When are in hand show clothes used?

In hand show clothes are used when you are showing a horse by hand at shows. These clothes combine style, comfort and function to give both handler and horse a professional and elegant appearance. Show clothing originated in the UK and today it is traditional even in Sweden to dress in tweed when showing all Mountain and Moorland ponies.

Whilst style is important, comfort and freedom of movement are essential to show your horse in the best possible way. Show clothing should be made from high quality materials that are both flexible and breathable. This gives you the freedom to move smoothly and comfortably while maintaining a professional look.

What should a handler use for show clothing?

On feet, you should wear shoes that are easy to run in. You need to be able to run fast without hurting anywhere, especially if you're showing more than one pony.

Gym shoes in a subtle colour, not chalky white and definitely not neon green. Beige, grey or black shoes work well. Another option that works great is studded football boots. Then you won't slip if the grass is wet or the pony is mischievous.

Jodhpur boots or other leather shoes that sit well on the foot and are comfortable to run in also work well.

When running jodhpur boots they are best combined with unshod Jodhpur riding trousers. For gymnastic shoes, it is better to wear soft cotton trousers with a flexible fit.

The trousers should fit so that you can run unhindered and they should not flutter. Colour depends on the colour of the visor on the shirt and vest. Earthy colours such as beige, navy, brown, light yellow, green and burgundy look nice.

If you choose to show in a jacket, it should be a tweed jacket. Keep in mind that most of the exhibitions are in the summer and it will be hot with a jacket. If you prefer to wear a waistcoat, show in a genuine woollen waistcoat. Either tweed or solid colour. A long or short-sleeved shirt with a collar in a light colour such as light yellow, light blue, etc.
A side tie in a darker earthy colour such as navy, burgundy, dark green.

Fit and sizes

Our showwear comes from the UK and therefore only UK sizes are shown on the website. We always have a size guide in the product description but don't hesitate to ask if you have any questions.