Summertime, and the Clothing is Easy

Long, hot and dusty days in the ring and in the saddle are just around the corner. For sound advice on what savvy trainers will wear to feel cool, calm and collecting ribbons, we looked to apparel expert Susan Ebert, associate publisher of “Western & English Today,” the publication for America’s equestrian retailers.

Here are her spot-on recommendations…

FINALLY, TECHNOLOGY

What took so long? Thankfully, the trend in technical fabrics—developed for runners, anglers, cyclists, hikers and so on—has finally hit the equestrian market full force. Manufacturers such as Ariat, FITS, Kerrits and TuffRider are using Coolmax or similar self-wicking fabrics for summer shirts. The trend toward lightweight, stretchy summer riding tights continues with Kerrits, Irideon and Devon-Aire offering both knee patch and full seat options. Coolmax fabrics even wend their way into socks and gloves such as the Heritage Summer Trainer Glove. But it doesn’t end there: I tested the SamShield ventilated helmet at the recent American Equestrian Trade Association (AETA) Expo, and was amazed at the airflow and lean profile, both reminiscent of a racing cyclist’s helmet.

On the Western side, denim jeans remain de rigueur: Wrangler, Ariat, Cowgirl Tuff and B Tuff offer great cut plus a bit of stretch. For shirts, look to Wrangler’s “Relentless by Trevor Brazile” collection and some of the technical fabrics by Outback Trading Company…or go to the source, as I do, and simply wear a fishing shirt: I like the Omni-Freeze Ice active cooling technology shirts from Columbia Sportswear.

For summer headwear, the SunBody palm leaf hats are great. Mine is a palm-leaf “Gus” with a terry/elastic sweatband, easily reshaped by dunking the brim (not the crown, please!) in water. Best of all, SunBody Guatamalan palms are certified for cancer protection, with a rating of UPF 50+. English or Western (www.sunbody.com). Top off your summer ensemble with the Cool Medics cooling vest of your choice and a Frog Toggs Chilly Pad or Chilly Dana (as in bandana) around your neck! Check out www.froggtoggs.com/?cooling for more information.

ALL IN THE DETAILS

With Ebert’s help, we selected some great summer fashions for you. Happy shopping and happy riding!  

WESTERN

1. Cowgirl Tuff Women’s Jean: Don’t Fence Me In; MSRP $74.50; www.cowgirltuff.com

This is a medium denim shade that hides the dirt, but on hot days, the color’s not too dark. It is basic, which is nice for riding, so the embellishments don’t get caught on the saddle and rub, but cute enough to go out at night. This jean is really comfortable to ride in, with great longer lengths.

Cowgirl Tuff Crystal Wash Tee in Turquoise; MSRP: $35; www.cowgirltuff.com

You can always find basic tees, but these fit great, are lightweight with flash and color plus designs to dress them up more than your average tee. This short-sleeved tee is v-neck, but check out the round neck design at MSRP $45 and long-sleeved styles at $85 with zip hoods for unpredictable weather.