The best winter horse riding jackets will keep you sufficiently protected from the elements while still allowing you to perform. Whether you’re riding in the cold, some storm-force gales, the pouring rain or snow, a good jacket 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.
What makes a good riding jacket?
When you’re choosing a new winter horse riding jacket it’s important to consider exactly what you plan on wearing it for and, therefore, what style might suit you best. They tend to be either quilted or waterproof (this guide includes both), and if your riding jacket needs to double up as a general yard jacket, then some level of water resistance is going to be an essential. It’s also worth weighing up the benefits that a long jacket will bring – the extra warmth and protection – against whether it will get in the way of the type of riding you’re doing.
Likewise, check whether the options you’re looking at are made from any technical materials – these will help keep you cool and moving freely. You might even come across some made of recycled or sustainable materials – another added bonus to make you feel better about your new purchase. Consider whether you’d prefer a hood to be removable – many riders like the option of having one when on the ground, but would prefer to ride without from a safety point of view. Other features, such as zipped pockets, might seem insignificant but you’ll soon notice when they’re missing. Finally, the look of the jacket is important and you’ve got to like it – the better you feel in it, the better you’ll ride – and if it matches one of your saddle pads, then it’s at least got to make the shortlist.
Here’s a selection of the best winter horse riding jackets on the market this season (listed alphabetically) to give you some ideas…
Apt Cavalier Thermo training jacket
Colours: Royal blue or classic black | Sizes: 8–16 | RRP: £55 |
This lightweight quilted jacket from Apt Cavalier is described as perfect for being active. The high-tech insulation is made from a sustainable filling that offers warmth without bulk. The short, fitted design prevents catching on the saddle, and it features a drawcord hem for an adjustable fit. It has two large zipped pockets, the outer layer is wind and shower resistant and it is machine washable.
Coldstream Kimmerston quilted coat
Colours: Windsor wine, navy, taupe or charcoal grey | Sizes: XS–XL | RRP: £119.99 |
This quilted coat from Coldstream has faux duck down panels and is designed to be a functional and multipurpose riding jacket. It has a flattering cut and features rear side zips as well as a two-way front zip to ensure comfort in the saddle. It also has a strombreaker collar with a soft lining, which keeps out the wind without the bulk of a hood. It has fleece-lined side pockets and a zipped inside chest pocket. It is also available as a long coat.
View now at viovet.co.uk, rideawaystore.com or equus.co.uk
Dublin Gemma puffer jacket
Colours: Ink navy or arctic blue | Sizes: XS–XXL | RRP: £69.99 |
A staple for casual and riding wear, this thermal, windproof and showerproof jacket from Dublin features a double-ended zip designed to open from the top or bottom and zipped hand pockets. The collar and cuffs are a double layered flat knit rib to keep you warm, while the side seams constructed with a curved split on the side hem allow for extra movement. The elasticised cinched waist provides a flattering shape and the detachable zip hood offers versatile protection.
View now at equus.co.uk, rideawaystore.com or naylors.com
Equetech Venture elite waterproof trench coat
Colours: Graphite or navy | Sizes: XS–3XL | RRP: £179.95 |
This long and versatile Equetech coat has a quilted satin lining. It is machine washable, waterproof and described as ideal for anyone who spends long periods of time outside. The coat features a two-layer storm flap that conceals the zip, plus a back gusset with opening that allows you to sit comfortably in the saddle. It also has zipped front pockets, relfective panels, Velcro leg straps and cuffs with inner storm cuffs to prevent rain from getting in.
View now at equus.co.uk
Equidry coat
Colours: Hunter green, black forest green, steel blue, navy, royal blue, light grey, slate grey, valerian, teal, burgundy, black | Sizes: XXS–L | RRP: From £149 |
With a breathable, double-layer construction that consists of a warm fleece lining and a lightweight, waterproof, wind-resistant outer, this Equidry coat protects you from the elements. It’s designed to be oversized so that you can easily wear it over the top of a body protector, air jacket, competition jacket or your usual layers, while leaving plenty of room to manoeuvre. It features a double-opening front zip, zips to the side, hand warmers and leg straps.
Holland Cooper longline training coat
Colours: Navy | Sizes: XS–XL | RRP: £399 |
Designed to protect you from all weather conditions, this long Holland Cooper coat is described as being totally waterproof with a breathable mesh insert on the back, protective neoprene storm cuffs and interior leg straps for riding. It is finished with reflective silicone prints and Holland Cooper’s gold hardware detailing.
Horseware technical riding jacket
Colours: Navy | Sizes: XXS–4XL | RRP: £122.95 |
This jacket is made from a 100% recycled waterproof nylon, with a 100% recycled polyester padding. It’s described as a highly functional riding coat for winter with a detachable and adjustable hood and taped seams. The cut is designed to flatter the female shape, while the hem is dipped at the rear to provide extra coverage when in the saddle. It features a two-way zip at the front, along with a chin guard and a stand-up collar, which has a ribbed interior for extra warmth. There are two fleece-lined, waterproof and zipped hand pockets, as well as soft, extended cuffs with thumbholes to help keep your hands warm. Machine washable.
View now at ebay.co.uk
Hy Equestrian Synergy long rain jacket
Colours: Navy | Sizes: XS–XL | RRP: £84.99 |
This functional and stylish jacket is designed to offer protection against the worst winter weather, being described as waterproof, wind repellent and breathable. This long jacket features zipped riding vents at the back to allow for adjustability when in the saddle. It has a fold-away, concealed hood, as well as a high collar and storm cuffs with thumb holes. There is also a short version available in this style.
View now at equus.co.uk
Mark Todd Performance long waterproof coat
Colours: Navy, black or autumn brown | Sizes: XS–XL | RRP: £159.99 |
This long waterproof coat is made from a sturdy outer fabric with a 200g soft filling in the body and 125g in the arms. It has taped seams and features a high collar, which is designed to help keep the wind out, as well as a fleece lining, waterproof two-way zips, storm cuffs and a removable hood. There is also a vent at the back and subtle branding.
View now at viovet.co.uk, rideawaystore.com or equus.co.uk
Uhip Urban Stretch jacket
Colours: Navy, black or autumn brown | Sizes: XS–XL | RRP: €146 |
This winter riding jacket from Uhip has a minimalistic design without compromising on the feminine look. It’s cut slightly longer and will keep you warm without bulk and it’s made from a warm, breathable, waterproof and wind-resistant material. The sleeves have a flexible cuff that you can fold down to protect your hands and keep them warm, and there is a hidden gusset with reflective piping at the rear. Other features include a two-way front zip with storm cover, a detachable and adjustable hood that attaches with poppers and Velcro, a high fleece-lined collar with chin protection, two zipped hand pockets and a discrete chest pocket. It’s recommended that you size down if you’re between sizes as they do come up large. This jacket is also available in a longer style or you can pair it with a matching riding skirt.
Weatherbeeta Tania waterproof jacket
Colours: Black or burgundy | Sizes: XXS–XXL | RRP: £119.99 |
This Weatherbeeta jacket is described as 100% waterproof, windproof and breathable with sealed seams and a technical lining that reflects heat back to you to help maintain warmth and prevent heat loss. It has chest and hand zipped pockets as well as a quilted hood. The under-armhole zip vents with technical mesh vents are designed to help keep you cool when you’re in the saddle.
View now at viovet.co.uk, amazon.co.uk, rideawaystore.com or equus.co.uk
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