing with colour to complement your horse is the latest trend with a traditional tailored finish. For dressage and showjumping, metallic finishes and crystal sparkle are popular choices for many competitive riders. 

Remember, if you look good and feel good, you've found the perfect show coat!