Table of Contents
Introduction
Show coats represent tradition, professionalism, and respect for equestrian sport, which is a key aspect of equestrian apparel . These tailored jackets complete your competition attire while demonstrating your commitment to proper presentation in the show ring.
Various English show coat styles and colors are favored in some disciplines. A proper fit guarantees you are comfortable all day at the show and that you have a polished look, like a judge expects to see, which is particularly important for children's competitors. This guide features everything you need to know about choosing, fitting, and caring for a horse show coat to look your best.
What is a Show Coat?
A ladies show coat is a fitted equestrian garment worn to showcase a rider's professionalism and polish during competition. These are arranged per the competitive requirements, such as collar style, button count and length.
Show jackets are designed to have a formal silhouette and classic look that distinguishes them from riding jackets for everyday wear. They’re made to hold up and look fresh throughout a full day of showing. Quality show coats offer enough riding freedom and do not restrict movement.
Equestrian Show Coats by Discipline
Hunters and Equitation
Hunter and equitation competition adult riders will wear a subtle show coat in a classic color. Normal colors are navy, black, dark green and gray. The jacket has 3-buttons on the front with a notched collar and side vents for comfortable sitting.
Dressage Show Coat
Dressage jackets are classic in design with black and navy among the most common colors. The upper levels have shadbelly style tailcoats and lower levels are permitted to wear regular show coats. The fit is more tailored through the body than hunter coats, creating a sharp, formal appearance.
Foxhunting Coats
Foxhunting attire follows the most formal and traditional guidelines. Hunt coats for formal hunting are scarlet (called "pinks") for members who have earned colors, or black for those who haven't. The coat has a square-cut front with tails that is typically made of melton wool.
Shadbelly Coat
The shadbelly is the most formal dressage attire, worn only in upper tier competition. This typifies the pony part of the front and tails portion of the tailcoat. The traditional shadbelly look is achieved from the eye-catching yellow or canary vest front.
How Much Do Show Coats Cost?
Entry-level, lightweight show jackets, and children’s show coats begin at around $100-200 value for basic materials and cuts. These will be good for beginners, who are young riders and may outgrow coats. At the mid-range, a coat costs between $200-400 and will have better material, fit and features.
Premium show coats, especially those designed for grand prix events or with a unique style, can range from $400-800+ and feature high-quality materials, superior tailoring, and designer styling. A customized women’s show coat can run over $1,000 but offers that perfect fit and personal details. The investment is a sound one for serious competitors that show frequently.
Equestrian Show Coat Materials and Features
Fabric Choices
Real wool delivers that classic look and longevity for cooler weather showing. Wool snaps back and doesn't wrinkle the way synthetics do. But it doesn’t wash easily and can be too warm in the summer.
Construction Details
Quality show coats feature fully lined interiors that help the coat glide over your shirt smoothly. Vented backs allow proper sitting position without the coat riding up. Reinforced seams and quality buttons ensure durability through seasons of use.
Special Features
A premium coat may also have extra features, such as action pleats in the back or adjustable sleeve buttons. Many brands provide moisture-wicking liners that are ideal for hot-weather events. Fabrics with UV protection are also resistant to outdoor fade.
How Should a Show Coat Fit?
Shoulders
The shoulder seam should sit directly on your shoulder point, without slouching down your arm or tugging closely across the back. If you're in the riding position and bringing your arms forward, you want that coat to go with you without any discomfort. Restricted shoulders indicate a coat that's too small.
Sleeve Length
Sleeves should reach your wrist bone, revealing about 1/2 inch of shirt cuff when you’re standing with your arms at your sides. When on your hands with reins, it should not ride up substantially covering the wrist.
Coat Length
For hunters, the coat should end at mid-hip, covering your belt and the top of your breeches seat. When mounted, the coat should cover your seat without extending so far that it bunches underneath you.
Overall Fit
The coat should button comfortably at the front without pulling or gaping. A good-fitting coat should contour to your body type without being tight. You should be able to button the coat and sit comfortably with full range of motion. Check the fit while standing and mounted. The coat should maintain appearance in both positions without significant pulling or bunching.
How to Measure Yourself for a Show Coat
Accurate measurements ensure proper fit when ordering show coats online or having one custom made. Take measurements while wearing the shirt you'll wear under the coat for the most accurate sizing.
Chest Measurement
Take a measurement around the fullest part of your chest, directly below your arms, keeping the tape parallel with the floor. Do not stretch the tape, fit it so that you can breathe normally. It is this measurement that determines your suit size.
Waist Measurement
Measure around your natural waistline at the narrowest point of your torso. This helps determine if you need a fitted or regular cut coat. Significant differences between chest and waist measurements may require custom tailoring.
Sleeve Length
Measure from your shoulder seam point to the wrist with your elbow bent a little. Have someone assist you with this measurement for best results. Your measure must be taken with your arm in a natural position while you are riding.
Back Length
Measure from the nape of your neck down your spine to where you want the coat to end. For hunters, this is typically mid-hip level. This measurement ensures proper coat length for your discipline.
Additional Measurements
You might need measurements like shoulder width, arm circumference and front length for the custom coats. Precise directions for measuring are available from pro tailors or online sizing guides.
How Should I Care for My Show Coat?
Regular Maintenance for Show Jackets
Hang your show coat immediately after riding to prevent wrinkles and allow it to air out. Use a proper coat hanger with shaped shoulders to maintain structure. Brush off dust and hair after each use with a clothes brush or lint roller.
Cleaning Guidelines
Wool coats typically require professional dry cleaning. Follow the coat manufacturer's specific care instructions. Limit dry cleaning to 2-3 times per show season unless necessary, as excessive cleaning can break down fabrics.
Storage
Keep show coats in a well ventilated garment bag in a cool, dry place. Stay away from using plastic bags as they can trap moisture and mildew.
Repairs
Address loose buttons, torn seams, or other damage immediately. Small repairs prevent larger problems that could sideline the coat during show season. Many tack shops offer repair services, or take your men’s show coat to a local tailor familiar with equestrian attire.
Conclusion
Choosing the correct equestrian apparel involves knowledge of what that discipline requires in show jackets, fit guidelines, and quality considerations. Whether you are opting for a hunter jacket, dressage coat, or traditional shadbelly styling, the core values of good fit and aesthetic presentation still apply.
Invest in the best quality coat your budget allows. A well-fitted, quality show coat lasts for years while cheaper options may need replacement after a single season. Consider fit more important than trends; stylish classic styling never goes out of fashion in the show ring.
