Horse Show Survival Kit
While worrying about what to wear is the main concern of many riders, another equally important question is what to bring. Many drivers will allow you to keep your stuff in their car so that you can safely store or access it when you need to. Here are our suggestions on what stuff you should bring to a show to stay healthy and prepared!
In Your Backpack or Knapsack…
1. Money 💸
Most shows have food tables where you can purchase snacks, food, or drinks. However, if you want to save some money, you can bring your own snack and water bottle to stay hydrated!
2. A Book 📖
Since the show day is long and time-consuming, if there is any reading you need to do for a class, a show is a great opportunity to do so. However, make sure nobody needs help or there’s nothing else you should be contributing before you relax.
3. Leather Cleaner and a Rag 🏇
One of the things the judge evaluates when you’re in the ring is your turnout, meaning how well groomed you are and your overall appearance. Bring some leather cleaner (such as Lexol, Leather Therapy™, or soap) and a rag or sponge to touch up your boots the day of the show. Sharing is caring, so if somebody forgot yours don’t be shy to lend them a hand.
4. Spare Shirt and Shoes 👟
We all know that tall boots, as amazing as they are, are not comfortable shoes to wear all day. Bring a pair of sneakers, Sperry's®, or paddock boots to wear when you’re not riding or working so you don’t mess up your boots or kill your feet! An extra shirt can be a lifesaver when it’s hot out, to protect your show shirt from getting stained or dirty, or another layer when it’s cold. Speaking of the cold…
On Your Person..
1. Winter Edition: Tons of Layers ⛄
When it’s winter at a home show, we arrive to the barn around 6 or 7 am. It’s dark and it’s freezing. To make it a little less miserable, make sure to bundle up with warm gloves, a hat, a scarf, sweats over your riding pants, and a warm coat so you don’t complain. However, dress in layers because as soon as you start working and the sun comes out, you’ll feel warmer.
2. Garment, Boot, and Helmet Bag 👜
While not mandatory, these three items are lifesavers at horse shows. Our riding clothes are so expensive, it’s worth shelling out a few extra bucks to protect them when we’re on the go. For the savvy rider on a budget, those drawstring bags you got at summer camp, orientation, and the First Look Fair make a great helmet bag. Garment bags and boot bags can be found online, at any tack shop, or even Amazon!
Don’t Forget to Bring the Obvious…
All your show clothes, a fully charged phone, and a healthy sportsman attitude!
