For decades, equestrian style felt stuck. We had our traditional, often unflattering, beige breeches for competitions and… well, that was about it. For everyday riding, you were stuck between those same stiff breeches or making do with cheap jodhpurs that would bag at the knees after one ride. Then, the rest of the athletic world lapped us. We’d go from a buttery-soft, high-tech pair of Lululemon yoga leggings to a restrictive, low-waisted pair of breeches that cost three times as much.
The frustration was real. Why should our riding gear be the least comfortable, least technical clothing in our wardrobe? This exact gap is where brands like GS Equestrian have completely changed the game. They didn’t just make a new product; they helped create a new uniform. They championed the “riding tight” and built a brand around the idea that high-performance gear shouldn’t be reserved for other sports, nor should it cost a fortune.
The GS Equestrian Staples We Reached For
- GS Riding Tights: The hero product. They feel like high-end gym leggings but have the crucial silicone grip and support for the saddle. The high-waist and deep phone pocket are the standout features.1
- GS Base Layers: The ultimate layering piece. These are thin, technical, “second-skin” tops that are genuinely breathable under a body protector or gilet.
- Matchy-Matchy Sets: A core part of the brand’s appeal. They offer saddle pads, ear bonnets, and brushing boots designed to perfectly match the rider’s apparel.
- Gilets & Jackets: Well-designed outerwear that completes the look without adding bulk, perfect for layering over a base layer for chilly morning rides.
The Main Event: Why The Riding Tight Took Over
Let’s start with the product that put them on the map: the riding tight. For a long time, “jodhpurs” were the only option, and “riding skins” were often flimsy, see-through, and had no structure. GS Equestrian, along with a few other modern brands, designed a true hybrid. It’s a riding tight with the soul of a high-performance legging.
The first thing you notice is the fabric. It’s a thick, technical, four-way stretch material. It is compressive and supportive, not thin and flimsy. Most importantly, it passes the “squat test” – they are not see-through. This is a non-negotiable.
The fit is where they truly shine. The high, wide waistband is a revelation for anyone who has struggled with breeches that gap at the back or dig in. In the saddle, that high waist is brilliant; it feels secure, supportive, and keeps your shirt neatly tucked in. And then, the phone pocket. A deep, secure pocket on the thigh that holds a modern smartphone without it bouncing around is no longer a “nice-to-have,” it’s a necessity, and GS bakes it into almost every design.
Grip, Feel, and Real-World Performance
Of course, they can’t just look like gym gear. They have to perform. The silicone grip is the other key component. GS offers both full-seat and knee-patch options. The silicone pattern they use provides a great amount of “stick” without feeling like you’re glued to the saddle. It gives you that extra bit of security and confidence, especially on a fresh horse, but still allows you to move and adjust your position.
The real test is durability. This is always the worry with “affordable” gear. Will the silicone peel off after two washes? Will the seams burst? I’ve been impressed. The seams are well-constructed (using flatlock stitching, which prevents chafing), and the silicone holds up remarkably well to the friction of the saddle and repeated washing.
Beyond the Tights: The Base Layer Uniform
Once you have the tights, the next logical piece is the base layer. GS Equestrian has perfected this. Their long-sleeved, quarter-zip tops are made from a lightweight, sweat-wicking material that feels cool against the skin.2 They are designed to be a close, athletic fit, which makes them the perfect foundation for layering.
This is where their understanding of the sport is clear. A bulky cotton top is miserable on a hot day and even worse under a body protector. These technical tops are genuinely comfortable, even on a long, hot hack or during a strenuous lesson. The subtle branding and huge range of colours mean they look smart enough on their own for a clinic or casual show.
The ‘Matchy-Matchy’ Culture and Smart Value
You cannot talk about modern equestrian style without talking about the “matchy-matchy” trend. GS Equestrian didn’t just understand this; they built their business model around it. They release their rider apparel in seasonal colour drops—think ‘Sage,’ ‘Caramel,’ or ‘Mulberry’—and simultaneously release their horsewear (saddle pads, fly veils, brushing boots) in the exact same shades.
This is incredibly savvy. It allows riders to build a complete, polished, “pro” look for themselves and their horse for a fraction of the cost of traditional European brands. This is where the value proposition is impossible to ignore. You can get a full, high-quality, matching set of a base layer, tights, and saddle pad for less than what you might pay for a single pair of premium breeches elsewhere.
Who Is GS Equestrian Really For?
So, is this high-end, bespoke tailoring? No. Is it a heritage brand your grandmother would recognize? No. But that is the entire point. GS Equestrian is for the modern, athletic rider who lives at the yard. It’s for the amateur competitor who wants to look smart and professional in the warm-up ring. It’s for the rider who wants to be able to hop off their horse and head to the shop (or even the gym) without feeling like they’re in a clunky, old-fashioned uniform.
They’ve successfully bridged the gap between true athletic performance and traditional equestrian needs. The quality you get for the price point is, in my opinion, one of the best value-for-money propositions in the equestrian market today. This isn’t “fast fashion.” It’s a functional, durable, and stylish uniform for the rider who lives a real life.
