Horse riding offers a unique blend of athleticism, connection with nature, and timeless elegance.
For Black women entering or experienced in the equestrian world, finding appropriate riding attire that honors both tradition and personal style can be an important consideration.
The right outfit not only ensures safety and comfort during rides but also creates space for cultural expression within a historically traditional sport.
This guide explores practical riding essentials while highlighting how Black women riders are making their mark in equestrian fashion, embracing both function and individual flair in the saddle.
The Equestrian Chic Ensemble
For a more polished trail riding look, embrace traditional equestrian style with your own personal flair.
Tailored riding pants (jodhpurs or breeches) in flattering neutral tones like olive green, navy, or chocolate brown create a sleek silhouette.
Look for brands like Kerrits or Tuff Rider that offer extended sizing to accommodate our curves and different body types.
Pair these with a tailored, technical riding shirt that wicks away moisture – essential for keeping your skin comfortable during hot rides.
A structured equestrian blazer in navy or black adds sophistication while providing protection from wind and light rain.
For Black women with natural hair, consider a stylish head wrap under your helmet that protects your hair while adding personal style.
Leather gloves not only serve a practical purpose but also add a touch of elegance to the entire outfit.
Tall boots with a slight heel are traditional but also elongate your legs and provide proper ankle support.
If you’re looking for extra comfort, half chaps over paddock boots offer the same look with more flexibility.
Complete this refined look with minimalist gold or silver accessories that won’t interfere with riding.
A leather belt with a subtle equestrian-inspired buckle cinches your waist and adds an authentic touch.
This outfit works well for both trail riding and lunch afterward, so you can look put-together anywhere.
The Performance Athleisure Look
For maximum comfort and flexibility, modern performance athleisure wear is a game-changer for trail riding.
High-quality riding leggings with reinforced knee panels provide the perfect balance of stretch and durability.
Look for brands like Aztec Diamond or Pikeur that offer compression technology to support your muscles during long rides.
Moisture-wicking tops with UPF protection are essential for Black women who want to stay cool while protecting their skin from harmful rays.
A lightweight, water-resistant jacket that can be easily tied around your waist when not needed adds practical versatility.
Opt for bright, bold colors that pop against your skin tone – a vibrant coral, electric blue, or rich purple can make your trail outfit truly stand out.
Performance fabrics with cooling technology help prevent overheating, which is particularly important for darker skin that absorbs more heat.
Choose breathable, quick-dry materials that won’t cause irritation or chafing during extended periods in the saddle.
A helmet cap with a satin lining can protect your hair because it reduces friction and keeps natural hair types from getting damaged.
Padded riding socks provide extra comfort and prevent blisters from forming during long rides.
This athleisure approach is perfect for hot summer days when traditional riding attire would be uncomfortably warm.
The best part?
These pieces transition perfectly to other activities, making them a versatile addition to your wardrobe.
For the bottom half, make sure to choose darker fabrics so that sweat and dirt from the road don’t stand out too much.
The Western-Inspired Statement Maker
Embrace your inner cowgirl with western-inspired pieces that celebrate both function and flair.
A pair of well-fitted western riding jeans with reinforced seams provides durability while flattering your curves.
Western riding boots with decorative stitching add personality while providing proper foot support in the stirrups.
A crisp button-down shirt with pearl snap buttons offers classic western style with easy functionality for riding.
For a modern twist, choose a shirt with subtle patterns or embroidery that reflects your personal aesthetic.
A stylish felt or straw hat (when not wearing a helmet) protects your face from the sun while adding authentic western charm.
For Black women with natural hair, a silk or satin bandana under your hat helps protect your edges from friction and breakage.
Turquoise and silver accessories complement deeper skin tones beautifully and add that signature western touch.
A leather belt with a statement buckle defines your waist and adds an eye-catching element to the outfit.
Fringe details on a vest or jacket create movement and visual interest as you ride through the trails.
This western-inspired look celebrates Black cowgirl culture, which has deep historical roots worth honoring.
Modern western wear brands like Durango and Montana West now offer inclusive sizing that flatters diverse body types.
The Safari-Inspired Trail Outfit
Channel your inner explorer with safari-inspired pieces that are both practical and stylish for trail riding.
Lightweight, neutral-colored utility pants with multiple pockets provide functionality without sacrificing style.
Look for high-waisted styles that flatter your figure and prevent any uncomfortable gaps when seated in the saddle.
A breathable linen or cotton button-down shirt in earth tones like terracotta, olive, or sand complements deeper skin tones beautifully.
Roll up the sleeves for a casual look that also provides ventilation during warmer weather.
A wide-brimmed hat offers excellent sun protection for your face and neck – crucial for preventing hyperpigmentation.
Sturdy ankle boots with a modest heel provide stability in the stirrups while maintaining that safari aesthetic.
A utility vest with multiple pockets keeps your essentials close at hand while adding an authentic outdoorsy element.
Leather or canvas gloves protect your hands from rope burns and blisters while adding to the explorer vibe.
Natural fiber fabrics like cotton and linen allow your skin to breathe, preventing the dreaded saddle sweat on hot days.
This safari-style outfit works well for trail rides and other outdoor activities, making it a good choice for many occasions.
Gold-toned accessories with wooden elements complement the natural theme while enhancing the richness of your skin tone.
Don’t forget to use a moisturizer sunscreen with zinc oxide that won’t make fair skin look white.
The Boho Chic Trail Rider
Embrace your free spirit with bohemian-inspired pieces that offer comfort, movement, and undeniable style.
Flowy, wide-leg riding pants in breathable fabrics provide ease of movement while creating an elegant silhouette.
Look for reinforced inner seams that prevent chafing during extended periods in the saddle.
A lightweight, embroidered tunic top with UPF protection offers both style and practical sun defense.
Layer with a cropped denim or leather jacket for cooler weather rides that can be easily removed as temperatures rise.
Ankle boots with decorative details like tooled leather or subtle studs add personality to your trail outfit.
Protective braided styles or goddess locs work beautifully with this aesthetic while keeping your hair secure during rides.
Incorporate natural elements like wooden jewelry or leather bracelets that won’t catch or tangle during your ride.
A colorful silk scarf can be tied around your neck, used as a headband, or wrapped around your helmet for a personalized touch.
Earthy tones like rust, mustard, and forest green complement deeper skin tones while maintaining that bohemian vibe.
This relaxed yet put-together look is perfect for scenic trail rides where you want comfort without sacrificing style.
The layered approach allows you to adjust to changing temperatures throughout your ride.
While you’re out on the road, make sure you pick fabrics that look flowy but won’t get caught on trees or saddle horns.
The Weather-Ready Rider
Be prepared for any weather conditions with versatile, layered outfits that keep you comfortable on the trails.
Start with moisture-wicking base layers in neutral colors that provide temperature regulation without bulk.
Fleece-lined riding tights offer insulation in cooler weather while maintaining a sleek silhouette that flatters your curves.
A waterproof riding jacket with ventilation zips allows you to adapt to changing conditions during your ride.
Look for jackets with reflective details for added safety during early morning or twilight trail rides.
Waterproof riding boots with good traction ensure your feet stay dry and secure in wet or muddy conditions.
A satin-lined beanie or ear warmer fits comfortably under your helmet while protecting natural hair from cold and friction.
Thermal gloves with touchscreen capabilities allow you to use your phone for trail photos without exposing your hands to the elements.
Neck gaiters or infinity scarves in moisture-wicking fabrics provide warmth without bulkiness around your collar.
If it’s raining, you might want to wear a stylish poncho or waterproof cape that falls gracefully over the seat.
This weather-ready approach ensures you can enjoy the trails year-round without sacrificing comfort or style.
Darker colors are practical for potentially muddy conditions but consider adding bright accessories for visibility and flair.
The Instagram-Worthy Coordination
Create a cohesive, photogenic look that will have your social media followers begging for more trail content.
Start with a color story that complements your skin tone – rich burgundies, teals, and mustards pop beautifully against deeper complexions.
Matching riding gloves and boot accessories create a thoughtfully coordinated appearance that looks intentional and polished.
A statement helmet in a unique color or with decorative elements becomes both a safety feature and a style statement.
Branded riding apparel from Black-owned equestrian companies like Caitlin Gooch’s Saddle Up and Read merch supports representation in the riding community.
Subtle pattern mixing (like pinstripes with small florals) adds visual interest while maintaining a cohesive look.
Reflective elements not only provide safety but create interesting light effects in your trail riding photos.
A custom saddle pad in your signature color ties your entire look together from head to hoof.
For Black women with natural hair, protective styles with matched accessories can make you look better all around.
Thoughtfully placed accessories like a vintage brooch on your riding jacket add unexpected elegance to functional attire.
This Instagram-ready approach ensures you’ll always be camera-ready for those spontaneous trail photo opportunities.
The Vintage-Inspired Equestrian
Channel classic equestrian style with vintage-inspired pieces that never go out of fashion.
High-waisted, wide-leg riding pants reminiscent of 1940s equestrian style create a timeless silhouette.
A crisp white button-down with subtle details like pearl buttons or ruffle cuffs adds feminine charm to your riding ensemble.
Tweed or herringbone blazers in rich autumn colors like burgundy or forest green look stunning against deeper skin tones.
Traditional tall boots in polished leather complete the vintage aesthetic while providing proper riding support.
A silk scarf tied in a classic knot adds an old-Hollywood glamour to your trail riding outfit.
For Black women with natural hair, victory rolls or other vintage-inspired protective styles complement this classic look.
Leather gloves with button details at the wrist add authentic vintage flair while serving a practical purpose.
Small, elegant stud earrings or pearl accessories add refinement without interfering with your helmet.
A leather satchel attached to your saddle provides convenient storage while enhancing the vintage vibe.
This timeless approach to trail riding attire celebrates the rich history of equestrian fashion while making it your own.
Modern technical fabrics in traditional patterns give you the vintage look with contemporary comfort.
True vintage style is about quality and attention to detail; so, invest in less but better items that will last.
The Practical Yet Polished Minimalist
Embrace the “less is more” philosophy with streamlined pieces that offer maximum function with clean, modern style.
High-quality, solid-colored riding leggings with minimal seams prevent chafing while creating a sleek silhouette.
A fitted technical top in a complementary neutral tone offers a streamlined look that’s both practical and flattering.
Paddock boots with simple lines provide function without unnecessary decorative elements that can catch or wear.
A tailored vest in a premium fabric adds structure while keeping your core warm during cooler rides.
For Black women with natural hair, a sleek, low bun or braided style keeps hair secure without excess bulk under your helmet.
Minimal jewelry – perhaps just a simple watch with a leather band – provides understated elegance.
A belt in the same tone as your boots creates visual cohesion without drawing attention from your clean lines.
High-performance fabrics in solid colors give you a polished look that works well in both business and social settings.
This minimalist approach focuses on perfect fit and quality materials rather than trendy details or flashy elements.
The beauty of this style is its versatility – these pieces work perfectly with other items in your wardrobe.
If you have dark skin, neutral colors with warm tints, like camel, cognac, or deep olive, will make your natural glow stand out.
Always remember that simplicity is the height of sophistication—when everything fits just right, you don’t need any extras.
The Statement Accessories Queen
Let your personality shine through strategic accessories while keeping your base riding outfit practical and comfortable.
Start with neutral, well-fitted riding basics that provide the perfect canvas for your statement pieces.
A bold, patterned neck scarf in vibrant colors like cobalt blue, magenta, or emerald green draws attention to your face.
Custom riding gloves in unexpected colors or with decorative stitching add personality without compromising function.
Statement belt buckles – perhaps with African-inspired designs or geometric patterns – create a focal point at your waist.
For Black women with natural hair, decorative helmet covers or custom helmet designs allow for personal expression while staying safe.
Colorful boot socks that peek out at the top of your riding boots add a playful element to an otherwise traditional outfit.
Unique stirrup irons in rose gold or with decorative elements add unexpected flair to your riding setup.
A custom leather nameplate on your riding boots or helmet adds a personalized touch of luxury.
Bold earrings that frame your face without being large enough to catch on equipment make a stylish statement.
This accessory-focused approach allows you to express your individual style while maintaining the functionality needed for trail riding.
The beauty of statement accessories is their interchangeability – switch them out to create multiple looks with the same base pieces.
Make sure that the accessories you choose won’t get in the way of your riding or could put you in danger on the road.