Regulations, what is allowed or not on the fieldsÂ
As we all know, more or less written regulation govern our sport. Indeed, the obligations and needs in terms of equipment or clothing to ride a horse, in competition or in training, are not always written in black and white. However, in response to the aristocratic heritage of our sport, we must maintain a certain etiquette of horsemanship, whether we are competitors or not.Â
Nevertheless, some rules are well and truly noted in the official regulations. For example, in competition, the rider cannot wear any outfit he wants, and the horse cannot show up with any kind of harness.Â
There are also regulations for competition protection.Â
Concerning the gaiters and protections for the front legs, the regulations are quite flexible. However, fetlock protectors do not suffer the same fate. The French Federation regulations are strict, they only allow one category of fetlock protectors, whether in the paddock or on the track. The September 2021 update of the competition rules specific to show jumping specifies the type of competition protection authorized depending on the event.Â
In general, only hind leg protectors with a single shell not exceeding 20 cm on the inner side and 5 cm on the outer side are allowed. Failure to comply with this regulation will result in the elimination of the rider from the competition.Â
Please note, however, that the regulations differ according to the events reserved for seven-year-old horses, Club, Pony, Amateur or Prep events as well as Pro or Teacher events.Â
It is best to check these regulations before going to the show.