Win on a SHOESTRING

Five experts offer their top advice to shine in the show pen while saving money.

- LAURA BOYNTON JOBSON

There's no denying how expensive horse shows and competitions are, whether you show locally or in national circuits. The price tags add up quickly, and many costs occur before you even set foot on the showgrounds.

As it turns out, there are ways to save money while still making you and your horse look and feel like champions, regardless of the color ribbons you take home.

Shop Used and Neutrals

Multiple APHA World Champion exhibitor Erin Bradshaw states that you don't always need to wear new show clothing and accessories.

"When adding to your wardrobe and show look, black or beige is the way to go," she says. "Having a black or neutral base for your outfits, chaps, boots, and hat will allow for easy matching. You can always add in color with affordable choices from clothing and thrift stores to change things up."

Western, halter and showmanship exhibitor and breeder Joe Whitt shares that there are multiple ways to have nice show clothes on a budget. He suggests buying used and looking for deals both online and in stores.

"Exhibitors should realize judges don't focus on where [you shop] and how much you pay for your clothes and tack, but how you present yourself and your horse in the show ring," he says.

The Right fit

AQHA Professional Horsewoman, judge and all-around trainer Christa Baldwin owns Baldwin Performance Horses. She states that poorly fitting apparel is one of the biggest distractions she sees in the show pen.