Kerrits Equestrian Origins

Understanding how a brand began its journey from an idea into a business can add value to your everyday outfit. It can give you a sense of pride in the piece you purchased, whether it's supporting a cause, a background you relate to, or a mission you can get behind. Riding Warehouse is proud to support Kerrits Equestrian because it is a brand that truly recognizes the importance of empowering women by helping them feel comfortable and confident, both in and out of the saddle.

While riding fashion may have originated from menswear, Kerrits believes that pieces made for women should be just that: made for women. The needs of women's clothing differ depending on their shape, age, and style. As any woman knows, clothing wants and needs change throughout the phases of life. Kerrits has unique lines and styles to meet the needs of all riders, no matter their personal styles or comfort needs. Read on to find out about Kerrits' roots, passion, and inspiration!

Planting the Seeds

In 1986, windsurfer Kerri Kent had finally become fed up with the fit of her bathing suit, which did not function well for a woman in the sport. She went to a local store, purchased $50 worth of fabric, and began making activewear that fit a woman's shape comfortably. Kerri's designs and formfitting activewear line became such a hit that she ended up selling suits from her gear bag on Hood River Beach. Her by-women, for-women activewear found so much success that she was approached by an equestrian company and was asked to expand her line to include her other passion, horseback riding. From here, Kerrits Performance Equestrian Apparel was born!

Kerrits has rooted itself in the Pacific Northwest, not just for luscious green mountains and crystal blue water, but because its real estate is prime for testing outdoor gear.

"Sheets of rain, blustery winds, sweltering sun — we've got it all, sometimes in the same day. Add mud, horsehair, splintery barn doors, and a small pack of dogs and it's a product-testing paradise for equestrian apparel."

Meeting the demands of an ever-changing market, Kerrits continually strives to integrate the latest specialized fabrics and features into their clothing to keep up with the needs of the modern rider. Kerrits has built a loyal community of professional riders and ambassadors to give feedback on the fit and function of every Kerrits piece.

Kerrits gets their inspiration from everyday women. Performance Tights for the girl saving birthday money for a lesson, Tech Tights for the teen juggling schoolwork and competitions, GripTek Breeches for the working woman who still finds time to make it out to the barn, and Crossover Breeches for the professional rider. Kerrits promises to create high-performance, durable, flattering clothing that keeps you confident in and out of the saddle, without breaking the bank either. Whatever kind of woman you are, and whatever stage of life you're in, Kerrits aims to create apparel perfect for every woman.

Closing Thoughts:

Kerrits is a team of riders who understand the importance of comfort and function. Their products are designed for women in all walks of life, shapes, and senses of style. Whether lightweight stretch is your go-to or supportive, shaping structure is more your jam, there is a Kerrits piece for you.

No matter your goals in the saddle, Kerrits has gear that is made to help you feel and perform your best without spending your whole paycheck to do it. A woman who is empowered and confident can achieve anything, and having clothes that help her embody that feeling can be the first step toward great things.