A new show jacket should not only look good in the warm-up area, but also be appropriate for the class. What is permitted for a show jacket? The short answer: A classic, well-maintained riding jacket is almost always the safe choice. However, discipline, the performance regulations (LPO), the show schedule, and the instructions of the show management determine the rules regarding colors, contrast details, glitter, and whether or not a jacket is required.

Precisely because equestrian fashion today is much more diverse than the traditional navy blue jacket, it is worth taking a closer look. A high-quality softshell jacket with stretch, mesh inserts, or subtle rhinestones can be functional and elegant—provided it fits the setting of the class. Those who know the rules can show off their style without having to make unnecessary changes before the start.

What is permitted for a show jacket?

For German tournaments, the currently valid LPO of the German Equestrian Federation (FN) is authoritative. In addition, a show schedule may specify concrete requirements. For example, it might mandate specific attire, allow exceptions for heat, or set a stricter framework for a special event. Therefore, the show schedule should be read as naturally as the time schedule before packing your tournament trunk.

The basic equipment consists of a proper show jacket or a suitable riding blazer. It must be clean, intact, and fastened correctly. This usually includes light-colored breeches, a show shirt or blouse, riding boots or matching jodhpur boots with chaps, and an approved riding helmet. The jacket forms the formal frame but should not be considered in isolation from the rest of the outfit.

When it comes to color selection, muted tones are the most reliable option: Navy, black, dark gray, anthracite, or dark brown work across all disciplines and look just as authoritative in photos as they do at the prize-giving ceremony. Colored jackets may also be possible depending on the class. A rich burgundy, deep green, or a discreet taupe is not automatically a rule violation. However, the more striking the color and trim, the more carefully one should check whether the outfit fits the tournament level, the discipline, and the show schedule.

Discipline and class determine the framework

Dressage: classic, calm, and precise

In dressage, the focus is on a harmonious overall picture. Dark jackets with clean lines are therefore particularly common. Subtle piping on the collar, tone-on-tone buttons, or small rhinestone trim can look elegant. Broad glitter borders, strong color contrasts, or very fashionable cuts, on the other hand, quickly distract from the overall picture—even if they are not strictly prohibited in every case.

From higher levels, a tailcoat may be required or customary instead of a classic jacket. Here, it is not just a matter of style, but the exact requirement for the level and class. A tailcoat is not a substitute for every dressage jacket, just as a dressage jacket does not automatically belong in every demanding test.

Show Jumping: sporty and mobile

In show jumping, the outfit can generally look sportier. A light, breathable show jacket is a real advantage on long tournament days, especially if it is elastic in the shoulder area and does not strain when in the jumping position. Contrast collars, technical fabrics, and modern buttons are seen more frequently here than in the dressage arena.

Nevertheless: Sporty does not mean arbitrary. A sweat blazer, a casual jacket, or a fashion blazer that is significantly too short is no substitute for a show jacket. A jacket with large logos, eye-catching prints, or visible damage also does not fit the tournament setting.

Eventing, cross-country, and weather

In cross-country phases, safety takes priority over classic tournament attire. Safety vests and, depending on the requirements, other safety equipment are worn over the top. Whether and when a jacket is worn depends on the respective phase and the show schedule. A close-fitting jacket with a low-profile collar is practical if a vest is to be worn over it.

In rain, cold, or extreme heat, the show management and judges can order relaxations. This can include being allowed to ride without a jacket or requiring adjustments to outerwear. The announcement on the day of the tournament is decisive. Do not forgo the jacket on your own initiative just because the sun is shining; wait for the official authorization first.

Collar, shirt, and visible details

A show jacket only looks as neat as what is underneath it. A white or light-colored show shirt or blouse is the classic base. Stand-up collars, concealed zippers, and integrated stock tie loops ensure a clean line. In dressage tests, a stock tie is often the most elegant choice, while a simple show shirt with a white collar fits very well in show jumping.

As for the collar of the jacket, lapels, stand-up collars, and modern hybrids are common. Velvet collars, fine contrast piping, or subtle glitter on the lapel are a matter of taste and can enhance a simple outfit. The limit is reached when the trim overrides the sporty effect. Anyone unsure about a new jacket is safest with a model in a dark base color with restrained details.

Buttons also deserve attention. They should be complete and keep the jacket closed while riding. Many models are equipped with snap fasteners behind decorative buttons. This is practical because the jacket lies flat and does not pull open when mounting or in the course. Loose threads, protruding labels, and lint are small details that can be noticed before the registration office.

Fit: elegant is only what remains mobile

A show jacket should sit close to the body but should not restrict movement. When trying it on, it is not enough to stand straight in front of a mirror. Sit on a chair as if in the saddle, reach your arms forward, and lift them as if you were braiding a mane. If it pulls across the back and shoulders, the collar stands away, or the buttons pop open, the cut or the size is not right.

The correct sleeve length ends approximately at the wrist. The sleeve of the show shirt should only show subtly. The hem should not slide far up in the saddle, but at the same time offer enough freedom of movement. Particularly practical are elastic functional materials, ventilation zones under the arms, and easy-care fabrics that quickly look tidy again after a dusty warm-up area.

For young riders, a little room for growth is sensible, but a jacket that is too big not only looks unsettled but also interferes with riding. A model with stretch and a well-fitting shoulder area is better than a cut that is significantly too wide. For children's jackets, it is also worth looking for uncomplicated fasteners and machine-washable materials.

Common uncertainties before the start

A black jacket is not fundamentally mandatory, and white is not reserved exclusively for the dressage arena. Nevertheless, light-colored breeches and a light-colored shirt collar have established themselves as the classic standard. Anyone wanting to play it safe should combine a dark jacket with white or cream-colored breeches and reduce jewelry to a few, inconspicuous pieces.

Team clothing is also a topic: Small club or sponsor logos can appear depending on the context, but large-scale advertising or flashy brand marks are not a good idea if the show schedule does not mention them. If in doubt, a quick inquiry at the show office before the class will provide clarity. That is much more relaxed than having to compete in a jacket borrowed at the last minute.

A second jacket can make sense for multi-day tournaments. After rain, horse sweat during transport, or an unexpected stain, a clean outfit remains available. A light summer jacket and a slightly denser model for the transitional period cover many uses. At Equestrian Loew, cuts, brands, collar shapes, and functional materials can be compared specifically—without sacrificing comfort for tournament style.

The safe decision before every tournament

Lay out the entire outfit at the latest the day before and try on the jacket, shirt, breeches, belt, boots, and helmet together. This way, color mismatches, missing buttons, or an ill-fitting collar will be noticed before the schedule gets tight. Then check the show schedule and the organizer's current notices, as these take precedence in the event of special regulations.

The best show jacket is not necessarily the most eye-catching. It sits calmly, allows you full concentration on your horse, and lets your athletic performance take center stage. If you can move freely in it and your outfit fits the framework of the class, you will enter the starting box much more relaxed.