A gilet is one of the most handy layers – and equestrian gilets are no different. You can pop them under a winter riding coat for added warmth in the colder weather or over a summer riding top or base layer when it’s not quite warm enough to go without.
The best equestrian gilets are suitable for wearing in the saddle as well as around the yard, while others are designed to be worn away from the stables. If you’re looking for something that just an equestrian style, we’ve rounded these up, too.
There are a range of different styles available from traditional quilted waistcoat through to more heavily padded styles with funnel collars designed to keep the wind off your neck. Two-way zips make a gilet more comfortable to wear in the saddle, while good-sized and secure pockets are another useful feature to look out for.
Ladies’ equestrian gilets
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Dubarry Rathdown Gilet
Colours: Navy, olive or currant | Sizes: EU 34–44 | RRP: £149 |
This ladies’ fleece-lined quilted gilet is an ideal mid-layer. The outer shell is made of a 100% recycled polyester, while the recycled non-pill fleece lining provides warmth. It has a fitted shape with a dipped back hem and double back vent, plus a stand-up collar that protects from the elements. There are two zipped outer pockets and a zipped inner security pocket.
Colours: Black or navy | Sizes: XXS–XXL | RRP: £84.99 |
This sporty puffer jacket is wind- and water-resistant and features rear riding vents. The gilet has a one-way centre zip and zipped pockets. Machine washable.
This lightweight and highly compressible gilet is made from a durable ripstop shell with quilting to keep the fill evenly distributed. It has a highline neck, generous hood with drawcord, two-way zip with chin guard, two zipped outer pockets and a stretch bungee drawcord at the hem for a close fit. It is finished with gold-colour zips and hardware, and comes with a “stuff sack” included for short-term storage.
Colours: Black or teal | Sizes: UK 8–18 | RRP: £92.40 |
This gilet has a water-repellent finish and is filled with an ethical down feather filling. It features a two-way zip, fleece-lined pockets, internal patch pockets and comes with a pack-away bag for handy storage.
Colours: Black, fern green, cool slate blue or mulberry purple | Sizes: XS–XXL | RRP: £94.99 |
This luxury gilet, which would look great over a base layer, has faux duck down panels to ensure optimum insulation by trapping warm air to retain heat. The collar is faux fur-lined and the hood has a detachable faux fur trim. The rear zipped vents and two-way front zip make this gilet ideal for riding. It’s finished with gold detailing, including press studs, zipped pockets and subtle Coldstream badge.
This gilet is described as the perfect balance of practicality and style. It’s wind-resistant, water-repellent and lined with premium PrimaLoft Silver insulation, which provides exceptional warmth without adding bulk.
This classic puffer vest has lightweight padding and panels that contour to the body shape. It has a two-way front zip, zipped pockets, rear hem vents with snap closures and is both showerproof and windproof for protection against the elements.
This gilet elevates a countryside staple with faux suede details and a quilted body. It fastens with buttons, has zipped front pockets and features snaffle bit detailing on the back above the shoulder blades.
Colours: Navy, fig or Atlantic blue | Sizes: UK 6–18 | RRP: £99.95 |
Generously filled with an eco-friendly synthetic filling, this gilet is described as having the warmth of down with the bounce-back durability of cotton, retaining its fullness even after washing. It has a fleece lining on the back and pockets, plus a faux fur lined collar for added warmth and comfort.
This tailored hi-vis gilet is ideal for those who ride out. It has a durable water repellent finish and is filled with a synthetic down made from recycled plastic bottles, which maintains its insulating power even when damp. It has two large zipped pockets and a two-way zip.
This gilet adds a layer of luxury. It has a detachable hood with a removable faux fur collar and has been designed to flatter with a slim-fit, elasticated side panels and specially-designed barrelling. The outer fabric and wadding are made of recycled material, while the zipped pockets feature faux leather piping and are lined with faux fur.
Designed with a close-fitting but relaxed shape, this gilet has a cosy stand-up collar and integrated hood. The stretch bungee cord on the hem closes the fit around your body to prevent heat loss, while the stitched-through construction keeps the down evenly spaced for maximum effect. It features a front zip with chin guard, two zip outer pockets, jacquard print lining and gold-colour hardwear.
Hy Equestrian Synergy Sync Lightweight Padded Gilet
Colours: Black or riviera | Sizes: XS–XL | RRP: £59.99 |
This gilet features a quilted front and back for warmth with breathable jersey material on the side panels. The silver zip is contrasting and the gilet is designed to match with the rest of the Synergy collection.
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Georgia is Horse & Hound’s deputy website editor and equestrian products expert. She curates content across the website with a particular focus on upcoming equestrian events horse care and buying advice. She also manages all the ecommerce opportunities that allow us to give you easy access to the best products at the lowest prices via our buying guides. Georgia has first-hand knowledge of all the equestrian brands and their ever-evolving product lines, having been working with them closely since she started in equestrian media in 2015.
