Turn Out
Smart, tidy turnout is expected when riding with Rolling Rock. You are not only continuing centuries of tradition but also acting as a representative to any modern-day observers. If in any doubt, speak to the Masters or to one of the long-standing members.
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THE HORSE
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The horse should be clean (including grays and all white markings). He will soon enough be dirty again, at least start out looking sharp.
Manes should be well pulled. Long maned breeds should consider French braiding the mane to keep it out of the way. While not required, braiding manes on High Holy days of Hunting (Opening Meet, Blessing of Hounds, Holidays, and other days designated by the Masters) is encouraged.
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Horses should be adequately shod for the job at hand. This may entail borium, tap in calks or removable calks for traction. This is a safety matter. Speak with your farrier.
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​THE TACK
BRIDLES
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Flat, brown leather is preferred, as are hook studs to secure the bit and reins (buckles are likely to catch on brush). Caveson is required. The bit should be appropriate for both horse and rider and it should be noted that many horses require a somewhat stronger bit in the hunt field than they do at home or in the show ring. If your horse is new to hunting, it is best to confer with a Master about your best options for bitting.
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MARTINGALES AND BREASTPLATES
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Both standing and running martingales are appropriate (running must have rein stoppers) as needed by the horse. A hunting (flat) breastplate is suggested.
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SADDLES
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A modern jumping or All Purpose saddle is appropriate (brown), dressage and western saddles are not. A white or brown shaped fleece pad (real or synthetic) is required for both informal and formal season. Square saddle pads are not appropriate in the hunt field. Large, polished stirrups with or without pads, and cord, leather, or fleece girth (clean!) are all acceptable.
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APPOINTMENTS
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Gentlemen may carry a sandwich case and separate saddle flask. Ladies may carry a combination case or simply a sandwich case. Staff sometimes attach wire cutters to the saddle as well.
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THE RIDER
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Cubbing season (August – October) During cubbing months, royal blue or navy polo shirts, as well as Ratcatcher attire are appropriate. Hacking jackets should be earth-tone color, very subtle plaids, checks, herringbone or houndstooth patterns. Ties, or colored or patterned stock ties are permissible. Black or brown boots. Tan, rust, buff, or canary breeches are permissible for both gentlemen and ladies. Ladies' hair should be neatly tied up with a hairnet. Dark color ASTM safety vests are permitted. Helmets MUST be worn. ASTM helmets strongly encouraged.
Formal Season (October – March) The Opening Meet of the formal season is the first Saturday in October. Formal attire is worn on Saturdays and Holidays from Opening Day until the end of the season. Ratcatcher is worn on weekdays during formal season.
Gentleman formal attire– Plain black hunting jacket/frock coat, with 3 black buttons; white stock tie; canary or tattersall waistcoat; rust, buff or tan breeches; and black boots.
Lady formal attire – Plain black hunting jacket/frock coat or navy jacket with 3 plain buttons; white stock tie; canary or tattersall waistcoat; rust, buff or tan breeches; and black boots. Long hair should be worn neatly in a hairnet.
Hunt Colors – If you have been awarded colors from another hunt, it is not appropriate to wear those colors while riding with Rolling Rock. You should not wear your Rolling Rock colors when hunting with another hunt unless you have been invited by their Master to do so. It is appropriate to wear the Rolling Rock colors if we have an away Joint Meet.
Joint Meets and formal Hunt Teas - Following hunting, it is proper to wear a hacking jacket when attending a Hunt Tea/Breakfast. Spurs should be removed and boots should be clean.
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For a complete list of proper attire and turnout for the hunt field, please download Felicity Fieldmember's Guide to Hunt Attire.
