Men's riding polos for Black Friday

The competition polo under the rider's jacket

In competition, the rider wears a shirt or a competition polo, white or light-coloured, with a smart collar, under their competition jacket. The polo has become popular among many riders for its comfort: it stays in place under the jacket and doesn’t wrinkle during transport in a lorry. Dedicated models, such as the Tommy Hilfiger Equestrian Alex Show or the Equestro Basic, feature a higher and firmer collar, sometimes fastened with a button, which maintains its shape once the jacket is buttoned up. The rules of each discipline and level specify the allowed colours, which should be checked before entering the competition.

The rest of the men's equipment

Men's equestrian wear on Black Friday also includes:

• Equestrian Trousers.
• Boots & Boots.
• Shirts.
• Jackets & Coats.
• Competition Jackets.

All men's equipment is gathered on the men's page.

Technical knit or piqué cotton: the fabric of a rider's polo

The modern riding polo is most often made of technical knit in polyester or polyamide mixed with elastane: it wicks away sweat, dries quickly, and follows the movements of the upper body in both canter and gallop. The B Vertigo Flynn or the Premier Equine Respiro, with their breathable knit, favour ventilation for summer sessions. The piqué cotton, more classic and softer, maintains a smart appearance but dries slowly and shows sweat marks. Italian brands like Ego 7, Vestrum, or Tattini pay attention to the cut and collar details.

Long sleeves: protecting arms all year round

The long-sleeved polo is not just for winter. In summer, it protects arms from the sun during long outdoor competition days; on rides, it prevents scratches from branches. In mid-season, when alone in the arena, it retains warmth without hindering rein handling. The Montar Will, the Tommy Hilfiger Equestrian Erwin, or the competition versions from Ego 7 and Equestro can also be worn in competitions, under the jacket, when the weather is cool. Fitted cuffs prevent the sleeves from slipping over the hands when shortening the reins.

Size and care of a rider's polo

A men's riding polo should fit snugly without squeezing the shoulders: an overly loose model balloons in the gallop and comes out at the waist during the first jump. A back that is slightly longer than the front keeps the polo tucked in when the rider leans forward. For care, washing at thirty degrees, inside out and without fabric softener preserves the fabric’s ability to wick away sweat. The competition white is prone to grass and leather grease stains: treat them with a mild stain remover before washing, then dry the polo in the shade to prevent it from yellowing.

Frequently asked questions

Can you compete in a polo without a jacket?

In extreme heat, the jury may allow riders to compete without a jacket, wearing a polo or a shirt instead. The top must remain understated and light-coloured, in accordance with the event rules.

Why are competition polos white?

White, or a light colour, is the tradition for competitions: it contrasts with the dark jacket and gives a smart appearance in front of the jury. National rules specify the allowed shades according to the discipline.

Who is behind the brand ANKY?

The brand is named after Anky van Grunsven, a Dutch dressage rider, the only one to have won the individual Olympic title three times in a row, in 2000, 2004, and 2008. Her polos reflect the understated elegance of this discipline.

Equestrian polo or classic polo: what’s the difference?

The equestrian polo is cut longer at the back and more fitted to stay in place in the saddle. Its technical knit, more stretchy than regular piqué cotton, follows the movements of the upper body and wicks away sweat.

How many polos should you bring for a competition weekend?

Plan for at least one competition polo for each day of events, plus a training polo for warming up and caring for the horse. The white can stain quickly in the paddock: an extra model often saves the last event.