EC rules on stocks/chokers - wrap collar show shirt?

[ChasseurSauteur]

I’m sure this has been answered on here before but, as a hunter rider coming over to the Gold dressage ring this year, I’m trying to make sure I understand the Equine Canada rules about neckwear.

The EC rulebook states that a “Tie, bow tie, hunting stock or choker” must be worn. Are wrap-collar show shirts with snaps at the collar (like so: https://essexclassics.com/product/peeps-ladies-talent-yarn-straight-collar-show-shirt/) appropriate under this rule? Or would I need to add an actual stock tie to be in compliance?

Thanks in advance!

[FlaxenChestnut]

At the Gold Level, I would wear a stock tie. A basic one is not expensive. I have only shown to Silver, but even at that level, most, if not all, wear a stock.

[ChasseurSauteur]

I hear ya, @FlaxenChestnut! Thanks for that! (Any suggestions on best places to shop for stock ties? I’m in Ontario but happy to buy online from Canadian retailers too.)

I am curious, though, as to whether the wrap collars are legal (if unfashionable at that level

[Silverbridge]

The USEF rules go one sentence further, and now say something to the effect of allowing an “integrated standup collar” along with the ties listed.

To me, if the Canadian rules don’t also include that last bit (which describes the shirt linked), then it sounds as if the integrated standup collar without a tie is not acceptable.

You don’t need a stock tie to be compliant, though. It can be any of the other ties listed as well. I’ve never worn a stock tie and can’t imagine I ever will.

[Scribbler]

There are a wide range of pre tied stock ties, many hand made locally by small entrepreneurs. They are basicslly the front of a stock tie sewn onto a band that snaps around the neck. Very much like the old idea of a “dicky” or false shirt front. I don’t think anyone actually ties a real stock tie in dressage.

[Moogles]

Hmmm, I think you should send off an email to EC to double check. I’ve been to a lot of gold shows and most wear a pre-tied stock tie (as do I). I am pretty sure I’ve seen people with the integrated stand up collar, but not the one you posted, more like what the USEF rule book show. Maybe they just assumed and it isn’t legal in Canada…

[Rerider54]

@Scribbler

… I don’t think anyone actually ties a real stock tie in dressage.

I bought an actual real stock tie more then 50 years ago and still use it. It has become my ‘touchstone’ to where I started and how far I have come. I don’t even think it looks as nice as the pre-tied ones. I am just hard headed and will continue to tie it. On the other hand the shirts with the ‘integrated stand up collars’ make so much sense. This would be even more sensible in the mid-Atlantic where they waive coats so often.

[FlaxenChestnut]

You can get them anywhere really. I think you will find them in any local tack store. Greenhawk has some. You can find fancy custom ones on Etsy too. Mobile tack stores that attend the Gold shows in Ontario usually have some on hand.
I definitely go with the pre-tied ones with velcro closure, myself.
Technically, it sounds like the wrap collars on their own are not legal, but someone from EC would need to confirm.

[ChasseurSauteur]

So much good info, thanks all! I may write to EC for their thoughts, and will update here if so.

[FlaxenChestnut]

Apple Saddlery and Wilton Tack in Ontario have a selection.
If you wanted to splurge a bit, Leveza is based in Quebec and sells some very pretty ones. I’ve ordered from here in the past and had a good experience.
https://www.leveza.ca/collections/stock-tie

[JenEM]

@Scribbler

There are a wide range of pre tied stock ties, many hand made locally by small entrepreneurs. They are basicslly the front of a stock tie sewn onto a band that snaps around the neck. Very much like the old idea of a “dicky” or false shirt front. I don’t think anyone actually ties a real stock tie in dressage.

I use a real stock tie when I bother with one at all–but I also show sidesaddle and have to use one for that, so it’s handy in the garment bag already. I’ll use it when it’s cooler, and at a recognized show.

But for hot days and schooling shows? I just wear my regular snap-collar show shirt, collar open if hot (No one has said anything about the wineglass print on the inside of the collar ). But I’m in the US, so since you’re in Canada, shoot them an email to clarify the rule.

[Mouse_amp_Bay]

@ChasseurSauteur

I hear ya, @FlaxenChestnut! Thanks for that! (Any suggestions on best places to shop for stock ties? I’m in Ontario but happy to buy online from Canadian retailers too.)

Wilson’s Tack in London Ontario has a surprising quality stock tie collection. They have the shires stock ties which are pre-tied and not expensive. I would check with them. Pretty sure I’ve seen some at Bahrs as well.

[ChasseurSauteur]

Thanks so much everyone! The amount of accessorizing possible in dressage in blowing my hunter-rider brain.