Perfect presents for “show”-offs

You are really going to need to dig deep for this gift, but remember that only the best will do for individuals who do not turn a hair at getting up at 3am to travel hundreds of miles to chase that all important qualifier. The three-horse Oakley Supreme really is fit for both equine and human kings and queens. The horse area features padded partitions and ceiling, with thick rubber matting on the floor, plus tinted opening windows with removable protective bars, a full-length blanket rack, roof vents and lighting. There is a separate area for tack and rugs. The living includes a shower/WC area; wall and floor carpeting; running hot and cold water; fridge, sink and hob; sleeping accommodation for four adults; plus cupboards, curtains, lighting and heating. This horsebox is a true home from home.

A three-horse Oakley Supreme on a new non-HGV chassis will cost from £60,000. For more details visit: www.oakleyhorseboxes.com

The H2000 Sq Show Hat from Charles Owen combines safety with a classical elegant deep crown profile that is aesthetically a cut above most current riding hats, making it an ideal Christmas gift for any showing enthusiast. The hat is covered in luxury superfine French velvet and comes with an adjustable stain resistant soft, flesh coloured Pittards leather harness and cotton lined headband. The velvet is available in a choice of navy, black, bottle green or brown to suit any rider’s choice of showing attire.

The hat is available in a range of adult sizes (6 7/8 – 7 1/2) and can be purchased from many leading retailers, including online at WelleManorSaddlery.co.uk, for around £145.

For the ultimate in show ring chic, visit PrettyPonies.co.uk for an online look at their range of matching diamante browbands and button holes. These sparkling beauties are bound to catch the judge’s eye and help any showing specialist stand top of the line next season. The browbands are available in a range of lengths from 12″ to 16″ to cater for all sizes of horse and pony at £45 each. Matching button holes cost £10. Pretty Ponies also sell browband covers, which can be used to protect the browband from dirt while being worn during warm-up before being removed, while the bridle remains in place, just before entering the ring. The cover costs £5.50, making the complete set around £60. Visit www.prettyponies.co.uk

A smart waistcoat is a “must-have” multi-functional piece of clothing that no showing enthusiast should be without. Ideal for wearing under a showing jacket on those chillier days, it is also useful when schooling at home or working in at a show. It can also be teamed with jeans when popping out to the shops. Designer Browbands has a range of smart but practical tailored waistcoats available in a wool/polyester blend, available to purchase online. The ladies style have contour panels for a great fit, in a choice of red, yellow, bottle green, burgundy, navy and royal blue, which are finished with gilt buttons. They are available in sizes 8 to 18 for around £35. Non-standard sizes and colours are also available by special order.

Visit: www.designerbrowbands.co.uk or contact tel: 01328 700808

Every showing enthusiast would be delighted to find a selection of Supreme Show Ring Products under the tree or in their stocking this Christmas. This extremely popular range of show ring preparations includes:

• Supreme Highlighter — for enhancing eyes, nose and dock, smoothing down forelocks and plaits, putting in quarter marks and as a fly repellant.
• Supreme Cover Magic — can be used to help cover up body stains and touch up last minute stains on legs and tails.
• Supreme Make-up — available as brown, black or white and can be mixed to produce a required shade to cover up a mark or scar or to darken areas around the eyes or muzzle.

All of these products cost around £10. They are available from many saddlery outlets and can be purchased online at www.frogpool.com