A women's show jacket should look composed at the halt and move comfortably when you shorten the reins, rise out of the saddle and take a forward seat. A standing-room mirror tells only half the story. Use this checklist when trying on a competition jacket, especially if you ride show jumping.
Start with the shoulders
The shoulder seam should sit naturally, without sliding down the arm or pulling toward the neck. Bring your hands into a normal rein position. Then reach forward as you would over a fence. If the back tightens sharply or the sleeves pull high, the jacket may be too narrow through the upper body. A larger size is not always the answer: compare the shoulder, bust and waist measurements with the brand's size chart.
Check the waist and front closure
Fasten the jacket and sit down. The front should close smoothly without strong horizontal tension at the buttons. A tailored waist can define the silhouette, but it should not press against your ribs when you breathe deeply or turn your torso. Excess fabric at the waist can bunch up above the saddle; too little fabric can make the jacket ride upward.
Test sleeve length and the hem in the saddle
With your arms forward, the sleeves should still cover your wrists comfortably. Sit in a saddle if possible, or at least mimic your normal riding position. The hem should lie neatly without folding heavily across the hips or catching at the back. Different jacket cuts can look similar when standing but behave differently in motion.
Choose construction for your conditions
A light, flexible fabric can make long competition days more comfortable. The VEL DE REIS Women's Show Jacket uses technical stretch fabric, an unlined interior and a laser-cut ventilation panel across the back. These details are intended to allow movement and airflow while keeping a sculpted competition shape. Pair it with a thin women's competition show shirt when checking the fit; a bulky layer can change how the jacket sits.
Quick fitting checklist
- Fasten all closures without pulling across the bust.
- Reach forward and bend your elbows in rein position.
- Rotate your torso and move into a forward seat.
- Check the waist and hem while seated.
- Confirm the sleeve length with your competition shirt underneath.
For the wider outfit and discipline-specific clothing requirements, see our show jumping outfit guide. Always check your federation's current dress rules before competing.
