The best horse riding coats and jackets will keep you sufficiently protected from the elements while still allowing you to perform. Whether you’re riding in the pouring rain, cold, some storm-force gales or snow, a good coat can turn your time in the saddle from just-about-bearable to enjoyable – and if you look stylish at the same time, then even better.
All the coats featured in this guide have been tested by our team of real riders and horse owners, both in and out of the saddle. Between us we’ve tested more than we could ever need – and these were our stand-out favourites. Each coat in this guide has scored at least 9/10 overall and awarded ‘Horse & Hound Approved’ status.
Best winter riding coats: H&H’s quick guide
Best value winter riding coat: WeatherBeeta Kyla II
Most waterproof winter riding coat: Ariat Valor 2.0
Best short winter riding coat: LeMieux Brooke Hybrid
Warmest winter riding coat: Reincoat Pro
The best horse riding coats we’ve tested
WeatherBeeta Kyla II Waterproof Jacket
Waterproof rating: 10,000mm (highly waterproof)
Colours: Black, redwood or navy iris
Sizes: XS–XL
H&H review: 10/10, H&H Approved
Reasons to buy
- Provides good coverage when in the saddle
- Good size range
- Lots of features to keep you protected
Reasons to avoid
- The high funnel neck style might not suit everyone
This jacket is back and better than ever. It offers the same great fit as the Kyla now with updated styling and waterproof rating of 10,000mm plus additional padding for warmth. It features sealed seams, lined inner quilting and waterproof centre front, chest and hand zips. The funnel high neck keeps the wind out and houses a tuck-away lined hood, while the zipped external and internal pockets keep valuables secure.
H&H’s deputy website editor Georgia Guerin tested both the original Kyla model and the updated Kyla II, and she really put them through the mill. She’s worn the Kyla II and it’s stood up to the job. Her review has so much praise for the jacket – and she’s recommended it for anyone who wants a real all-rounder for riding and yard work without compromising on fit and style. She also thinks it looks better on (once you’ve used the toggle) than it does in WeatherBeeta’s studio images you’ll see on retailer websites.
Read Georgia’s full WeatherBeeta Kyla II Waterproof Jacket review with more images.
Ariat Valor 2.0 Waterproof Jacket
Waterproof rating: 20,000mm (extremely waterproof)
Colours: Black
Sizes: XS–XL
H&H review: 10/10, H&H Approved
This extremely waterproof jacket has the highest waterproof rating in this guide. It has top-tier waterproofing, warm insulation, sealed seams and zips for extra protection. It benefits from a wide cinched waist, which helps to keep the body warm. Other features include a two-way zip, removable hood, saddle vents, zipped hand, chest and internal pockets.
H&H’s senior news writer Becky Murray tested this coat and found it stood up well during heavy rain and cold. She also liked that she didn’t feel restricted in the saddle or when carry out general yard chores.
Read Becky’s full Ariat Valor 2.o Waterproof Jacket review with more images.
LeMieux Brooke Hybrid Jacket
Waterproof rating: 5,000mm (waterproof)
Colours: Navy, damson or rosemary
Sizes: UK 6–18
H&H review: 10/10, H&H Approved
Reasons to buy
- 3-in-1 waterproof coat
- Comfortable
Reasons to avoid
- If you are looking for a coat with riding vents
This practical 3-in-1 waterproof coat has you covered for whatever weather throws at you. It’s a gilet, it’s a lightweight jacket, and it’s a heavyweight winter coat, with a detachable hood. It features taped seams, two-way zip, waterproof zips and recycled fill in the gilet. The zip in and out inner gilet is perfect for adding extra warmth when needed turning it into a heavyweight coat.
I tested this smart jacket and I loved it from the moment it arrived. I really underestimated how much I would wear this and it’s my go-to jacket most days! It’s so comfortable.
Read my full LeMieux Brooke Waterproof Hybrid Jacket review with more images.
Reincoat Pro Coat
Waterproof rating: 17,000mm (highly waterproof)
Breathability rating: 6,000g/m²
Sizes: XS–L
Colours: 9 options
RRP: £179.99
H&H Rating: 9/10, H&H Approved
Reasons to buy:
- Warm cosy lining
- Extremely waterproof (17,000mm)
- Adjustable waist cinch
Reasons to avoid
- Very large hood
This technical unisex oversized riding coat is clearly a jacket designed by riders for riders packed full of practical and technical features. The unique ‘reinshields’ (skirt sections) really come into their own when you’re in the saddle, offering freedom of movement and extra protection – and on the Reincoat Lite they provide added visibility.
I tested this coat and found I really didn’t need any extra layers with this coat as the warm lining kept me warm enough, but when the temperatures really drop I have room for layers due to the oversized fit. It’s got a top-tier price, but you’re getting a cutting-edge fabric that is engineered for superior performance, excellent protection, and the sort of build quality that should last for years with the right care. It’s certainly one of the best riding robes around.
Read my full Reincoat Pro review with more images.
LeMieux Anya Waterproof Long Riding Coat
Waterproof rating: 8,000mm (very waterproof)
Colours: Alpine or petrol
Sizes: UK 6–18
H&H review: 9/10, H&H Approved
Reasons to buy
- Stylish
- Great if you feel the cold
Reasons to avoid
- It feels heavier compared to some of the other long jackets
This coat features a twill outer fabric with a faux fur half lining, taped seams and a deep pile faux fur half lining traps a layer of warmth next to your body. The detachable hood has a removable faux fur trim. It also has a deep back hem vent with discrete magnetic closures and inner adjustable leg straps to ensure comfortable wear for riding. Other features include taped seams, a double front closure, two-way zip and waterproof sealed pocket zips.
H&H’s art editor Sophie Cheeseman tested the Anya and rated it 9/10. She said: “Overall I really love this coat, it looks and feels smart and good quality and I have received so many compliments while wearing it.” She found when riding the coat was a lovely length and kept her legs warm and dry.
Read Sophie’s full LeMieux Anya Waterproof Riding Coat review with more images.
Ariat Tempest Waterproof Insulated Parka
Waterproof rating: 10,000mm (highly waterproof)
Colours: Relic
Sizes: XS–XL
H&H Review: 9/10, H&H Approved
Reasons to buy
- Cosy, warm lining
- Clever hood design
Reasons to avoid
- Diagonal zipped pockets needed two hands to open
The Tempest features a classic parka silhouette with insulation that keeps you warm without being overly bulky. It has an “earth-friendly” waterproof finish, sealed seams and zippers, as well as a removable faux-fur lined hood.
Carol Philips, our website editor, tested this coat and found that although this isn’t the cheapest long winter riding jacket on the market, it is stylish, really warm, and has clever design elements, so is worth the investment if your budget will stretch to it.
I also tested this coat and found the features practical, the coat performed very well and kept her protected from all weathers while keeping her warm. If you feel the cold this coat is the one for you.
Read Carol’s full Ariat Tempest Parka review with more images.
LeMieux All Elements Robe
Waterproof rating: 12,000mm (highly waterproof)
Breathability rating: 8,000g/m²
Sizes: UK 6–18
Colours: Damson, black, alpine or navy
RRP: £159.95
H&H Rating: 9/10, H&H approved
Reasons to buy:
- Faux fur lining
- Detachable hood
- Air vents
- Hand warmer pockets
Reasons to avoid:
- Hood lacks adjustment
- Longer in length than others tested
This is a smart, useful and versatile coat with some really nice details, including storm cuffs, a peaked hood, welded seams, two-way zip, warm faux fur lining and airflow vents at the front and back.
I tested this robe and found it offered more of a fitted look than some other oversized robes. The large back riding vent allowed the coat to sit nicely in the saddle without restricting movement and the useful upper hand pockets came in handy when it was colder (ideal for when you’re spectating or walking the dog).
Read my full LeMieux All Elements review with more images.
Pikeur Renee Rain Coat
Waterproof rating: 8,000mm (very waterproof)
Colours: Night blue or rumba red
Sizes: UK 4–18
H&H review: 9/10, H&H Approved
Reasons to buy
- Warm
- Great coverage
Reasons to avoid
- Better suited to cold dry days
This coat features a waterproof exterior, with flexibility and breathability built into the design. Fitted with 100% recycled padding for added warmth, side poppers for extra comfort in the saddle.
H&H’s deputy website editor Georgia Guerin tested this coat and it really changed her mind about what she looks for in a coat. She loved the coverage offered when in the saddle and it fitted well overall. This coat kept her very warm and was her go-to on the coldest days as she said it “felt like [she] was still in my duvet”.
Read Georgia’s full Pikeur Renee Rain Coat review with more images.
Reincoat Lite Coat
Waterproof rating: 17,000mm (highly waterproof)
Breathability rating: 6,000g/m²
Sizes: XS–L
Colours: 8 options
RRP: £159.99
H&H Rating: 9/10, H&H Approved
Reasons to buy:
- Breathable mesh lining
- Side riding vents with ‘reinshields’ for added coverage
- Stowable hood
Reasons to avoid
- No warm lining, but you can layer up or check out the Reincoat Pro
If you like your waterproof jackets to be lightweight, tough, versatile and very hard wearing, this is the jacket for you. Its breathable lining works well, so this jacket will serve you well all year round, and it has plenty of room for layering during the colder months. It’s designed for very wet conditions, but it’s also surprisingly light and packable, too.
I tested this oversized coat and it’s got all the details you’d want from a riding jacket for use in changing weathers, including side zips with fitted ‘reinshields’ (the reflective skirt section), a helmet-friendly oversized hood, a two-way front zip, glove-friendly zipper tabs and reflective detailing.
Read my full Reincoat Lite review with more images.
How to choose a winter riding coat
When choosing a new winter riding jacket, consider its intended use and, therefore, what style might suit you best. Water resistance is key if it doubles as a yard jacket; check for waterproof ratings. It’s also worth weighing up the benefits that one of the best long riding coats will bring – extra warmth and coverage against the elements while not getting in the way of riding or whatever you’re doing.
Look for technical materials for comfort and movement, and note any sustainable options. Features like taped seams, storm cuffs, plackets, rear vents, two-way zips, and leg straps (for long coats) enhance protection and comfort in the saddle.
Decide if you prefer a removable hood (on-ground use vs. riding safety) and ensure it has essential features like zipped pockets. The jacket’s look is also important for confidence while riding.
We’ve rounded up a selection of the best long waterproof riding coats, best short winter riding jackets and best lightweight riding jackets to help you find the perfect coat for you.
If you’re here looking for a hi-vis riding jacket, check out our selection of the best hi-vis for riders.
Who tested the best winter riding coats?
Our team of experienced testers, all of whom are regular riders and horse owners, rigorously tested a selection of riding coats. These coats were put through their paces in all weather conditions. The testing wasn’t limited to riding; our team also wore the coats while carrying out daily yard duties, and some even had them on during dog walks. This comprehensive approach ensures these winter riding coats were thoroughly evaluated both on and off the horse, giving us confidence in their performance during cold and wet weather adventures.
Waterproof ratings explained
A waterproof coat will give you protection from rain for a significant period of time, while a water-resistant material will prevent water penetration, but only to a certain level. If you’re a fair-weather rider who avoids riding in the rain then a water-resistant coat may be sufficient, but if you envisage yourself riding out or spending time at the yard in all weathers, a fully waterproof coat is the way to go.
Many manufacturers will provide waterproof ratings – and we’ve listed all the ratings we can get our hands on.
Waterproof ratings explained:
- 0–1,500mm = water resistant, suitable for very light rain
- 1,500–5000mm = waterproof, suitable for light to average rain
- Over 5,000mm = very waterproof, suitable for moderate to heavy rain
- Over 10,000mm = highly waterproof, suitable for heavy rain
- Over 20,000mm = extremely waterproof, suitable for torrential downpours
How can you tell when your waterproofing is wearing off?
If you notice the fabric of your coat is absorbing that water rather than repelling, it’s time to reproof it.
How to reproof a waterproof coat
Regular reproofing is essential for optimal performance as more recent waterproof jackets made without the environmentally harmful PFC chemicals, may saturate more quickly. Fortunately, brands like Nikwax offer convenient at-home wash and spray-on reproofing solutions. Always check the manufacturer’s washing instructions.
You might also like:
Best horse riding robes: 5 popular brands, tested and reviewed
12 of the best long waterproof coats for riding and yard wear
7 short winter jackets designed for wearing in the saddle
The best lightweight riding jackets in a selection of styles
7 pairs of winter riding boots designed to keep your toes warm
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