Want to Be Sponsored Rider? (Read This First)

Thinking of reaching out to your favourite equestrian brand about becoming a brand ambassador or sponsored rider? Great! Just make sure you’re putting your best hoof forward.

Here’s our guide to the do’s and don’ts when applying to represent a brand like Dapple Equestrian.

DO

• Do Your Homework
  Before you message a brand, take time to understand what they’re about. Make sure to follow their social channels, check out their website, and familiarise yourself with their products and brand values. At Dapple Equestrian, we love hearing from riders who genuinely use and love our products, not just those chasing free gear.
  
  
• Do Build a Strong Online Presence
  A great ambassador doesn’t just wear the gear, they represent the brand in the wider equestrian community. Make sure your social media channels are public, active, authentic, and engaging. High-quality photos and videos, thoughtful captions, and positive interaction with your followers go a long way.
  
  
• Do Tell Us What You Can Offer
  Instead of focusing on what you want, highlight what you bring to the table. Can you provide great content? Do you compete regularly or have a strong local following? Brands are looking for riders who can help grow awareness and drive engagement.
  
  
• Do Craft a Thoughtful Message
  Be professional. Treat your message or application like a mini job application. Introduce yourself, include relevant info (discipline, following, achievements), and be polite and concise. Proofread before you send!
  
  
• Do Respect the Brand’s Process
  Many equestrian brands, including Dapple, only take on a limited number of ambassadors each year. If applications are closed, respect the timeline and check back later. Being patient and polite makes a lasting impression.
  
• Do Read our Checklist
  We receive hundreds of requests each year for sponsorships and brand ambassadorships. Before reaching out, take a look at our checklist to see what we consider before responding to applicants.

Don’t

• Don’t Send a One-Line DM
  “Hey, do you do sponsorships?” isn’t the way to stand out. It shows a lack of effort and doesn’t give us any reason to consider you. First impressions matter; make yours count.
  
  
• Don’t Expect Freebies Straight Away
  Sponsorships and brand ambassadorships are partnerships, not giveaways. Be prepared to prove your value and build a relationship over time. If you're only in it for the freebies, brands will pick up on that quickly.
  
  
• Don’t Copy and Paste
  Sending the same message to ten different brands is obvious. Tailor your message to each brand. Let us know why you’re genuinely interested in working with us. And make sure you are following us, it's the first thing we check!
  
  
• Don’t Forget to Mention Your Horse!
  Your equine partner is a big part of your story. Tell us about them, name, breed, personality, and achievements. We want to know who we’re supporting as a team.
  
  
• Don’t Take Rejection Personally
  If you don’t hear back or get a no, don’t be disheartened. Brands get lots of requests, and sometimes it’s just a matter of timing or fit. Keep working on your riding and your platform, and try again next season.

We love seeing passionate riders who truly connect with our brand. Whether you’re a rising star in the ring or a trail rider who shares honest, inspiring content, there’s room for every kind of voice in the equestrian world.

At Dapple Equestrian, please keep an eye on our social media page for the next Brand Ambassador search, but for now, we always love seeing our gear in action. Tag us @dapple_equestrian on Instagram and @dappleequestrian on TikTok and use #DappleEquestrian for a chance to be featured!