Tip Tuesday

Luxury vs Budget: Where to Splurge and Save in Equestrian Fashion.

We all know horses are expensive, really expensive. And that’s not even counting everything you need to actually ride: the gear, the clothes, the accessories (yes, even belts). While there’s truth in sayings like “quality over quantity,” that rule doesn’t apply to every single item in your tack trunk. Some budget-friendly brands are incredibly well made and hold up just as well—if not better—than designer options.

Before you buy, do yourself a favor: read reviews and ask around. Rider-tested recommendations are worth their weight in gold. Let’s break down the everyday gear most equestrians use and talk about when it’s worth splurging and when it’s perfectly okay to save.

Boots

Ugh, boots. Personally, I’ve had the worst luck here. Finding the perfect pair is tough, they can range anywhere from a $100 Dover special to a four-digit pair of Tuccis. The fit is everything, so trying them on is ideal (but not mandatory if you’re confident in your size).

Splurge if: You’re showing, riding daily, or want a custom fit.

Save if: You’re schooling casually or just getting started.

Helmets

Here’s the deal: safety doesn’t always come with a $600 price tag. Google independent helmet safety ratings and you’ll find highly rated options under $250. The popular brands? Sure, they’re stylish and everywhere on Instagram, but you don’t have to drop half a grand to protect your head.

Splurge if: You want that luxury look and top-tier comfort.

Save if: You care more about safety ratings than aesthetics.

Breeches

The range here is wild. You've got budget breeches under $50, and then there’s Equiline, which feels like the Lululemon of the horse world. Honestly, I’ve owned all types of pants, and while some pricier pairs do feel nicer, it’s not always a night-and-day difference. Most of the time, the main thing you're paying for is how they look.

Splurge if: You found a brand that fits like a glove and boosts your confidence.

Save if: You’re barn-hopping, trail riding, or rough on your clothes.

Gloves

I’m team Roeckl all the way. They’re the only brand I swear by, durable, grippy, and worth the extra few bucks. That said, I know people who ride in $8 gardening gloves and love them. It’s all about feeling.

Splurge if: You want gloves that last and perform consistently.

Save if: You’re constantly losing them or tearing through pairs.

Belts

Let’s be real: nobody needs to be schooling in an Hermès H belt. I get the appeal (who doesn’t want to look boujee on horseback?), but I say fake it or skip it, unless, of course, you’re casually rich. Dover’s quilted belt is one option I’ve seen everywhere lately. It’s a bit over $100, but it’s designed for equestrians and seems to last.

Splurge if: You wear it every day or want to subtly flex.

Save if: You just need something to keep your breeches up.

Final Thoughts

Here’s what I hope you take away: the perfect piece for YOU doesn’t always have to be the most expensive. It’s about fit, function, and feel, not the label. Spend where it matters to you, save where you can, and always look for quality over hype. Because at the end of the day, horses already eat up enough of our budgets. Your bank account deserves to live, too.

Happy spending,

Miss Chic EQ