Riding Tops
Types of Riding Tops & How to Choose The Right One?
Horse Riding requires you to mix style with comfort and safety. The tops are lightweight, well-fitting and come in a variety of different designs. The key is looking into all the types of riding tops and choosing the right tops for you.
Types of Riding Tops
In horse riding, the word top can include different types of jackets, coats, shirts and t-shirts required for the different formats. In the Dressage format, formal plain navy blue/black riding jackets with metal buckles are a requirement. For upper-level-riders, they are tailored-jackets or shade-bellies paired with yellow vests and white stock-ties. In Endurance Riding, involving long rides, riders wear a moisture-wicking t-shirt that helps regulate temperature fluctuations.
The Cross-Country format allows for long-sleeve shirts or polo shirts beneath safety vests. For Show Jumping it is formal black tailored-jackets with formal white shirts, black/blue coats with white stock-ties or tweed coats with colored stock-ties.
In Trail Riding, the attire has to be weather-appropriate for you to remain cool and comfortable during the long trail. For example, in cool weather layering with a light jacket is recommended. In the Western Riding format, you wear long-sleeved buttoned-up jackets or shirts. Features of traditional styles are collars, Western Yokes, and wallpaper prints and of modern styles stretchy breathable shirts and tank tops.
The top riding brands include Ariat, Tattini, Horze, Ovation, Equine Couture, Kingsland Equestrian, Aztec Diamond Equestrian, and HKM. In addition, Musto, Noble Equestrian, Dover Saddlery, Schneiders Saddlery, SmartPak, TuffRider, and Professional’s Choice.
Choosing the Right Riding Tops
The right tops allow you to make adjusts as you move and give you the chance to prevent yourself from falling. Accordingly, they must permit proper arm movements and movements of the upper parts of the body. To avoid accidents, due to clothing catching branches or equipment, the tops should be comfortable but fitting. The right riding tops are also moisture-wicking to ensure that you remain cool, comfortable and chic during your ride.