Horse Show Survival Guide

The show must go on, rain or shine. Here are some of the tips, items, and advice that help make show day (and show prep) go more smoothly for all involved.

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1. Somewhere to Sit

   With a whole lot of hurry up and wait, you'll want somewhere to sit. At ringside, I like these ultra-portable stool options:

   https://amzn.to/44uoU1b

   https://amzn.to/3I3uWya

   Back at the trailer, I always have something comfortable. Rather than a regular collapsible camping chair that breaks constantly, an aluminum director's chair is much more durable. Mine is going on year three with no issues. The little side table is also very nice for horse show meals. My other chair of choice is an anti-gravity chair.

   https://amzn.to/3GjK21Y

   https://amzn.to/3I6sx5W

2. Dealing with the Weather

   Sun&Heat:

   -Cooling Towels are never a bad idea. You could go with cheap ones, like these (https://amzn.to/3I6sx5W), or go with a better option, like the Back on Track cooling towel (https://amzn.to/4erVDIY), or the Farmer's Defense cooling towels (follow this link for 10% off - side note, these are the sleeves I wear for doing hay and they are the only thing that keeps me from getting hives https://snwbl.io/farmers-defense/HATTIE67283) I own all three of these cooling towel options, and while the cheap ones work, the name brand ones are absolutely superior. Cooling tubes (https://amzn.to/4nryZEG) are also a good option for really hot days. Cooling towels can be used on the horses, too!

   -Sunscreen!! While any and all sunscreens will work, I especially like to have sunscreen sticks (https://amzn.to/44voyav) handy. These are better for reapplication of sunscreen throughout the day, especially ringside.

   -Fans: I have rechargeable camping fans (https://amzn.to/3Gm4fnJ) that are good for both people and horses. They're also good for hanging under canopies to help keep flies at bay. Misting fans (https://amzn.to/3GnjbC0) make for some happy kids. Stroller fans (https://amzn.to/4lyXiyP) are probably the most versatile option, as the flexible tripod allows them to be hung, carried, or attached to a chair or table. I also highly recommend keeping one of these mini fans in your ringside bag (https://amzn.to/4luau7Z) speaking from experience, this is almost a necessary item if you get overheated.

   -Coolers: I've tried so many brands, and I hate to say it, but Yeti is the only one I trust to actually stay cold all day long (https://amzn.to/44pNvUA). It's sometimes impossible to keep coolers out of the hot sun at shows, and you definitely don't want to risk it if you're going to have perishable food in your cooler. Instead of dealing with the hassle of ice every time, reusable ice sheets are the way to go (https://amzn.to/45M1w1p)

3. Walkie Talkies: I researched this THOROUGHLY before choosing the Midland brand. I prefer rechargeable (https://amzn.to/3TLujf5) but there is a more affordable option that uses batteries (https://amzn.to/3I5OlP1)

4. Clipboard case: Keep your patterns clean, dry, and organized. https://amzn.to/3GovMF9

5. For the horse:

   -Trailer ties (https://amzn.to/445FKEw) if you can't tie a quick-release knot

   -Bucket hangers (https://amzn.to/4npLvo9)

   -Safety Ties (https://amzn.to/446UBOZ) the loop will pop open before a halter, lead rope, or tie ring breaks

   -Halter bag (https://amzn.to/3Tjmk8W) this is one of the styles I have for all my lesson horses.

   -Bridle Bag (https://amzn.to/4kdJ8Sk) this is the style I use for all the lesson horses.

   -Mesh Bag (https://amzn.to/4l3sohU) these are the bags I use for shipping boots, wraps, etc. (dirty and clean)

   -Fly Gear: If you have a horse that is especially bothered by flies, it helps to toss a fly sheet on them when they're waiting (https://amzn.to/4lwZiaJ) for minis (https://amzn.to/4ewdeiW). A fly mask can also help (https://amzn.to/4npWmyn).

6. Power Bank: With all the rechargeable fans, walkie talkies, and your cell phone - it's a good idea to have a power bank. (https://amzn.to/3I6tnzC) I like this solar one, because it can recharge as I'm using it during the day.

7. Label EVERYTHING!!! Cute monogram decals, embroidery, printed labels, or even just a Sharpie will do the trick. I have this cheap label maker that I used for labeling my first aid kit (https://amzn.to/4nrT6mb) The labels are not all-weather, but will hold up in a barn environment. For items seeing heavy use and/or water, like brushes or shampoo bottles, go with a vinyl label. You'll need a label maker like this one (https://amzn.to/3ZUTf7v) and all-weather vinyl labels. If you're going the Sharpie route, go with the Milwaukee Inkzall markers (https://amzn.to/3ZSg4J6). I don't like to buy into the trends, but I have used the Milwaukee markers and name-brand Sharpies, and the Milwaukee markers are by far the best to be truly permanent.

While these tips and ideas will make show day much more comfortable for horse, rider, and family - nothing can replace the value of being well-rested, hydrated, and well-nourished. Nothing on this list can replace a good nights' sleep, plenty of fluids, or a nutritious and filling meal.

Have some other tips, tricks, or show day advice? Leave it in the comments!