The Evolution of Jockey Colours: Mittys’ Legacy of Innovation and Tradition
Mittys Jockey Colours have been a cornerstone of horse racing for over 118 years. Established in 1905, Mittys combines tradition and innovation to create lightweight, vibrant racing silks that stand the test of time. From the pure silk designs of the early 1900s to today’s advanced polyester satins, Mittys leads the way in custom racing gear.
A Tradition Born in the 1700s
The story of jockey colours begins in the 1700s at Newmarket, England, where horse racing was already a national obsession. Back then, chaos ruled the track—spectators couldn’t tell one rider from another. To fix this, the Jockey Club mandated that owners register unique designs for their riders’ silks. This simple yet effective solution birthed a tradition that remains integral to the sport today.
To learn more about this tradition, visit the Jockey Club’s website, where the legacy of horse racing continues to thrive.
Mittys: A Century of Craftsmanship
Mittys’ story began in Melbourne in 1905. Back then, we crafted racing colours from pure silk, along with bookmakers’ tote boards and leather bags. Those early days were steeped in meticulous, handmade craftsmanship—a commitment to quality that remains at the heart of what we do today.
But we didn’t stop at tradition. Under the leadership of Roger Cameron, we’ve embraced change, pushed boundaries, and developed materials that meet the demands of modern racing while honouring the elegance of the past.
The Innovation That Changed Racing
In the 1990s, Roger Cameron spearheaded the development of a heat press technique that fused ink directly into fibres. This breakthrough created jockey colours that were lighter, more durable, and visually striking. While some manufacturers experimented with Lycra, Mittys perfected advanced polyester satin—a material that mimics silk’s elegance while delivering unmatched comfort and performance.
Why Jockey Colours Matter
Jockey colours are more than attire—they’re identity, heritage, and pride. They represent family legacies, team spirit, and powerful sponsorships. Mittys understands this deeply. That’s why every set of colours we produce is a blend of artistry and engineering, designed to make riders look—and feel—like champions.
Curious about how jockey colours are chosen for major events like the Melbourne Cup? Check out this detailed article by the Victorian Racing Club.
How You Can Create Your Own Legacy
Mittys makes it easy to create custom jockey colours that reflect your unique identity. Our Design Your Own Colours Tool allows you to personalise every detail—from bold patterns to intricate logos. Whether you’re a seasoned owner or new to the racing world, we’ll help you bring your vision to life.
Beyond Jockey Colours: What Else Does Mittys Offer?
Mittys isn’t just about jockey silks. Our product range includes custom saddle cloths, horse rugs, and corporate promotional items, each crafted with the same attention to detail that has defined us for over a century. Explore our full range of racing products today.
Why Choose Mittys?
- 118+ Years of Expertise: A rich legacy of blending tradition with modernity.
- Innovative Materials: Lightweight, durable fabrics tailored for performance.
- Global Trust: Trusted by racing clubs, owners, and sponsors worldwide.
- Personalised Service: Custom solutions for teams, sponsors, and events.
Tradition Meets the Future
At Mittys, we don’t just make jockey colours; we preserve a legacy while crafting the future. From the elegance of silk in 1905 to the innovative satins of today, every piece tells a story of dedication, passion, and evolution. Whether you’re racing in the Melbourne Cup or at a local meet, Mittys ensures your colours shine brighter than the competition.
Ready to create your own legacy? Let’s make something extraordinary together.
Contact Us
📞 Call us at (03) 8413 6607
📧 Email us at info@mittys.com.au
🌐 Explore our range at www.mittys.com.au