What to Wear to Polo
The definitive polo dress code guide — for players stepping onto the field and spectators on the sidelines. Look the part at any event, from casual club days to the Argentine Open.
Player Dress Code
Polo player attire is regulated by national associations (HPA, USPA, AAP, FIP). Certain items are mandatory for safety; others are traditional. Here is what every player needs to know.
White Polo Shirt
Mandatory in most associations. Team colours permitted at club level but whites are the universal standard for tournament play.
White Breeches
Knee-length or full-length white breeches are worn by all polo players. Leather patches at the knee are standard for grip.
Certified Helmet
HPA, USPA, AAP, or FIP-approved helmet required. Must be correctly fitted and in good condition. No exceptions.
Polo Boots
Knee-high polo boots — either traditional black leather or modern synthetic. Must have a defined heel (min 1 inch) to prevent foot slipping through stirrup.
Knee Guards
Mandatory at USPA-affiliated play, strongly recommended globally. Protect against mallet impact.
Gloves
Not strictly required but almost universally worn. Improve mallet grip and protect hands.
Spurs
Smooth or blunt spurs only — sharp rowels are prohibited for horse welfare reasons.
Team Jersey / Colours
At organised tournaments, players wear numbered team jerseys over their white shirt, or coloured shirts matching the team palette.
Association Requirements Vary: Always check the specific rules for your national association or club. Helmet certification standards differ between the HPA (UK), USPA (US), and AAP (Argentina). Never play with an uncertified or damaged helmet.
Spectator Dress Code
Polo spectator dress varies enormously by event. Use this guide to dress appropriately — and stylishly — for every type of match.
High-Goal Finals
Examples: Argentine Open, Queen's Cup Final, US Open
Men
Blazer or sport coat, tailored chinos or dress trousers, leather shoes or loafers. Tie optional but welcomed.
Women
Summer dress, elegant jumpsuit, or smart separates. Statement hat or fascinator encouraged for British events.
Avoid
Jeans, trainers/sneakers, shorts, flip-flops, overly revealing attire
Mid-Season Tournament
Examples: Club championships, medium-goal competitions
Men
Smart casual — polo shirt or open-collar button-down, chinos, loafers or clean leather shoes
Women
Sundress or casual dress, smart blouse with trousers, comfortable wedges or flat sandals
Avoid
Stiletto heels (sink into grass), overly formal black-tie attire
Casual Club Day
Examples: Practice chukkas, stick-and-ball sessions, weekday matches
Men
Clean jeans, polo shirt, boots or flat leather shoes
Women
Jeans or casual dress, flats or ankle boots
Avoid
Flip-flops, beachwear, athletic/gym wear
Corporate / VIP Hospitality
Examples: Sponsored boxes, brand partnership days, charity polo
Men
Full suit or blazer with matching trousers, pocket square, dress shoes
Women
Cocktail dress, tailored suit, or elegant midi dress. Headwear encouraged.
Avoid
Anything too casual — you are representing a host or sponsor
What NOT to Wear
Common dress code mistakes to avoid at polo matches — from practical pitfalls to breaches of etiquette.
High stiletto heels
Sink into grass, damage the field, and are uncomfortable for hours of standing
All-white outfits (spectators)
Traditionally reserved for players — you may be mistaken for staff
Gym or athletic wear
Polo retains a smart dress culture even at casual events
Replica team shirts / sports jerseys
Not in keeping with polo's dress code. Keep it classic.
Very short hemlines
You'll be sitting on grass or walking through crowds — impractical
Flip-flops or sandals
Unsafe on uneven turf; hooves and mallets are in play
Heavy perfume
Horses are sensitive to strong scents — can cause distress
Dressing for the Weather
Polo is an outdoor sport played in all weathers. Being prepared for changing conditions is part of dressing well.
Hot & Sunny
Lightweight breathable fabrics (linen, cotton). Wide-brimmed hat for sun protection. Sunglasses. Sunscreen applied before arrival. Light-coloured clothing to reflect heat.
Mild / Overcast
Perfect polo weather. Smart casual or formal as required. A light jacket or blazer adds warmth and style. Flat shoes comfortable for extended standing.
Cold & Windy
Layer up — an elegant coat over smart attire maintains the dress code. Cashmere scarves and leather gloves work well. Ankle boots preferred over heels for warmth and stability.
Light Rain
A smart wax jacket (Barbour style) is both practical and traditionally appropriate. Wellington boots are acceptable at informal matches. Umbrella optional but useful.
Polo Fashion Brands
From technical player gear to spectator fashion, these are the brands most associated with polo style worldwide.
Ralph Lauren Polo
The iconic brand synonymous with polo aesthetics. Wide range for spectators from casual to formal.
La Martina
Official supplier to HPA and FIP. High-quality polo gear and fashion with genuine polo heritage.
Hackett London
British brand with strong polo association. Excellent blazers, chinos, and occasion wear.
Ariat
Premium polo boots and breeches. Worn by professional players worldwide for performance and durability.
Cavalleria Toscana
Italian equestrian brand known for high-performance polo shirts, breeches, and competition wear.
El Profesional
Argentine specialist in polo helmets, mallets, and technical gear. Used at the highest levels of the sport.
VIP & Corporate Hospitality Dress
Corporate hospitality at polo events demands a higher standard of dress. If you are attending as a guest of a sponsor, brand, or corporate host, treat the occasion as you would a smart business event.
Men — Corporate Polo
- Tailored suit or blazer with matching trousers
- Dress shirt — open collar acceptable in warm weather
- Oxford or Derby shoes — polished leather
- Pocket square or tie adds polish
- No jeans, trainers, or polo shirts
Women — Corporate Polo
- Midi dress, tailored suit, or smart separates
- Block-heel shoes or wedges (practical on grass)
- Fascinator or structured hat at formal events
- Classic accessories — avoid costume jewellery
- No stilettos, casual denim, or sportswear
Polo Dress Code FAQs
Common questions about what to wear to polo