MOST jockeys will have their preferred race riding equipment and all of the means necessary to acquire it from their valets.

For some, there can also be superstitions associated with pieces of gear, so it’s best not to interfere on that front, so, whether you are a jockey, buying for a jockey, or you just really want to look like one, these are some items that should be on your Christmas gift list…

For flat jockeys, a typical day at the races will include walking the track, and it seems they have a particular uniform for this, which includes breeches, racing boots, a base layer and a sharp blazer.

They’ll already have the riding gear, but Reiss has some great blazers around the €300 mark or, if you really want to splash out, you can’t go wrong with Ralph Lauren. Next never fails at a much easier price point, and has a wide range of brands online.

We can’t leave out the National Hunt jockeys either. They seem to be really into their hair at the moment, so I can’t think of any better gift than a Shark Flexstyle, I couldn’t live without mine. It’s a cheaper alternative to the Dyson Airwrap, but based on reviews, it’s better.

However, it would set you back about €300, so a cheaper gift idea is the Hair By Sam McKnight Super Stylers gift set for €48 on Millies.ie.

If you were hoping for something more practical, waterproofs are your best bet, I just wouldn’t be buying them from any equestrian brands (sorry). They are a must for yard staff and jockeys under any code.

The Adidas terrex xperior paclite waterproof jacket ranges from €150-€200 and it’s a life-saver. As for waterproof trousers, the Extreme Downpour Overtrousers from Mountain Warehouse are a fantastic option under €100.

I know I said before that jockeys can get their gear themselves, but they’re not the best at buying new helmets after they’ve had a fall outside of the racecourse. It’ll be one of those gifts they didn’t know they needed until it was given to them.

The new Champion RW Deluxe Jockey Helmet or the Charles Owen MS1 Pro with Mips are both great options, but proper sizing is important, so triple check this.

They’re both between €200-€250, but jockeys get a €100 subsidy from the Irish Injured Jockeys Fund, so make sure to check that out.

For the lady riders, get them a voucher for a spa day with a back massage. We work hard.