When the weather takes a turn and you need a something to block out the wind, take the chill off or you simply just want to stay dry, you need one of the best lightweight horse riding jackets. When it’s not cold enough for a winter riding jacket or wet enough for a long waterproof riding coat, we’ve got you covered with plenty of options.
With such a variety of styles available – including padded, softshell and waterproof – there are a range of desirable features to keep an eye out for. I’ve highlighted whether these jackets have the important features, such as zipped pockets, an integrated or detachable hood, storm cuffs or a two-way zip.
I’ve rounded up a selection of the best lightweight riding jackets suitable for year-round wear to help you decide.
Best lightweight riding jackets: H&H’s quick guide
Best fitted lightweight jacket: Ariat Coastal
Best jacket for layering: Premier Equine Elena
Best premium lightweight waterproof jacket: Stierna Storm
Best lightweight horse riding jackets
Ariat Coastal Waterproof Jacket
Colours: Relic, plum, grey, navy, cape reed or monstera
Sizes: XS–XL
Reasons to buy
- Waterproof
- Saddle vents
- Secure zipped pockets
Reasons to avoid
- Fitted style
This all-weather lightweight jacket is breathable with an “earth-friendly” waterproof finish, plus sealed seams and zippers for added protection. It features AriatTEK technology, which is designed to respond to your body temperature and keep the body core warm. It’s finished off with a two way zipper, zipped hand and chest pockets, internal zip and a removable hood. Also available in men’s sizes.
H&H’s website editor Carol Phillips tested this coat and found that, although it is one of the more expensive lightweight waterproof jacket on the market, it has kept her cool and dry, and has a flattering fit with plenty of features to keep you comfortable in the saddle. This jacket quickly became Carol’s go-to when outside in the rain, so if your budget allows it’s well worth the investment.
Read the full Ariat Coastal Waterproof Jacket review.
Premier Equine Elena Ladies Hybrid Technical Riding Jacket
Colours: Black or anthracite grey
Sizes: UK 6–16
Reasons to buy
- Integrated quilted gilet
- Zipped pockets
Reasons to avoid
- No hood
The main body of this jacket features a durable yet lightweight quilted material that forms a built-in gilet over the front, back and shoulders. The technical jersey material provides stretch, breathability and moisture-wicking properties.
It also features a collar, two-way zip and zipped pockets, which reduce the risk of things falling out by accident. If you prefer a jacket without a hood, then this could be the one for you.
Stierna Storm Jacket
Colours: Black, navy or enamel
Sizes: XS–XXL
Reasons to buy
- Breathable material to keep you comfortable
- Water and windproof
Reasons to avoid
- High price tag
This is a breathable, highly waterproof (20,000mm) and windproof stylish rain jacket that’s perfect for keeping you dry and comfortable all-year round. It features a high collar, detachable hood, pre-shaped sleeves, zipped pockets, two-way zip and a shaped bottom hem that’s fitted for riding.
This coat is designed to keep you cool with its breathable properties and dry with its technical fabric. Although it has a higher price tag than others in this guide, the additional features and high waterproof rating make it worth the investment.
LeMieux Indra Waterproof Jacket
Colours: Jungle or navy
Sizes: XS–XXL
Reasons to buy
- Mesh back vent for added ventilation
- Storm cuffs and a detachable peaked hood
- Waterproof
Reasons to avoid
- After a more fitted style
This technical waterproof jacket is a shorter, lighter version of LeMieux’s original riding robe with the same waterproofing (10,000mm) and breathability (6,000g/m²) ratings and fully taped seams.
It’s lined with breathable microfleece with a mesh back vent, has storm cuffs and a detachable peaked hood so you can style it to suit the weather. The unisex sizing makes it great for adding a layer underneath if the temperature drops, too.
Covalliero Combi Womens Hybrid Jacket
Colours: Navy, light berry, black, walnut or smoked blue
Sizes: XS–XXL
Reasons to buy
- Lightweight insulation over your core
- Mesh arms and side panels to minimise bulk
- Secure zipped pockets
Reasons to avoid
- You need a waterproof jacket
This hybrid jacket from Covalliero is designed as a lightweight layer for transitional weather – it’s ideal for dry but chilly days. The quilted body keeps your core warm and the mesh arms and side panels allow added freedom of movements as well as minimising bulk.
The feminine cut, inside pocket, zipped outer pockets and attached hood for added warmth and protection are a few features this jacket has to offer.
Holland Cooper Riding Shell Jacket
Colours: Ink navy
Sizes: XS–XL
Reasons to buy
- Waterproof
- Stylish
Reasons to avoid
- More expensive than others
This jacket is functional and stylish. It’s crafted from a high-denier fully waterproof shell fabric to help keep you protected when out in the elements.
It has practical zipped pockets, a stowaway hood, taped and welded seams along with waterproof zips and Velcro storm cuffs, which make the difference on wet days. It has a higher price point, but the added technical features make up for it.
Equidry Nevada Waterproof Smock
Colours: Green, brown or navy
Sizes: XXS–XXL
Reasons to buy
- Zip saddle vents for ultimate comfort in the saddle
- Waterproof (20,000mm)
- Removable hood and drawcord waist
Reasons to avoid
- You prefer a fitted style
Crafted from a durable yet soft-touch outer shell, it’s wind- and waterproof (20,000mm) while remaining breathable (7,000g/m²) and the practical riding-focused features offer all-day comfort.
An adjustable drawcord waist and cuff fastenings allow for a personalised fit, while the removable peaked hood offers versatile protection when the weather turns. Designed with riding in mind, rear saddle vents allow for unrestricted movement, and the dropped hem provides extra coverage in the saddle. Finished with waterproof pockets to keep essentials safe and dry.
Coldstream Stamford Softshell Performance Jacket
Colours: Navy
Sizes: XS–XL
Reasons to buy
- Lightweight, stretchy material for freedom of movement
- Sports fabric offer UV protection of 50+
Reasons to avoid
- No hood
This stylish jacket is ideal for riding and smart enough to wear off the yard, too. The stretchy, lightweight textile makes it an easy choice to layer up over the top or underneath. Made from breathable, moisture wicking fibres to keep you comfortable.
The specialised sports fabric offers a UV block of 50+ to protect your skin, whilst the high-rise collar supports insulation and creates a sleek, sporty look. It is completed with a two-way zip, practical pockets and Coldstream branding along the arms.
How to clean a waterproof jacket
Generally, the best way is with water and a sponge or a non-abrasive cloth, so you don’t damage the waterproof treatment. If you really have to machine wash, check the label for the best advice. Use liquid detergent rather than powder as it can damage waterproof treatments – you can follow a similar process when it comes to washing horse rugs.
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You might also like:
9 winter riding coats we’ve tried, tested and awarded H&H Approved status
12 of the best long waterproof coats for riding and yard wear
A selection of summer riding tops you’ll want in your wardrobe
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