Show checklist: the must-haves 🏆

Whether you're a leisure rider or a seasoned competitor, preparing your show day well is key to staying focused on your goals! Between your horse's equipment, your show outfit, the admin paperwork and last-minute emergencies on site, it's easy to forget something important 😅

In this article, we share the 5 must-haves for every competition — plus a few bonus tips to help you head out with peace of mind 🙈

A soft brush and a sponge for a flawless finish 🧼

Even if your horse has been groomed at the yard, there's always a final touch needed on arrival. A soft brush removes any last dust, while a damp sponge is perfect for quickly cleaning the nostrils, eyes or small marks before entering the ring ✨

Your complete show outfit(s) 👚

Your regulation show attire is non-negotiable: white or light-coloured breeches, show jacket, white polo shirt or shirt, and of course your riding helmet.

💡 We recommend keeping a change of outfit handy in case of unexpected situations (rain, stains, a button giving way…).

Don't forget to give your gear a good clean before the show — we've shared all our best tips in a blog article dedicated to leather care 😉

A carry bag 👜

When heading to a show, staying organised is everything. Whether it's a large holdall, a backpack or a wheeled bag, it will quickly become your best ally for avoiding endless back-and-forth trips.

The Big Bag from Paddock Sports is the ultimate companion for hassle-free transport: saddle pads, boots, headcollars, grooming kit, rider gear… it fits everything!

You can also go for a backpack or a wheeled bag. Check out the Equithème range — spacious, practical, and perfect for show days 💪

👉 Browse all our Equithème bags here

A bag for your "little essentials" 🙈

This is THE bag that saves the day at competitions: a small bag where you keep everything you tend to forget but that can be a real lifesaver:

Hair bands (even if you've already plaited)
Treats
Cleansing wipes
Detangling spray
A water bottle
First aid kit

🧡 OHLALA Team Tip: pack this bag in advance and keep it ready year-round. You'll only need to top it up from time to time 😉

Horse documents 📒

Never leave without:

Horse passport (with up-to-date vaccinations)
Your FFE licence
Horse truck documents / insurance certificate
A printed copy of the show schedule with your start time

📎 A rigid wallet or a waterproof folder is ideal for keeping everything together and protected.

A bridle holder 🔥

At shows, staying organised makes all the difference. This removable bridle holder by Paddock Sports is a brilliant way to keep your space tidy and functional. Easy to hang on stable doors or truck partitions, it lets you safely store your bridles between classes.

The OHLALA memo: your ready-to-go checklist 📋

Here's a quick checklist to print out or keep in your horse truck:

✅ Full outfit (helmet, jacket, breeches, gloves…)
✅ Horse passport + documents
✅ Clean bonnet / saddle pad / boots
✅ Grooming kit + sponge
✅ Shine spray + detangler
✅ Water + snacks (hay and treats)

OHLALA tip: Write up your checklist and print it out, or save it in your phone's favourites

🐎 Ready to shine at your next show?

With these essentials and a bit of organisation, you can focus 100% on your horse and your round. Remember to breathe, soak in the moment… and slip a little treat into your pocket for your four-legged partner! 🧡