2023 Favorite Apparel & Tack

EQLiving readers voted on their favorite clothing and gear, from English show clothes and equestrian wear for children, to boots, helmets, and tack. Did your favorites make the list?

Favorite English Show Clothes

Winner: Ariat

Silver: Tailored Sportsman

Bronze: Equiline

ARIAT is once again a major Gold List winner, taking five categories of boots and clothing. The company was founded in 1993 as “The New Breed of Boot.” At the time, performance footwear technology was transforming mainstream sports like basketball and track and field; however, equestrian boots remained unchanged for over a century. That was until Ariat co-founders Beth Cross and Pam Parker recognized the opportunity and changed the sport forever by being the first to integrate athletic footwear technology into boots for equestrians.

This year, Ariat celebrates its 30th anniversary, still under the leadership of Beth Cross as CEO. Her initial goal was to build the #1 equestrian brand in the world.

Today, Ariat has 1,000 employees worldwide and can be found in over 65 countries. The company’s portfolio of products has grown to include English, Western, work, and lifestyle footwear and apparel.

Ariat takes its name from Secretariat, the greatest racehorse of all time. His athleticism and non-stop competitive spirit make him an enduring inspiration for the company.

Children’s Clothing

Winner: Ariat

Silver: Kerrits

Bronze: R.J.Classics

Fashion for the Street

Winner: Ralph Lauren

Silver: Barbour

Bronze: Ariat

RALPH LAUREN, the renowned American fashion brand, has long drawn inspiration from equestrian style, infusing it with a classic, sophisticated aesthetic. Established in 1967, the brand has become synonymous with timeless elegance and a distinctive blend of equestrian and preppy influences.

In 1972, Ralph Lauren introduced his first equestrian-inspired collection, aptly named “Polo.” The collection featured clothing and accessories that exuded a refined, sporty aesthetic, drawing inspiration from the world of polo. The logo, a polo player atop a horse, became instantly recognizable and symbolized the brand’s equestrian roots.

Over the years, Ralph Lauren expanded its product offerings to include a wide range of apparel, accessories, home furnishings, and fragrances, all showcasing the brand’s signature equestrian-inspired style. The brand’s success extends far beyond the equestrian world, as the brand has become an integral part of popular culture and has dressed numerous celebrities, athletes, and even American Olympians.