Rider Attire and Horse Tack

RIDER ATTIRE:

FADS shows are casual – formal dressage rider attire is not required; however, a rider may wear formal dressage rider attire if desired.  In all FADS shows, riders must wear an approved safety helmet with the harness fastened and riding-safe footwear with heels. Shirts must have sleeves and a collar.

For USEF/USDF shows, rider attire is governed by USEF Rule DR120 Dress.  The chapter covers riding coats, shirts, breeches, boots, gloves, whips, rain hat covers, rain wear, spurs, cooling vests, and logos on jackets, etc.  For details click here, then look at rule 120.

HORSE EQUIPMENT:

FADS shows do not conduct equipment inspections; however, if a show official notices inhumane or dangerous equipment, the rider may be asked to change the equipment. Additionally, most judges follow USEF horse equipment rules.

For USEF/USDF shows, USEF has a specific dressage rule (DR121 Saddlery and Equipment) for horse equipment.  The horse equipment rule covers saddles, saddle pads, logos on saddle pads, bits, bridles, the fit of bridles, prohibited equipment, ear covers, breast plate, crupper, reins, false tails, decorations, braiding of mane and tail, side reins, equipment allowed in warm-up, lunging equipment, whips, and bridle numbers. The rules provide for standardization (thereby avoiding unfair competitive advantage), humane management of the horse, and safety.  Therefore, schooling show riders should follow the USEF rules.  Additionally, most judges at FADS shows require adherence to the USEF equipment rules.   For details, click here to open the USEF rules page, then click the DR Dressage Division box, then look at rule 121.

The following links provide information for rider attire and horse equipment:

  • USEF Dressage Attire and Equipment:  This official USEF PDF document is a booklet with the details of rider attire and horse equipment for licensed shows.  Click here to download the document.
  • USEF Dressage Chapter DR 121 Annex A – Bits, Saddlery, and Equipment:  This official USEF PDF document shows what bits are allowed in USEF and FEI licensed shows.  Click here to download.

NOTE: Attire and equipment rules change frequently; therefore, always refer to an online reference.

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