Thinking of entering your first horse show?
Whether you're dreaming of the show ring or just curious about what’s involved, this beginner-friendly guide breaks down the basics of horse showing in the UK. From class types to grooming, rider attire to show day checklists – we’ve covered everything you need to step into the ring with confidence.
1. Types of Showing Classes
In-Hand: Horse shown from the ground.
Ridden: Horse is ridden and judged on way of going and turnout.
Working Hunter: Judged over jumps and on flat.
Special Classes: Veteran, Coloured, Youngstock, Native, Cob, etc.
2. Grooming Tips
Day Before or Morning of Show:
- Bathe using horse shampoo (whitening/colour-enhancing if needed).
- Trim bridle path, jawline, ears (check class rules).
- Pull mane if needed, or trim for tidy appearance.
- Oil or polish hooves.
- Use baby oil on muzzle and eyes sparingly for shine.
- Quarter marks (for hunters/hacks) – checkerboard or shark's teeth.
Plaiting:
- 9–13 neat mane plaits (rubber bands or thread).
- Tail may be plaited or left natural (class dependent).
3. Rider/Handler Attire
Ridden Attire:
- Tweed jacket (or navy/black for hacks/evening classes)
- Pale shirt + tie (no stock)
- Beige, canary or fawn jodhpurs/breeches
- Long boots (adults), jodhpur boots + clips (juniors)
- Gloves (brown/black)
- Hat (see helmet standards below)
- Hairnet for long hair
In-Hand Attire:
- Tweed jacket or waistcoat with shirt and tie
- Trousers in contrast to horse's legs
- Smart shoes or boots (no trainers)
- Flat cap or safety hat (mandatory for under-18s)
4. UK Helmet & Body Protector Standards (2025)
Riding Helmet: Must meet one of the following:
- PAS 015:2011 with BSI Kitemark
- VG1 01.040 2014-12 with BSI Kitemark
- ASTM F1163 with SEI mark
- Snell E2016
- AS/NZS 3838 (2006+)
Required at all times when mounted.
Body Protector (if jumping or under-18 in some unaffiliated events):
- BETA Level 3 – 2018 (purple label)
5. Show Day Essentials Checklist
Grooming:
- Bathed & clean
- Mane/tail plaited (if required)
- Hooves oiled
- Face/muzzle shine
- Quarter marks (if needed)
Horse Gear:
- Clean bridle (correct bit for class)
- Saddle (well-fitted, clean)
- Numnah (discreet colour – match saddle)
Rider/Handler:
- Hat (correct standard)
- Tweed jacket / shirt & tie
- Breeches / trousers
- Boots
- Gloves
- Hairnet
Extras:
- Number bib (if issued)
- Grooming kit (brush, sponge, wipes)
- Water bucket & hay net
- Fly spray & hoof oil
- Tack cleaner cloth
- Entry form or email confirmation
Final Tips
- Smile and be polite to judges/stewards.
- Make sure your horse stands and walks/trots up well.
- Watch a few classes before yours if possible.
- Relax and enjoy – every show is a learning experience!
