Links in our articles are for companies who’s products we use and love. When you make purchases clicking these links, we might or might not be compensated for sending you to their website. We are not compensated for reviewing products, and the opinions on this site are purely the writer’s. We appreciate your support and trust as we know your time and money is valuable!
I know I’m not alone…just like you, I’m always on the look out for something that works better! Showing is stressful and time consuming, so I’m always looking for products that make those weeks less wild and more chill. You don’t want to be thinking about your breeches, boots, bra, coat or jacket while you’re riding. If you notice you’re wearing them while on the horse…they’re not doing their job (which is to cover you and make you appropriate…while not interfering with your riding in any way). I’ve been through 8 different show shirts in just three years…and have yet to find one I really love for the purpose (I love my Equus Couture one…it’s just not practical for riding and has become a fashion item). They were either beautiful and uncomfortable, too hot, too short, too long, too restrictive, or crappy quality. The prices ranged from $40 – $150…it didn’t seem to matter. I’ve had the same issue with breeches and show coats…though less extreme.
Fast forward and I was thrilled to receive the Elisa Show Shirt from Sarm Hippique USA to review. It’s a very attractive shirt with clean lines, traditional styling and an elegant look. This high end shirt impressed me upon first touch. It is very clear it was made for sport once you feel the fabric. The fabric is SUPER stretchy and soft on the skin. The fabric is a true microfiber made for athletics and is breathable and antimicrobial. The waffle weave design of the fabric adds a bit of interest and hides some sins. It’s a really good looking shirt and I received several comments on how attractive it was from other riders at the show. Sarm Hippique has long focused on the hunter/jumper set…but so many of their items translate well to the dressage ring. Dressage and event riders deserve high tech sport fabrics too!
How is it on? I should let you know it runs a bit small (though quite stretchy) as most Italian brands do…so size appropriately. I got a large and was quite comfortable (but I like the snug fit). Once on, the shirt disappears. What do I mean? I mean once you put it on and start moving around, you forget you are wearing it. It’s stretchy but supportive. It’s supportive but not restrictive. It moves with you and the slim fitting collar is not at all constricting or annoying (and doesn’t add too much bulk under your stock tie). It stays tucked in all day (magic). It’s not hot. It’s simply comfortable. I wouldn’t feel weird doing yoga in this shirt…honestly.
I wore the Elisa Show Shirt to a show last weekend and had no “man I wished I wore a different…” moments while riding. The shirt went with me, no matter what I was doing – loading the trailer, tacking up, riding, or cleaning up after. There was no shoulder or arm restriction at all. The temp range went from low 40’s to over 75 degrees and I did not have a melt down when it got hot right before my test. I was significantly less hot in my warm ups (even wearing my coat) and did not get overheated…which I tend to do when I’m wearing too many layers. It kept me dry (wicking away sweat) and cool under pressure.
It also kept me stink and dirt free (love this microfiber stuff!) all day. This shirt made it through the whole day without getting any staining or major dirt on it (even with a couple slobbers from Spice). It washed up as sparkling as new (washed warm water, line dried).
It is a higher end price point that I’m usually comfortable with and before wearing it…I might have blanched a bit at paying that much for a shirt, however after wearing it…I know it’s well worth the price. I cannot wait to get my shadbelly I ordered from Sarm Hippique USA to see how comfortable it is! I highly recommend the Elisa Show Shirt from Sarm Hippique and their other microfiber show shirts if you’re looking for the best show shirt you’ve ever worn.
The Elisa Show Shirt (and other gorgeous styles) are available from Sarm Hippique USA. The Elisa comes in long and short sleeves with either white or gold buttons (if you’re looking for a little flash).