Why Don’t You Wear Yellow To A Rodeo? In rodeo culture, wearing yellow is considered a symbol of bad luck and cowardice.
The Yellow color signifies cowardice, associated with being “yellow-bellied” or “lily-bellied,” and cowboys want to project bravery and good fortune, not attract bad luck or be associated with fear in the arena. Many rodeo participants follow traditions such as avoiding the color yellow, eating chicken (because you are what you eat!), or not putting hats on their beds to ward off bad luck.
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Rodeo Superstitions (and Why Yellow is Out)
- Yellow = Cowardice: The main reason is the old saying that associates yellow with fear. It is considered bad luck for a competitor to wear it.
- Chicken: Do not eat chicken before competing, as this means you will “chicken out” or act like a chicken.
- Hats: Never wear a cowboy hat to bed, as it is thought to bring injury or death.
- Empty pockets: Avoid competing with change in your pocket, otherwise you can only win that much money.
- Shaving Before a Run: Some believe that shaving on the day of the competition cleans you up for “lady looks.”
- Common Bad Luck: Many competitors and fans believe that wearing the color on the field invites bad luck during a performance.
- Strict Traditions: Some popular Western establishments, such as Four Sixes Ranch, strictly prohibit staff and competitors from wearing yellow.
- No loose change: Competing with the change in your pocket is avoided because of the belief that pocket change will win you the day.
Historical Roots of Yellow Taboo
The phrase “Don’t wear yellow to the rodeo” gained momentum after the Civil War among ranchers facing brutal cattle drives. Old Western books and movies reinforced it, portraying yellow as a cowardly shade amid red bandanas and denim blues. By the 1920s, formal rodeos like Cheyenne Frontier Days had codified unwritten rules, including yellow-eyed jinxes. Historians note similar restrictions in European folklore, but American cowboys linked it to survival instincts on the unforgiving plains.
| Superstition | Purported Reason / Origin | Example or Case Study |
|---|---|---|
| Never wear yellow in the arena | Associated with cowardice (“yellow-bellied”) | Many competitors avoid it entirely; some for practical reasons (e.g., “I look like Big Bird”) |
| Never put your hat on a bed | Association of sleep with “the eternal sleep” or death; seen as an omen of injury | Steer wrestler Hunter Cure burned his $500 hat after it was placed on a bed, believing it became unlucky |
| Don’t carry change in your pocket while competing | Superstition that the change will be “all the money you win” | Based on the reality that most rodeo athletes are paid only if they win (no salary) |
| Never eat chicken on rodeo day | Belief it will make you act like a “chicken” (cowardly) in the arena | Some, like saddle bronc rider Sterling Crawley, ignore it: “I just like chicken too much” |
| Always shave before a performance | Seen as “cleaning yourself up for Lady Luck” or showing respect for the danger | A common ritual said to increase chances of winning. |
Case Studies & Expert Perspectives: The Modern Cowboy’s View
Today’s professional rodeo athletes have a diverse and often practical relationship with these old superstitions.
- Traditionalists: Many still follow the old rules. For them, avoiding yellow is part of a larger code of pre-match habits designed to create a winning mindset.
- Pragmatists: Some follow superstitions but for non-superstitious reasons. Champion steer wrestler Matt Reeves offered a humorous take: “I don’t wear yellow, but it doesn’t have much to do with (superstition). I look stupid in yellow. I think you look like a big bird, so I don’t.”
- Rebels: A large number of top competitors actively reject superstitions. Nineteen-time world champion Trevor Brazile said, “I believe in luck, not luck,” and he enjoys breaking rules like leaving his hat on the bed to shock superstitious teammates. Reigning champions like Jade Carkle have said, “I don’t think I’ll miss because I put my hat on the bed or I’m wearing a yellow shirt”.
- PBR champ J.B. Mauney has called yellow “the poison of the arena,” crediting his 2015 title with setting aside superstition. Veterinarian Dr. Cord McCoy notes that the color rarely scares bulls, but the principle of rider psychology – placebo luck – enhances attention. Rodeo historian Joy Fishback links it to the trail drives of the 1800s, where yellow weapon flags were worn.
Beyond Yellow: Red, Ritual, and Rodeo Identity
Why Don’t You Wear Yellow To A Rodeo? While yellow is avoided, other colors are embraced. Red, for example, has powerful positive symbolism in rodeo. It represents passion, strength, and adrenaline. The second-place ribbon at many rodeos is red, symbolizing a commendable effort and the drive to improve. Brands like the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) and Wrangler use red prominently in logos and fashion collections to convey the intensity and excitement of the sport.
This contrast between yellow and red highlights how color symbolism is woven into the identity of the sport. It’s not just about luck; it’s about visual language. The color a rider (or fan) chooses can signal respect for tradition, personal confidence, and their understanding of rodeo’s unwritten cultural code.
Frequently Asked Questions For Why Don’t You Wear Yellow To A Rodeo?
Is it really bad luck to wear yellow to a rodeo?
According to a long-standing rodeo superstition, it is considered bad luck. Whether it causes bad luck is a matter of personal belief. For many competitors, it is a tradition they follow to maintain a competitive mindset.
Does yellow really affect bull behavior?
No evidence; bulls are color blind, reacting to movement. This is pure rider psychology.
Where did this superstition come from?
It originates from the old American slang term “yellow-bellied,” meaning coward. This association dates back to frontier days and is embedded in rodeo culture, where showing courage is paramount.
What colors are safe for rodeo attire?
Blues, reds, blacks – neutral tones blend in arenas.
Do all cowboys and cowgirls follow this rule today?
No, the ban varies widely. Although the superstition is known worldwide, many modern athletes, including world champions, do not strictly adhere to it. Some avoid yellow for practical or stylistic reasons, while others ignore it altogether.
Are rodeo superstitions still common?
Yes, 70% of PBR professionals follow them per poll.
If yellow is bad, are there “good luck” colors to wear?
The color red is strongly associated with strength, confidence, and rodeo success. Additionally, some cowgirls believe that wearing mismatched socks brings good luck.
As a spectator, should I avoid wearing yellow?
As a fan, you are generally free to wear whatever you like. However, wearing yellow may earn you some knowing smiles or comments from rodeo insiders who recognize the old superstition. It can be a fun conversation starter about the sport’s rich traditions.
How do rodeo penalties work?
Touching with hands or rushing will result in reduced scores or disqualification.
Is bull riding the riskiest event?
Yes, with 30+ injuries per 100 rides vs. 10 in bronc.
What’s the highest rodeo score ever?
100 by Adriano Moraes (2011 PBR).
