Jog Season Has Officially Started...

Anonymous
May 14
3 min read

What Makes a Good Jog Outfit?

You know the kind—the ones that turn heads the moment you step onto the jog strip. But before we dive into building the perfect outfit, let’s break it down: what is a jog outfit, anyway?

At FEI events, the jog (also called the horse inspection) is when stewards check your horse for soundness. In short-format competitions, it usually happens once—when you arrive. That means whatever you wore in the truck is your jog outfit. In long-format events, you’ll jog twice: once before dressage and again after cross-country. For many riders, FEI jogs are a bucket list moment—and yes, it’s where the fashion begins.

Why I Love Jog Outfits

My favorite thing about jogs? It’s the rare chance to express your personality out of the saddle. You have full freedom to wear what you love—but let me say this loud and clear: classy over flashy every time. Jogs might feel like a fashion runway, but remember, your horse is the one being judged. The goal? Make a statement without being a distraction.

Let’s build your look from the ground up—something stylish, functional, and unforgettable (for the right reasons!).

The Basics: Plan for the Weather

This might be my biggest stressor. Weather can make or break your jog outfit, so check the forecast a few days out and build your outfit accordingly.

Cold? Layer up. Wear a cute coat to keep warm and peel it off before stepping onto the jog strip.
Rainy? Go for a chic raincoat—like a classic Barbour.
Sunny? Sunglasses are your best friend (and they elevate any outfit).

You might be waiting around for a while before jogging, so comfort is just as important as style. If you’re committed to a particular look, bring a warm layer to remove at the last second.

Tips & Tricks

Bring a cover-up. Especially with light-colored outfits, a quick zip-up or oversized shirt will protect you from slobber, dirt, or hay-mageddon. Trust me, you do not want a slobber stain before you present.
Pack essentials: Hoof polish, a mane and tail brush, and a towel go a long way for those final touch-ups. A quick wipe of your horse’s mouth can make a big difference in photos.
Have a glam squad? (A.k.a. a friend?) Great. Let them hold your horse while you do one last blush-and-brush.

Hair Matters

Don't underestimate your hairstyle—it can make or break your look. And please, consider the wind! Jogging with loose hair on a blustery day? Disaster.

Test a few styles in advance:

Sleek ponytail
Low bun or slicked-back top knot
Claw clip twist
Add flair with a ribbon, headband, or scarf

Personally, I love adding a silk scarf. It’s versatile, fun, and can tie your whole look together. Wear it as a headband, wrap it in a ponytail, or go for a boho-chic head wrap.

Outfits: Let's Talk Details

Start by deciding what type of outfit you're going for. Are you aiming for classy? Bold? Boho? Knowing your style helps you build your look intentionally. Find a few photos online for inspiration beforehand.

Do you already have a piece you want to wear—maybe a favorite shirt, pair of pants, or statement shoes? Build your outfit around that and test to see what goes best with it.

Hot tip: Pick at least one statement piece. Whether it's bold jewelry, funky pants, or a vibrant top, this is what makes people say wow. But keep the rest of the outfit cohesive so the focus stays where you want it.

One-Piece Wonder vs. Mixing & Matching

If you want to save time and avoid decision fatigue, go with a one-piece—like a romper or a structured dress. It’s easy, stylish, and takes the guesswork out of pairing separates.

If you’re mixing and matching? Buckle up. It may take some time to find the perfect combo, but the results can be amazing. A few tried-and-true pairings: