Pikeur competition jackets — helping you perform in the show ring
A Pikeur competition jacket will make you look and feel good. And if you feel good, you’ll be more confident and relaxed. This might just give you that edge over your competitors.
We’ve all heard the saying, positive mental attitude. In sports, having a positive outlook and a sense of self-confidence is a crucial factor of success. Wearing the right clothes for a competition can help go some way to achieving this confidence. We’ll explain why in this article and share some practical advice on:
- What to look for in a competition jacket so you can make an informed purchase.
- Why Pikeur competition jackets make such great competition jackets.
- How you can look after your Pikeur competition jacket to keep it in tip-top condition.
Competition preparation: what you can and cannot control
A sports-science article by Metrifit describes confidence as:
“The essential trait that defines each individual’s hope and faith in achieving their goals… The vast majority of physiologists feel self-confidence is essential to gaining success.”
If you compete, you probably use certain tactics to get yourself in a positive frame of mind, or to at least quiet those nerves.
American trainer and judge, Shannon MucCulloch-Verdier, lists ten useful tips to help you mentally prepare and put yourself in the best position for success. Tip four is particularly interesting and reassuring. Carol says:
“Control what you can, let go of what you can't. You can control how much sleep you get, how much time you have to warm up your horse and how organized you are.”
So, what you look like, what you wear, and how you appear to the judge is something you can control. Your horse spooking at a lady’s large pink feathery hat in the crowd is perhaps something you cannot.
It’s not all about style
Not only does competition attire need to look good, but it also needs to perform well too. If you’re forced to compete in a stiff jacket or uncomfortable breeches your movement will be restricted and you won’t be able to ride your horse to the best of your ability.
Luckily, the comfort and performance of equestrian clothing has come a long way in recent years. Pikeur in particular is at the forefront of this wave of innovation with their brilliant bi-elastic stretch material which is used in lots of competition jackets.
What to look for in a competition jacket
Whether it’s dressage, showjumping, eventing, or showing, keep an eye out for the following features in a competition jacket:
- Comfortable and soft
- Flexible material
- Breathable mesh panels
- Stretchy inner linings
- Stain-resistant
- Wicks moisture
- Concealed zips
- Discreet pockets
- Machine washable
Features such as stud-detailing, piping, and contrasting collars can add a touch of glamour but you might need to check it’s within the rules of the competition.
Boosting confidence with a Pikeur competition jacket
We stock a range of super stylish, super comfortable, and super practical Pikeur competition and Pikeur show jackets at Eland Lodge. And it’s always worth keeping an eye out for our Pikeur competition jacket sale. Fancy a browse?
Some of our favourites include the Pikeur Ladies Paulin Competition Jacket which comes in a variety of colours and is suitable for an array of disciplines. It has a flattering fit and we love the concealed zip behind the front button closures — a clever detail that maintains the tailored fit and relieves pressure on the button fixtures.
Some of our favourites include the Pikeur Ladies Paulin Competition Jacket which comes in a variety of colours and is suitable for an array of disciplines. It has a flattering fit and we love the concealed zip behind the front button closures — a clever detail that maintains the tailored fit and relieves pressure on the button fixtures.
The Pikeur Mens Tristan Show Jacket is a smart jacket made from a stretchy jersey material that maintains a masculine fit. And we love the subtle stitching detail on the collar.
For young adults, the Pikeur Youth IVO Show Jacket has a great sporty cut and is made from a flexible softshell bi-elastic material for ultimate flexibility in the saddle. The stretch lining on the sleeves offers maximum comfort.
Our helpful Pikeur show jacket size guide will help you order the right size, first time. But just to let you know, we’ve got your back if you change your mind — our easy returns policy means you’ll get a full refund as long as you return your purchase within 28 days of receipt.
Don’t forget to check out our range of other types of Pikeur jackets. They’re perfect for general riding, training and yard duties. Read our blog A Pikeur jacket for every season to learn which Pikeur jackets are best for which seasons and why.
Keeping your Pikeur competition jacket in tip-top condition
Most Pikeur competition jackets are machine washable — hoorah! But check your Pikeur show jacket washing instructions just to be safe.
If your Pikeur competition jacket is machine washable, follow these steps for best results:
- Turn your jacket inside-out.
- Pop it inside a mesh laundry bag.
- Put it on a gentle wash, using a mild detergent.
- Avoid creases by removing your jacket from the washing machine straight away, then hang up to air-dry.
- Once dry, place in a jacket bag and hang in a cool, dry, dark place.
You can do it
Next time you’re preparing for a competition, try this visualisation technique before entering the ring:
Imagine that you’re competing and doing well. Use all your senses: see the course ahead, hear the crowd cheering, feel your nice-fitting competition gear...
There is some truth to the idea that if you can think it, you can do it. You never know, you could be a winner, winner, chicken dinner!
Good luck from the Eland Lodge team.