OLD vs NEW; Correct Dress, Manners and £ available for Hunting

In our hunt, as long as people make a reasonable effort to conform with the dress code then they will be made to feel very welcome. Hand-me-downs and second-hand clothing are very much the norm. The only things we really do insist upon are that ribbons are stitched up and that any stray locks are kept well under control with a hairnet. Other than that, as long as they generally conform, nothing will be said for any minor sartorial infringements!

Far more important are the riders' manners, most important of which are to keep full control of their mount at all times, not use the horse in from as brakes, keep kickers well out of the way and obey the hunt staff's instructions.
 
I only manage to hunt a few days a season due to education/work/finances, however we do run a clay shoot so have the hunt crossing our land, so I see both sides, with regards to people just wanting to have a gallop, and the hounds and staff doing their jobs.

I have a lovely picture of me and my mare, on a day we were complimented for looking immaculate. I was wearing a very cheap, on sale stock shirt, a 20 year old navy wool jacket bought from a forum, with boots that I bought 2nd hand, after saving my birthday and Christmas money at 16!!!! I'm 22 now and STILL wear the same stuff....My mare was wearing her usual tack, complete with inherited breastplate from a friend giving up riding....

Absolutly no way on earth could I afford a new wool jacket, even now I'm employed after graduation, however I kept looking and looking online for something 'right'.

If a friend of mine wanted to try hunting, but didn't have the 'right stuff' I would lend them anything I could, to make sure their day was warm, dry and more enjoyable. Same principle on the shooting days. We have a box of warm hats, gloves and scarves to be lent to anyone who needs them.
 
Mr Woof, it wasn't what you wear that I was upset about. I'm delighted that you have the sense to have found 2nd hand kit as you said in your original post.

Rather it was your attitude that came across in the original post that upset me, it came across as pompous and snobby and all those things that anyone new to hunting is most likely fearful of and almost certainly critical of. I get very upset when hunting enthusiasts give that impression because it's just fuel for those that are anti hunting on the basis of class.

Now I have to admit that reading it back today when I'm less cross, it doesn't seem so snobby. In essence, I agree with what you say, and I think it was simsar that concluded that we were most probably all agreeing that we should all dress as smartly and sensibly as we can. I agree with you that the proper kit is the most sensible for those that hunt regularly but for those newcomers, common sense dictates that they will not be able to/want to spend a fortune on "correct" hunting kit but they should do as good a job as they can.

I'm sorry if I came across rather angrily, i just cannot bear pomposity and actually think and hope that that was my misunderstanding. I'm not in as bad a mood as I was yesterday!
 
Well mr woof I hunt in a hunt coat which is older than even you...I wear a stock etc but hunt in gaiters (£120 ariat ones!!) as I have issues with long boots...however I see nothing wrong with people hunting in shirt tie pullover and ratcatcher, or whatever else they happen to have in the way of Sunday best, if it means more people are out enjoying hunting each week.

It's partly the perception that hunting is a closed group of upper class snobs that got us all in this situation to begin with. By being welcoming, inclusive to all and open to new ideas surely it will increase the popularity of hunting and ensure we can hunt 'proper' for years to come, and when, and if repeal comes we will never find ourselves pidgeonholed again?
 
Can I just say, I really wish you lot knew me (talking about upper class). I was born in the east end for my sins (NO I can't get you phil's autograph!! LOL) I call a spade a spade! Also have been known in our hunt as the bruiser at the back a few years ago for obvious reason but never been caught in action probably shouldn't say that but FI. So I ain't posh, neither do I earn a [****] load. I go hunting as like some others talk about on here its been in my blood since early 1900's my great grandad/grandad worked for Lord Armstrong up in northumberland. So its not a snobish posh twat talking its somebody that has joined a group of people and I do by the hunt and dress accordingly. All of this is getting very boring now. You know our reason, we know yours, lets just drop it and all meet up and go hunting Tally ho!!!!
 
My parents are from pretty not great areas in Sheffield and were both from non horsey families. My dad has a milk round... so not exactly loaded!

But yes - upper class toff - that describes me perfectly!! :grin:
 
Oh I wish we could post pictures on here!

I'm afraid gone are the days when kids just fell off, then all this pink [****] wouldn't be an issue!!
 
Can I just say, I really wish you lot knew me (talking about upper class). I was born in the east end for my sins (NO I can't get you phil's autograph!! LOL) I call a spade a spade! Also have been known in our hunt as the bruiser at the back a few years ago for obvious reason but never been caught in action probably shouldn't say that but FI. So I ain't posh, neither do I earn a [****] load. I go hunting as like some others talk about on here its been in my blood since early 1900's my great grandad/grandad worked for Lord Armstrong up in northumberland. So its not a snobish posh twat talking its somebody that has joined a group of people and I do by the hunt and dress accordingly. All of this is getting very boring now. You know our reason, we know yours, lets just drop it and all meet up and go hunting Tally ho!!!!
Click to expand...

I promise i wasn't calling you a snob, just saying that I thought you'd summed it up perfectly
 
to all the above posters (excluding MrW) FWIW

I've read this post and all the previous ones.... I think what the majority of people are trying to say is exactly what you have all been saying

Come and see - come and hunt, come and enjoy yourself! Wear warm, comfortable, waterproof clothing - in as much as is possible with the British weather - if that is a showjump jacket and hat, with gaiters and short boots, then that's fine. Look as smart as you can with dark clothing, dark numnahs etc with a clean horse with clean tack.

If you enjoy it, come again - if you enjoy it enough to keep coming, then you might feel that "correct" hunting kit is a worthwhile investment but NOT just because it is correct - but because it is warm, comfortable and (mostly) waterproof. It won't make you a better rider or a better person, but it might make your day better by not being frozen or soaked :)
Click to expand...

That is wxactley how it is & should be IMO. Though saying that ehave Masters that are not always correct in attire! :p ;)

I do remember it would be nearly 9 years ago now. Due to our pack not hunting with F&M I went to run a private yard in Warwickshire. They were members of the Fernie but aso hunted with the other local packs too.
It was my first morning out with the Fernie. I had 4 horses to get ready that am & all on the wagon. We parked up I got my bosses on & then realised I had forgotton to put my hacking jacket in the wagon (was cubbing time). I had my smart dark green coat on & boss said I would be fine to wear that.
The Senior Master came up to me after we had left the meet & said I qoute "Next time you come out with us. Make sure you were the correct coat."

I was gobsmacked to say the least. He didn't even say Hello or ask who I was! Needless to say I did not waste my breath pointing out that I had accidently forgotten my hacking jacket that morning.
But I have never forgotten my jacket since!

I also knew one master who wouldn't let his children (5yr old age) to wear little body warmers over their hacking jackets to keep warm. WHich I think is wrong as they will be cold all day & not enjoy it & so give it up which is a shame. So long as it is dark & neutral then what is the problem. Or on wet horrid days wearing a wax jacket. Especially for the older members to save their joints???

Yes I have been trained the 'Old school' way but I also see the need to adapt.

Like most people have said, if you are just trying it out to see if you like it then it would be stupid to buy all the gear first.

There is the old saying of "all the gear & no idea"!
 
I don't like the insinuation in the OP that newbies who don't have the proper kit are off frittering it away on other things which mean they can't afford it and they have their priorities wrong. I am saving up and working second job (in addition to my postgrad stipend which is ft) in order to try and afford a few more days hunting with my boy whilst he isnt too old and is still fit and sound.


Perhaps when you are in hunt circles it is then easier to get hold of second hand kit. There certainly hasnt been a ladies hunt coat on ebay that would fit me for a good while (not be properly looking but browsing of interest)
 
The fact remains that whether you buy secondhand or not it is still a large outlay for your first day when you might never hunt again. I have just done some rough calculations of what my ex spent on his hunting kit. Without boots and gloves I estimate he spent £185 on Ebay and in tack shops. He looked very smart, but had made do with a jockey skull, normal beige breeches and rubber boots.

Sadly he used the stuff twice and then stopped riding and hunting, for someone who prides herself on thriftiness I'm sure you'd agree this was a waste of money.
 
The last time I saw someone use their stock to bandage a pony that was bleeding very badly from a wire cut out hunting was last week and I suspect she saved its life. Sorry but I do agree that stocks are worn for a purpose and they are not expensive to buy, probably cheaper than the ready tied ones.
 
My point is not that it never happens (stocks being used in an emergency) just that the chances of it happening are so limited I am sure if you were not wearing a stock, someone will be wearing one to help you :)
 
elo Mr W

their are elements of what you say are so RIGHT......... but i feel that everything in this world is getting dumbed down......

BUT if hunting wishing to continue it MUST move with the times and really NEEDS to teach newcomers how they want them to behave in field etc.. Manners cost nothing BUT etiquette needs to be taught.

As for kitting out 'Ratcher catcher' is best and cheapest way to start , ebay is just fabby. Good old fashion newspaper to kept out chill or even bin liners under jackets helps.

People just don't use the tradational routes into hunting, PC or country families. So that's why etiquette needs to be taught. How many times on here do you read 'How do i tie a stock?' or 'why do need to wear stock?'

I do think there are many folk out in field who have all the gear with without any ideas - which IMO is worst, that someone learning and enjoying the day. I was 'nannyed' for my first season which was invaluable and since i have taken folk under neath my wing.
 
I think what this really boils down to is priorities.
Hunting is my major, I piss about with bsja and showing in the summer but really it's all about hunting for me, so I can justify spending a lot of money on it- like MrWoof, Starbucks and others on this thread, I suspect during the winter our familes work live and sleep hunting.
To others it is something which can not be done so often, due to different reasons, and therefore obviously it would be silly to spend a lot of money on kit. Everyone has to start somewhere and no one is going to bat an eyelid at mismatching jackets ETC and show jackets are only discouraged on the score than on a Jan winter's morning it will offer little warmth.
I think the general feeling is, that if a new supporter wants to take up the score more often, it would be better to invest in kit, as said a million times it is practical and useful and to the person who said "when was the last time you used your stock to bandage a horse" I hope you have realised that they are used a hell of a lot, I gave up my stock because the jockey whose horse was injured wasn't wearing a stock...
There are also two schools of thought in that some people go out hunting for a jolly, a jump and to get their horses out and fit (guilty in previous years- hunting is great in the run up to teamchasing) This season I am finding that I am tilting more towards appriciating what hunting is about- hounds. Never had the chance with my home pack, but with OH's hunt I am loving watching hounds work, and being so close to them.
 
To others it is something which can not be done so often, due to different reasons, and therefore obviously it would be silly to spend a lot of money on kit. Everyone has to start somewhere and no one is going to bat an eyelid at mismatching jackets ETC and show jackets are only discouraged on the score than on a Jan winter's morning it will offer little warmth.
I think the general feeling is, that if a new supporter wants to take up the score more often, it would be better to invest in kit, as said a million times it is practical and useful
Click to expand...

And yet on the thread of last week it was you agreeing with Starbucks about kids wearing their ghastly coloured body protectors over their hunt coats and implying that they should get a bigger coat or a new bodyprotector. Which is it??

If I was the mother of that child who stumbled across these threads poking fun at my child I'd be horrified, furious and probably looking for a more suitable activity for my child.
 
All of my kit is old. I was incredibly fortunate to get given 2 Bernard Weatherill hunt coats. One fairly tatty but one in lovely condition despite being purple its so old!! My boots were the one investment I made myself and they are now 10 years old and still going strong. My stocks were given to me by an old hunting boy (4 fold - def. the best type) and they have been used on more horse and rider emergencies than I care to remember. My whip, stockshirt, waistcoat, gloves and wire cutters came from my mother who used them from the 50's - 90's (although the gloves may be slightly more recent). I did have to recently invest in a new stockshirt for colder days because the one from my mum is so threadbare its like wearing tissue paper but is ideal for early cubbing!! I do come from a hunting family and OH was a whip and terrierman for 13 years and he also comes from a hunting family so we were very lucky. My father in law gave me a Patey he had lying around at home which fitted me although now I've got the bog pony I'm sticking to my crashcap!!

A lot of people are nowhere near as jammy as I've been collecting my kit over the years.

It is a real pain in the bum that you are supposed to have the right kit and yes people do stick out like sore thumbs if they haven't quite got it right but if they are out for their first day, I'd rather congratulate them on that than look down on them for not obeying the dress code.

I think in this day and age we should be applauding the fact that more newcomers are coming out not and be thankful for their pennies in the hunt coffers than worry about whether they've got the right stock on. Hunting is more accessible these days in that hunts encourage ANYONE to come along and see whether they enjoy it.

As K9H says - come out in whatever is warm and comfortable and if you do decide you want to come out on a regular basis, then you really should invest in the right kit. Ebay is fantastic as is the Hunting Stockmarket. If you are serious about hunting then ask for bits from people for Christmas!! There is nothing wrong at all with wearing ratcatcher all season if that's all you can afford. At least you have made an effort (and don't have to plait if in ratcatcher - benefits for the poor!!!).
 
Mr Woof, it wasn't what you wear that I was upset about. I'm delighted that you have the sense to have found 2nd hand kit as you said in your original post.

Rather it was your attitude that came across in the original post that upset me, it came across as pompous and snobby and all those things that anyone new to hunting is most likely fearful of and almost certainly critical of. I get very upset when hunting enthusiasts give that impression because it's just fuel for those that are anti hunting on the basis of class.

Now I have to admit that reading it back today when I'm less cross, it doesn't seem so snobby. In essence, I agree with what you say, and I think it was simsar that concluded that we were most probably all agreeing that we should all dress as smartly and sensibly as we can. I agree with you that the proper kit is the most sensible for those that hunt regularly but for those newcomers, common sense dictates that they will not be able to/want to spend a fortune on "correct" hunting kit but they should do as good a job as they can.

I'm sorry if I came across rather angrily, i just cannot bear pomposity and actually think and hope that that was my misunderstanding. I'm not in as bad a mood as I was yesterday!
Click to expand...

Thank you for the apology - accepted and much appreciated.
I am a Welsh (sadly, late) Farmer's daughter and we had to learn to live on shoestrings and do without what some considered (and still do) as "essentials" if we wished to hunt.
As I have said, due to ebay and Charity Shops, there is no reason whatsoever for anyone wearing the wrong kit. Chidren under 10 excepted!! Best regards.
 
Very well done you!!!
I also, used to hack to Meets if Daddy was milking in the morning and not taking his mare.
I was about 8 when I started this going "on my own" and I often hacked home in the twilight or dark.
Both pony (16 years old and 11.2hh) and I having had the most wonderful day.
 
[Perhaps when you are in hunt circles it is then easier to get hold of second hand kit. There certainly hasnt been a ladies hunt coat on ebay that would fit me for a good while (not be properly looking but browsing of interest) [/quote]

Please PM me with your measurements.
I have a HW Black Coat (it shrunk in the wardrobe during the summer!!!) which I am willing to donate to a deserving cause.
Free Of Charge apart from Postage.
Best regards.
 
My point is not that it never happens (stocks being used in an emergency) just that the chances of it happening are so limited I am sure if you were not wearing a stock, someone will be wearing one to help you :)
Click to expand...

Then why not wear one yourself?
It could be YOUR horse next time and would you not be so devasted and ashamed if he/she bled to death because YOU were not wearing a stock which would have helped matters until a Vet appeared????? I am not saying it works every time but it certainly helps on most occasions.
 
Mr Woof,

I live on a shoestring and I still cant afford to hunt weekly?! I have a yard of liveries so I can keep my horses (as the work I do there pays for their keep, LESS food, hay, bedding, shoing, worming etc) I run a house/car/lorry (dont fancy hacking up the motorway, thanks) the last time I went out socially was October 22nd, I work full time and am left with £60 a week after outgoings including food and petrol to play around with (as in true disposable income) I save for stuff monthly, like lessons (which I dont have unless I have saved the month before) hunting and competing - usually get one of each in a month if I am frugal. I have to have lessons as have 2 four year olds at the moment and want them to be the best all rounders they can be.

My yard johds (3 pairs) were bought in 06 off of ebay, one pair was a freebee from work and dispite being a size 10 dont fit and the crutch sits somewhere between my knees and where it should be... my show breeches were also a freebe, my other pair I squeeze into and have had for at least 10 years if not longer...my hunt shirt second hand, my stock was a christmas gift, as was my pin, and my hunt jacket is a vintage effort with odd buttons and ripped lining which I inherited from my friends (dead) great aunt, I am guessing she hunted in it pre war as she has been dead for ages and hasnt hunted for even less and even though it has been cleaned twice it still smells of mothballs...and I hunt in ariat boots and gaiters, which were the last thing I invested in...!

Bearing in mind I would like to hunt every weekend, but my disposable income is such that I cant even afford to do that, please do not preach to me about living on a shoestring...I do so I can keep my horses to a very high standard, they are immaculately turned out when I hunt or go anywhere, and I never leave the yard without brushed tails and hoof oil, such is my 'old school' upbringing!

I find it very annoying with the assumption that people can just 'afford' to go hunting and buy the right kit, second hand or not, I live on a shoestring and I am sure many others do too in order to keep their horses to a high standard.

I am a very active supporter of hunting, I love following on foot and try to as much as possible, and love it as much as I love following mounted, and thank the Lord that I have never run into anyone who said I look incorrect...if they did, I would politely explain that I would be happy for them to sponsor my cap for the season so I can invest in the right kit...but unless they did I would be much happier giving my spare £70 to the hunt weekly rather than investing in a lovely patey and hunting coat and riding around the countryside alone with my jack russell becasue I cant afford the cap!!!

What do you suggest I, and 100's others like me do?

Incidentally, if you would like to clothe me in appropriate gear, I am a size 10 all over with size 5.5 feet.

:)
 
Oh dear.
I am not "preaching" in any shape or form.
I am just saying that my family DID live on a (very tight)shoestring when I was younger in order that we could hunt. My father, being a Welsh Dairy Farmer, meant money was extremely tight.
Please read my message to "ester".
PM me your measurements. Best regards.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top