The Turnout of Horse and Rider

You are not only continuing centuries of tradition, but also acting as a representative to any modern day observers.  Anything less than impeccable turnout is an insult to the sport and to your fellow fox hunters.  While much of this should go without saying, the fact that it IS being said means that everyone still needs to be vigilant.  This does NOT mean you must immediately spend thousands of dollars, it means you must take fastidious care of what you have and realize that upgrades in your equipment might need to be factored in over the course of the season(s). See Proper Attire for the Hunt Field. If in any doubt, speak to the Masters or to one of the long standing members.

• ​The horse should be clean (including grays and all white markings).  He will soon enough be dirty again, at least start out looking sharp.

• Manes should be well pulled.  Long maned breeds should consider French braiding the mane to keep it out of the way.

• Manes (and tails if well done) should be braided on the High Holy days of Hunting (Opening meet, Blessing of the Hounds, and other days as designated by the Masters).

• Horses should be adequately shod for the job at hand.  This may entail borium or removable calks for traction.  This is a safety matter.  Speak with your farrier.

• Tack should be conservative and spotlessly clean.  If well cleaned one would assume that the rider has taken the time to inspect the tack for safety as well!

• The rider as well should be clean, polished and well put together.  You too will soon enough have a chance to get dirty. Riders with hair that extends below the helmet must wear a hairnet. This applies to both ladies and gentlemen.

• As we are perhaps the most tradition bound sport there is, and as this is considered by many one of the charms of the sport individualism in turnout is not rewarded in the hunt field!