Whether you’re riding between the white boards for dressage or competing over coloured poles in the showjumping arena, making sure you have one of the best show jackets is key to nailing your competition day outfit. Looking and feeling smart will help top up your confidence and could make the all important difference to your riding – plus you’ll love the pictures.
Each discipline has slightly different rules on what you can wear at each level – what to wear for dressage, what to wear for showjumping, what to wear eventing – so it’s worth double checking your favourite show jacket is accepted, but in general more colours are accepted now than have been in the past. You can also wear tweed, but we’ve rounded up the best tweed riding jackets separately.
When choosing your new show jacket, it’s worth noting a few features to look out for. Most modern competition jackets are made from more breathable and technical materials, which will keep you cooler and more comfortable throughout the day – some may also be water- and dirt-repellent. Many also fasten with a zip hidden under the button placket, which gives a smart finish and makes the jacket easy to put on and take off. The majority of show jackets are now machine washable, which is a real bonus when it comes to keeping it in good condition and looking smart.
Best show jackets for competition
Ariat Galatea Bellatrix Show Coat
Colours: Navy | Sizes: UK 6–18 | RRP: £260 |
This jacket is the same as the popular Galatea show coat but with a few additional details. It features antique silver hardware and a hidden front zip, and is complete with moisture management technology and breathable mesh panelling, making it ideal for wearing all year round.
In the UK? View now at ariat.com or amazon.co.uk
In the US? View now at ariat.com
Shires Aubrion Goldhawk Show Jacket
Colours: Black or navy | Sizes: 28–42in | RRP: £124.99 |
This mesh jacket allows for increased airflow but looks opaque when worn, keeping the smart look. It is tailored for a slim fit, stretch, has rear vents and a zip fastening concealed by popper button placket.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk
In the US? View now at amazon.com
Horseware Competition Jacket
Colours: Black, navy, green or pom | Sizes: XXS–XXL | RRP: £105.99 |
This light and stretchy competition jacket is made of a softshell material, has exclusive Horseware-design buttons and zipped pockets.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or naylors.com
Pikeur Paulin Show Jacket
Colours: Black, grey, night blue/rose gold or black/gunmetal | Sizes: UK 6–20, in regular or long | RRP: £249.95 |
This stylish show jacket is made with a lightweight, super-elastic and breathable softshell. It has concealed zip front pockets, a stretch lining for optimum comfort, and ornamental studs on the collar and under the slits.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk
Dublin Hanna Mesh Tailored Jacket II
Colours: Navy or black | Sizes: UK 8–20 | RRP: £84.99 |
This stretch mesh competition jacket is ideal for hot summer days. It features a flattering princess seam construction and has a double vented back. It fastens with a hidden centre zip closure and has three buttons for detail. Also available in children’s sizes.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk
In the US? View now at amazon.com
Mark Todd Sports Show Jacket
Colours: Navy or black | Sizes: UK 8–16 | RRP: £162.98 |
This smart competition jacket features a suedette collar, pipped detailing, and rear vents with subtle branding. It contains elastane that aids movement, making it super comfortable to wear. It is machine washable on a cool cycle and available in children’s sizes and men’s sizes.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk
Hy Equestrian Silvia Show Jacket
Colours: Navy or black | Sizes: 7/8–15/16 years, adult XS–XL | RRP: £79.99 (child sizes), £99.99 (adult sizes) |
This show jacket is made from comfortable, breathable material that does not crease and the red perforated material inside aids airflow. The pockets are zipped and the front fastens with three silver buttons. Also available in children’s sizes.
In the UK? View adult sizes now at viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk
In the UK? View child sizes now at viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk
You might also like:
Look and feel the part in one of these stylish tweed jackets
16 of the best competition breeches to wear in the saddle this season
14 of the best long leather riding boots for every budget
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