[Kizza]

Where I go, most people don't. But I do with Dinah because it looks smarter. With Ace, her mane is too thick and long to braid, but I always make sure it;s tidy, clean and looks nice.

Jackets, though, are a must almost everywhere around here.

[CowGirlUp1833]

Originally Posted by SilentSpring

What purpose does a riding jacket serve???

Okay, well, what purpose does clean boots or a clean horse serve, really? It doesn't make him Move better....doesn't make him more trained. But its because you are out there competiting. You should look the part. If you want to ride around in 1/2 chaps and a muddy horse, then I think you should be content riding around a muddy paddock too....

Like Little Celtic Pony said; if your going to show, take pride in it.

[Shotgun93]

I mostly event, which is different, but I still like to get all ready and dressed up. This summer, in 104 degree heat, I still wore my Dressage Coat, granted I put it on right before I went in and took it off as soon as I came out, but I figure that I worked hard to be there and I wanted to look good. And, the judge thanked me for being in full dress, as I was one of the only ones that did.

[Super_Trooper]

I always braid at events for dressage, always. BUT, I dont usually go all out for local hunter/jumper shows.....only the biggies.

[Cheeky Monkey]

I put on a horse show in town and one of my prizes is the Best Turnout Award. I totally agree with looking your best at every show, even the little schooling shows. I teach all my students that they must braid, even if they su.ck at it. The judge would rather see a lame attempt at braiding, than no attempt at all.

[littlecelticpony]

Originally Posted by Shotgun93

I mostly event, which is different, but I still like to get all ready and dressed up. This summer, in 104 degree heat, I still wore my Dressage Coat, granted I put it on right before I went in and took it off as soon as I came out, but I figure that I worked hard to be there and I wanted to look good. And, the judge thanked me for being in full dress, as I was one of the only ones that did.

.....exactly.

[CowGirlUp1833]

Originally Posted by Shotgun93

I still wore my Dressage Coat, granted I put it on right before I went in and took it off as soon as I came out,

Exactly, but you had it on when it counted! I'm glad the judge recognized your dedication...as well he should.

[Fox Glove]

I grew up Fox Hunting...
It is steeped in tradition..
Years , and years of it..
I have a very deep respect for that.

I do think this boils down to just that..
Respect,
For your chosen sport,
Your self,
Your horse,
Those there to compete
Those there to Judge.

It may seem nit picky to some..
but I LOVE it !
I love cubbing season,
by days and rat catcher.
Opening Day and Christmas Day
Getting turned out Formal,
The protocal,manners
style and grace of all of it!

Since showing stems from this
Rich tradition,
You only honor it by
how you conduct yourself
and how you are turned out.,

The Judge notices, belive me ,
So do the Masters in the field.

There are excellent points here,
but I think with a deeper understanding
perhaps , of where this all comes from ,
Why you wear a stock,
(emegency sling)
The hats (Helmets have come far
in both protection, and comfort)
The coats, the boots and britches.
Then , maybe , you will gain a love
and respect for it too..

Sorry I do go on about things I love!
Paula

[Super_Trooper]

I always, always wear my jacket.......

[zorse]

Originally Posted by CowGirlUp1833

Sorry, I guess my brian was thinking for Hunter/Jumper and Dressage shows...I agree, its not a big deal in strickly Jumpers classes, but for Hunters, it IS part of tradition...and thats what makes me sad

For jumpers it is a big thing at the big shows. I know at Spruce Meadows you MUST be well turned out or they will not let you in the ring (it says that right on the prize book).
I don't see a problem with polos at other jumper shows. I think it should just be personal preferance.
For hunters at the bigger B shows I have been to I have never seen a hunter show up without a jacket.

I'm sure it just depends on the show. Obviously if it's a little show with 5 people in a class chances are there aren't going to be dressy people.