So, you (or your kid) just signed up for a hunter/jumper show. First of all—yay! Second—deep breaths. Horse shows can feel overwhelming the first time around: early mornings, lots of rules, and yes, a whole lot of tan breeches. But don’t worry, we’ve got you.
Let’s break it down so you can show up feeling prepared (and maybe even enjoy yourself along the way).
Schooling vs. Rated—What’s the Difference?
Not all shows are created equal. Most beginners start at schooling shows; they’re local, low-key, and perfect for getting experience without emptying your wallet. Rated shows are the bigger, fancier ones with stricter rules, steeper fees, and often a lot more spectators. Both are fun, but knowing which you’re headed to makes a huge difference in how you prep (and how fancy you need to get with your gear).
What to Wear (and Yes, It Matters)
Hunter/jumper shows have their own dress code, but don’t panic. You don’t need to spend a fortune, just aim for neat and classic.
You’ll most likely need tan breeches, a fitted show shirt, and a show jacket if the rules call for it (most rated shows require them). Top it off with a well-fitted helmet and tall boots (or paddock boots with half chaps if that’s what you’ve got).
Packing for the Big Day
Here’s the thing: horse shows have a way of making you forget something important. Pack the essentials a day or two before so you’re not scrambling at dawn. Clean tack, a show pad, grooming supplies, and treats for your horse are non-negotiable. For yourself, toss in extra gloves, snacks, sunscreen, and maybe an extra shirt...because horse slobber and dust love white fabric.
The Day-Of Schedule (a.k.a. Why You’re Up at 5 AM)
Horse shows start early. Like, really early. Expect to be at the barn before the sun, getting your horse groomed, tacked, and ready to roll. Once you’re at the show, there’s a lot of hurry-up-and-wait. Warm-up rings can be busy, classes sometimes run behind, and there’s a good chance you’ll spend a few hours just hanging out ringside. Bring water, snacks, and patience.
Warm-Up Ring Survival 101
The warm-up ring is… chaotic. Horses going in every direction, trainers shouting, riders calling fences, it’s a lot. The unspoken rule? Look where you’re going and be polite. Pass left-to-left, call your jumps out loud (“outside line, oxer!”), and keep moving. Standing in the middle scrolling TikTok is a quick way to make enemies.
Show Ring Do’s and Don’ts
When it’s your turn, take a breath and go ride your ride. Don’t worry about what everyone else is doing. Enter the ring confidently, listen to the gate crew, and give your horse a pat no matter how the round goes. You’ll learn something from every trip, even if you leave out a stride or your diagonal’s a mess. It happens.
Parents, This One’s for You
If you’re a barn parent, welcome to the club. A few quick tips:
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Stay out of the warm-up ring.
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Let the trainer do the coaching.
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Cheer, but don’t distract.
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Pack snacks for yourself—you’ll need them.
Trust us, everyone notices the parent who’s yelling advice from the rail (and not in a good way).
After the Show—Don’t Just Pack Up and Leave
When your classes are done, make sure your horse gets cooled out, untacked, and spoiled with treats. Clean your tack while it’s still warm (it’s so much easier), and thank your trainer and barn mates. Even if you didn’t come home with a ribbon, you gained experience and that’s what counts.
Remember: It’s Supposed to Be Fun
Your first show won’t be perfect, and that’s okay. Things go wrong; horses spook, riders miss distances, numbers fall off. Laugh it off, learn what you can, and celebrate the small wins. At the end of the day, you got to spend time with your horse doing something awesome.
So pack your breeches, grab your horse cookies, and get ready to make some memories. You’ve got this.