What to wear to a rodeo: Style guide for guys and gals

Even if you’re not a cowboy or a cowgirl, that doesn’t mean you can’t look like one when you attend a Rodeo this season. With events coming thick and fast, it’s time to get out your boots, hats, and jeans as we prepare you for the big show.

First, a bit about the Rodeo

With rodeo season now in full swing, there are literally thousands of Americans across the country who are either participating in or going to watch a whole host of events. Indeed, the Rodeo is as American a tradition as you get, but you might be interested to know that it didn’t exactly start in the United States. Born from the cattle herding ways and traditions of Spain, Mexico, and Australia, the concept of the Rodeo was initially taken up by Texan vaqueros and later American cowboys themselves who took inspiration from their Mexican counterparts. As you can probably guess, the ways in which those men dressed is also a tradition in itself, and that’s precisely why we’ve put together a style guide for you.

So, there is a dress code for a rodeo?

While competitors are required to adhere to a dress code, spectators are not. That does not mean, however, that there isn’t a preferred style of dress for the event. Indeed, whether you come from the city or the country, dressing up for the Rodeo can be as much fun as watching the cowboys and cowgirls doing their thing. Of course, that’s not to say you won’t be welcome if you don’t. With that, let’s begin.

Hats

Starting at the top, one has to agree that when it comes to the world of rodeo and those who compete in it, there is no item of clothing or accessory that is more iconic than the cowboy hat. Of course, the hats aren’t just part of the look, but they’re also functional as well and they provide ample shade when the sun gets too hot. We should probably tell you that hats don’t come cheap which is to say if you’re not planning to use it multiple times then perhaps you should really think about where you buy it. Typically made out of felt or straw material and fashioned in different shapes and sizes, your classic cowboy hat sells for roughly $145 at Tecovas. Of course, there are plenty of cheaper options out there, and if you decide it’s not the way you want to go, a classic ball cap will suffice, or none at all.

Shirts

If it’s not denim, then it’s got to be plaid but truthfully it should be denim. Quite frankly, nothing screams rodeo like a decent denim button-up. On the other hand, if you’re worried about the heat a simple plain tee will do just fine. Where the ladies are concerned, they can always consider a sundress. After all who doesn’t appreciate a nice one especially when it’s white? Of course, if you’re going that road then you’ve got to be sure about how you pair it with your boots, but we’ll get to that.

Pants

As with the shirts, denim is always a sure bet. Whether Wrangler or Cinch, it’s a look that just works. Yet, if you’re feeling confident about your legs and you’d like to give fellow fans a peak, then don’t be afraid to put on a pair of shorts - ladies, think Daisy Duke shorts.

Boots

We’ve got to the bottom and like the hats, boots are an absolute must if you want to walk the walk. What self-respecting cowboy doesn’t have a decent pair of boots? Whether you want them in a traditional brown or something more adventurous like pink, rest assured there is a pair of boots out there for you. It should be said that prices can vary widely depending on the quality and make. If you’re looking to get yourself a pair then take a look at brands like Ariat, Justin Boots, Tecovas, Tony Lama, or Lucchese.

We hope this guide helped and do be sure to check in with us as we continue our coverage of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo which comes to an end on Saturday, December 16th.