The Polo Shirt: An Equestrian Style Essential
Rene Lacoste took the polo shirt world by storm, debuting his ‘modern’ new look at the US Open in 1976 and the rest is history. Since then, the polo shirt has been a staple in closets everywhere. From rugby to tech fabric and back to the classics, we’ve got the ‘best of’ polos to keep you riding in style this season.
Being that horse show season is already well underway, it only seems appropriate to share our best polo shirts for horse shows. Whether you’re riding against the clock in the jumper ring or halting at ‘X’ on schooling day, the Iconic Polo from Goode Rider is the perfect subtle statement. The cotton/lycra blend fabric, fitted silhouette and longer length of the shirt allow for your polished look to last until the final ribbon has been pinned.
Practically an equestrian household name, the Horseware brand is known for its function and durability. Add stylish to the list and you’ve got the ideal polo shirt. We think Horseware hit the (horseshoe) nail on the head with their trendy Newmarket Coco Pique Polo Shirt. The soft yet durable cotton fabric allows you to wash and wear week after week making it a must have for the busy equestrian.
You can’t say polo shirt without thinking rugby. The bold stripes, vibrant color choices and perfectly matched details makes the Ariat Bella Rugby Polo Shirt our champion in the Best Rugby Polo Shirt division.
From a neatly braided mane and tail to perfectly polished boots, equestrian style is often all about the details. A favorite of riders and spectators alike, Joules polo shirts have got it down to the very last detail. With its bright yellow buttons, floral details and signature Joules polo number, the Beaufort Lark Polo Shirt is our top pick for Best Details. (Hint: If you’re headed to the Summer Olympics in London be sure to stop by a Joules department store. That’s right, we said department store!)
Technical fabric and trendy details…what more could an equestrian girl ask for?! With classic plaid trim, logo patch details and breathable stretch fabric, the B Vertigo Ricky Polo from Horze is all that and a bag of horse cookies!
Whether you’re hitting the trails, taking a lesson or going out for a hack, the Kingsfield Polo from Musto is our number one pick for Best Everyday Polo. The stretch blend fabric, logo detailing and bright summer colors make this Musto polo a must have.
Just right for a horse show mom or rider playing ‘spectator for a day’, the Vivi Polo from Gersemi will keep you equestrian styled even when you head out in jeans. Pair with your favorite denim and some deck shoes, like these and you’ll understand why the Vivi polo gets the blue ribbon for Best Polo with Jeans!
Ponies and pigtails and polo shirts, oh my! There is nothing cuter than a pony princess rocking the latest trends. With great details and an even better price point, the Bindia Polo Shirt from Equine Couture takes the lead for Best Kids Polo. (Hint: To complete the look add some pint sized denim breeches and this pony power belt from Deux Chevaux ).
Our Best Long Sleeved Polo is perfect for those chilly horse show mornings or layered under your favorite vest or sweater out at the barn. With a flawless fit, contrast stitching and a lined collar and cuffs for added versatility, the Chelsea Polo from Mountain Horse will keep you looking your best no matter what the weather brings.
If tan is your only color of breeches and your horse is dressed in white polo wraps and saddle pads for each and every ride, then we have the perfect polo shirt for you. With the Kingsland Classic Ladies Polo Shirt, the name says it all. Topping our Best Classic Polo list, this traditional navy blue polo pairs perfectly with your tan breeches and polished tall boots giving you that ‘put together look’ for every ride.
If all of these fun polos have made you want to put one hoof out of the box, check out the Women’s Polo Shirt from Asmar Equestrian. This (still) classic polo has a few more modern details and allows you to step out of the navy comfort zone with a variety of jewel-tone color options to choose from.
Whether your whites are full seat or knee patch, this Competition (Polo) Shirt from Pikeur comes complete with a snap collar and stock tie loop making it versatile in any horse show ring. Choose from traditional white or opt for some added style with the gorgeous blue. Either way, this modern take on a traditional shirt is certainly the Best to Wear With Whites!
Sam Shahbazi is a Portland, Oregon native. A full time business student at Portland State University, she also works at Gallops Saddlery and for Dappled Grey. While work and school take up most of her time, she and her boyfriend Corey enjoy spending time riding their two horses, playing with their two cats, and looking forward to their future farm together.
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