New To Dressage

DRESSAGE DRESS CODE, RULES AND TESTS

Like within any equestrian discipline there are rules, dress codes and a course.

How dressage and the judging works
Each movement within a dressage test is marked on a 0-10 basis which will calculate your overall percentage for that test. The higher the percentage the better you have done. Each movement will also be given a remark, for you to note if you wish. For an example see image below.
It is incredibly rare, even for professionals to get marked 10 out of 10 in a dressage test, so don't worry if your end percentage seems low. Dressage tests aren't there to make you feel bad, but help you to know how to improve.

Dress code for the rider
The word Dressage comes from the French word "dresser" which means to dress, that is to put the finishing touches to something. So the dress code in dressage is an important part of the sport.
See the Image below to point out the important parts of dressage clothes and click on the text to view our range of products specifically for that product and the test you are doing

Dresscode for the horse
You don't have to have a double bridle and a dressage saddle to do beginner (prelim and Walk& Trot) dressage tests, so don't panic about needing to kit your horse out with expensive tack. However there are basic rules. All of the items we have listed in the links below are allowed in all Dressage Tests.

To view a FULL set of the FEI Dressage Rules CLICK HERE to download the 23rd edition, effective 1st January 2009 Dressage Rules PDF

Tests
There are two types of dressage Tests, British Dressage (BD) also known as BHS tests, or British Eventing (BE).
CLICK HERE to view BD tests
CLICK HERE for BE tests

Reference books and DVD's
Presents, reference or interest, many equestrian riders like to read about or watch information on their discipline or the equestrian sport in general
CLICK HERE to view our dressage and general equestrian books and DVD's