History and Tradition of Fox Hunting Hunt Coats

The History and Tradition of Hunt Coats in Foxhunting

For centuries, foxhunting has been a beloved tradition and popular equestrian sport. Traditionally practiced in the UK and North America, foxhunting involves riders following a pack of hunting dogs as they track and chase foxes across the countryside.

Central to the classic image of a fox hunter is the hunt coat. This tailored jacket in scarlet wool has a rich history and is symbolic of theupper-class gentry who have traditionally dominated the sport of fox hunting.

The Origins of the Scarlet Hunt Coat

Hunt coats are scarlet red to match the colors of the hunting dogs and allow riders to be visible as they cross the landscape. Foxhunting developed in the UK in the 1500s when the use of firearms to hunt animals was restricted to the aristocracy by law. Regular people used scent hounds to hunt foxes for pest control.

However, the upper class made foxhunting a formalized sport. They began to wear scarlet wool jackets for visibility while out with the hounds. Over decades and centuries, these functional coats became more decorative and stylish while retaining their scarlet color.

Different Types of Hunt Coats

There are now several major types of hunt coats worn for different levels of formality in modern foxhunting.

Formal Hunting Attire

For formal foxhunts, a scarlet hunt coat is part of the classic hunt uniform along with buff or canary breeches and black boots. The hunt coat buttons high on the neck, often with a white stock tie.

Informal Attire

For informal foxhunting and riding to hounds, tweed hunt coats are also appropriate. Tweed coats pair well with lighter tan or beige breeches or jodhpurs boots. Many riders also wear collared shirts and ties with a tweed coat for a smart countryside look.

Rain or Warm Weather Hunt Coats

For wet weather foxhunting, specialized washable and waterproof hunt coats are made from waxed cotton, Cordura nylon, or wool blends. For warmer climates and weather, lightweight hunt coats without quilted linings are ideal to prevent overheating.

What to Look For in a Hunt Coat

If you are looking to purchase a hunt coat to participate in foxhunts, there are several things to take into account:

Fit and Structure

Hunt coats are tailored to be worn over shirt, ties, and waistcoats, so they have a structured, precise fit. The shoulders are padded to fit neatly while allowing complete freedom of movement. Quality hunt coats are made from wool or wool blends, cut slim through the body and sleeves.

Venting

Proper venting is crucial since hunt coats are worn vigorously riding over fences and rough terrain for long periods of time. Durable vents below the waistline with buttons allow heat and sweat to escape and keep you cool.

Pockets

Convenient inner and outer pockets safely store small personal items like phones, wallets, and gloves. Proper foxhunt coats will have nicely fitted pockets that do not add bulk.

Color

For formal hunt coats, opt for a true scarlet red wool coat following the tradition. For informal attire, tweed hunt coats come in attractive shades of brown, green, blue, and grey tones.

Weather Protection

Ensure your hunt coat has durable, water-resistant outer fabric to withstand the elements while allowing breathability. For extra insulation during cold weather pursuits, choose coats with quilted linings to retain body heat.

Top Fox Hunt Coat Brands

Some examples of high-end, prestigious brands producing hunt coats for equestrian foxhunting include:

Holland & Holland

Known for luxury clothing and London tailoring, Holland & Holland creates elite hunt coats from wool, linen, and corduroy. They have designed hunt coats, breeches and boots for avid fox hunters for generations.

Mears

Favored by British royalty like Prince Charles, the Mears bespoke tailoring company crafts top quality custom hunt coats. Made in England, they use technical fabrics liked waterproofed wool and breathable cottons.

Dubarry

Specializing in performance outerwear for equestrian pursuits, Irish brand Dubarry makes first-class hunt coats. With innovative detailing and constructed from Irish wool, their hunt coats are both fashionable and functional.

Weatherbeeta

Weatherbeeta is renowned for their elite horse blankets. Drawing on this expertise with technical fabrics, they produce exceptional weatherproof hunt coats perfect for long days riding and hunting.

Fox Hunting Culture and Controversy

Fox hunting has a long history as a beloved upper-class sport embedded in British and American equestrian tradition. However, it has faced controversy and debate around ethics and the practice of dogs hunting foxes.

In the 21st century, foxhunting is under pressure in the UK from animal rights groups and legislative bans. However, dedicated followers of local hunts still participate recreationally in this historic cultural practice, proudly wearing the iconic hunt coat uniform.

For those who participate respectfully, foxhunting offers enjoyment of horseback riding across beautiful natural countryside. The striking scarlet hunt coat remains a symbol of this traditional gentlemanly pursuit through the ages.

FAQs

Why are hunt coats red?

Hunt coats are scarlet red to match the coloring of the fox hounds in the hunt pack. Red also allows riders to be visible across the countryside while hunting. Over decades, red became the standard color by tradition.

What is the difference between a formal and informal hunt coat?

A formal scarlet wool hunt coat is worn for serious organized fox hunts following strict dress codes. Tweed coats in shades of green, brown and grey are worn for more casual riding with hounds or cubbing to train young hounds.

Can you wear hunt coats for regular riding or showing?

Hunt coats are specifically tailored for riding vigorously across uneven terrain, with features like rear vents and pockets. So they are not usually worn as a replacement for standard riding jackets used in competitions and regular equestrian events outside of foxhunting.

What fabric is best for poor weather?

Waxed cotton and wool, Cordura, technical waterproof-breathable fabrics with taped seams allow a hunt coat to withstand rain and mud during long days out with the hunt. Most brands offer weatherproof hunt coat options.