It’s finally competing season!
Preparing for a competition can be stressful, but with a proper packing list and a bit of organization, you can make sure everything runs smoothly. Whether you're competing in dressage, show jumping, or eventing, here's a list of essentials to bring with you to competitions.
![](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0641/6134/9832/files/preparing-for-competition-a-packing-list-bild-2-1-scaled_1024x1024.jpg?v=1708678936)
Moonless Night
Clothing
When it comes to clothing, it is important to make sure you have everything you need to look and feel your best in the arena. For dressage, a white saddle pad and matching dressage attire is a must, while in showjumping, a colorful saddle pad and jacket is more common since it is not as common to require all white gear. Here is a basic list of what to bring:
- Show jacket
- White/beige breeches (depending on discipline)
- Riding boots
- Helmet
- Riding socks
- Riding gloves
- Hairnet
- Overalls to protect your breeches from dirt and stains
![](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0641/6134/9832/files/carolinavillanuevasuarez-equus-media-36-scaled_1024x1024.jpg?v=1708678906)
Next, you will need to pack all the necessary tack for your horse. Here are some items to consider bringing:
- Saddle
- White or colorful saddle pad (depending on the discipline)
- Bridle
- Horse boots or polo wraps
- Martingale or breastplate (if needed)
- Girth
- Number plate
![](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0641/6134/9832/files/elena-dotoli-dennesydressage-10_1024x1024.jpg?v=1708678906)
Black Edition
Grooming
Having your horse look their best is important, especially in the competition ring. Here are some items to consider bringing to help with grooming:
- Brushes (curry comb, body brush, soft brush, mane comb, tail comb)
- Sponges
- Hoof pick
- Gloss spray
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Towels
![](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0641/6134/9832/files/carolinavillanuevasuarez-equus-media-39-scaled_1024x1024.jpg?v=1708678906)
Miscellaneous
Here are some other items to consider bringing with you to the competition:
- Water bucket for your horse to drink from
- Hay net and feed for your horse
- A bottle of water to help you stay hydrated
- Snacks to keep your energy levels up while waiting for your turn in the ring
- First aid kit
- Fly spray
- Tack cleaning supplies
- Any required documents or certificates needed for your horse
- Horse candy
- Wet wipes
![](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0641/6134/9832/files/5i7a0557-scaled_1024x1024.jpg?v=1708678904)
With these preparations, we hope you will have the absolute best experience competing. Let’s try to minimize stress and focus on what’s important. Good luck!
Love,
Team ES