How to Care for Riding Clothes So They Last

Investing in quality equestrian apparel is essential for comfort, safety, and performance in the saddle. From your durable riding breeches and moisture-wicking show shirts to your protective riding jackets and sturdy chaps, these garments are designed to withstand the rigors of barn life and intense riding. However, without proper care, even the most expensive gear can quickly lose its functionality and aesthetic appeal.

At MyHorseHub.com, we understand that maintaining your horse riding clothes is key to maximizing their lifespan and protecting your investment. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the best practices for washing, drying, storing, and generally caring for your equestrian wardrobe, ensuring it stays in top condition ride after ride.

Understanding Your Riding Apparel's Unique Needs

Unlike everyday clothing, horse riding apparel is often made from technical fabrics designed for specific purposes:

• Breeches and Jodhpurs: Often contain blends of cotton, synthetic fibers (like spandex, nylon, or polyester) for stretch, durability, and grip. Some feature silicone grips or synthetic suede patches.

• Show Shirts and Base Layers: Typically made from moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics to keep you cool and dry.

• Riding Jackets: Can range from softshell for flexibility to waterproof materials for protection, often with specialized linings.

• Barn Clothes: Tend to be more robust cottons or durable synthetics, designed to withstand dirt, hay, and repeated washing.

Each fabric type, and the presence of specialized features like grips or waterproofing, dictates specific care instructions. Always check the garment's care tag first!

 

Pre-Wash Preparation: The Foundation of Longevity

Before even thinking about the washing machine, a few crucial steps can prevent damage and ensure a deeper clean.

1. Remove All Debris: This is paramount. Brush off loose dirt, mud, hay, and horsehair from your riding clothes. A stiff brush or a specialized horsehair removal tool (like a rubber curry comb or lint roller) works wonders. Leaving dirt on can grind into the fabric during washing, causing premature wear.

2. Close Zippers and Fastenings: Zip up all zippers, fasten Velcro, and hook/button breeches. This prevents zippers from snagging delicate fabrics and keeps Velcro from accumulating lint or damaging other items.

3. Turn Garments Inside Out: Especially for breeches with silicone grips or any item with embroidery or delicate embellishments. This protects the outer surface and grips from abrasion.

4. Pre-Treat Stains: Mud, grass, sweat, and manure stains are common. Use a reputable pre-treatment spray or dab a small amount of liquid detergent directly onto the stain. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before washing. Avoid harsh stain removers that could damage technical fabrics.

Washing Wisdom: Gentle Care for Tough Gear

The washing machine can be either your friend or foe when it comes to equestrian apparel care.

• Cold Water is Your Best Friend: Always wash riding clothes in cold water. Hot water can damage technical fibers, break down elastic, fade colors, and set stains.

• Gentle Cycle: Opt for a delicate or gentle cycle. This minimizes agitation, protecting fabric integrity and preventing stretching or pilling.

• Use a Mild Detergent: Avoid harsh detergents, bleach, or fabric softeners.

  • Detergent: Choose a mild, scent-free, dye-free liquid detergent. Specialized technical fabric washes are also excellent.

  • Avoid Bleach: Bleach can severely damage and weaken technical fibers, as well as strip colors.

  • Skip Fabric Softeners: Fabric softeners can clog the pores of moisture-wicking fabrics, reducing their ability to breathe and manage sweat. They can also leave a residue on silicone grips, making them less effective. If you need to soften, consider a cup of white vinegar in the rinse cycle (it also helps remove odors!).

• Wash Like with Like: Separate your horse riding clothes from everyday garments. Wash darks with darks, and lights with lights. Consider washing delicate items (like show shirts or expensive base layers) in a mesh laundry bag to protect them further.

 

Drying Dilemmas: Air Dry for Best Results

The dryer is often the biggest enemy of equestrian apparel. Heat can cause irreparable damage.

• Air Dry is King: Whenever possible, air dry your riding clothes. Hang breeches, show shirts, and jackets on a sturdy hanger. This prevents shrinking, maintains fabric integrity, and preserves elastic and technical properties.

• Avoid Direct Sunlight: While air drying, keep garments out of direct, prolonged sunlight, which can fade colors.

• If You Must Use a Dryer: If air drying isn't an option, use the absolute lowest heat setting or an "air fluff" cycle. Remove items while they are still slightly damp to minimize heat exposure and hang to finish drying. Never tumble dry riding jackets with waterproofing, as high heat can damage the waterproof membrane.

Storage Solutions: Keeping Gear Pristine Between Rides

Proper storage protects your riding clothes from dust, wrinkles, and damage.

• Clean and Dry Before Storing: Ensure all garments are thoroughly clean and completely dry before storing them. Storing damp clothes can lead to mildew and unpleasant odors.

• Hang Breeches and Jackets: Hang your riding breeches and jackets on good quality hangers to maintain their shape and prevent wrinkles.

• Fold Shirts Neatly: Show shirts and base layers can be folded neatly in drawers or on shelves.

• Protect from Pests: Store clean clothes in a dry, dark place, away from extreme temperatures. If storing for a long period, consider garment bags for extra protection from dust and insects.

 

Special Care Notes for Specific Items

• Leather/Suede Chaps & Half Chaps: These are rarely machine washable. Spot clean with a damp cloth and a specialized leather cleaner. Condition regularly to keep the leather supple.

• Waterproof Jackets: Follow specific manufacturer instructions. Often require special washes to maintain breathability and re-proofing treatments over time. Avoid fabric softener at all costs.

• White Show Clothes: To keep whites bright, wash them separately with a dedicated white clothing detergent and consider an oxygen-based brightener (non-chlorine bleach).

 

The Takeaway: Invest in Care, Ride with Confidence

Your riding clothes are an investment in your comfort and performance. By following these simple yet effective equestrian apparel care tips, you can significantly extend the life of your garments, ensuring they look great and perform their best for many rides to come. A little extra care goes a long way in maintaining your riding wardrobe and keeping you ready for your next horseback adventure.