Winter is not always the favourite season for horsy types: shorter daylight hours, endless rain, frozen water troughs and fields slowly becoming quagmires can make life feel more burdensome.
Most equestrians are tough characters who are not unduly daunted by a bit of rain and snow. However, the right clothing goes a long way to keeping us feeling chipper and enjoying life with horses as we do battle with the elements. Here are some wardrobe essentials to help keep you warm and comfortable on the yard and in the saddle.
High performance legwear
The right legwear is essential to keep you warm but not compromise ease of movement in the saddle, or when you are getting on with chores on the yard. Look for winter riding breeches with a thermal lining that will keep you cosy but not add bulk or be difficult to move flexibly in.
Go for moisture wicking base layers
Dressing for riding in the winter can be tricky, because even when the temperature is hovering around zero you can soon get hot and sweaty after 20 minutes of schooling your horse. The key is to wear a moisture-wicking base layer that will pull sweat away from your skin, avoiding that unpleasant feeling of cold and clammy fabric later on.
Look for a sleek fit that doesn’t add bulk and can easily be layered up, and is flexible enough to move with you. Technical fabrics that combine thermal generation with wicking properties are ideal.
Add insulating mid layers
A lightweight mid-layer will add extra warmth. Again, the aim is to provide insulation without adding bulk, so if the weather is particularly chilly, you might want to wear two light mid layers so one can be removed if you begin to feel too hot and uncomfortable.
A down-filled vest is ideal for this purpose, as it keeps your core warm while leaving your arms unencumbered with restricting sleeves. Avoid clothing that is too loose, because it will let cold air in and will be distracting and look inelegant as you ride.
Rain and wind proof top layers
Adjust your clothing based on your activity level: if you are going for a long but gentle-paced hack, you are more likely to feel the cold or get caught in a downpour.
Add a water-resistant and wind-proof top layer to keep you warm and dry. Useful features include adjustable cuffs that allow you to keep long sleeves neatly in place, and removable hoods that can be attached for yardwork or other outdoor duties away from the saddle.
Gloves
A pair of gloves that provide thermal insulation and good grip will help you to handle the reins effectively. The gloves should be flexible enough to allow for dexterity, with built-in textured panels to provide grip and protection from rubbing and blisters.
Socks
Last but not least, avoid cold toes with a pair of snug thermal socks. Avoid cotton or wool as these fabrics absorb sweat and will soon feel cold and clammy. Go for merino wool or a similar material with moisture wicking properties.
