I didn’t answer your survey because it all seems to be about how awesome a closely tailored show shirt would be, and how I should buy a new one each month.
- I’m not currently competing
- If I did, the old shirt in my closet would work just fine
- Because I’m not taking my jacket off, even if jackets are theoretically excused
- My middle-aged body doesn’t need a closely tailored anything
- And I certainly don’t want to even think about the gymnastic feats required to deal with a bodysuit in a portapotty or semi-public stall corner
- I will instead leave the body suits to the bridleless Friesian-riding Tiktokers and hunter princesses with grooms at the ready; I have pre- and post-ride chores to do
I care about fabrics – breathable (see also: middle-aged, hot-flashing body), ease of care, amount of give, traditional look.
I also care about fit, but in the sense that I hate having to roll or bunch up the cuffs of my shirts and breeches. I’m willing to throw all sorts of money at any riding apparel with true petite sizing, where the arm, leg and back measurements are actually shorter, not just narrower.