The heat is on, and for horse folks, that doesn’t slow down show season one bit. Whether you’re turning and burning for the high point award in the reining, flying through a barrel run, or laying down a solid pattern in the ranch riding, the summer show circuit brings long days, hard work, and unforgettable memories. To truly conquer the ring and enjoy every moment, having the right gear is key. Kimes Ranch curates practical, functional, and stylish clothing that stands up to the rigors of horse show life. Let’s fit you with some essentials to add to your packing list for every aspect of equine competition.
Hitting the Road
Keeping your equine athletes comfortable on long hauls to the show grounds is top priority; comfort should be key for you, too! Whether you’re the steady driver, the reliable navigator, or the one lifting water buckets to the trailer windows at the next truck stop, when spending hours on the road, you need clothes that aren’t restrictive. Our women’s “Olivia” or our men’s “Roger” jeans are your ultimate travel companions with incredible stretch, making those cross-country trips feel a whole lot better.
Arena Ready
The practice pen can be a mixed environment during the summer… If you’re riding under the summer sun in an outdoor arena, UV protection and breathability are non-negotiable. Our “K1” or “Ninja Hood” long sleeve Activewear shirts are game changers. Their technical fabric offers SPF 50+ protection and wicks away moisture, keeping you cool and shielded from the intense sun. For a more relaxed yet performance-driven option, our “Outlier Tech” tees are light and breathable. The “KC Tencel” shirt is incredibly soft and breathable, as well, perfect for those warmer days where you still want to look sharp while riding. But we’ve all been there… The indoor arena is a welcome reprieve from the heat, but sitting and cheering or walking out your horse after a good ride can quickly lead to a chill. A light cover will keep you from shivering; stylish options like our ladies “Luna Cord” or “Bella Cardigan” will be your best friend. The men’s “Garrison” or “Ortega” pieces are perfect for throwing on between classes or while watching your friends compete.
Shine on Show Days
When it’s time to step into the show pen, you need a look that’s sharp, confident, and professional. Kimes Ranch has you covered with our refined show shirts with a classic Western fit and built-in Coolmax technology to keep you comfortable. The men’s and women’s “Linville Long Sleeve” offer a crisp, clean look, while our men’s and women’s “KR Team Shirt” is designed for performance and a polished appearance. Both feature a variety of solid colors to coordinate with any saddle pad or any color of horse. For our female riders, the “Alice” button down provides a flattering fit and a sophisticated presence in the arena with a unique patterned yoke and retro style!
After the Ride
You just laid down a great run, but thanks to the warm weather, you’ve probably broken a sweat in the process. After taking off your shapely straw, “hat-hair” is a real thing. The best solution is to throw on a hat, like a classic “Weekly Trucker” which has a mesh back for ventilation that’ll go with anything. The low-profile “Fender Hat” smooths out a look in no time. Our “Conway Trucker Hat” has a high profile and flat bill if that’s the look you like. No matter your style, a trucker hat, a laid-back dad cap, or a trendy flat bill should be in easy reach.
Dinner to Celebrate
After a long day at the show, you’ll want to celebrate a win or simply catch up with your horse show friends. Transitioning from the arena to dinner and drinks is easy with Kimes Ranch. Our “Medina” or “G-2 Polo” men’s polos look refined for a nice restaurant. For ladies, the “Hellena” top and the “Willa” tank offer comfortable and stylish options that can be dressed up or down.
The summer show season is a journey, figuratively and literally. You'll be prepared for every aspect if you incorporate Kimes Ranch pieces along the way, from the long hauls to the victorious moments in the arena. So, pack your Kimes, hit the road, and make this your best show season yet!
