what tack/kit for ridden hunter?

[kirky]

I put my 15.2h ISH in a local championship show in Aug and he came second in the riding class and I had never tried the ridden hunter before but as they were allowing late entries I entered and he came second again. The judge said he was a good responsive ride ( went off her leg and came back straight away) and to put him in for more hunter comps.Problem is I am new to this having never thought my horse fitted the type. I only have beige jods and black jacket etc ( for my dressage comps) and he is ridden in either a GP or dressage saddle with a snaffle bridle, half cheek french link with flash noseband.
What do I need for hunter comps next summer? Double bridle? Hacking jacket and tie? If anyone can give tips I would really appreciate it.:)

[shanzee]

Hunters should look workmanlike so hacking jacket, shirt and tie, beige jods for the rider. Snaffles are ok for novice classes, but above that level, the horse would be expected to wear a pelham or double bridle, with a plain cavesson noseband and plain browband. A reasonably straight cut saddle is best as it shows the horse's shoulder off better than one that's forward cut. The main thing to bear in mind with the saddle is that it is comfortable for the judge to ride in too!

Good luck - let us know how it goes. x

[Emz]

Intermediates aren't normally ridden by the judge in affiliated classes either. Although if you did small hunters with him too he would be ridden by a judge.