How to Prepare for Badminton Horse Trials 2025: Competitor Essentials & Spectator Style

The Badminton Horse Trials 2025 is one of the most anticipated events in the British equestrian calendar. Whether you’re competing in the Voltaire Design Grassroots Championships or attending as a style-conscious spectator, preparation is key to making the most of this iconic experience.

Here’s how to get Badminton-ready — from rider gear and horse turnout to spectator fashion — with every essential available at Online for Equine.

Getting Competition-Ready

Competing at Badminton is a milestone moment for grassroots riders. It’s a chance to perform on one of the most prestigious stages in the world, and success starts with preparation — not just in the saddle, but in your kit.

Rider Turnout & Safety Gear

First impressions count, especially in the dressage arena. Traditional competition wear for dressage is a traditional show jacket in navy or black, teamed with beige breeches and a white stock, creates a clean, polished appearance. Clean boots, tidy hair, and a good pair of gloves are the little things that finish the look and make you feel ring-ready.

All clothing should meet British Eventing rules and allow freedom of movement.

When it comes to the cross-country phase, rider safety is paramount. You’ll need a BETA 2018 Level 3 body protector and a skull cap without a fixed peak, designed to reduce injury risk across challenging fences and terrain. These aren’t just safety staples — they can directly affect your confidence and comfort. The latest body protectors offer breathable, adjustable designs, while the skull caps and jockey helmets meet the highest safety standards without compromising fit or feel.

Horse Turnout & Grooming Essentials

Badminton is as much about presentation as performance. From the Horse Inspection to dressage day, your horse’s appearance should reflect your preparation.

Start with a thorough groom: body brushes to lift grease, a finishing brush for shine, and a plaiting kit for neat, secure plaits. Before your class or the First Horse Inspection, aim for a deep groom that enhances coat condition and highlights your horse’s natural features. The right lotions and potions can elevate even the best grooming routine. From high-gloss coat sprays that enhance natural shine, to stain removers for stubborn marks on greys and whites, these products add finesse and polish. Detanglers help keep manes smooth and tails tangle-free, while conditioning balms and hoof dressings ensure every detail looks cared for.

Tack That Performs Under Pressure

Well-fitted, comfortable tack is essential across all three phases of eventing — dressage, show jumping, and cross-country. It helps create a stable connection between horse and rider, allowing for clearer communication in every movement. In dressage, thoughtful tack choices support softness and rhythm, while in the jumping phases, security and freedom of movement become the priority. Whether you're navigating tight turns in the arena or galloping across varied ground, tack that suits your horse's needs and your riding style makes all the difference in how you work together as a team.

Leg protection is vital — opt for boots that offer support, shock absorption, and breathability, especially in wet conditions.

Online for Equine stocks trusted brands such as LeMieux and Shires Equestrian, both known for their quality, fit and value for event riders.

What to Wear as a Spectator

Badminton’s not just about world-class riding — it’s a real countryside occasion, and spectators like to dress the part. The key is keeping it practical without losing that classic country feel. Spring weather can be unpredictable, so layering is always a good idea. A waxed or quilted jacket is a firm favourite — warm enough for chilly mornings, and great if there’s a bit of drizzle about. Most people go for comfy jeans or riding leggings, especially if they’re planning to cover some ground out on the cross-country course. Good footwear really matters — waterproof leather boots or a quality pair of wellies are your best bet for staying comfortable, especially if the ground gets muddy. Add a hat, a scarf, and a crossbody bag to keep your hands free for coffee (or shopping bags), and you’ll be sorted for whatever the day throws at you. 

Brands like Shires Aubrion, Dublin, and LeMieux offer countryside-inspired fashion that’s as comfortable on the course as it is in the shopping village.

Riders to Watch in 2025

While the final start list will be announced closer to the event, several top contenders are expected to return:

• Laura Collett (GBR) – Olympic gold medallist and previous Badminton winner

• Ros Canter (GBR) – World Champion and cross-country specialist

• Oliver Townend (GBR) – Consistently among the best in the world

• Tim & Jonelle Price (NZL) – Dynamic duo with proven 5* records

• Tom McEwen (GBR) – Olympic medallist with precision and poise

Joining them will be a selection of talented grassroots competitors taking their place on one of the most iconic courses in the sport.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re galloping across country or walking the course with a flat white and wellies, Badminton Horse Trials 2025 is a celebration of everything that makes British eventing great.