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36 M AY/J U N E 2 017 U N TAC K E D TEST LAB Neckwear Made Simple—Or Fancy Whether you want custom colors and bling or a more classic design, these pre-tied stock ties are easy to use, stylish and fun. By LI NDSAY BER R E T H Style Stock Pre-Tied Stock Tie Adored by top eventers, including Tamra Smith and Lauren Billys, West Coast-based Style Stock makes stocks in a variety of fabrics, selling untied and pre-tied versions of designs created in 2014 by eventer Hannah Childs of Santa Barbara, Calif. From ruffles to rhinestones and knots to more simple pieces, Childs' designs aren't over the top. The colors and patterns are great for someone just stepping out of the comfort zone of a traditional white tie. Light pinks, blues, lavender, silver, gold and cream shades give these stock ties an elegant look. The tie I tried included a pin you insert after crossing the two pieces of fabric. The tie, which fastens with two snaps, was a bit tight, and although they're only available in one size, extenders are available. Many designs are machine washable. Learn more: stylestock.co Cost: $59-$69 Salute Stock Ties Pre-Tied Stock Tie Founded in 2014 in Princeton, N.J., by U.S. Equestrian Federation "S" judge Kem Barbosa and FEI dressage rider Lisa Stockman, Salute Stock Ties offers conservative-looking pieces with a bit of flare. Barbosa and Stockman wanted to create a well-fitting stock tie that didn't sag, was flattering to the neck, and easy to put on. The ties are designed to come high up the neck, and the knot is placed high as well, so the tie stays full and sits securely under the chin. They're wide enough to stay securely under a jacket, and the hook-and-loop closure was generous and comfortable. Blue or black polka dots, gingham and checked patters are different, but not too flashy for competition. In addition, foxhunters should like how similar this tie looks to a traditional stock, and many of the colors and patterns are subtle enough for the hunt field. A fun feature with these ties is that they're reversible. You can wear them four different ways by flipping the collar and the tie piece. My favorite was a blue-checked collar with a white tie. The fit was comfortable and just required a pin to secure the tie in the right place. The ties are manufactured in the United States by members of the Flathead Indian Reservation in western Montana. Learn more: salutestockties.com Cost: $60 Ovation Dri-Tex Dressage Pre- Tied Stock Tie Ovation's budget- friendly Dri-Tex Dressage Stock Tie is no frills but all comfort. Available only in white and in sizes small through extra large, the tie is made from the brand's moisture- wicking Dri-Tex fabric. The tie was light as a feather when I wore it, and I hardly noticed it. It doesn't come with a pin, so if you want to dress it up, it's on you. It looks a little limp compared to some of the fancier ties, but I'll take that over feeling like I can't move my head due to too much fabric under my neck. It looks classic, despite fewer ruffles or a fancier "knot." Based on the feel of the fabric, I think it will work well on a summer day. The tie features a hook-and-loop fastener, and the fabric is treated with Scotchgard™ to help stains come out in the wash. If you want easy and simple, this tie is for you. There's also an untied version. Learn more: ovationriding.com Cost: $22.95 GINA FALCONE PHOTO

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