In early October, USEF (United States Equestrian Federation) members opened their email inbox to an unpleasant surprise. The world of competitive equestrian sports has become more expensive than ever before, thanks to a recent increase in USEF membership fees. Whether you were planning to enter your first recognized show or are a seasoned competitor, the increasing cost of membership, horse-recording fees, drug‐testing surcharges, and other costs at recognized events are most likely putting a real strain on your budget. For many riders, the dream of showing is now competing directly with the reality of mounting bills, like entry fees, stabling, coaching, hauling, and now higher USEF fees.
Since USEF announced an increase in prices, many equestrians have found themselves thinking, “I still want to compete, but how can I afford it all?” The good news is you don’t have to sacrifice the quality of your tack or show apparel to stay in the game. With the right affordable equestrian tack, you can trim costs and keep your passion thriving.
Save Costs with Affordable Equestrian Tack
When your budget is tight, tack and apparel might be the first things to get cut — but they don’t have to be. At Breeches.com, you’ll find a wide selection of affordable equestrian tack from trusted brands like TuffRider, Henri de Rivel, and Equine Couture. Designed with riders like you in mind, the selection at Breeches.com is curated for the everyday equestrian who operates on a strict budget, but still needs quality equipment.
For some of the best savings, Breeches.com has a great clearance section, featuring discounts as high as 90 percent. Yup, you read that right. Ninety percent off. Even outside of the clearance section, you’ll find great deals on show ring staples.
Let’s look at some concrete examples:
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TuffRider Ribb Full‑Seat Breeches are available for less than $50, giving you an economical, grippy breech for training or competition. Available in white and tan, these breeches will blend right in at your next horse show.
- Show shirts, like the TuffRider Ladies Starter Long Sleeve Show Shirt, start at just $10, a far cry from more expensive brands with three digit prices on similar shirts.
- If you need a new saddle pad for the show ring, shaped pads are available for less than $30. Plus, you won’t have to sell an arm or a leg to afford a white dressage pad like this one.
Shop Smarter
Here are some practical ways to shop smarter for tack and apparel, especially when USEF fees are climbing:
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Stick to House Brands
Breeches.com’s in-house brands, like TuffRider and Equine Couture, are designed to deliver excellent quality at a lower price than premium name brands. That means you get dependable gear without overspending.
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Hunt the Sales
Keep an eye on seasonal sales, warehouse cleanouts, or hunt through the clearance section. Signing up for the newsletter or following @breechesdotcom on social media helps you catch these deals early.
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Buy Durable Pieces that Pull Double Duty
Choosing breeches that can do double duty (schooling and occasional shows) means you don’t need to invest in multiple outfits. The TuffRider and Equine Couture breeches are built for both performance and everyday use.
Savings Outside the Tack Room
While switching your shopping list for affordable equestrian tack is a smart way to trim spending, it’s not the only opportunity. If rising USEF fees are stressing your budget, consider adjusting your competition strategy. With a few adjustments, you’ll still be able to grow as a rider, assuage your competitive drive, and further your horse’s education for less.
Support small, local venues. Smaller horse shows often have lower entry and stabling costs compared to big events. Not only are they friendly, but they help you get in the ring more affordably. Many barns and local circuits host schooling or unrecognized shows. These typically have reduced administrative fees and give you a competitive feel without all the added costs of a USEF recognized show.
Cut back on your show schedule but get off-property more. Take advantage of cross-country schooling facilities, jump schooling days, trail rides, or fun rides. These outings are often less expensive than formal shows and contribute to your horse’s education and fitness.
Consider adding clinics to your list. Deepen your horsemanship without the pressure (or bills) of competition. Sign up for clinics with local riders in your area to avoid paying rising USEF fees, or make a weekend trip out of it by joining forces with your barn bestie to travel to a more prestigious clinic with a top rider. Look for clinics near you here.
Keep Riding Without the Regret
Rising USEF fees are a real challenge, but they don’t have to force you out of the show ring or derail your equestrian goals. By making smarter choices about where you purchase your tack and apparel, you can keep competing without overspending. Let go of that feeling you have to have a particular brand in order to be a great rider. Instead, make the smart decision to buy affordable equestrian tack that looks just as great in the competition arena. Combine that with savvy decisions around where and how often you show, and you can keep the joy of competition alive without compromising your financial health.
We believe in supporting riders who are passionate, but also practical. Your gear should be dependable, your budget manageable, and your ride experience rewarding. Happy riding, and smart saving!
Shop for affordable equestrian tack on Breeches.com.