Above Average - Equestrian Fashion for Plus-Size Riders

It’s not easy being a plus-sized rider in a minus-sized sport. Although the challenges are many, one of the most common complaints is a lack of high-quality, stylish, and attractive riding apparel available in larger sizes. While a few brands – most notably Kerrits and Irideon – have had inclusive size ranges from XS to 3X for years, the rest of the equestrian fashion industry seems to be catching on to this segment of the market. With more companies now manufacturing more styles in more sizes, plus-sized riders finally have reason to rejoice! Here are just a few of our favourites:

Bottoms Up

ROMFH is known for its wide variety of styles, fun colours and high-tech fabrics that are flattering to any figure. Last year the company announced expanded size range that sees many of its most popular breech styles now available up to size 40. The Isabella Full Grip has long been a favourite with dressage riders, thanks to the flattering high-waist fit, silicone printed full seat, and cooling fabric.

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Ovation’s Celebrity Slim Secret breeches are a secret no more! A long-time favourite of larger riders, these breeches should be on everyone’s “must-have” list with a two-way stretch fabric that smooths and conceals bumps and lumps while providing supportive stretch. The Euro-seat version with contrasting knee patches offers a classic show ring look in tan, but also comes in a range of fun colours for schooling at home. Available in size 26-42.

Looking great in the saddle doesn’t mean you have to look boring – at least not according to the folks at Buckwild. The cute and colourful patterns on their full seat breeches will get you noticed wherever you go, and their Curvy Mare collection is designed specifically with larger riders in mind. The thoughtful designers even include a secure pocket big enough for your phone! While the bolder patterns may be Buckwild’s most popular, they also offer a show-ring ready selection of plainer styles.

Top Style

Athletic wear, golf shirts, jackets, and tees designed for other sports make great riding apparel as well, and can easily be found in bigger sizes. But when you want something special for a clinic or show, it’s nice to have options designed specifically for equestrian sport.

Shoppers are often pleasantly surprised to discover that Vancouver-based Asmar Equestrian offers inclusive sizing from XXS to XXL on most of their tops, vests, coats and jackets. For a clean and polished clinic look, the lightweight Carter Vest features a zippered back gusset for more freedom of movement when you ride, and a figure-flattering shape.

Riders need to be cool, confident, and comfortable entering the show ring. No matter which discipline you compete in, Kerrits has you covered with its stylish Stretch Kompetitor Koat. The lightweight fabric is stretchy, breathable, and –best of all – machine washable. The hidden front zip with snap closure on top lies flat with no puckering or gapping. Available in size XS-2X, the jacket is available in classic show ring colours such as navy, solid black, and black with white piping. For a bolder look, try Skylark blue, Platinum grey (pictured), or even Plumeria purple.

Stay crisp and cool no matter the weather in the Dublin Airflow CDT Long Sleeve Tech Top. The Comfort Dry Technology fabric wicks moisture, while underarm mesh panels provide extra cooling. Featuring a ¼ zip and stand-up collar, this multi-functional shirt is perfect under a show coat, or for a lesson in the hot sun. Six different colours are available in sizes XS – XXL.

Feet First

For many plus-sized riders, finding boots may be the biggest challenge of all. Semi- or full custom models may still be the best bet for a perfect fit, but happily there are many budget-friendly options available off the shelf in your local tack shop too.

The Tuffrider Ladies Plus Rider Dress Boot features stretchable elastic gussets on either side of the zipper to create a perfect fit in this classic leather boot. The Spanish top, rounded toe and memory foam footbed offer both comfort and style, in both a standard and short model.

Available in wide and extra wide calf models, the Ovation Flex Plus Field Boot takes you seamlessly from the arena, to the show ring, to the hunt field. The full-grain leather molds to your calf, while elastic laces, stretch panel and back zipper create a comfortable fit.

With a wide range of styles and sizes available, pairing a paddock boot with half chaps is a smart, sensible, and budget-friendly option for riders of all sizes. The Classic Leather Half Chap distributed by Can-Pro Equestrian Supply boasts a heavy-duty zipper, snap closure and stretchy gusset for an optimal fit. And with available sizes up to XXXL, they are sure to fit every rider.