by Linda Ann Nickerson

Created on: April 23, 2007   Last Updated: June 25, 2009

"A lovely pair, nicely turned out," said the judge. Every equestrian wants to hear that!

Here's how to achieve a show-perfect appearance!

Clean tack

Dirty tack is totally tacky. The bridle, reins, saddle, and other leather items must be spotless and supple. Clean all items, and condition them well.

Bits and buckles should gleam in the sunlight.

Clipping

The day before the show, clip your horse's ears, face, and bridle path. Clip his legs and fetlocks, unless he is a Freesian or other feathered-fetlock breed. Body-clip, if needed.

Whiskers are inappropriate in the show ring.

Grooming

Pamper your show-horse with full bath and complete grooming. Scrub all socks and white markings until they shine.

Blanketing

If you bathe the day before the show, consider shielding your clean horse from stall soiling with a show sheet or lightweight blanket.

Braiding

Braid your horse's mane and forelock, according to the standards of your riding discipline. (This varies from hunter-jumper to dressage to English pleasure and more.) Try to braid the morning of the show. If you must braid the night before, careful cover the braids with a slinky wrap.

Tacking up

Before your class, tack up your horse. Employ a brand-new or spotlessly clean saddle pad. Use your best bridle and girth. (Be sure to use only show-approved equipment. For example, martingales are usually allowed in jumping classes, but not flat classes.)

For more equestrian disciplines, sport boots and polo wraps are not allowed during show classes. They may, however, be used in the practice and warm-up arenas.

The Rider

Approved show clothing, clean and neatly pressed, is a must. Hair must be well-groomed and tucked up in the appropriate headwear. For longer-haired riders, a hairnet is essential. A flippy ponytail is fine for schooling but a definite no-no in the show arena. Spit-shined tall boots with shiny spurs are a must. (Ask a trusted friend to dust off your boots after you are aboard.)

Makeup, if worn at all, should be understated.

Nothing about the rider should detract from the lovely horse upon which he or she is mounted.

Photos

Once you and your horse are fully shined and suited up, be sure to ask someone to take pictures. After all that effort, you will want to revisit how you looked together, in all your going-to-show glory!

Besides, you can hang the framed photos next to all your hard-earned ribbons!

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