Louis Wood: “Let the horse be a horse.”

British showjumper Louis Wood opens up about grooming, prep routines, life goals, and why a tie pin and some coco oil are always close at hand.

Packing for a Show Weekend

When it comes to show weekends, Louis doesn’t travel light. “Everything,” he says with a grin. “I always need to be prepared for all weather forecasts—just in case.” Whether it’s sunny, raining sideways, or anything in between, he’s learned it’s better to bring too much than get caught unprepared.

Clothing-wise, comfort is king. “My clothes—by far the most comfortable,” he says, and he’s not exaggerating. He wears what he can move in, sweat in, and ride in all day without thinking about it. But one small item has proven to be more essential than most. “A clothes pin to keep my white tie in place. I hate it flying around!” It’s a tiny fix, but a game-changer in the middle of a jump-off.

As for tack, there’s one thing he’ll never leave behind: “My saddle. It can’t be missing from my tack box. That’s just non-negotiable.”

Prepping for the Big Class

When Grand Prix Sunday rolls around, there’s a quiet ritual to how Louis prepares. For the horses, it starts with the braids. “Impeccable snail braids,” he says. “Must be an odd number for good luck .” It’s partly superstition, partly personal standard—and a bit of both that makes the big days feel special.

Louis doesn’t overdo it with the grooming routine, but every detail is neat, intentional, and finished. “When a horse walks in looking the part, you ride with that bit more pride,” he says.

A Grooming Secret Worth Stealing

Despite keeping his horse care simple, Louis does have one grooming trick that always delivers: “Coco oil. Always add some coco oil to the shampoo in the wash bucket when bathing them. It is 100% natural and deeply hydrates their skin. It brings out a fantastic shine!” It’s become his go-to step after a long travel day or a dusty arena.

The ‘Less is More’ Philosophy

Louis is a big believer that too much “care” can actually backfire. “The more you let your horse just be a horse when possible, the better it feels and the better it looks,” he says.

It’s a philosophy that guides his daily routine at home. “When at home, the less you clip, the less you use shampoo, the less you overprotect, the more natural coat protection they get—sebum. Their skin doesn’t dry out as much, they bring out a natural glow in their coat, they are more resistant with insects,” he explains. “Wash less, brush more.”

It Starts from the Inside

For Louis, the best-looking horses aren’t the ones with the fanciest grooming products—they’re the ones whose nutrition and gut health are truly in balance. “What appears on the outside is a consequence of what happens on the inside,” he says. “The quality of the water, hay, the feed, and therefore the internal health—stomach, ulcers, intestinal lining—are the number one factor to having a good-looking horse.”

It’s a reminder that while shiny coats are great, they come from deeper work and long-term care.

Trust First, Then Performance

“The most important element to develop with a horse is mutual trust,” Louis says. “It’s often the most challenging to obtain, but the most rewarding feeling one can get.”

That belief shapes the way he produces his horses. Patience, calm handling, and time spent outside the ring are just as important as training sessions. “That connection changes everything,” he says. “Once they trust you, they try for you. And that’s when you see real progress.”

Long-Term Goals, One Horse at a Time

For now, Louis is focused on what he loves most: developing young horses for the top sport. “Short-term, I want to continue building up youngsters to being Grand Prix horses,” he says. But he’s got a clear eye on the future too: “Represent Great Britain in some Nations Cups.” It’s a dream rooted in purpose and quiet ambition—not chasing the limelight, but earning it.

Facing His Fear, for the Thrill of It

When asked about his bucket list, Louis doesn’t hesitate. “Sky dive,” he says, smiling. “I’m terrified of heights, but I want to experience that feeling of high speed and peace in the same moment without having any control over the situation—at least that’s what I’m expecting it to be .”

It’s an unexpected pick from someone who spends his life focused on control, feel, and structure—but maybe that’s exactly why it’s on the list.

Everyday Style and Future Plans

Off the horse, Louis keeps his style minimal and classic. “My belts,” he says. “I literally cannot wear a pair of pants without a belt!” It’s a small detail, but one he won’t go without.

And while he hasn’t hit “checkout” yet, there’s one thing he’s been thinking about for a while: “A dog—not that I’m sure I would necessarily buy one, but save one.” For a rider used to spending long days around animals, it feels like a natural next step.

Words to Ride By

When asked to sum up his personal philosophy, Louis keeps it short and honest:
“Follow your gut feeling, learn from mistakes and be resilient.”

That sense of resilience—quiet, steady, and always forward-moving—is exactly what’s driving his success. Whether he’s braiding for a Grand Prix, schooling a four-year-old at home, or reaching for a tie pin before the warm-up ring, Louis Wood does things with intention. And in a sport where the smallest details make the biggest difference, that’s exactly the kind of rider you have to aim to be.

ph Valentina Sozzi

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