A Parent’s Guide: 5 Things To Look For When Buying Your Child’s First Show Jacket

If you’ve ever found yourself asking, “How to choose a show jacket for kids?”, you’re not alone. For many parents, buying that first competition jacket can feel both exciting and slightly overwhelming. Horse riding events come with certain expectations, and the show jacket plays an important role in helping young riders look polished and feel confident.

Choosing the right show jacket for young riders isn’t just about appearance. It’s about comfort, movement, durability, and helping your child feel ready to step into the arena with confidence.

Here’s what you should keep in mind.

1. Fit Should Always Come First

The most important factor when selecting a show jacket is fit. A jacket that is too tight can restrict movement in the saddle, while one that is too loose may look untidy and distract from your child’s overall presentation.

Start by measuring your child’s chest, waist, and arm length. Compare these measurements with the brand’s size guide rather than guessing based on age alone. Different brands can vary in sizing.

If possible, have your child try the jacket on and simulate riding movements. They should be able to lift their arms comfortably and move their shoulders without stiffness. When buttoned, the jacket should sit neatly without pulling across the chest.

Since children grow quickly, many parents look for a slight amount of room for growth — but avoid going too large, as an oversized jacket can affect both comfort and appearance.

2. Choose Breathable and Flexible Materials

Horse shows can involve long hours outdoors. Warm weather, nerves, and physical activity can make comfort even more important. Breathable fabrics help regulate temperature and prevent overheating.

Look for materials that:

• Allow airflow
• Offer slight stretch
• Maintain their shape
• Feel lightweight yet structured

Modern equestrian jackets often include performance fabrics that combine comfort with durability. A little flexibility in the material makes a noticeable difference, especially for young riders who are still building confidence and balance.

3. Keep Style Classic but Age-Appropriate

While it’s tempting to choose bold designs, most competitions favour traditional colours such as navy, black, or charcoal. These shades create a neat, professional appearance in the arena.

Small design details — like subtle piping, well-placed buttons, or tailored seams — can add personality without being distracting. The goal is to complement your child’s riding skills, not overpower them.

When browsing options, some parents explore Australian equestrian brands such as Giddyupgirl, which are known within the riding community for competition apparel. However, brand choice should always come second to fit and comfort.

Remember, confidence often comes from feeling comfortable in what you’re wearing. If your child feels good in their jacket, it will show in their posture and presentation.

4. Consider Practical Features

A show jacket should be easy for your child to manage independently. Before purchasing, check how it fastens. Buttons, zippers, or hook closures should be secure yet simple to use.

Pockets aren’t always necessary, but some riders appreciate small storage space for hair ties or personal items. Just make sure added features don’t affect the clean fit of the jacket.

Another practical factor is maintenance. Equestrian events can be dusty or muddy. Choosing a jacket made from easy-care fabric will save time and effort after competitions.

5. Think About Longevity and Budget

Show jackets come in a wide range of prices. While premium jackets may offer advanced tailoring and high-performance materials, many mid-range options provide excellent value.

Before buying, consider:

• How often your child competes
• Whether they are likely to grow quickly
• How long you expect the jacket to last

Sometimes it makes sense to invest in quality if your child competes regularly. Other times, a well-made but affordable option may be more practical.

The key is balance. Focus on durability and comfort rather than choosing based purely on price or brand recognition.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right competition jacket doesn’t have to be complicated. When you focus on fit, comfort, breathable materials, and practical design, the decision becomes much easier.

A well-chosen show jacket for young riders does more than complete an outfit — it helps build confidence. And when your child walks into the arena feeling comfortable and prepared, they can focus on what truly matters: enjoying their ride and giving their best performance.