Summer Time Equestrian Capsule Wardrobe
I love looking at Pinterest and seeing all of the photos with different riding outfit ideas. And there seems to be a lot of capsule wardrobes that seem to be a trend right now. And since we are well into summer, I thought I would come up with my own version, the equestrian capsule wardrobe for summer.
Cool Riding Tights
In the summer, it is too hot for breeches, in my opinion. So I forgo them, and choose to wear tights. They look almost the same as breeches, even with the pockets. But they are lightweight and make riding in the heat much more bearable.
Two good versions I have found are irideon and Kerrits ice fil riding tights. They aren’t cheap, but you can sometimes find them on the clearance rack at places like Dover saddlery, and even on Amazon, and eBay.
Long Sleeve Sunshirt
I am fair skinned, so I sunburn easily. And although I love the sun, it isn’t great for my skin. So I choose to wear long sleeve shirts. For me this isn’t bad, because I am always cold. But if you tend to get hot, you could always try one of these sunshirts. The lowest price I have found them is at Stateline Tack for around $32.00 for navy blue or white.
Sports Bra
Ok, if you are a male rider, you can forgo this one. But as a lady rider, having support in all the right places is important. My favorite sports bra I have found is the high impact exercises sports bra by Danskin Now. It is very affordable at $16.99.
I have tried the expensive ones from Victoria Secret, but the Danskin sports bra is very comfortable as well as being very supportive.
Belt
Even though I probably don’t need to wear a belt, I still like too. I just got a C4 belt, partially out of the “everyone else is wearing it” and partially because I really like the pattern on the one I picked out. They are not the cheapest belt, but they are really well made, and one size fits all.
I found mine on Amazon for $36.00. but they also have the solid color ones for $29.99. This is the same prices as Dover, but if you have Prime on Amazon, you can get free 2 day shipping, making the Amazon belt the better deal.
Riding Helmet
This is the most important part of any equestrian outfit in my opinion. A good riding helmet is key for safety. But helmets can be so hot. SO I recently bought a One K Defender helmet, and I love it! It has vents to help keep your head cool, and it is so comfortable. You can also remove the liner and replace it.
I think it is fashionable enough for the show ring, and the safety features are great.
If you are looking for a riding helmet that looks good and will keep your head cool, you should at least try this helmet on, I think you will love it.
Socks
In the summer time, you need socks that will keep your feet cool. I like the really thin ones. Kerrits makes some great boot socks. They work for me because my boots fit me really well, so if you have good fitting boots, the thin socks should work fine, and keep your feet from roasting while wearing your tall boots.
Gloves
Even in the summer, I wear gloves while I’m riding. And I like the SSG cotton grip gloves. They are affordable, and work great while keeping your hands comfortable. The cotton breaths nicely. No, they probably aren’t appropriate for an A Rated hunter show, but for regular horse work, they work just fine.
Helmet Sun Visor
This is something I wish I had. A riding helmet sun visor is what you need to make summer riding even better. I have not gotten one yet, but believe me it is on my wish list. I have even thought about creating my own, but I just haven’t found the time to do it, yet.
But a wide brim over my helmet would be so nice to offer some shade while riding. The cost around $44.00, but everyone says they love them and will never ride outside without them again.
I will be getting one soon, and let you know how it works!
So there is my take on a capsule wardrobe for the English riding equestrian. I don’t think your summer wardrobe has to be huge, 1 or 2 pair of tights, 2 shirts and a couple of pair of socks along with the helmet, gloves, and sports bra should work just fine for schooling your horse over the summer. Of course if you are showing, you will need a wardrobe for that, which I think we will have to talk about soon!
So until then, remember to stay passionate, and enjoy your ride!
