The ultimate guide to winter equestrian gear
We naively thought winter was on its way out. Turns out it’s only just started. There is only one way to deal with horses and the great British winter – and that is with decent winter equestrian gear.
This is our ultimate guide on what wear to keep the winter chills at bay…
Mountain Horse Snowy River High Rider Boots
Why is it no matter many layers we wear, or how thick our socks are, we still get cold toes? Cold toes = chilblains = misery.
It’s time to invest in some decent boots that will keep your feet warm and dry, even in snowy conditions. And Mountain Horse has the perfect solution.
With a name like Snowy River, you know these boots mean business. The bottom third of the boot is completely waterproof, so you can wade out to get your horse in, without getting soggy socks, while the inside has a cosy faux fur lining with Thinsulate for extra warmth. They’re also breathable so you won’t have the opposite problem of warm, sweaty feet.
As well as keeping you protected on the yard, they are ideal for riding, and the tread is designed to prevent the build-up of dirt so you get better contact in the stirrup.
RRP: £299
Colours: Brown or black
Outback Unisex Low Rider Duster
There is nothing worse than soggy jods after riding, and then having to do all your yard duties feeling cold and wet. Make sure you are protected from top to bottom, with this full-length, waterproof coat from Outback Trading Company.
The Australian company was established in 1983 and has a reputation for producing durable and high performing apparel – fit for the Aussie outback.
With its oilskin fabric the Low Rider Duster is 100% waterproof and designed to last for many years to come.
Team it with the High Rider Boots and there is no excuse not to ride, whatever the weather.
RRP: £165
Colours: Black, brown or brewster green
Revolution Seamless Long Sleeve
Layering is the key to staying snug whether you’re on the yard, or out riding. The Revolution Seamless Long Sleeve is the ideal base layer, as it’s lightweight and engineered to regulate your temperature.
It’s also breathable and features Opti-Dry technology, which wicks away moisture or sweat away from the skin to the outside of the top, where it evaporates.
So if you do work up a sweat when riding or mucking out, you won’t be stuck in a damp top when you cool back down again.
RRP: £49.95
Colours: Charcoal heather or spruce heather
Ariat Tek Grip Insulated Gloves
Finding gloves that keep your fingers warm, but allow you to maintain a feel on the reins isn’t easy. Ariat has come up with the answer. This company leads the way with technical gear that looks great and performs even better and their Tek Grip Insulated Gloves don’t disappoint.
They are made out of Polartec Wind Pro stretch fleece, which offers the thermal insulation, comfort and breathability of fleece with added performance abilities, to keep out the wind and rain. They also feature a hard-face coating to make them more hard-wearing and water resistance.
RRP: £39.99
Colours: Black or bark
Mountain Horse Frost Tech Breeches
We like these breeches so much, we’re almost hoping it stays cold so we can carry on wearing them. Mountain Horse Frost Tech breeches are the ultimate winter riding breech – and they also look fabulous.
The flattering, stretch material has a windproof and water repellent outer fabric, with a fleece lining for the ultimate in comfort and warmth. It’s like riding in a pair of your favourite PJs.
The seat and knees feature silicone grip for maximum grip in the saddle, which is ideal for those chilly days when you’re horse is feeling extra fresh!
RRP: £119
Colours: Black or cream
Equetech Metallic Infinity Headband and scarf
This gorgeous combination will keep you feeling warm and looking stylish whatever the weather throws at you! Both are made from ultra soft yarn with cosy cross-knit pattern, finished with an Equetech metal plaque. The headband is also fleece lined, for maximum comfort.
Scarf RRP: £22.95
Headband RRP: £11.95