Review: Kerrits Competitors Koat

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Happy New Year!

I'm terribly excited for the 2018 show season. Now that the first horse trials in Area VI are right around the corner, I'm busying myself putting together The Pony's 2018 show schedule, traveling around the state for cross country schooling, and organizing my show gear.

Comfortable, functional, and easy to clean show gear is a must for me. When I began eventing a little over 2 years ago, it was a bit daunting to acquire three sets of attire and gear for each phase of competition. For around a year I wore a used jacket for shows that I got on the cheap. Once the color starting noticeably fading, I knew it was time to invest in a new show coat.

Can Haz New Coat? This show coat needed replacing after the color became faded. 

Since the last time I bought a show coat, classy and easy to care for machine washable coats had hit the market. On a trip to Riding Warehouse in San Luis Obispo, CA the Kerrits Competitors Koat caught my eye. 

The Kerrits Competitors Koat comes in multiple colors: black, navy, black with white piping, gray with white piping, and blue with white piping. I was tempted by the blue with white piping, but decided on the black with white piping so I could wear it in the dressage ring as well -- I'm not a huge fashion risk taker. 

The fit for an off the rack show coat is extremely nice. I usually have a difficult time finding a show jacket that fits since I am petite. The tailor in the past has always been involved after a show coat purchase. Not this time. The Kerrits Competitors Koat was ready to go for me.

The fabric has a 4-way stretch that makes this coat so comfortable to ride in you forget you're wearing it. The fabric is breathable, making it a great choice for those of us that compete in warmer areas. I've ridden in it at shows in the hottest heat of summer in Southern California and not been fussed.

 The Kerrits Competitors Koat in the Show Jumping Arena 
at Shepherd Ranch Horse Trials Last June

 One of my favorite features of the jacket is the zipper under the 3 snap buttons on the front. The zipper keeps unflattering bunching around the buttons at bay.

The Competitors Koat also has two real, usable side pockets with zip closures. Since I put bit butter into The Pony's mouth immediately before mounting, I like to slip my gloves into my jacket pocket so I don't forget them or get my white show breeches dirty from using my breeches' pocket.

This coat is absolutely machine washable. I've followed the manufacturer's instructions of washing and drying (tumble dry low) the Competitors Koat after every show and it looks brand new still. No fading, and it does not need ironing.

Stretching Forward with Ease for Deserved Pony Pats 
after a Dressage Test in the Kerrits Competitors Koat

I've had the Competitors Koat for about a year and it is an indispensable part of my show wardrobe. It's comfortable to wear, easy to wash, and it looks great in the saddle. I've yet to see a photo taken of it where it looks less than sharp. 

Riding Warehouse is currently having a Year End Blowout Sale with a considerable discount on the already modestly priced Competitors Koat. 

Until next week, happy riding! 🐴

The Pony Finishing a Double Clear Round at FCHP
I love how the tail on the Competitors Koat flares over jumps.

**Please Note: I have not been paid to review any of the products I post. I am an adult eventer with a full-time job that is decidedly non-horsey.**

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