10 of the best waterproof trousers to keep you warm and dry in the saddle this winter
The best waterproof riding trousers are great for when the British weather throws us a surprise. If you often find yourself riding in the rain or spend a lot of time working around the yard, you’ll know that a reliable pair of waterproof riding trousers or waterproof breeches make all the difference.
With so many waterproof trousers on the market, each promising cutting-edge design, technology and all-weather protection, how do you know which pair is right for you? What do all those numbers actually mean? And how do you make sure your investment stands up to your demands and lasts season after season?
Good waterproof trousers are designed to keep you dry and comfortable, but not all waterproof trousers are created equal – some can only cope with a light shower or two, while others have been developed to keep you dry in torrential downpours.
Best waterproof trousers: H&H’s quick guide
Best value waterproof trousers: WeatherBeeta Rayne II
Highest waterproof rating: Lalors Stormline Somerset 758
Best waterproof trousers for cold weather: Stierna Stella Winter
Best waterproof trousers for size variety: Just Chaps Dri-Rider Riding Trousers
Best waterproof riding trousers
WeatherBeeta Rayne II Waterproof Overtrousers
Weatherbeeta are renowned for their technical rugs but they use their expertise to bring us technical clothing, too. These trousers are an update to the original Rayne waterproof overtrousers – now with updated styling and a higher waterproof rating than its predecessor.
Designed to keep you dry in heavy rain, they benefit from taped seams, zipped pockets and reinforced knees and inner legs. They also have a gel print on the leg for added stability in the saddle, and a touch-tape cuff adjustment.
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Lalors Stormline Somerset 758
These waterproof trousers have got the highest waterproof rating in this guide. They are specifically designed for hard working equestrians spending long periods of time outside in wet weather – and have a tough 420D outer.
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They are tried and tested by jockeys and grooms, and features an elastic waistband, zips to fit over riding boots and reinforced seams for extra durability.
Stierna Stella Winter Pants
These extremely waterproof riding trousers from Stierna are designed for the dedicated rider who is out in all weathers. They feature a whole host of practical features and are made from recycled fabric finished off with an eco-friendly treatment.
They are the only pair of waterproof trousers in the guide that have insulation, so if you feel the cold these would be the perfect pair for you.
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Just Chaps Dri-Rider Waterproof Riding Trousers
These are the only waterproof trousers in this guide that offer leg length options. If you struggle to find a good fit due to leg length, these trousers from Just Chaps are definitely worth a look at.
Breathable and lightweight, these can be worn as trousers or overtrousers. They feature a full non-slip seat, elastic panel at the waist, hi-viz piping, taped seams and adjustable elastic stirrups straps. They are slim enough in the leg for riding yet allow sufficient room for country boots to be worn underneath. Also available in toddler and child sizes.
These waterproof riding trousers were reviewed as part of H&H’s independent testing scheme and were awarded ‘Best in Test’ – read the full review.
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Ariat Venture Waterproof Shell Full Seat Trousers
Ariat are well known for their durability, design and performance and these waterproof trousers are no exception. These trousers are packed full of practical and stylish features. They have an eco-friendly water-repellent finish that prevent the material getting saturated during heavy rain, plus have a large zip opening for easy access to your boots.
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Woof Wear All Season Waterproof Riding Trousers
Great for use in and out of the saddle, these trousers feature a high waistband for a watertight seal under jackets, a silicone full seat for secure grip, and reflective piping for added visibility. They are smart and functional, designed to keep you protected when you’re out in heavy rain.
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LeMieux DryTex Stormwear Waterproof Trousers
These LeMieux waterproof trousers are made from a breathable yet durable outer – the rain simply beads and runs off. They feature an elasticated waistband, zipped pockets, and reflective strips around the pockets and lower leg. They also have elasticated foot straps and Velcro fastenings to stop the bottoms rising up while riding.
They have a silicone seat patch (but not leg) as well as reinforced knees and inner lower leg for added durability. These trousers are better suited to light rain conditions on shorter rides or for low intensity yard chores as they have a lower breathability and waterproof rating than others in the guide.
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Toggi Torrent Waterproof Over Trousers
These are the only waterproof riding trousers in the guide that are designed with a mesh panel at the ankle to fit neatly under your riding boots. They have a unisex fit and are made from a super stretchy, rustle free fabric.
They feature a higher back and partially elasticated waist for added comfort. These trousers are fully waterproof and breathable with superior water repellency and secret reflective prints, which would make them ideal if you like a closer fit and are training in heavy rain.
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Equidry Waterproof Trousers
A new addition to the Equidry range who are well known in the equestrian world for their long waterproof riding coat. These lightweight waterproof trousers are perfect for use all year round due to their lightweight material, ideal for layering over your riding wear.
They are made of a noiseless waterproof material with fully taped seams, so these unlined trousers offer excellent protection against rain and wind. Perfect for riding, yard work or outdoor adventures.
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Champion York Unisex Waterproof Trousers
A brand new product line from the well known safety brand, Champion. These waterproof trousers have been designed for horse riders with a rustle-free stretchy fabric to allow for freedom of movement both in and out of the saddle.
A feature worth noting (which I haven’t seen on other waterproof riding trousers) is the mock pockets that allow you to access the pockets of your legwear underneath. They also have ower leg zips to easily get them on and off over long boots, plus reflective prints to increase visibility.
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What to consider when choosing waterproof trousers
Waterproof riding trousers are essential for equestrians in winter, offering protection from wind and rain both in the saddle and around the yard. You may have considered a waterproof riding coat, but if you’ve not tried waterproof riding trousers or breeches before, then this winter could be a new experience for you.
We might not particularly like wearing them, but a pair of reliable waterproof trousers can make your time out on the yard or in the saddle during the winter months a bit more bearable. Not only do they keep out the wind and rain while you’re in the saddle, but they’re handy on the yard, too, when you’re mucking out, carrying buckets, wet rugs, brushing past hedges or climbing through fencing.
Some styles include a fleecy lining for warmth, a full seat for security, and leg zips for easy removal over boots. They can be worn over everyday breeches or riding tights, allowing for quick changes. Many are unisex, so checking the size guide and considering leg length options is advisable.
Waterproof vs Water-Resistant: Don’t Get Caught Out
Waterproof jackets use membranes, coatings, and sealed seams to keep out heavy rain. If you’re a fair-weather rider who tries to avoid riding in the rain then a pair of riding trousers with a lower waterproof rating may be sufficient, but if you envisage yourself riding out at the yard in all weathers, look for pair of waterproof trousers with a waterproof rating of 10,000mm or above would suit your needs.
Many manufacturers will provide waterproof ratings – and we’ve listed all the ratings we can get our hands on with each product featured in this guide.
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
Water-resistant materials have a durable water repellent (DWR) finish to prevent water penetration but won’t stand up to prolonged downpours. They’re fine for light showers but not for serious weather.
Is breathability important?
To stay dry, it’s essential that your trousers not only repel rain but also allow sweat to escape. If moisture gets trapped inside, you’ll become wet from your own perspiration. This is where breathability, measured by the Moisture Vapour Transmission Rate (MVTR), becomes crucial. A higher MVTR (expressed in grams per square metre over 24 hours) indicates greater breathability.
- <10,000g/m²: Best for low-intensity yard chores or short walks.
- 10,000–20,000g/m²: Good for low-intensity training, hacking, and general outdoor use.
- 20,000g/m²+: Ideal for high-output activities like high-intensity training, jumping, or fast work.
We’ve included all available breathability ratings we could get our hands on for each product in this guide, as provided by the manufacturers.
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Franchesca is Horse & Hound’s Products Editor. She produces all of our buying guides and gift guides, as well as organising product testing and bringing you news about the latest products to hit the market. If there’s a new launch, Franchesca is the first person to hear about it. She brings you the best deals and is passionate about arming Horse & Hound’s readers with honest, unbiased product reviews. Franchesca loves letting riders and horse owners know what products are coming out, how to make their lives easier and how to spend their money wisely.