6 Beginner Horse Shows Books to Start Your Journey Right

Hallie McEvoy transforms the often-daunting world of horse show judging into an accessible path for newcomers by drawing on her extensive experience as a USA Equestrian-Licensed Recorded Judge. You’ll discover the practical nuances of judging across both English and Western disciplines, including detailed insights into licensing requirements and application processes that are typically glossed over elsewhere. For example, the book breaks down the steps to become a licensed judge in clear, manageable sections, making it easier to navigate what can seem like a complex certification maze. If you’re starting out and want a grounded understanding without being overwhelmed by jargon, this book offers a straightforward foundation.

This journal by Lyndsi Pratt demystifies the process of preparing and competing in horse shows by providing a structured yet flexible planner tailored for equestrian competitors. You’ll find dedicated sections for setting training goals, tracking ride notes, managing show points, and even designing your show patterns and clothing, which together encourage a hands-on approach to improving your performance. Pratt’s focus on various disciplines like western pleasure, hunter classes, and pattern classes makes it especially useful if you’re involved in stock horse circuits or youth competitions. If you want a practical tool that helps you organize every detail—from packing lists to weekly training plans—this journal offers a straightforward way to keep your horse show journey on track without overwhelming complexity.

This tailored book offers a personalized introduction to the fundamentals of horse shows, crafted to match your background and learning pace. It explores the essential aspects of preparing for and participating in horse shows, focusing on building your confidence through clear, step-by-step guidance. You’ll find content that carefully addresses your specific interests and skill level, breaking down complex topics into manageable segments. The tailored approach removes overwhelm by focusing on foundational knowledge and cultivating a comfortable learning experience. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your basics, this book provides a focused pathway to help you start your journey in horse shows with assurance and enthusiasm.

Lyndsi Pratt's approach in this book removes common barriers for newcomers eager to enter horse showing. The book offers a carefully structured progression of patterns across several disciplines—showmanship, English equitation, western horsemanship, trail, and reining—each designed to build your skills gradually. You’ll find clear exercises that sharpen your precision and deepen your connection with your horse, supported by detailed scoresheets that help track progress objectively. Whether you're an instructor or a student, this workbook breaks down complex show requirements into manageable challenges, making it especially suited for those starting out and looking to develop confidence for actual competitions.

Devon and Lilyana Weaver crafted this journal to meet a common challenge young equestrians face: keeping track of their progress and experiences amid the excitement of horse shows. You get a structured way to organize every event, from pre-show checklists to documenting performances and achievements, which helps sharpen your focus and growth as a rider. The journal also encourages reflection and memory-keeping, with dedicated photo pages and notes sections that make it more than a logbook—it's a personal companion for development. If you’re just starting out and want to build confidence and track your journey meaningfully, this book fits perfectly.

Amazing Equestrian Log Book, focused on supporting horse lovers and amateur trainers, crafted this journal to simplify tracking competition results and progress. You learn to systematically record each horse show’s details, judge feedback, and special moments, making it easier to reflect on growth over time. The book’s structure guides you in gathering meaningful insights from each event without overwhelm, ideal for those new to horse shows looking for a practical record-keeping tool. Whether you’re an owner or trainer wanting to monitor performance or commemorate milestones, this journal provides an accessible way to organize and cherish your equestrian journey.

This tailored book explores detailed exercises and scoring techniques essential for mastering horse show patterns. It focuses on building your skills progressively, starting with foundational concepts and advancing at a pace that fits your background and comfort level. By addressing your specific goals and current abilities, it removes the overwhelm often faced by newcomers and fosters confidence through personalized practice sequences. The content reveals practical ways to develop precision in pattern execution and improve your show performance, making skill-building both accessible and engaging. This customized approach ensures you focus on what matters most to you in the complex world of horse show patterns.

This book removes the confusion parents often face when stepping into the world of hunter jumper horse shows for the first time. Elizabeth Mulvihill Page Ph.D., herself a parent new to this environment, walks you through what a typical weekend at a show looks like, demystifying terms and customs like tack trunks, ribbon colors, and division champions. The concise chapters with checklists and a glossary make it easy to get up to speed quickly, especially if you’re still trying to distinguish a halter from a bridle. If you’re a busy parent eager to support your child without feeling overwhelmed, this guide offers a straightforward introduction that won’t bog you down in jargon or unnecessary detail.