Competition Clothing: A classic turnout for men in the show ring

Competition Clothing: well dressed for your class

Men's competition clothing follows a classic look: white or pale competition breeches, a pale shirt with a stock or tie, a dark show jacket and polished boots. Here you will find pale breeches with silicone grip at the knee or seat as well as white stocks, plain or with discreet crystals, to complete your show outfit and give you a neat, confident appearance in the ring.

Pale breeches

White breeches are standard at almost every show. They should fit closely, not crease and give a good hold in the saddle thanks to silicone grip. To keep them bright white, put them on shortly before your class and wear overtrousers on the way to the warm up. Treat any stains straight after the show before they dry in. A second pale pair is handy if you are riding several classes over a weekend.

Stock and collar

A stock is a kind of tie that fastens around the collar and gives the outfit a classic finish. It closes with poppers or hook and loop fastening, so it stays securely in place even when jumping. A plain white stock suits every show, while one with crystals adds a subtle accent. Whether you wear a stock or a tie depends on the schedule for your class.

Frequently asked questions

Do men have to wear white breeches at a show?
In most classes white or pale breeches are either required or customary. At some events beige or light grey breeches are also allowed. The exact requirements are in the schedule or the rule book of your governing body.

Stock or tie, which should I wear?
Both are common for men, with a tie often seen in show jumping and dressage and a stock giving a more traditional look. What matters is that everything sits neatly and matches the schedule. A stock is quicker to put on and moves around less.

How do I keep my white breeches clean?
Put them on shortly before your class and protect them with overtrousers until then. After the show, soak any stains straight away and treat them with ox gall soap. Wash without fabric softener so the silicone grip stays effective.