Summer is coming. And with it, the age-old rider's question:

"Do I wear a long sleeve for sun protection and sweat through it? Or do I wear a short sleeve and risk sunburn?"

We built a short sleeve that makes that choice obsolete.

Here's what went into it — and why it's already replacing long sleeves in barn bags everywhere.

The UPF Problem No One Talks About

Most short sleeves don't take sun protection seriously. A thin cotton tee might claim UPF 15 on the tag. But after one wash? After one stretch across your shoulders? That number drops to basically nothing.

Our short sleeve starts at UPF 40+. And we test it at 30% stretch — the same stretch that happens when you reach for the reins or post the trot.

What that means for you: You can ride at 2 PM in July and not think about sunscreen on your shoulders. The shirt does the work.

The Length That Actually Stays Put

Here's a short sleeve complaint we heard over and over: "It rides up when I post."

We watched riders. We measured. The problem isn't the sleeve length — it's the hem. Most short sleeves are cut straight across, which means they creep up with every stride.

Our hem is slightly longer in the back. Not enough to look weird off the horse. Just enough to stay tucked when you're moving.

What that means for you: No tugging. No adjusting. Just riding.

The Fabric That Breathes (Without Being See-Through)

Summer fabric is a balancing act.

Too thick = sweat fest. Too thin = everything shows.

We landed on a 180 GSM performance knit. Light enough for 30°C days. Dense enough that you don't need a base layer underneath. Moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and completely opaque.

What that means for you: Cooler rides. Fewer laundry emergencies. And zero "did I just flash the arena?" moments.

The Print That Moves With You

Our short sleeves feature the same 3D-mapped prints as our long sleeves. Key motifs don't fall on side seams. Artwork wraps around your body instead of getting cut off.

Anchor text: "Our newest short sleeve collection — including the Horse Sketch and Lavender Stirrup prints — brings the same seamless design to a shorter, summer-ready silhouette."

RIDER ATELIER Navy Blue Watercolor Equestrian Tack Print Short-Sleeve Quarter-Zip Riding Top

Who This Top Is For

• The rider who hates long sleeves in July

• The barn manager who needs sun protection during daytime lessons

• The trail rider who packs light and wants one top for everything

• The dressage rider who wants to look put-together without overheating

Basically: anyone who rides when the sun is out.

The Bottom Line

A short sleeve shouldn't be a compromise. You shouldn't have to choose between sun protection and comfort. Between breathability and coverage. Between looking good and feeling good.

This one doesn't make you choose.

Summer is short. Your rides shouldn't be cut short by a bad top.