Between early mornings, hot afternoons, and long hours ringside, summer shows are as exhilarating as they are exhausting. Packing smart makes a big difference—not just in what you bring, but in how you ride. Whether you're heading to a local one-day or a full weekend on the circuit, here's what real riders actually need (and what they always forget).
Spoiler: You don’t need five belts. But you do need Effax.
Apparel Essentials
Breeches
Bring two. One to ride in, and one in case of spills, sweat, or the unexpected alfalfa cube incident. We love RJ Classics’ Gracie breeches—ultra-lightweight with ventilated stretch panels and a modern athletic fit—or Samshield’s Adele, a polished, flattering silhouette with high-stretch fabric and silicone grip that feels as good as it looks.
Show Shirt
Go for tech fabric that performs under pressure. Dada Sport’s show tops feel like luxury loungewear—but look like a Grand Prix podium moment.
Gloves
Hot weather = sweaty reins. Pack a backup pair, always. Try Roeckl's mesh-backed Laila glove for airflow and grip.
Hairnets
This is non-negotiable. We recommend Real Women Ride hairnets—helmet-friendly, no slippage, and made to last.
Belt
One classic belt that matches anything. Bonus points if it’s washable (like our faves from Ellany), but our Claremont spur belt is a classic leather option that goes with everything.
Socks + Rain Jacket
Tall socks with a little compression, and a lightweight jacket just in case. (Hi, HITS, we see you!)
Grooming & Tack Care
Fly Spray
Summer showing equals bugs. Big ones. Bring a full bottle of UltraShield EX or your favorite natural alternative.
Boot Touch-Ups
Nothing beats Effax Speedy Leather-Shine for last-minute polish. It’s small, mess-free, and makes your boots look instantly ring-ready.
Helmet Protection
Keep your helmet safe and dust-free between classes. We’re obsessed with the LeMieux Elite Pro Hat Box—structured, sleek, and easy to stash in a trunk.
Rider Essentials
Sunscreen + Lip Balm
SPF 30+, sweat-proof, and ideally mineral-based. You do not want a sunburn under your collar.
First Aid & Fix-It Kit
Advil, Band-Aids, bobby pins, safety pins. These are non-glamorous heroes of anyone’s ring bag.
Phone Charger or Power Bank
Ride times, texts from your trainer, filming your rounds—don’t risk being stuck at 3%.
Water + Snacks
Pack high-protein, low-mess snacks (bars, cold grapes, trail mix). Hydration is just as important as your half seat.
Forgotten-but-Crucial Extras
-
Extra hairnets and gloves
-
Tack wipes
-
Small garbage bag (for dirty laundry)
-
Small towel or wipes for face + hands
-
Clean saddle pad & girth
-
Hoof polish or oil
Need a show-day refresh?
We’ve got everything from Real Women Ride hairnets to the LeMieux Elite Pro Hat Box in-store and online.
Shop Our Summer Show Picks →