Why are awnings a must-have for equestrian events

There’s nothing quite like an equestrian event, especially in the summer sunshine – each one is a unique blend of sport, culture, and community. Whether you’re attending (or organising) a local show or a large-scale competition, the right setup can make a significant difference to the experience of participants and spectators alike. And of course, a high-quality professional awning can comprise a crucial part of that setup.

With more than 30 years of experience to our name here at the Awning Company, our experts are well-versed in the many ways that commercial awnings can benefit equestrian events. Here are some of the most pivotal ones!

Shade for horses

It’s worth starting with the obvious – horses, like humans, need protection from the sun. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can lead to overheating and dehydration, which can have a severe impact on their performance and well-being. Awnings provide essential shade, helping to keep horses cool and comfortable. By the same token, shaded areas can reduce stress for the horses, leading to a calmer and safer environment. All of this is particularly important during the summer months or in regions with high temperatures. That keeps them performing at their best, and helps give handlers peace of mind that they’re being treated in a responsible, ethical way.

A professional appearance

This is one of the most universal advantages of a bespoke awning, so naturally it can benefit equestrian events just as well as it benefits a variety of other settings and environments. Specifically, the visual appeal of an equestrian event is important for attracting participants and spectators, and awnings contribute to a more polished and professional appearance. They can be used to create designated areas for different activities, such as registration, stabling, and resting zones.

Matching awnings with the event’s colour scheme or branding can also enhance the overall aesthetics, giving the event a cohesive and well-organised look. This professionalism can boost the reputation of the event, encouraging more attendees and participants in the future. After all, a well-presented venue not only impresses attendees but also builds trust and credibility among sponsors and partners.

Sponsor visibility

Following directly on from our last point, sponsorship is often crucial for the success of equestrian events, and commercial awnings provide an excellent opportunity for sponsor visibility. They can be branded with sponsor logos and messages, offering prominent advertising space. As well as helping to secure sponsorship deals, this also ensures that sponsors receive the exposure that they’re there for. High visibility for sponsors can often lead to more funding and support for the event, contributing to its overall success and sustainability. And as we’ve already touched on above, effective branding on awnings can also enhance the professional image of the event, making it more attractive to high-profile sponsors.

Extension of the event area

Now we move onto yet another of the more directly practical benefits of commercial awnings, namely their ability to effectively extend the usable space at an equestrian event. Providing covered areas can help you to create additional spaces for various purposes, such as vendor booths, dining areas, and seating for spectators. This not only helps to accommodate more people but also allows for a more organised and spacious layout. With more covered areas, events can offer a wider range of activities and amenities, improving the overall experience for everyone present. And of course, if the weather turns a little suspect, awnings can protect valuable equipment and supplies from the elements, ensuring the smooth running of the event.

Event versatility

One of the key benefits of using awnings is the versatility they offer. Awnings can be easily set up and taken down, making them perfect for events that require flexible arrangements. They can be used in different locations and configurations depending on the specific needs of the event. Awnings can adapt to various requirements, whether it’s providing shelter for judges, creating a VIP area, or setting up temporary stables. This flexibility makes them an invaluable asset for any equestrian event. What’s more, the ability to quickly adjust the setup allows you to respond to changing weather conditions if you need to, or last-minute changes in the event plan.

Finally, equestrian events are as much about socialising and community as they are about competition, and commercial awnings create inviting spaces where participants, spectators, and organisers can relax and interact. Comfortable, shaded areas encourage people to stay longer at the event, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie. Whether it’s a place to sit and enjoy a meal or a quiet spot to watch the competitions, these spaces enhance the overall atmosphere, making the event more enjoyable for everyone. And as an extra bonus, having designated areas for socialising can help manage crowd flow and prevent congestion in high-traffic areas.

That’s just a sample of some of the most universal advantages of commercial awnings for equestrian events. You may well discover and enjoy even more specific ones for your exhibition trailer! And if you’re looking for the best branded awnings for your own equestrian event, you’re in exactly the right place.

Along with motorsports and mobile tech, we have a long history of outfitting equine awnings and trailers here at the Awning Company, and we know exactly how to deliver flawless solutions for our customers across the UK. If you have any questions or need any advice, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 01204 544 900, and we’ll be happy to help in any way we can!