Whether you're getting ready for your very first show or just need a refresher before show day, we're here to make preparing a little less overwhelming.

This guide covers the basics for Hunter, Jumper, and Equitation riders — from what to wear and what your horse needs to the little things you'll be glad you remembered to pack.

Keep in mind: Every show, association, and division can have slightly different rules. Always check the current prize list or rulebook and talk with your trainer before purchasing show attire or tack.

Rider Attire

Helmet
A properly fitted ASTM/SEI-certified riding helmet appropriate for competition. Fit varies between brands and models, so proper fit is more important than simply choosing your usual size.

Show Shirt
A traditional competition shirt appropriate for your division. White and other conservative colors are common choices for hunters and equitation.

Show Coat
A properly fitted show coat should look polished while still allowing you to ride comfortably. Navy, black, gray, and other conservative colors are commonly seen in hunters and equitation.

Breeches or Jodhpurs
Tan or beige breeches are traditional for older juniors and adults, while younger riders may show in jodhpurs. Not sure which one you need? We'll explain the difference next!

Boots
Tall field boots are common for older juniors and adults. Younger riders showing in jodhpurs traditionally wear paddock boots with garter straps.

Finishing Touches
A simple belt, conservative gloves, and neat, show-appropriate hair complete the look. Your trainer can help with any specific expectations for your division.

💡Canter & Co Tip: Try on your entire show outfit before show day—including your helmet and boots. Make sure everything fits comfortably, and give new boots some time to break in!

Jodhpurs vs. Breeches

Jodhpurs (Jods)
Traditionally worn by younger junior riders. Jodhpurs extend down to the ankle and are typically paired with paddock boots and garter straps for the show ring. You'll often see this look in children's hunter and equitation divisions.

Breeches
Breeches end around the calf and are designed to be worn with tall boots. They're the traditional show-ring choice for older juniors and adult riders in hunters and equitation.

So... when does my child switch?
There's no single answer that applies to every show or organization. The appropriate look can depend on the rider's age, division, and show rules. Your trainer is your best resource for deciding when it's time to make the switch.

💡Canter & Co Tip: If you're buying for a growing young rider, check with your trainer before investing in an entirely new show outfit. They can help you determine whether jods or breeches are appropriate for the upcoming season.

Horse & Tack

Saddle
A clean, properly fitted English saddle. Close-contact saddles are commonly used for hunters and equitation.

Bridle & Bit
Use a clean, properly fitted bridle and an appropriate bit for your horse and class.

Saddle Pad
Hunters and equitation riders typically show with a clean, fitted white pad that follows the shape of the saddle. Jumper pad styles may vary.

Girth
Choose a clean, well-fitting girth in good condition. Conservative styles are commonly seen in the show ring.

Martingales & Equipment
Standing martingales and other equipment may be allowed in certain classes but prohibited in others. Always check your division's rules.

Show Number
Your number may be worn on your back or attached to the saddle pad depending on the class. Make sure it's secure before entering the ring.

💡 Canter & Co Tip

Clean and inspect your tack before show day. Check stitching, billets, leathers, buckles, and other wear points while there's still time to replace something.

Grooming & Presentation

Clean Coat
Start with a clean, well-groomed horse. A bath before the show, followed by regular brushing and a few finishing touches, will help bring out a healthy shine.

Mane & Braids
Depending on the show and division, your horse's mane may be neatly pulled or braided. Braiding traditions and expectations can vary, so check with your trainer before show day.

Tail
Keep the tail clean, brushed, and free of tangles. A little preparation ahead of time makes those last-minute touch-ups much easier.

Face & Legs
A tidy face, clean legs, and well-kept fetlocks help create that polished show-ring appearance. Clipping preferences can vary, so ask your trainer how they'd like your horse prepared.

Hooves
Pick and clean the hooves before heading to the ring. Hoof dressing may be used when appropriate, but the goal is simply a clean, finished appearance.

Last-Minute Touch-Ups
Keep a few grooming essentials nearby for dust, slobber, grass stains, or the inevitable mystery spot your horse manages to acquire five minutes before your class. 😂

💡Canter & Co Tip: Pack a small ringside grooming tote with a soft brush, hoof pick, towel, mane comb, fly spray, stain remover and any finishing products you use. You'll be glad you don't have to run back to the trailer right before your class!

What to Pack

What to PackBecause “I swear I packed it…” is not what you want to say at 6:30 a.m. on show day.

For the Rider
Helmet, show clothes, boots, gloves, hair supplies, and a change of clothes.

For the Horse
Halter and lead, hay, water and buckets, treats, fly spray, and any everyday care items your horse needs.

Tack & Grooming
Saddle, bridle, girth, show pad, grooming supplies, towels, hoof pick, and any specialty equipment your horse uses.

Show-Day Essentials
Paperwork, class schedule, show number, phone charger, sunscreen, snacks, water, and a few backup essentials.

💡Canter & Co Tip
Pack as much as possible the night before and keep rider gear, horse supplies, tack, and paperwork organized separately.

VIEW THE FULL PACKING CHECKLIST

Your First Show: A Few Things We Wish Everyone Knew

Your first horse show can feel like a lot—but it doesn't have to. A little preparation, a good support system, and knowing what to expect can make the whole experience so much more enjoyable.

Arrive Earlier Than You Think You Need To
Horse show mornings have a way of making time disappear. Give yourself plenty of time to unload, settle your horse, find your ring, get your number, tack up, and warm up without feeling rushed.

Know Your Schedule—but Expect It to Change
Classes may run earlier or later than expected. Keep an eye on your ring throughout the day and stay in communication with your trainer so you know when it's time to start getting ready.

Ask Questions
Nobody starts out knowing how horse shows work. If you're unsure where to go, what to wear, when to warm up, or what you're supposed to be doing—ask your trainer. That's what they're there for!

Take Care of Your Horse First
Between classes, make sure your horse has access to water, hay, shade or appropriate shelter, and time to relax. Your horse is your teammate for the day.

Don't Let One Class Define Your Day
Forgot your course? Missed a distance? Your horse decided the flower box was terrifying? 😂 It happens. One imperfect round doesn't mean you had a bad horse show.

And Most Importantly—Have Fun
Take pictures. Cheer for your barn friends. Love on your horse. Celebrate the little wins. Ribbons are exciting, but some of the best horse-show memories have absolutely nothing to do with what color ribbon you brought home.

Canter & Co Reminder:
Everyone at the horse show was a beginner once. You don't have to know everything—you just have to show up prepared, be willing to learn, and enjoy the ride. 💙

Ready for Show Day?

Need Something Before Show Day?

Canter & Co is here to help you get show-ring ready. Whether you're looking for the finishing touches for your show outfit, tack and grooming essentials, or something you forgot at the last minute, we've got you covered.

Shop online anytime, or visit us at one of our in-person events for Clothing, Tack, and more.

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