Equestrians are notorious for sticking to traditions. Some provide practicality, simplicity and a straightforward method of completing everyday tasks. On the other hand, some are because of habit and no longer have a relevant function. Traditions vary among disciplines, but there are a few that are the most known from wearing a hairnet to leather colors to clipping your horse’s whiskers for shows.
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Equestrian hairstyles are one of the traditions that encompasses function and simplicity. For English disciplines at competitions, hair is tucked up into the helmet in a clean and tidy manner. This is usually only done for shows, although some people choose to boast this minimalistic style whenever they’re in the saddle.Â
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Wrangling flyaways and getting all of the hair to stay in the helmet can seem daunting, especially for those with thick manes. With a few tricks, some practice and a gallon of hair spray, your hair will be good to go!Â
Styling your helmet hair first starts when you purchase your helmet! The function of a helmet can be compromised when the helmet fits poorly. A helmet that fits your head correctly, may not fit when concealing your hair underneath in a hair net. Also, consider the helmet liner as well. A thicker helmet liner may not allow for enough space for your hair net and hair. This is a common mistake made when choosing a helmet. When purchasing a helmet, make sure that it fits, however, you plan on wearing your hair.Â
There are a few exceptions when styling your hair for each discipline. Although, you are safe in any ring with a trusty hair net! Dressage riders may use a bun cover to be worn outside of the base of the helmet. Those entering the jumper ring get away with a neat and brushed ponytail. Eventers must follow suit for each phase of dressage, stadium jumping and cross country.Â
For the hunter/jumper and equitation rings, a hair net is most appropriate. Having an appealing and clean attire is sure to get you noticed in the ring by the judge. Tucked in hair also removes a distractive element when the judge is trying to evaluate the rider’s shoulder and arm position.Â
A hairnet may come in many different colors to closely match any hair tone. There are also a variety of weights to contain different thicknesses as well.Â
Follow these step-by-step instructions (for traditional hair net):
STEP 1. To put on a hairnet. First, brush your hair and apply hair spray throughout. This will give you a flat appearance and help to hold the hair in place when trying to arrange it in the helmet.
STEPÂ 2. Apply hair net with knot either in the front or back (whatever your preference). Place hair net head so it lays across the top of the ears and across the top of the forehead about two finger widths from your hairline (this will end up tucked further into the helmet later).Â
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STEPÂ 3. Put excess hair and net in a ponytail. Flip excess hair onto the top of your head. Arrange hair as flat as possible as to not cause pressure points with the weight of the helmet.
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STEPÂ 4. Begin putting the helmet on starting with the back end.
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STEPÂ 5. Tuck front hair that may poke out. Make last minute small changes.
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STEP 6. Rock that show-ring-ready look!
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TAKEAWAY
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Take care that these bows are proportional to the child’s shoulder width. The smallest riders should not be boasting the same size bows as the taller riders, even though they're in the same class. The bow colors heavily depend on the undertone of the jacket, show shirt and even the horse or pony’s coat colors.Â
Check out  https://ponytailbows.com/ for lots of cute and colorful options!
Keeping a small hair kit in your helmet bag is convenient and ensures you won’t ever lose the important little things on show day.Â
Having a good hair day could mean the difference between 1st and 2nd place!