Judges should be looking for the specific criteria that are mentioned in the rule books. Study your class specs! Are manners judged over type? Is excessive speed penalized at the hand gallop? Know your class specs! Obviously, every judge will have personal opinions based on their background and experiences. How can competitors stand out? The competitors that stand out to the judge are usually the ones that are most correct for whatever is being judged. The best grooming and tack will not make a poor moving horse, or a poorly trained horse stand out. Now, if you are riding one of many impeccable horses in the class, you may stand out more with superior tack, clothing and grooming. Well fitted clothing is very important.
Some judges really focus on the upward and downward transitions of every gait. Attention to transitions may help you stand out. Some judges are very adamant that a horse not look tense or intimidated, and may favor horses that appear happy and positive.
One common mistake in the show ring is to be unaware of your horse’s position relative to other horses in the rail classes. Practice at home in large groups, coming on and off the rail, or place cones around the arena representing horses to pass.