What is a show coat?
An equestrian show coat is a tailored jacket worn by riders during horse shows and competitions. It is designed to provide a polished and professional appearance while riding. Show coats are characterized by their tailored fit, three- or four-button closure, and vented back panels. Show coats are required for formal equestrian competitions to maintain tradition and presentation.
The phrases "show coat" and "show jacket" are used interchangeably in the equestrian industry. Show coats are often made from high-tech synthetic fabrics such as microfiber, softshell, and mesh. These fabrics provide stretch and movement while riding and temperature control to keep you cool in hot weather. These technical fabrics are machine washable, wrinkle and odor-resistant, and sometimes water-resistant.
Originally, show coats were made of heavyweight wool to keep fox hunters warm, dry, and protected while galloping through thistles, shrubs, and brush. These coats were well-tailored and made to order and were much longer than show coats used today.
As equestrian sports evolved, affordable, accessible show attire became an obvious need. Show coats are now machine-made in various colors, styles, and cuts to suit the needs of multiple equestrian disciplines.
Over the last 20 years, show coats have moved away from wool and wool blends into the modern age of technical fabrics. Wool coats, although beautiful, are known to be heavy, hot, and restrictive when riding, with the need for frequent dry cleaning.
What style of show coat do you need?
Each equestrian event has its own dress code and traditional attire, so performance coats are classified according to the discipline to which they belong.
Hunters and Equitation
The classic hunter and equitation show coat is a subtle conservative color, like navy or black. It has three or four front buttons, a double-vented back flap, front slash pockets, and occasionally accent buttons on the sleeve cuffs. Though black and navy are the most popular, other subtle colors are used and never go out of style.
For our hunter and equitation riders, any glitzy or flashy adornment on your coat is inappropriate, but you can express as much style and creativity as you like on your belt.
Eventers and Dressage
Event and dressage riders often wear a black four-button show coat similar to Hunter jackets but with additional flair, like crystals, colored piping, colored coat linings, and contrasting buttons. Black is the most popular color for this discipline.
Jumpers
Jumpers wear four-button jackets and can express their style and creativity with their show coats. Bright colors, crystals, contrasting piping, and shiny buttons are the norm for show jumping jackets. In addition to the classic navy and black, bright blues, burgundies, and more are acceptable.