Looking Good, Feeling Better: 5 Tips For Equestrians
/The way you look and the way you feel are deeply intertwined. And nowhere do we see that connection more clearly than in the riding ring. For equestrians especially, the way we feel impacts our performance. Here are my 5 tips with product recommendations for equestrians to look and feel their best!
Research Shows
It’s so much easier to focus on riding well if you’re not distracted by ill-fitting clothes or unflattering accessories. Even if we didn’t already know this, research exists to back it up.
A 2014 study published by the National Eating Disorders Association found that runners who perceived their clothing as fitting well were able to run faster and farther than those who did not.
And a 2020 study in the Psychonomic Bulletin and Review showed that women who perceived their clothing as comfortable performed better on tasks requiring motor coordination.
For equestrians especially, the way we feel impacts our performance. Comfortable, attractive clothing and accessories make us feel more confident. This confidence is exactly what we need when taking on the physical challenges of competitive riding.
Here are my picks for the best products to allow female equestrians to look and feel their best!
White Button-Down Shirt
A classic white button-down shirt is flattering for any body type. Loosely fitted and effortlessly tucked in, your shirt marks you as a confident expert.
White is a classic color, traditional and universally flattering.
The light color will also help keep you cool when riding in warm weather.
A polo shirt or zip-up can also look stylish if you choose the right one. Just make sure it fits great and flatters your body.
Riding Pants Or Breeches
Classic Breeches
I love riding in classic styles like these Tailored Sportsman breeches. My favorite equestrian store to shop in is TacknRider.
A fitted look is essential; yet it’s hard to think of anything worse than the cramped, constricting feel of pants that are too tight. For best results, go for stretchy breeches made of lightweight, breathable material.
A combination of cotton and spandex is a popular material for riding breeches, since they’re both lightweight and durable. Microfiber is another popular and comfortable choice.
A Gel Manicure
Simply a glance at pretty fingernails can lift your spirits like nothing else. A nice manicure definitely impacts your state of mind when riding...but not if it just gets chipped any time you engage in strenuous activity.
A gel manicure lasts for at least two weeks and won’t chip when you’re mucking out stables or caring for your horse.
A Net Snood For Your Hair
As with any serious sport, the last thing you want is your hair getting in the way. But a simple bun or ponytail just won’t do it. A net snood is designed to keep your hair in place under your riding helmet. Besides the convenience, it’s a simple way to make you look classic and elegant when you’re riding.
Nude Lipstick
The struggle is real. How to give off the polished, feminine look of makeup, without actually wearing makeup? Nude lipstick resolves this age-old problem beautifully, giving you just enough shine while still looking natural.
Concluding Thoughts
The better you look, the better you’ll feel...and perform. With these simple additions to your outfit, you can look and feel great at every event.
