Quality equestrian clothing is an investment, and with proper care, your riding gear can last for years. Whether you're caring for technical competition breeches, show jackets, or everyday base layers, following the right care routine will keep your apparel looking professional and performing at its best. This guide will help you extend the life of your riding wardrobe.
Why Proper Care Matters
Equestrian clothing is designed with technical fabrics that wick moisture, provide stretch, and withstand the demands of riding. However, these specialized materials require specific care to maintain their performance properties. Improper washing can damage elasticity, fade colours, reduce water resistance, and shorten the lifespan of your gear significantly.
Washing Your Riding Clothes Properly
Different types of riding apparel require different care approaches. Here's how to wash each category correctly.
Breeches and Jodhpurs
Breeches are your most frequently washed riding items and need special attention to maintain their fit and grip.
Washing instructions:
- Turn inside out before washing to protect the outer fabric and any silicone or leather grips
- Use a gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water (30°C maximum)
- Choose a mild detergent designed for technical fabrics—avoid fabric softener as it damages grip and moisture-wicking properties
- Wash with similar colours to prevent fading
- Remove promptly from the machine to prevent creasing
Drying: Air dry flat or hang to dry away from direct heat. Never tumble dry breeches as high heat damages elastic fibres and can cause shrinkage.
Technical Base Layers
Base layers are designed to wick moisture and regulate temperature, so maintaining these properties is essential.
Washing instructions:
- Wash after every wear to remove sweat and bacteria
- Use cold water (30°C) on a delicate cycle
- Use sport-specific or technical fabric detergent
- Avoid fabric softener completely—it clogs the fibres and reduces wicking ability
- Don't wash with heavy items like jeans that can cause pilling
Drying: Air dry on a drying rack. Base layers dry quickly and don't need tumble drying.
Show Jackets and Competition Wear
Show jackets require the most careful handling to maintain their structure and professional appearance.
Washing instructions:
- Check the care label—many show jackets are dry clean only
- If machine washable, use a gentle cycle with cold water
- Place in a mesh laundry bag to protect buttons and structure
- Use a mild detergent suitable for delicate fabrics
- Wash separately or with similar delicate items only
Drying: Hang on a padded hanger immediately after washing to maintain shape. Never tumble dry. Steam or iron on low heat if needed, following care label instructions.
Riding Boots and Leather Goods
Leather boots and accessories need regular cleaning and conditioning to prevent cracking and maintain suppleness.
Care routine:
- Wipe down after each ride with a damp cloth to remove dirt and sweat
- Use leather cleaner weekly or after muddy rides
- Apply leather conditioner monthly to keep leather supple
- Stuff boots with boot trees or newspaper to maintain shape while drying
- Never place near direct heat sources like radiators
Drying and Storage Tips
How you dry and store your riding clothes is just as important as how you wash them.
Proper Drying Methods
- Air drying is best: Hang or lay flat in a well-ventilated area
- Avoid direct sunlight: UV rays can fade colours and weaken fabrics
- Never use radiators: Direct heat damages elastic and technical fibres
- Use padded hangers: For jackets and shirts to maintain shape
- Reshape while damp: Gently pull items back into shape before drying
Long-Term Storage
Proper storage between seasons or competitions keeps your gear in top condition.
- Clean before storing: Never store dirty clothing—stains set over time and attract moths
- Use breathable garment bags: Avoid plastic which traps moisture
- Store in a cool, dry place: Avoid damp areas like basements
- Hang jackets and coats: Use padded hangers to maintain structure
- Fold breeches and base layers: Store flat to prevent stretching
- Add cedar blocks or lavender: Natural moth deterrents for wool items
Common Mistakes to Avoid
These common errors can significantly shorten the life of your riding clothes:
- Using fabric softener: Destroys moisture-wicking and grip properties
- Washing in hot water: Damages elastic, causes shrinkage, and fades colours
- Tumble drying: High heat ruins technical fabrics and elastic
- Leaving wet clothes in the machine: Causes mildew and permanent creasing
- Over-washing: Excessive washing wears out fabrics faster—spot clean when possible
- Ignoring care labels: Always check manufacturer instructions first
Stain Removal Tips
Quick action is key for removing common riding stains:
- Mud: Let dry completely, then brush off before washing
- Grass stains: Pre-treat with stain remover or white vinegar before washing
- Sweat marks: Soak in cold water with a tablespoon of white vinegar for 30 minutes
- Oil or grease: Apply dish soap directly to the stain before washing
Extending the Life of Your Riding Wardrobe
Beyond washing and storage, these habits will help your clothes last longer:
- Rotate your riding clothes so items aren't worn consecutively
- Spot clean minor marks instead of washing the entire garment
- Repair small tears or loose buttons immediately before they worsen
- Use a mesh laundry bag for delicate items
- Invest in quality hangers and storage solutions
- Keep a separate wardrobe for yard work versus riding to reduce wear
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your equestrian clothing doesn't have to be complicated. By following these simple guidelines—washing correctly, drying properly, and storing carefully—you'll keep your riding wardrobe looking professional and performing well for years to come. Your investment in quality gear deserves quality care.
For more advice on choosing and styling your riding wardrobe, explore our blog and discover our range of premium equestrian apparel.
