horseback_riding_apparel
 
plus_size_riding_clothing
plus_size_riding_contact
Riding Apparel
  • Womens Riding Apparel
  • Children's Riding Apparel
    		•
  • Men's Riding Apparel
    		•
  • Show Clothes
    		•
  • Riding Gloves
  • Half Chaps
    		•
  • Breeches
    		•
  • Horse Riding Gifts
  • Horse Grooming Supplies
    		•
  • Suppliments & Meds
    		•
  • Riding Whips & Crops
  • Saddles & Tack
  • Bridles & Equipment
    		•
  • English Horse Bits
  • Pony Tack & Supplies
    		•
  • Horse Halters & Leads
  • Horse Show Supplies
  • Horse Riding Accessories
    		•
  • Fox Hunting Equipment
    		•
  • Customer Photo's
    		•
  • Eventing Equipment
    		•
     
     
    Plus Size Horseback Riding Clothing
  • Plus Size Riding Clothing
    		•
  • Plus Size Show Jackets
  • Women's field boots
    		•
  • Plus Size Breeches
  • Children’s Apparel
    		•
     
    Horseback Riding
    Foot Wear
  • Field Boots
  • Riding Boots
    		•
  • Dress Boots
    •  
    Guides
  • Bridle Sizing
    		•
  • Breech Style
    		•
  • Leadliner Dressing
    		•
  • English Saddle
    		•
  • Jacket Sizing
    		•
         
         
         

    American Fox Hunting

    or Fox Chasing

    Foxhunting has been around for centuries. What began as a method to rid farm land from vermin has now become a posh and exciting sport!  The main change in Fox Hunting is the “hunting” part. Local hunts no longer hunt down a fox for the kill but instead just for the sport of the chase. People have even begun to call it Fox Chasing.

    The fox is hunted/chased by Fox Hounds.  Fox hounds hunt off of sent and most would not know a fox if it was sitting in front of them unless they could smell it. The mounted Huntsman is in charge of the Hounds and communicates to them with his horn and voice. The Huntsman is assisted by his “Whipper-ins” or Whips These men and women are also mounted and work as more eyes and ears for the Huntsman, safety and control of the hounds. All members of the staff care Hunt Staff care hunt whips to help with the discipline.

    The “Field” consists of mounted Fox Hunting members on their horses or Field Hunters are lead by the Master of Hounds. The Master’s job is to follow the chase, keep out of the line of scent , out of the  way of the huntsman and respect landowners. All riders are to stay behind the Master at all times and listen to his or her cues. He or she is the Boss.

    Many times the Field is split into two groups, First Field (jumpers) and Second Field(non Jumpers) or hill topers to give people of all skills a chance to enjoy the chase.

    The hunt continues until either the fox evades the hounds, goes to ground ( his hole or earth).  Hounds and horses are praised for their hard work and either the hunt retires home or goes in search of another fox.

    Hunt Etiquette is very important. The Huntsman, Whips, Masters and especially hounds must always be given the right way.  Interfering with a hound in any way will lead to you and your horse being requested to leave. The MV Hunt Web site is a good reference for Fox Hunting Etiquette and terms http://mvhunt.net/foxhunting.htm.

    The Fox Hunting season begins slowly until the horses, hounds and riders are conditioned and trained for full season which runs about August to September when the foxes have matured. This is called Cub Hunting or Cubbing. During this time a more casual attire is appropriate and as the season gets closer and closer the attire becomes more and more formal.

    Attire in the Fox Hunting world is very important, formal and traditional. The Huntsman and his staff wear Pinks which are scarlet red hunting coats with white breeches. This helps distinguish them from the field. Women traditionally do not wear Pinks but a black or navy coat with their hunts colours. Hunt colours are a privilege and must only be worn when invited to.

    Breeches of multiple colors can be worn, but it is best to check with your hunt before you head out hunting. Boots are tall Dress Boots. Field Boots can also be acceptable as long at they are tall and black. A proper Riding Helmet is vital for safety. The riding jacket is a Black Hunt Coat, usually Melton with a hunting vest underneath that matches the coat.  Tweeds can be acceptable on week days, during late cubbing and on children under the age of 18.

    However, it is best to ask your hunt secretary for what you hunt deals as proper.  A stock tie is worn around the neck with a stick pin for style, neck support from a fall and can serve as a bandage for man, hound or horse in case of an accident.

    Hunts can be very strict about attire, especially on weekends or holidays so it is best to contact your hunt for attire expectations and restrictions.

    Your horse or pony should first and foremost be in excellent shape, this can come from cubbing which is a great way to get you and your horse started. Keeping your horse or pony in good condition will allow you both to enjoy the outing. Your tack must be clean and well fitted. Any jumping saddle will do with a proper white saddle pad.

     

    “Fox Hunting is a union of humans and animals in the beauty of nature's setting.” MFHA

     

    For more information on Fox Hunting go to:

     

    Masters of Foxhounds Association of North America.

    http://www.mfha.com/abfo.htm

    or

    MVH Pages for Hunting Etiquette and language

    http://mvhunt.net/foxhunting.htm