Long Sleeve Tops

Equestrian long sleeve tops are year-round barn staples: sun protection in August, a light layer under your jacket in October, and the foundation of your cold-weather riding kit once the arena sand starts freezing. The right long sleeve top works as hard as you do and still looks pulled together when you're not in the saddle.

Sun shirts have become a genuine game-changer for riders who spend hours outdoors. Modern UPF-rated fabrics block UV rays more effectively than sunscreen alone, while moisture-wicking technology keeps you cool even when the summer heat makes the barn feel like a sauna. Look for a four-way stretch fabric that  moves with you through posting trots and two-point without pulling across the shoulders, a detail that matters more than most tops acknowledge.

Dapplebay excels here. Their long sleeve tops combine functional performance fabric with equestrian-specific graphics and colorways that feel fresh rather than generic. These are tops you'll reach for whether you're heading to the barn for a lesson or meeting friends afterward — designed for riders who don't want to choose between looking good and being comfortable.

For colder months, a fitted base layer or technical riding shirt under your jacket is essential for maintaining warmth without bulk. You want something that layers cleanly under a show coat or barn jacket without creating bunched fabric at the shoulders or elbows, a minor frustration that becomes significant when you're trying to
maintain a clean position in the ring.

From breezy summer sun shirts to cozy thermal base layers, our long sleeve collection covers every season and every discipline. Mix and match with your breeches and outerwear to build a barn wardrobe that actually works.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear riding in summer?
A lightweight, UPF-rated long sleeve sun shirt is actually cooler than a short sleeve top in direct sun. The fabric acts as a shield between your skin and UV rays, reducing heat absorption while the moisture-wicking properties manage sweat. Pair it with breathable breeches or riding tights and a well-ventilated helmet. Lighter colors reflect heat; avoid dark fabrics on the hottest days if you're riding outdoors.

What is a base layer for horse riding?
A base layer is a close-fitting technical top worn under your main riding shirt, jacket, or show coat. It's designed to regulate body temperature by wicking sweat away from your skin, keeping you warmer when it's cold and more comfortable when you're working hard. A good base layer adds warmth without bulk, so it won't interfere with your position or layer cleanly under a tailored show coat. Many riders use them from autumn through early spring as their first defense against the cold.

Can I wear regular athletic shirts for horse riding?
You can, but purpose-built equestrian tops have some practical advantages. They're cut with riding position in mind, slightly longer in the back to stay tucked, with sleeve lengths that account for arm extension. Equestrian sun shirts often have higher UPF ratings than generic athletic tops. That said, if you're just starting out, any athletic moisture-wicking top will serve you fine until you're ready to invest in more discipline-specific gear.

Do equestrian long sleeve tops run true to size?
It varies by brand. Most equestrian brands size their tops similarly to athletic apparel. If you're between sizes, consider whether you prefer a fitted or slightly relaxed cut, and check the brand's size chart for chest and sleeve measurements. Tops designed for layering under show coats typically run slightly slimmer to avoid bulk; standalone sun shirts often have more relaxed fits.