Formal and traditional, stock ties give your competition look a polished, elegant feel that can really set you apart from other competitors. You don’t need to be intimidated by this accessory – stock ties are easier than you might think to tie. In this guide, we’ll take a look at everything stock ties, including when to wear them and how to tie them.
What is a Stock Tie?
The stock tie is a traditional element of equestrian attire, adding a sense of elegance and formality to the rider’s appearance during competitions and events. Stock ties are typically long, rectangular pieces of fabric made from silk or cotton, folded and tied in a specific manner around the rider’s neck to create a neat and formal appearance. The tie is secured with a stock pin or stock tie tack, which adds a decorative touch and keeps the tie in place.
The purpose of a stock tie is both functional and traditional. It serves to provide support and stability to the rider’s neck while riding, helping to keep the collar of the riding shirt in place. Additionally, stock ties were used as field bandages for either horse or rider in case of injury, though now they are worn as traditional accessories during events.
When to Wear a Stock Tie
Stock ties are commonly worn in equestrian disciplines such as dressage, eventing, and fox hunting, and occasionally worn in hunter classes. The style and tying method of the stock tie can vary depending on the discipline and level of formality required. Some equestrian organizations or competitions have specific rules or guidelines regarding the design and usage of stock ties.
Stock Ties in Hunter Classes
For formal hunter classes such as derbies and classics, a white shirt and stock tie may be worn with a traditional shadbelly coat. In less formal hunter classes, stock ties aren’t required as long as you wear a shirt with a stand-up collar and standard dark show coat.
Stock Ties in Fox Hunting
Stock ties are traditional for fox hunting events, particularly white stock ties fastened with a plain gold pin. On informal fox hunts, riders may be permitted to wear colored or patterned stock ties depending on the organization.
Learn more: Fox Hunting Attire & Etiquette – Beginner’s Guide
Stock Ties in Dressage
Dressage events are all about presentation, which is why stock ties are commonly worn during these events. A show shirt with a standup collar and added stock tie are the typical combination, with white being the most popular color for stock ties.
Learn more: Dressage Show Attire, Dress Code, and Style Tips for Riders
Types of Stock Ties
You can find both traditional and pre-tied stock ties for your equestrian wardrobe. You can find either type made of silk or a cotton blend with a smooth or textured pique finish.
Traditional Stock Ties
Traditional stock ties need to be tied around your neck or shirt collar. While not as convenient as a pre-tied stock tie, learning how to tie a traditional stock tie is an invaluable skill.
Pre-Tied Stock Ties
Pre-tied stock ties can be a huge time saver for equestrians. You just have to fasten the tie around your neck or shirt collar, and you’re good to go. Don’t forget the tie pin!
How to Tie a Stock Tie
Tying a stock tie is a lot easier than you think! Follow our step-by-step guide on how to tie a stock tie, or watch the accompanying video.
- Start with the stock tie unfolded and draped over your shoulders, with each end of the stock tie hanging in front of you. The slit/loop will be on your right side close to your neck, while the closed seem will be on your left.
- Feed the end of the left side of your stock tie through the slit/loop on your right, ensuring it does not get twisted in the process.
- Move the slit/loop to the back of your neck, rotating the left excess tie around your neck so that the tie lays flat in the back and the ends are hanging in front of you yet again. Be sure the top is covering your collar and that the tie is snug.
- Take the right end of your tie and cross it over the left end, pulling it through to create a standard knot below your chin. Tighten the knot so that it is snug.
- Take the right (laying on top) end of the stock tie and place it over your right shoulder Take the left end (laying a the bottom_ and place it over your left shoulder.
- Bring the right side straight down before passing it through the fold/loop you created on the left side.
- Take both ends of the tie and pull the knot tight, creating a square knot at the front of the tie.
- Adjust & tighten the tie as needed, keeping the knot as smooth looking as possible.
- Cross both ends of the stock tie, laying flat over one another, and use a stock pin or stock tie tack to secure the stock tie by attaching it through the layers of fabric on the knot.
- Make any final adjustments to the knot and the overall appearance of the stock tie.
Let’s Tie This Up
Stock ties are a great way to elevate your competition look. We hope this guide has given you the confidence to try tying a stock tie for yourself!
Looking for more equestrian clothing to level up your event dress? Check out show shirts or show coats from R.J. Classics. We use the finest materials to keep you cool, dry, and polished in the show ring and incorporate the latest styles so you can feel fashionable, too.
Shop all equestrian clothing →
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