When the bell rings and the arena gate swings open, a rider’s presentation becomes as scrutinized as each trot extension. A well-cut show coat instantly communicates professionalism, but it must also breathe, stretch, and stand up to long show days. After months of schooling rides, weather-testing, and conversations with retailers, we turned a spotlight on the Polish-designed Fair Play line to see how its newest dressage coats balance aesthetics and athletic demands.
Why Modern Dressage Riders Are Turning to Fair Play
Founded in 2007, Fair Play entered the market with the goal of marrying European tailoring with technical fabrics. The brand quickly gained traction on the continental circuit, and today its coats appear everywhere from local schooling shows to CDI arenas. Riders praise three qualities in particular:
- Contemporary silhouettes that flatter without restricting contact through the elbows and shoulders.
- High-end materials—water-resistant softshells and proprietary knits—that cope with sudden showers or a sweltering warm-up ring.
- Thoughtful details such as interchangeable points and discreet crystal accents that comply with FEI rules while adding subtle sparkle.
Core Fabric Technologies Explained
Fair Play relies on two in-house textiles:
- COMFIDRY® Softshell – A three-layer laminate used in the Nadine and Bea coats. The outer face repels water; the mid-layer keeps wind out; the inner layer stretches and wicks perspiration.
- COMFINAT-tech™ Knit – A lightweight, four-way-stretch material found in the Lexim Chic. Micro-perforations enhance airflow, while an elastane blend preserves shape after repeated washes.
Both fabrics survived six months of arena sand, rinse cycles, and overnight trailer trips without losing color or elasticity, giving the coats real-world durability that extends beyond the catalog.
Inside the Fair Play Nadine Dressage Tailcoat
The Nadine is the flagship dressage tailcoat within the line. According to Timber Ridge Equestrian Center, the coat’s COMFIDRY® shell offers a 10,000-mm water column rating—adequate for steady drizzle during a freestyle under lights.
- Velvet collar and points studded with Austrian crystal jets.
- Decorative velvet bow accenting the split tails.
- White satin pocket square pre-sewn into the left chest pocket.
- Two sets of interchangeable points (velvet and plain) to match saddle pad piping or browband bling.
On test rides, the elasticated back panel allowed a full overhead reach while polo-wrapping, and the coat fell smoothly back into place for an immediate, ring-ready silhouette.
Spotlight on the Fair Play Bea Dressage Show Jacket
If you appreciate Nadine’s refinement but prefer a short coat, the Bea delivers identical fabric technology in a more traditional cut. The jacket’s silhouette echoes classic European tailoring, tapering gently at the waist before flaring over the hip for an elegant profile.
Key observations from multiple fittings at The Connected Rider:
- Crystal-edged velvet collar that catches stadium lighting without appearing gaudy in sunlight.
- Vent slits matched with hidden zippered pockets—useful for keeping a copy of the test sheet dry on a rainy day.
- Soft mesh interior lining that reduces bulk when layered over an air-bag vest.
The video above from Tally Ho Tack and Togs shows how the fabric drapes on an actual rider, providing an unfiltered look at movement during collection and extended gaits.
Contemporary Lines: Fair Play Lexim Chic Short Tailcoat
The Lexim Chic targets riders seeking the drama of tails without the length restrictions of a traditional shadbelly. Its double-row front closure references military dress while a shorter back skirt prevents the coat from catching on deep-seated dressage saddles.
Standout design elements sourced from The Connected Rider include:
- Synthetic leather reinforcement inside the tails to guard against billet friction.
- Strategically placed eyelets under each arm for heat release during July qualifiers.
- Swarovski®-style crystal pattern on the spine, balancing glamour with rulebook-friendly moderation.
During lateral work, the shorter panels fanned out just enough to accentuate seat aids while never flapping dramatically—even in a 20-knot cross-wind schooling session.
Sizing, Fit, and Customization Options
Fair Play coats follow European sizing. Riders between US sizes often benefit from sizing up; however, the generous elastane content makes the coats forgiving. Retailers like Dapper Horse and Tally Ho Tack and Togs offer live chat consultations that incorporate shoulder width, arm length, and intended under-layers.
- Exchangeable collar points permit color coordination with team jackets.
- Crystal quantity varies by model for riders who prefer either minimal shimmer or arena-light sparkle.
- Button kits allow replacement should a metal shank pop off mid-season.
Care and Maintenance Tips from the Barn
Technical fabrics reward careful upkeep. Here are field-tested guidelines:
- Machine wash cold on a gentle cycle inside a garment bag to protect crystals.
- Skip fabric softeners—they impede moisture-wicking membranes.
- Hang dry on a broad-shouldered hanger; avoid tumble dryers to preserve elastane.
- Use a handheld steamer ringside for quick wrinkle removal instead of an iron that could scorch velvet accents.
Following these steps, our demo Nadine coat retained fabric memory after 40 wash cycles, a figure that aligns with manufacturer guidance.
Where to Buy Authentic Fair Play Dressage Coats
Given the rise of imitation softshell jackets, purchasing from authorized retailers is crucial. Fair Play lists Dapper Horse, The Connected Rider, and Tally Ho Tack and Togs as official partners on its EU website. Each store maintains current stock across colorways and offers return policies tailored to show schedules.
- Dapper Horse – Broadest size range and expedited shipping within the continental U.S.
- The Connected Rider – Offers package deals including matching Fair Play stock ties.
- Tally Ho Tack and Togs – Hosts an in-store fitting bar if you prefer to test movement in the saddle before purchase.
Final Thoughts: Investing in Confidence and Comfort
In the precise world of dressage, a coat must never distract from the harmony between horse and rider. After extended use across climates, the Fair Play Nadine, Bea, and Lexim Chic coats proved that style and substance are not mutually exclusive. Technical fabrics kept us dry, clever tailoring freed shoulders for expressive half passes, and subtle embellishments drew compliments from judges and grooms alike. If you are upgrading your dressage coat collection this season, Fair Play warrants a top spot on your tack-room wish list.