Best Horse Riding Hairstyles for Competition

Tradition plays an important role in the English riding disciplines. One of the most important traditions centers on appearance. From helmet to boots, equestrians in English-riding disciplines are expected to look neat and put-together in the saddle during competition. This tradition influences the horse riding hairstyles that are commonly expected by the judges. In this guide, we share what you need to know about women’s equestrian hairstyles for the English disciplines.

Hairstyles for Competition

The requirements related to hairstyle for competition depends on the event, the age of the rider, and the riding discipline. 

Child Riders

Young girls in paddock boots wear two braids with ribbons matching their show outfit. As riders advance and transition to tall boots, they no longer wear show bows and hairstyle expectations vary by discipline, the emphasis remaining on a polished and tidy appearance.

Hunter and Equitation

In hunter and equitation events, a polished and traditional appearance is expected, and judges often take a rider’s hairstyle into account. While there are no specific USEF rules requiring hair to be tucked into the helmet, it is a long-standing norm in these disciplines. Most riders wear their hair up using an equestrian hair net that closely matches their hair color. There are a variety of hair net styles to choose from, including some with a heavier weight for very thick hair.

However, helmet fit and safety should always come first. You should ensure your helmet fits properly with your hair styled as you plan to wear it in the show ring. We recommend a professional helmet fitting to achieve both a secure fit and traditional look.

Colored horse-riding hair nets, show bows, and buns are not appropriate for hunter-jumper competitions. One-knot hair nets are often used for hunter and jumper competitions, sometimes with a hair band to ensure your hair is smooth under the helmet.

Dressage

In dressage, a neat and polished hairstyle is expected. Riders typically wear their hair in a low bun, often secured with a decorative hair net, scrunchie, or bow. Riders with short hair should use a hair net to keep flyaways contained, maintaining a tidy look. Long hair may be tucked neatly into the rider’s helmet instead of a bun, but be sure to prioritize helmet fit and safety.

Learn more: Dressage Riding for Beginners

Eventing

Since eventing competitions include multiple riding disciplines, your hairstyle may change based on the phase of the event you are riding. 

• Jumping — For jumping, you can wear your hair neatly tucked under your helmet, in a low bun, or in a ponytail.
• Dressage — For the dressage position, riders typically wear their hair in their helmet or in a neat bun tucked under the rear of the helmet.
• Cross Country — During cross country, your hair can be either tucked completely under the helmet or tied back with a single ponytail.

It may be easiest to consider a single hairstyle that you can wear for all phases of eventing, but the choice is yours.

Types of Hair Nets for Equestrians

Believe it or not, there are also recommended ways to use a hair net — and they can be a challenge to use. There are two primary hair net styles: one-knot hair nets and no-knot hair nets. These videos will show you exactly how to use horse-riding hair nets. The decision on which type to use is based on the fit of the hair in the helmet. No-knot hair nets can be more comfortable for some riders and won’t leave as much of a mark in the skin.

One-Knot Hair Net

A one-knot hair net is often used for hunters and jumpers. It completely surrounds your hair much like a shower cap does. If you have long hair, you can put a ponytail around it at the back and lift it smoothly up over your head when you put your helmet on. The knot is placed at the back of the center of the neck for a one-knot hair net. (For a two-knot hair net, one knot is at the back center of the neck and the other at the center of the forehead.) There are options to use a built-in scrunchie for a ponytail. Not sure how to use one? Check out our “How To Video”!

No-Knot Hair Net

The no-knot hair net has openings at the front and back of the net. It’s placed around the neck then up and over the head, with one end spanning the forehead and over the ears and the other end to the length of the hair. You have the option to either wear a ponytail or to simply pull the hair net with your hair smoothly over your head. There are also options for a heavy-weight one-knot hair net for those with very long and/or thick hair. Don’t forget to check out our “How To Video” as well!

When allowed, you can also use hair nets that cover buns at the back of your head with accents like horse show hair bows or even Swarovski crystals. These are typically worn at dressage events.

Practical Tips for Competition Hairstyles

A polished appearance is especially important on show days, so it’s helpful to practice your competition hairstyle ahead of time. Getting comfortable with styling your hair for riding can make your pre-show routine smoother and less stressful.

If you have long or thick hair or a protective hairstyle, be mindful of how it affects your helmet fit. Your helmet should always fit securely with your hair styled the way you wear it while riding. If you adjust your hairstyle, make sure your helmet still provides a proper, snug fit.

Appropriate horse-riding hairstyles for female equestrians is an important part of competing in English-riding disciplines. Being confident in your hairstyle, knowing that it won’t come loose or cause problems during a competition, will allow you to stay focused on riding. 

Check out our collection of hair nets that have been proven in competition! If you have questions about any of our products, give us a call at 864-457-3557. We’re happy to help!

 

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• Ultimate Dressage Equipment List