The best polos and T-shirts for horse riding are technical, comfortable, smart and flattering, plus they’ll stand up to the test of daily wear in the summer months. Technical materials do a lot more than you might think and go a long way to keeping you cool and comfortable. Some fabrics are highly effective at wicking moisture away from your skin, which allows it to evaporate and provides a cooling effect – similar to a cooler rug.
Some materials also offer great protection from the sun – this is measured by a UPF rating (this a similar to SPF – the higher the rating the more protection is offered). Other technical features include dirt- and dust-resistant finishes, which allow dirt to be brushed off without marking and prevents stains from things like sun cream or fly spray.
A smart, flattering fit is also important and goes a long way to keeping your comfortable – some of the best T-shirts for horse riding we’ve chosen are short-sleeved base layers, but others are more polo or T-shirt style so there’s something for everyone. A slightly dipped hem at the rear will offer better coverage in the saddle, while capped or longer sleeves will offer more protection from the sun and in the case of a fall. And if you can find something that complements your summer breeches or riding tights, or matches your saddle pad, then you’re on to a style winner.
Best T-shirts for horse riding in a range of fits
Shires Aubrion Elverson Tech T-shirt
Colours: Dusky pink or charcoal | Sizes: XXS–XXL | RRP: £17.99 |
This V-neck T-shirt from Shires has a relaxed fit and is made from lightweight, quick-dry fabric. It features sporty side paneling and has flat seams for added comfort. Also available in children’s sizes.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk
Dublin Lily Cap Sleeve Polo
Colours: Navy, butter, ice blue, cobalt, emerald, black or violet | Sizes: XS–XXL | RRP: £26.99 |
This classic stretch polo top is made from naturally breathable cotton. It has a flat knit rib collar that is designed to be raised to cover and protect the neck on sunny days. It has a regular fit, stripe detail on the back of the neck with a four-button placket for a sporty look and side splits for extra movement.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk, naylors.com or gsequestrian.co.uk
Weatherbeeta Prime Short Sleeve Top
Colours: Navy, violet, green, maroon, royal blue or turquoise | Sizes: XXS–XXL | RRP: £34.99 |
In the UK? View now at equus.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk
Fouganza Short-Sleeved Mesh Polo Shirt 500
Colours: Dark blue or pink | Sizes: XS–XXL | RRP: £19.99 |
Made from very lightweight and wicking fabric, this polo shirt has a secure back pocket for storing lightweight items.
In the UK? View now at decathlon.co.uk
LeMieux Polo
Colours: Mist, kiwi, wisteria, navy, Benneton blue, ice blue, azure, sage or plum | Sizes: UK 6–18 | RRP: £34.95 |
This classic slim fit polo has just a touch of stretch for a flattering shape. It has a subtly contrasting inner collar with a three-button placket and opposing thread colour. Sleeve cuff detail follows the collar and placket colour to add a stylish finish.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, equus.co.uk or naylors.com
In the US? View now at amazon.co.uk
Ariat Prix 2.0 Polo
Colours: Navy, black, heather grey, lilac, green or turquoise | Sizes: XS–XXL | RRP: £42 |
This polo is designed to lay nicely over breeches for a flattering fit and smoother coverage. It has moisture-wicking technology and features an elongated button placket and flat knit rib collar.
In the UK? View now at ariat.com, amazon.co.uk, equus.co.uk, naylors.com or sportsdirect.com
In the US? View now at ariat.com or amazon.com
Weatherbeeta Victoria Premium Short Sleeve Top
Colours: Navy, maroon or black | Sizes: XS–XXL | RRP: £46.99 |
This technical short-sleeved base layer is made of a premium stretch nylon fabric with UPF50+ protection. The fabric repels hair, hay and dirt, and is designed to match the Prime range.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk, naylors.com or gsequestrian.co.uk
Stierna Jessica Sleeveless Top
Colours: Navy, white, pink, wildberry or blue | Sizes: XS–XL | RRP: £52 |
The fabric of this fitted top is permeated with natural bamboo charcoal, which is naturally antibacterial and has anti-odour properties to keep you fresh and cool. It is UPF30+ and highly effective at transporting moisture, as well as having chafe-free seams and an asymmetrical hem for a better riding fit.
In the UK? View now at gsequestrian.co.uk
Musto Evolution Sunblock Polo 2.0
Colours: Navy, white or platinum | Sizes: UK 8–18 | RRP: £55 |
With a UPF of 50, this top is a great shield to the sun and is made of fast-wicking and -drying fabric to keep you dry, cool and comfortable during intense activity.
In the UK? View now at musto.com
Hy Equestrian Synergy T-Shirt
Colours: Fig, aqua, navy, rose, grape and riviera | Sizes: XS–XL | RRP: £24.99 |
This tee is made of a super-soft material and has mesh panels to help you stay cool. It is available in a choice of six colours, has a subtle V neck and discrete logo on the chest.
In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk
You might also like:
Base layers in a wide range of colours and styles
6 show shirts that are perfect for the summer weather
20 pairs of riding tights and leggings worth trying out
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