Western competition clothing guide

Western equestrian has a lot to offer. The variety of disciplines are colourful – and this also applies to the western competition outfits that are presented at the shows. Western riders competing in a show for the first time are unsure about which outfit will make the best impression on the judges considering the variety of styles. We will help you find the perfect show clothes for a successful competition start!

This is what the typical outfit for a western rider at the show should look like:

• A western hat or riding hat
• A long-sleeved shirt or blouse
• Long trousers
• Western boots or western ankle boots that extend over the ankle

Additionally permitted in certain classes are, for example:

• Chaps or chinks
• Western spurs
• Body protectors

The cleanliness and neatness of the chosen equipment and clothing should take precedence over decorative and flashy details. Judges‘ scores should not be determined by the outfit. For example, silver embellishments, such as on show saddles, should not be rated higher than solid, well-maintained work equipment.

But the choice of show attire for the western competition is not that simple. Each western class seems to have a special dress code, to which the participants mostly adhere. While the Reining classes are more casual and the classic check shirt in combination with chaps can often be seen, the Pleasure and Showmanship classes have bright colours, rhinestone outfits and eye-catching details.

Apart from the fact that clothes should be clean and neat, there are some unofficial dress codes to follow:

• Blue jeans are a no-go at the show, as they are associated with the work clothes of ranch workers. At the show, the look of the jeans should also be more elegant in accordance with the special occasion. In an emergency, put chaps on, in either black or a lighter colour over a pair of blue jeans.
• The length of the trousers should be such that they could be rolled up at least once while standing. The trouser leg should not ride up, the boot shaft should always be covered.

• Blouses and shirts are always tucked into the trousers. Sleeves are not rolled up.
• A single-coloured belt with buckle is part of a coherent show outfit. Depending on the discipline, the buckle can be more striking or more discreet. Show jackets do not require a belt as they are worn over the trousers.
• The rider’s outfit should always match the horse’s equipment. The colour of the blanket should also be reflected in the outfit. It is even better if the details such as patterns etc. harmonise with each other.

A carefully chosen outfit can make a good impression on the judges and also in classes where several riders are in the ring at the same time (such as Western Pleasure), eye-catching show clothing can have a positive side effect by drawing attention to the horse-rider pair. However, a higher score cannot be achieved by the outfit. The training of horse and rider as well as the correct execution of the required tasks are always the deciding factors for the placement.

When putting together a western show outfit, you should always consider which judging criteria are in focus for the respective class. In classes where mainly the „ranch qualities“ of a western horse are tested (such as Reining, Ranch Riding, Trail) and where a fast pace is required (such as Working Cowhorse), functional clothing that gives the rider maximum freedom of movement is more in demand. If the aim is to create a coherent and harmonious overall impression of horse and rider – both from the ground in Showmanship at Halter and in the saddle in Western Pleasure – it is also possible to stand out with an unusual outfit.

However, some federations deliberately do not specify any concrete rules for the respective classes. The dress code in the western classes is more flexible – even reiners are allowed to wear glittery blouses and shirts if the rider likes it! On the other hand, you can also stand out from the crowd in a pleasure competition with a plain outfit due to your excellent riding style.

Here you will find a short overview summarising the most important outfit components of the respective classes: