When it comes to horseback riding, people often participate in lessons wearing comfortable clothing like polo shirts and jodhpurs. However, as many are aware, official competitions and the Olympics require participants to wear tails or jackets.
There are reasons behind wearing tails or jackets in formal events, especially in dressage. Interestingly, the current shape of tails and jackets traces back to horseback riding origins.
This article highlights three clothing items rooted in horseback riding, explaining their history and connection.
Surprisingly, It’s Horse Riding! The Suit’s Center Vent as a Badge of Riding
Do you know that suits have a ‘vent’ or slit at the back? Interestingly, this feature is related to horseback riding. Here, we explain why.
What is a Suit’s Vent?
People who frequently wear suits might be familiar with the term ‘vent,’ which refers to the slit at the back or sides of a jacket. Some choose suits based on their vent design.
The vent is a slash in the back or sides of the jacket—sometimes held closed with stitches during purchases—allowing easier movement while wearing the suit. There are different styles such as ‘center vent,’ ‘side vents,’ and ‘no vents.’ Among these, the center vent is often seen in slim or short suits used in business settings.
Side vents, with slits on the sides, accommodate larger hips without discomfort, while no vents are typically used in formal wear like evening gowns or ceremonial attire, where ease of movement isn’t a priority.
The Connection Between the Center Vent and Horseback Riding
The center vent design has a clear link to horseback riding. In earlier times, when horseback was a primary means of transportation, riding without a vent was uncomfortable.
Therefore, the introduction of a slit in the center bottom of the jacket allowed riders to move more freely, giving rise to the center vent design. Additionally, it helps the hems look tidy when riding. In Japan, this feature is sometimes called ‘uma-nori,’ meaning riding on horseback, highlighting its rural origins.
Interestingly, side vents are called ‘sabre’ or ‘knightly’ vents because they originated from the practicality of drawing swords strapped on the sides of jackets—initially meant to prevent the wearer from obstructing sword use.
The Bold Cut of Morning Coats – Inspired by Horseback Riding
The morning coat is often associated with formal events, such as photos of officials in front of the Prime Minister’s Office during the new cabinet’s formation. Many think of it as formal wear for high-class occasions.
Horseback riding also has a deep connection with the morning coat. Here, we explore this relationship.
What is a Morning Coat?
A morning coat is the most formal daytime attire, typically a gray striped pair of trousers paired with a black jacket and vest. Sometimes, a gray vest is worn for a more festive look.
It is traditionally worn only in the morning and daytime. Historically, it originated as a noble’s casual morning walking wear, becoming an official daytime formal garment in the mid-19th century.
While similar in appearance to tails, which are evening formal wear, there are differences in the front design and length of the back hems.
The Link Between the Morning Coat and Horseback Riding
The design of the morning coat and tails was influenced to allow riders to go directly to court after horseback riding. Thus, functional and formal styles emerged from riding needs.
The precursor was a waist-length jacket called a ‘frock coat,’ popular among aristocrats, also restricted to daytime wear. For British aristocrats who rode horses in the mornings regularly, the traditional knee-length jacket of the frock coat was cumbersome.
To resolve this, the front of the frock coat was modified by cutting open the sleeves, creating a new style suited for riding and formal occasions.
The Military Roots of Jodhpurs
Jodhpurs, now a common fashion item, are rooted in horseback riding. They were originally inspired by the traditional trousers worn in northern India, called ‘churidars,’ which were adapted for riding.
These trousers feature tight-fitting around the ankles and a loose fit around the hips, making them comfortable for hot climates and easy to move in—ideal for riding and military use.
Recently, jodhpurs have also become trendy in fashion circles.
The Relationship Between Jodhpurs and Horseback Riding
In the late 19th century, British riders mainly wore short trousers called ‘breeches,’ ending at the calves. During a visit in 1797 by the Prince of Jodhpur to celebrate Queen Victoria’s 60th anniversary, he led a polo team in northern India wearing traditional trousers called ‘churidars.’ This event led to the popularity of the style, and ‘jodhpurs’ were incorporated into British riding fashion, originating from this event.
Modern riding jodhpurs often feature reinforced areas on the seat and knees for better durability and usability. In Japan, these are called ‘culottes,’ though this term is rarely understood outside Japan.
Summary
In historical times, horseback riding was a common activity, and many clothing designs evolved for ease and formality, remaining influential today.
Many everyday clothes trace back to horseback riding origins, revealing a deep connection when looked at closely. Exploring these links makes observing fashion and daily attire more interesting.