Kids´ Riding Clothes: A Guide to Comfort, Fit and Everyday Style 

First pony lessons, afternoons at the stable and the excitement of a show day all call for clothing that feels good to ride in. The right kids riding clothes should allow easy movement, fit comfortably in the saddle and work with the rest of a child's riding equipment. 

Building a riding wardrobe does not have to be complicated. Start with riding tights, a comfortable top and layers suited to the weather, then add competition clothing when needed. Explore our kids riding clothes collection for pieces that bring Equestrian Stockholm's Scandinavian style to children's equestrian clothing. 

What should children wear for horse riding? 

For everyday lessons, a practical outfit starts with riding tights or breeches, a fitted top and riding socks. Add a suitable layer for cooler conditions. Clothing should let children bend their knees, reach forward and sit comfortably without fabric bunching or pulling. 

Before a first lesson, ask the riding school what equipment it requires, including a correctly fitted riding helmet, suitable riding footwear and any body protection. Confirm what the school can provide before buying. 

A useful clothing checklist includes: 

• Riding tights or breeches that fit comfortably at the waist and through the leg. 
• A flexible top that allows movement through the shoulders. 
• Riding socks that sit smoothly inside boots. 
• A removable warm layer for chilly stable visits. 
• Competition clothing when the child starts taking part in shows. 

How to choose kids riding tights 

Riding tights are a versatile starting point for regular lessons. When comparing kids riding tights, look at the stretch of the fabric, waistband comfort and grip options. 

Our Movement Riding Tights in Black Edition combine breathable four-way stretch with a smooth stretch waistband and a side phone pocket. They come in full-seat and knee-grip versions, making it possible to choose the style that suits the rider's preference. 

Full-seat or knee grip? 

Full-seat grip covers more of the seat area, while knee grip places silicone around the knees. The choice depends on how the child likes their clothing to feel in the saddle and the type of riding they do. If you are unsure, ask their instructor for guidance. 

Whichever version you choose, check the fit in a riding position. The waistband should feel comfortable, and the fabric should allow the knees and hips to bend freely. 

Choose a flexible base layer for lessons 

Children can go from grooming a pony to an active lesson in the same afternoon. A flexible base layer makes it easier to dress for both stable time and riding. 

The Dynamic Base Layer Top in Black features moisture-wicking, quick-drying fabric and four-way stretch. Its long sleeves and streamlined shape make it a practical foundation for a layered outfit. 

Pair it with black riding tights for a coordinated everyday look, then add or remove a layer as conditions change. Check the fit through the shoulders and arms, particularly when the child reaches forward as if holding the reins. 

Layer kids riding clothes for cooler days 

A chilly morning at the yard may feel very different from the middle of a lesson. Removable layers make a riding outfit more adaptable. 

The Teddy Fleece Jacket in Black adds warmth with high-pile fleece, a stand collar and a full-length front zip. A zipped side pocket provides a place for small essentials. 

Wear it over a base layer for cooler stable days. In wet weather, choose an appropriate outer layer as well. If the child wears a body protector, check the complete outfit together so that the layers work with its fit. 

Small details matter: kids riding socks 

Socks are easy to overlook when choosing children's riding clothes, but their fit deserves attention. They should sit smoothly inside riding footwear without folds or excess fabric. 

Our Bamboo Blend Riding Socks in Black have a knee-high design, a lightweight bamboo-blend leg and a cotton foot. This style is listed in EU size 31–33, so check the child's shoe size before choosing it. 

Try socks with the boots the child will actually ride in to assess the overall fit. 

Children's riding clothes for competition days 

When lessons lead to competitions, start by checking the organiser's current dress requirements. The clothing needed can vary between disciplines and events. 

For a refined show outfit, the Crystal Champion Competition Top in White combines breathable stretch fabric with short sleeves, lace detailing and crystal accents at the collar. 

Prepare the full outfit before show day, including any required jacket and riding bottoms. This gives the child time to try everything together and check that they can move comfortably. 

How to find the right size 

Use the size guide on each product page rather than choosing by age alone. Children of the same age can have different measurements and proportions. 

For riding tights, compare waist, seat and inner-leg measurements with the product's guide. For tops and jackets, follow the measurements provided for that garment. Our Movement Riding Tights, Dynamic Base Layer Top, Teddy Fleece Jacket and Crystal Champion Competition Top list sizes from 5/6Y to 15/16Y; availability varies by product and variant. 

It can be tempting to buy extra-large clothing for growing room, but the current fit still matters. Check that tights stay in place and sleeves do not interfere with the hands. 

Caring for children's equestrian clothing 

Follow the care label for each garment, as washing instructions differ between tights, base layers, fleece and competition tops. 

The Movement Riding Tights specify washing at 30°C, without fabric softener or tumble drying. The Crystal Champion Competition Top calls for a hand-wash programme and a laundry bag. Treat each piece according to its own instructions rather than washing the whole outfit on the same setting. 

Find their next riding outfit 

A useful riding wardrobe starts with a few pieces that work together: comfortable riding tights, a flexible base layer, suitable socks and an extra layer for cooler days. 

Discover kids riding clothes from Equestrian Stockholm and build an outfit for lessons, stable days and the next step in their riding journey.