The Best Equestrian Apparel for Riding in Style
We all like to look our best when we are out riding our horse with other people. You might find yourself scratching your head wondering what you should get. Let’s talk about some of my favorites.
Jeans
A good pair of jeans is key when you want to look your best on your horse if you ride any western discipline. You want jeans that fit you well, reach down to cover your boots, and sit high enough to keep your backside covered. A nice pair of midrise bootcut jeans will be perfect. And, if you want to look even more stylish, you might find some that have a little more flair to them. They might have designs on the pockets, or even down the leg. Some of my favorites are from Cowgirl Tuff or Ranch Dress’n.
If you don’t like the added bling, a nice pair of Ariats, Wranglers, or Sevens will do.
Wrangler Womens 112321495 ® Retro® Mae Bootcut Jean – Mid Rise 9×34 Denim
Medium Wash
Mid Rise
Bootcut Leg With Finished Hem
Price: $59.33
Boots
Boots are essential to any riding outfit. You could get lost trying to find the perfect pair. They come in many styles. Round toe, square toe, or pointed toe are the most common in the western riding world. You will find boots that have really tall shafts, and boots with really short shafts. Find what’s comfortable for you. I’m a fan of square toes with medium length shafts. They are the most comfortable and will keep your legs a little more protected. Prices range greatly from brand to brand. If you have a big budget, you might look into some Tin Hauls or Macie Beans.
Tin Haul Women’s A Cowgirls Motto 13 Turquoise Boot
Tin Haul
Women's
Comfort Cushion Support System
Price: $210.99
Some budget options that will still last you a long time and keep you looking good in the saddle are Ariat, Justin, and Dan Post.
Ariat Women’s Round Up Wide Square Toe StretchFit Western Boot
Full-grain leather foot and upper
12" Shaft height
Synthetic lining
Price: $117.97
Tops
You can really go crazy when it comes to finding a top to wear on your horse. If you are showing, each discipline will have different requirements for what you need. Show shirts are the most expensive, especially for halter and pleasure classes. For many western events, a nice long sleeve button down will keep you in style. They come in endless colors and prints to fit your style and help you stand out. Here are some of my favorites.
There are many button downs that are cute but classy like this one.
ARIAT Women’s Wrinkle Resist Team Kirby Stretch Shirt
PREMIUM FEATURES: Ariat is a leader in developing advanced technologies to deliver products that outperform in a variety of demanding environments.
MADE TO LAST: World-class product requires world-class design, materials and workmanship. Our teams obsess over every single detail of our products.
SCIENCE OF INNOVATION: Ariat excels in advanced technologies to deliver products that outperform in various conditions; Partnering with world-class biomechanical research groups and testing labs, Ariat strives to improve performance, comfort, and durability;
Price: $37.77
If you’re a little more adventurous, you might like to stand out a little with a more wild print or even fringe. These are getting increasingly popular. Ariat, wrangler, Ranch Dress’n, and Rock and Roll have great options.
Hats
When you think of a cowboy, you think of a cowboy hat. Having a nice hat completes an outfit and will really help you ride in style. Everyone will know that you mean business. Cowboy hats come in many styles. The biggest difference being the material. It’s common for straw hats to be worn during the warm months and felt during the cold months. Felt hats are usually much more expensive, but a well-shaped felt hat will make your outfit top notch. No matter which material you go with, find a shape and fit that works well for you. Most hat shops will have hats to try on and see what works best for your face and head shape. You can also look through different colors and hat bands to make it custom for you. Some popular brands include Stetson, American Hat Co, Resistol, and Justin.
Here is a solid choice for a felt hat. Black is always classy and versatile for many outfits.
Stetson Men’s Powder River 4X Buffalo Felt Cowboy Hat
Genuine Buffalo Felt - Striking Style, Fine Feel, Water-Resistant
Brown leather band with hair on hide overlay, orange wraps, and antiqued gold-tone conchos
Classic cattleman hat crease crown
Price: $159.99
Felt hats are gorgeous, but straw hats never fail to impress. They are usually cheaper, easier to find, and easier to care for. They come in many colors and shapes. Don’t be afraid to be adventurous. Check this one out from Resistol.
Resistol Hooey Collection Del Rio K Straw Cowboy Hat
Regular Oval Cattleman Crown, profile 83
4 1/4" brim
Two-Tone Weave
Price: $69.99
Belt
Top off your outfit with a nice leather belt. These are so fun to collect and pair with your outfits. Find a nice leather belt with engraving. If you like to stand out, you can even find belts with rhinestones, conchos, and cowhide. Whatever belt you lean towards, I recommend finding one that has snaps to remove the buckle. This way, you can easily trade out the buckle for a different one. The best belt buckles are passed down from family members or won at events. This way, you can show off and have some bragging rights that everyone can see. At the least, they can be a good conversation starter. Like most western wear, you can find nice belts at a western wear or ranch store. Nacona, Ariat, and Tony Lama make belts that will last you a lifetime.
Here is a good option that will keep you looking your best when your out on the trail or at a show.
ARIAT Men’s Feather Embosed Belt
100 percent genuine leather
Triple snap exchangeable buckle
Price: $45.00
If you’re into a more flashy look. Find a belt that has some bling or color to it. Beaded belts are popular if you want to add a little flair to your outfit.
Jewelry
To really step out your style, don’t forget to accessorize. There are endless options for jewelry, and you can pick what you think looks the best. A pair of earrings and a light necklace can really make your outfit look finished. Keep in mind the type of riding you will be doing so you won’t have to worry about loosing or breaking any of your jewelry. If you’re going to be doing a lot of hard riding, you should probably avoid heavy dangling earrings that will get in your way and tug on your ears. Avoid necklaces that will flap around and hit you in the face. If you’re doing lighter riding, you can get creative with the jewelry you choose. Check out western stores for beaded, leather or conch earrings and necklaces to fit the western aesthetic. Turquoise jewelry is popular and can elevate an outfit. When in doubt, you can’t go wrong with Montana Silversmith jewelry.
Check out these options to add to your collection.
CHISOONBANNER Western Jewelry Navajo Pearl Necklace for Women Cowgirl Beaded Necklace Boho Vintage Choker for Girls
Navajo Pearl Necklace Size:4/6/8mm faux Navajo pearls choker measures 15 inches with 3 inch extension.
Navajo Pearls Safe Material:Zinc alloy metal polished CCB beads, advanced electroplating color preservation technology, it is more sturdy and durable.
Western Style:Western boho hippie cowgirl cowboy bohemian vintage beach choker necklace.A flattering necklace for year round enjoyment, going on vacation, or for every day wear.
Price: $8.99
Montana Silversmiths Star Lights Western Princess Earrings – ER2554
The attention to detail you can expect from Montana Silversmiths.
Silver plate over a brass base.
Dimensions: 0.32" x 0.32"
Price: $40.00
No matter what outfit you decide to style. Keep every aspect in mind. You can create a top-notch outfit if you have all the pieces. You will really stand out as a rider with an outfit complete with a nice hat and a nice belt. And, of course, have fun with it and make it your own.
