baxtersmom wrote:

I think the issue is that some people know things because they've actually been around, and some people think they know things because their trainer told them so.



Oh HP, I wish I could express to you how much I understand where you are coming from. I also wish I could express to you how much you misunderstand.


I am 100% with you on the show-bow issue. It just ISN'T done in hunters, it screams "I don't belong here" and it actually costs less to do it right (hairnet) than to do it wrong (show bow).

But let's talk about hunter turnout, and the things that are "elite" vs. nessecary.

You need appropriate boots. Whether these are custom Vogels or off the shelf, they need to fit correctly. The judge won't be reading the lable.

You need an appropriate coat. This may be a $500 Grand Prix or an $100 Devon Aire, but it must fit correctly. The judge won't be reading the lable.

Shirt- can anyone really tell between a $30 shirt and a $150 shirt?. If so, get a hobby, you scare me. Besides, the judge won't be reading the lable.

Breeches: whoever told you, HP, that tailored sportsmen fit better was on drugs, or has only met teenaged girls. I know a LOT of people who could afford any breeches they wanted who can't wear them at all. If they fit you, they DO wear well and are available cheap on ebay. If not- the judge can't see that tiny tag on your hip from the judges stand, and he won't call you in to read the label.

Bridle: I dare you to sit in the judges stand and tell me what brand of bridle the horse is wearing.

Saddle: same thing.

WB's- they're sounder,better, and they last longer? GET REAL. Try they come made, no one has to sort thru a lot of rejects to find them, and no one has to put a ton of training into them before they become money machines. The judge won't ask for your papers.


So who ARE you trying to impress with all these name brands? I'm thinking it's your peers, NOT the judges.

Hey, it's GREAT that you care about each and every detail of your horses turnout.

But to tell each and every person who is interested in hunters that you MUST have these things creates a really bad and WRONG image of the sport and perpetuates the image of hunters as being shallow and elitist.

Last Edited By: IveGotRhythm Oct 30 08 4:13 PM. Edited 2 times.