Latest from Horse & Hound in Horse-riding-clothes

Two Bare Feet Hi-Vis Lightweight Riding Robe review

Franchesca Slack — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 11:45:27 +0000

Franchesca Slack

Two Bare Feet Hi-Vis Lightweight Riding Robe

Two Bare Feet is a brand better known for water sports products, but they have extended their range to challenge the best riding robes for equestrians. The Two Bare Feet Hi-vis Lightweight riding robe is made from recycled materials and has an official waterproof rating of 10,000mm – this coat has never let me down, even during heavy downpours.

This coat is great if you are looking for a longer oversized jacket offering some warmth, without it being too heavy. Not only have I worn this coat around the horses, but took it away camping in very wet and windy conditions. They have a variety of colour options so you’re sure to find something that suits you.

Fit

I’m 5ft4in and a UK12 and I would normally size up in coats to accommodate for layers when it gets cold. However, with the oversized fit I tested an XS and had plenty of room for extra layers.

Definitely refer to their size chart before ordering. The coat finished just after the top of my wellies, which prevented rain running off my coat into them.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Features

Having a soft sherpa lining meant this coat offers warmth without the extra weight, making it a good in-between coat if you are looking for something more than a lightweight jacket but don’t want the warmth and weight of a big and heavy winter coat.

The hood has a peak with a drawstring adjustment at the back to prevent it from blowing down in the wind and keeping the rain out of your face. I was even able to get the hood over my riding helmet.

The side zips and two-way zipper meant it was easy for me to adjust the coat for a comfortable fit when riding – I wore this coat for hacking and light schooling. The Velcro leg straps were easy to fit and have a popper to keep them out of the way when not in use.

The fleece-lined pockets helped to keep my hands warm and protected when I was spectating, while the reflective detailing offered added visibility in low light.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

I have had to wash this coat on a couple of occasions in the washing machine on a cool wash after some muddy camping trips and hung it out to dry on the washing line. It has fared well and still looking in great condition.

Verdict

This coat may be the perfect addition to your wardrobe if you’re working to a budget but don’t want to compromise on quality – and I think getting an equestrian specific one is really important if you would like to ride in it. It has stood up well to regular use and washing.

Two Bare Feet do offer another riding robe (which you can see here on Amazon), but without the hi-vis elements and with a slightly lower waterproof rating, so this would be my recommendation if you’re looking at both as a horse owner.

Who tested the Two Bare Feet Hi-Vis Lightweight Riding Robe?

I am products editor at Horse & Hound and have been testing products for the last 10 years. I own three horses who are on grass DIY livery, so I am up the yard at least twice a day, doing all the daily jobs of a horse owner and riding up to four times a week.

I live on Hayling Island, right by the sea, so regularly walk my dogs on the beach. As well as riding and walking the dog, I wore these coats on the school run, running errands in town, camping and endless hours in the field with my horses. To ensure I gave them a thorough test, I purposely went out in very wet weather on a regular basis – you can thank me later.

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Hestt Eco-Ultra Robe review

Franchesca Slack — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 11:27:44 +0000

Franchesca Slack

Hestt Eco-Ultra Robe

The Hestt Eco-Ultra Robe is made from recycled materials and has an official waterproof rating of 20,000mm – I can confirm it has kept me bone dry even when it’s been bucketing down.

For me this coat really came into its own with keeping me warm. I feel the cold and last winter I wore this coat with a thin jumper underneath in sub-zero temperatures and never felt the cold. The full length offered great coverage and extra warmth for my legs. The outer material does not attract debris and it is easy to wipe clean. I tested the herringbone colour, which is very smart and does not look out of place away from the yard.

Fit

I’m 5ft4in and a UK12 and I would normally size up in coats to accommodate layers. However, with the oversized fit you get with riding robes, I tested a small and had plenty of room for extra layers and freedom over my shoulders.

I probably could have got away with a smaller size as I didn’t need to accommodate many layers due to the warm lining. They have unique sizing so make sure you refer to their size chart before ordering.

The coat finished just after the top of my wellies and it had a slightly lower end with a split at the back, so you didn’t feel restricted by the longer length when walking. I have worn this coat while walking, hacking, carrying out day to day tasks with the horses such as poo picking, lungeing, feeding hay etc.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Features

The thick warm lining meant it was my go-to coat whenever the temperatures dropped as I didn’t need too many extra layers. It is better suited to the colder temperatures – when it’s mild I find myself getting too warm.

The hood has drawstring adjustment around the front and Velcro at the back for height adjustment. I could easily fit the hood over my riding helmet.

The side zips and two-way zipper meant I could adjust the coat for a more comfortable fit when in the saddle and it also allowed me to access the leg loops more easily. I found the leg straps a bit fiddly as you have to loop them back through once you put them round your leg.

The outer pockets and zips have storm flaps to prevent the rain getting in and the fleece-lined pockets and zip pulls are great especially when you have cold hands.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

It is described as washable by hand in cool water. I haven’t washed it yet, even though I wore it through last winter it really hasn’t attracted too much dirt as I’ve been brushing the mud off when it has dried.

Verdict

This coat is very warm with a thick lining so it does feel heavier than some others – it’s the perfect coat if you are spending long periods of time out in the elements and you feel the cold.

Who tested the Hestt Eco-Ultra Robe?

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Rydale Ladies’ Utility Changing Robe review

Franchesca Slack — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 11:10:20 +0000

Franchesca Slack

Rydale Ladies Utility Changing Robe review

The Rydale Ladies Utility Changing Robe has an official waterproof rating of up to 10,000mm. It has performed well in rain, but I feel the material does get more saturated than other riding robes I have tested. The fleece lining is not as deep, which results in less hay and bedding getting caught in it, but it still offers warmth without being too thick and heavy.

Oversized robes are not very flattering but the elastic adjustment around the waist gives more of a fitted look to it. When it’s getting colder and you need something more than a lightweight jacket, this fleece-lined robe from Rydale does the job.

Fit

I’m 5ft4in and a UK12 and I would normally size up in coats to accommodate layers. However with the oversized fit I tested a S/M and had plenty of room for layers.

I did find this coat was a little long in length, which meant it did seem to pick up more dirt than the others when I was out in muddy ground. My mum, who is 5ft9in, tried this coat on and found it came up longer in length compared to the Reincoat Pro. Make sure you check their size chart before ordering.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Features

The warm fleece lining is not as thick and heavy as others I’ve tested, so I do find myself adding an extra layer particularly on a cold crisp morning.

The hood has drawstring adjustment around the front and Velcro at the back. It has a smaller hood, but it’s still big enough to fit over my riding hat if needed.

The long side zips and riding skirt meant I could ride comfortably and had plenty of coverage, but if you are long in the leg you might not get as much as I did.

The Velcro leg straps are easy to adjust and popper out the way when not in use. It also has deep fleece-lined pockets.

This is personal preference but I tested the navy/pink, which wouldn’t be my colour of choice, but it is available in navy/olive so you should be able to find a colour that suits.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

It is described as hand wash only. I haven’t washed it yet, but will update as soon as I have done so.

Verdict

This coat is great value with plenty of practical riding features making it an ideal all-round robe if you are looking for something more than a lightweight coat riding jacket.

Who tested the Rydale Utility Changing Robe?

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Reincoat Lite riding robe H&H Approved

Franchesca Slack — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 10:38:55 +0000

Franchesca Slack

Reincoat Lite review

The Raincoat Lite is definitely one of the best riding robes. It’s lightweight enough to not feel stuffy, but is powerfully waterproof (17,000mm) – keeping you bone dry even when it’s pouring down outside. This versatile coat is perfect for the warmer wet days, but due to the oversized fit there is plenty of room to layer up underneath if you want to wear it all year round.

This long riding coat has been perfect for the unpredictable weather. I am a big fan of the adjustable, waist-cinching design as it’s a lot more flattering than most of the other waterproof riding robes I have tried. They have the same feature on the Reincoat Pro, but this has a thicker lining for added warmth. The full length offers great coverage in and out of the saddle.

Fit

I’m 5ft4in and a UK12 and I would normally size up in coats to accommodate layers. However with the oversize fit and as advised by Reincoat I tested a small and still have plenty of room to play with if I need to layer up. Due to the generous sizing refer to their size chart before ordering. The coat finished just below the top of my boots and offered excellent coverage when in the saddle with the reinshields at the side with the added advantage of added visibility.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Features

The lightweight mesh lining meant I could wear this coat even when the weather was mild – it’s really breathable. I was able to use this coat when schooling without getting too hot, unlike the lined robes.

The hood stows away, which is handy, and it has plenty of adjustment, which is great once you have adjusted it to fit you. I can also adjust it to go over my riding hat if needed.

The large side zips and reflective ‘reinshields’ (the skirt section) kept me fully covered and protected when in the saddle and I didn’t find the coat got in the way when riding. Fleece-lined outer pockets offer ample room for essentials and added warmth for cold hands. Reflective detailing offers added visibility when out and about.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

It is described as machine washable at 30°C. I haven’t washed it yet as I will wait until it really needs it to preserve the waterproof properties, but will update as soon as I have done so.

Reincoat Lite vs Reincoat Pro

Both the Reincoat Lite and Reincoat Pro are made from the same high-performance fabric and offer an identical waterproof rating. The key difference is their design for use in different weather conditions.

The Reincoat Lite is an ultralight jacket with a breathable mesh lining, a stowable hood and reflective detailing on the skirt, making it ideal for warmer, wet conditions where a lighter jacket is preferred. The Reincoat Pro hass a thick, warm lining, making it a heavier option better suited for colder temperatures.

Verdict

*H&H Approved* Not everyone can have a different jacket for riding, yard work, dog walking and everyday. So if you’re looking for a long jacket that is perfect for all kinds of weather, in and out of the saddle, Reincoat Lite is the coat for you.

The oversized fit allows room for you to layer up underneath and wear during the colder months, making it an ideal investment for year-round use. I would recommend it to anyone who is out in all weathers.

Who tested the Reincoat Lite?

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Reincoat Pro riding robe H&H Approved

Franchesca Slack — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 09:50:23 +0000

Franchesca Slack

Reincoat Pro review

The Reincoat Pro is made from a triple-layer fabric that is breathable, windproof and guaranteed to keep you dry with an official waterproof rating of 17,000mm. I have worn this in everything from light windy weather to torrential downpours and it has always kept me bone dry.

I am a big fan of the adjustable, waist-cinching design as it’s a lot more flattering than most of the other waterproof riding robes I have tried. This coat is designed to perform best in colder weather due to its warm lining. The full length offered great coverage in and out of the saddle.

Fit

I’m 5ft4in and a UK12 and I would normally size up in coats to accommodate layers. However, due to the oversize fit I was advised by Reincoat to test a small, which still gave plenty of room to play with if I needed to layer up. Definitely refer to their size chart before ordering. The coat finished just below the top of my boots and offered good coverage when in the saddle thanks to the ‘reinshields’ (skirt section) at the sides.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Features

The thick warm lining meant this is the coat I go to when it’s really cold and wet. I am not having to layer up as much, but find it too warm when running around doing day-to-day chores.

The hood has plenty of adjustment and is great once you have adjusted it to fit you. I can also adjust it to go over my riding hat, too if needed. I preferred to hook the hood back when riding as it was so big to prevent it flapping about.

The side zips and ‘reinshields’ keep you fully covered and protected when in the saddle and I didn’t find the coat got in the way at all when riding.

The fleece-lined outer pockets offer ample room for essentials and added warmth for cold hands, while the reflective detailing offers a small amount of added visibility when out and about.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

It is described as machine washable at 30°C. I haven’t washed it yet in order to preserve the waterproof properties for as long as possiblr, but will update as soon as I have done so.

Reincoat Pro vs Reincoat Lite

Both the Reincoat Pro and Reincoat Lite are made from the same high-performance fabric and offer an identical waterproof rating. The key difference is their design for use in different weather conditions.

The Reincoat Pro features a thick, warm lining, making it a heavier option better suited for colder temperatures. The Reincoat Lite is an ultralight jacket with a breathable mesh lining, a stowable hood and reflective detailing on the rainshields making it ideal for warmer, wet conditions where a lighter jacket is preferred. You could, of course, use the Reincoat Lite as an outer layer, and wear as many layers as you like underneath, if you wanted to make it work all year round.

Verdict

*H&H Approved* This coat is very warm with a thick lining so it does have a heavier feel – I would recommend it to anyone who feels the cold and is out in all weathers.

Who tested the Reincoat Pro?

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LeMieux All Elements Robe review H&H Approved

Franchesca Slack — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 14:44:45 +0000

Franchesca Slack

LeMieux All Elements Robe

The LeMieux All Elements Robe has an official waterproof rating of 12,000mm. One of the best riding robes, this coat has performed well in wet and cold conditions. It has a cosy lining and fleece lined arms. It offers a loose fit, and is available in sizes UK 6–18.

The outer material is durable and easy to wipe clean, which is great if you’ve got dogs or your horse kicks up mud. The design is super smart and does not look out of place away from the yard.

It offers warmth without being too thick and heavy. It has a detachable hood which is lined, adjustable and peaked so you can get the right fit for you.

Fit

I’m 5ft4in and a UK12, but I would normally size up in coats to accommodate layers. However, with the loose fit I opted for a UK 12 and found I still had room for a thicker jumper – although, I haven’t yet needed it with the warm lining.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

I did find this coat was a little long for me, which meant it did get more dirty around the bottom when I bent down, but the material was easy to wipe clean, so it didn’t bother me too much.

Features

The faux fur lining is perfect for crisp mornings and colder evenings, and the peaked hood is lined, which adds to the overall warmth. The cords on the hood slack off with time, which loosens the hood, so I’ve had to knot them to stay where I want them. The peak, however, does a good job at keeping the rain from dripping in my face. There aren’t as many adjustments on the hood as there are on other riding robes I’ve tested, such as the Two Bare Feet riding robe, but the hood does fit over my riding helmet.

The robe has has front and back air vents, which help to keep you comfortable especially when you are moving around and getting warmer – I think they made a noticeable difference and prevented me from getting too hot.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

It has one large back riding vent that comes up quite high, which makes it hard to unzip when the coat is on, but offers good coverage when in the saddle. The two-way front zip meant I could get comfortable without being restricted.

It has elasticated leg straps, but I found them to be fiddly – I couldn’t adjust them with my gloves on, which was disappointing. The lined hand pockets are a welcomed added extra.

This robe is available in four different colours – I tested the damson colour and I really love it.

The robe is described as machine washable at 30°C. I haven’t washed it yet, as it’s still looking great even after months of regular wear and I like to avoid unnecessary washing to prolong the waterproofing. I have just been wiping it off when I get muddy, but I will add more notes once I have washed it.

Verdict

This is more expensive robe-style coat, but I think it is worth the investment with the extra features. It also looks smart enough to be worn away from the stables. If you are after a durable warm long coat that will keep you protected from the elements – both in and out of the saddle – and your budget allows, this is the coat for you.

Who tested the LeMieux All Elements Robe?

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Maaree Solidarity High-Impact Sports Bra review H&H Approved

Franchesca Slack — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 15:13:30 +0000

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The award-winning Maaree Solidarity high-impact sports bra is engineered for high-impact activities, featuring an adjustable overband to minimise upward motion. Its high-coverage design means it can be worn on its own. This versatile sports bra offers two styling options: a traditional H-back or a racerback. It comes with a 12-month guarantee and is available in 45 sizes, covering a wide range of cup and band measurements. I put it to the test to see how it fared against the best sports bras for horse riding.

Colours: Black, white, forest green or spearmint

Sizes: 28–38in back, D–HH cup

First impressions of the Maaree Solidarity sports bra

I was lucky enough to catch up with the Maaree team at the National Equine Show where I was fitted specifically for a Solidarity high-impact sports bra. Since breastfeeding, I have found it difficult to find the right support especially when riding, but this sports bra made me feel supported and comfortable again.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

During my fitting I was surprised to go up a cup size and down a band size, ending up with a size 34FF. I would strongly recommend taking advantage of their bra fittings, which they offer either in person at events or via Zoom as it could make all the difference. The back has multiple hook-and-eye settings, the shoulder straps and overband are adjustable, and it can even be converted into a racerback.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Overview of performance

This fitted really well with plenty of adjustment, which allowed me to get the perfect fit. It was comfortable and the overband made a real difference. It has washed well and shows no signs of wear even after regular use. I have worn this bra for the last three months for schooling, hacking, jumping, running on the treadmill and even the odd boogie bounce class and I cannot fault it.

I feel much more supported than my previous sports bra with noticeable less bounce, thanks to the overband. I also love that you can wear it as a racerback for times you need extra support and usually opt for this style. I have not suffered any chafing under the breasts because the support band is wide and well-fitted, so doesn’t rub when you move. I also noticed I didn’t get as hot and sweaty as I have done in other sports bras. It also didn’t dig in anywhere, so I often forgot I had a sports bra on at times.

Overall, this is a flattering sports bra that provides good support. I would strongly recommend this sports bra if your budget can stretch and you are looking for all-day support and comfort. I like it as I can wear it at the yard and the gym for long periods of time and it offers support without feeling restricted.

Verdict

*H&H Approved* This is the most comfortable and well fitted sports bra I own. I was finding riding uncomfortable, especially after having a baby, but this sports bra is amazing. I would highly recommend it – as well as the professional fitting.

Who tested the Maaree Solidarity High-Impact Sports Bra?

Franchesca Slack is H&H’s products editor. She has ridden since a very young age thanks to her mum being a riding instructor. Franchesca now keeps her three horses on DIY livery – an Irish Draught and two Shire horses who she enjoys hacking and riding on the beach. She usually rides up to five times a week and is a member of her local riding club, competing her friends horse “Barbie” in dressage, showjumping and cross-country.

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WeatherBeeta Kyla II Waterproof Jacket review H&H Approved

Georgia Guerin — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 14:35:01 +0000

Georgia Guerin

WeatherBeeta Kyla II Waterproof Jacket

I was thrilled to test the updated version of the WeatherBeeta Kyla (new for AW24) because I’ve kept it no secret that the Kyla is one of my favourite winter riding coats I’ve ever tested.

The side pockets have been lowered for easier access (Image credit: creditUnknown)

I’d recommend this coat to someone looking for an all-rounder – if you’re at the yard in all weathers, doing all the jobs as well as riding, this is an excellent option. It’s waterproof (water just beads up and rolls off) and protects you from the wind, warm without being too hot, and looks smart without feeling too smart, which would make you worried about getting it dirty. It’s great to ride in as it offers that extra bit of leg coverage without getting in the way. And you can adjust the waist toggle to nip it in a bit for a more flattering fit.

The hood offers plenty of adjustment for terrible weather (Image credit: creditUnknown)

There wasn’t much for WeatherBeeta to improve on, but the small changes they’ve made have made it just that bit better! Some of the niggles I had with the original version have been fixed, as well as some bonus upgrades, including:

it’s now waterproof to 10,000mm (previously 5,000m) – it was great before but this is excellent
the front pockets have been lowered, which makes them easier to access while you’ve got a high-vis jacket on
the air vents under the arms have been removed – I liked these previously, but I don’t miss them, and if it saves cost to have other benefits I’m all for leaving them off
improved zips

The coat is now waterproof to 10,000m and you can see the rain beads up and rolls off rather than soaks in (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The zips have been updated with a stronger, waterproof edging (Image credit: creditUnknown)

I’ve kept my full review of the original version below (along with some pictures, while the gallery above includes images of the updated version), and aside from the slight design changes all my thoughts still stand firm. There are a range of colour options available, and I’d still recommend this coat even if you could only get hold of the older version – although I don’t expect you’ll have any trouble as it’s very well stocked. Do read the full review below if you want to learn more about the fit, sizing and other features I loved.

Verdict

H&H Approved – I really can’t recommend the WeatherBeeta Kyla II Waterproof Jacket coat enough. It’s been my go-to coat in some awful weather and it’s really stood up to the challenge. It’s slightly less filled than some of the other coats I’ve tested this year, but if you’re mucking out and poo picking you don’t want something too heavy, so this is ideal.

My original WeatherBeeta Kyla Waterproof Jacket review (published in March 2023)

When looking at the studio photo of this winter riding coat, I don’t think it looks to be anything special – definitely not shapely – but I can assure you it looks so much better in person. I have had a lot of compliments and two of my friends at the yard have now gone out and bought one, too. It’s available in blue, black and mulberry – I’ve got the blue, which I like, but the mulberry is really lovely.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

This coat doesn’t feel as long as it is. When I catch my reflection walking past a window, I’m always surprised at how much of me it covers. This is a positive – I this I forget how long it is because the coat doesn’t feel heavy and I’m in no way restricted like you might be with some other long waterproof riding coats. I would say it’s the perfect length for a bit of extra leg coverage.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The overall fit is fantastic. I’m 5ft2in and a pretty standard UK10. I’ve got the size small and it fits with plenty of room without feeling too big. I can get a couple of good layers on under it if I need to, but if I’m riding then I’m usually warm enough without.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The rear of the coat has discreet magnets, similar to the LeMieux Loire Waterproof Coat, but this coat has a gusset rather than coming completely apart. It sits nicely over the saddle and covers the tops of my legs well.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The collar is really tall – it feels taller than it looks, too – so it’s really protective when it’s windy. It conceals the hood, which is zipped in and easy to get out with one hand. The hood itself is thin, but I’ve usually got a riding hat, beanie or cap on, so I’ve rarely needed to use it. In many ways I prefer to only have a small, thin hood for emergencies as they can feel heavy and get in the way.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The WeatherBeeta Kyla has lots of pockets, which is great. The two front pockets are really deep and hold a lot, which is great – my only gripe is they start quite high up so they can be tricky to undo at times. For this reason, I use the chest pocket a lot as I find it easier to access. There is also a pocket on the inside of the coat.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

From the inside you can also see the underarm vents, which are zipped on the outside, the adjustment at the waist, which gives the coat more shape, and the internal pocket.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

I’ve worn this coat in all weathers and it has kept me dry. It’s got a rating of 5,000mm, which makes it suitable for average rain, but I’ve found it to be plenty sufficient. I expect it will last a few winters with really heavy use.

Verdict

H&H Approved – I really can’t recommend the WeatherBeeta Kyla Waterproof Jacket coat enough. It’s been my go-to coat in some awful weather and it’s really stood up to the challenge. I think it says a lot that my friends have decided to buy the same one after checking it out, too. It’s good value – but if you can get it at any kind of discount then I’d definitely snap it up.

Who tested this WeatherBeeta coat?

Georgia Guerin looks after Horse & Hound’s shopping, fashion and product content. She spends her days at work researching and reviewing all kinds of products for horses and riders, and is often the first to hear about anything new to the market. Georgia owns a Norwegian Fjord horse who happily takes part in a lot of testing. She is at the yard twice a day every day and spends a lot of time in the saddle – whatever the weather – so is perfectly placed to test a wide range of products.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

You might also be interested in:

(Image credit: Georgia Guerin)

9 winter riding coats we’ve tried, tested and awarded H&H Approved status

(Image credit: Georgia Guerin)

12 of the best long waterproof coats for riding and yard wear

(Image credit: Georgia Guerin)

LeMieux Loire Waterproof Coat review H&H Approved

£199.95

(Image credit: Georgia Guerin)

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Ariat Tempest Waterproof Insulated Parka H&H Approved

Carol Phillips — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 12:15:22 +0000

(Image credit: Carol Phillips)

Ariat Tempest Waterproof Insulated Parka

My first impressions of the Ariat Tempest long waterproof jacket were overwhelmingly positive, and they remain so after wearing it for a couple of months, including during a full week of sub-zero temperatures, which is unusual here in the UK. It has become my first-choice coat to wear to the stables during cold winter weather and I’ve received complements from friends on its appearance.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

I particularly like the soft snug cuffs at the wrists, which prevent drafts going up the arms and help keep hands warm, while the outer arms are of sufficient length to protect the cuffs from getting wet in the rain. I’m also a big fan of the plush and quilted lining, which is really warm. I’ve rarely needed to put on a thicker jumper underneath it to deal with the cold.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The double-vented rear can be easily opened and shut with zips, making it equally suitable for riding as wearing around the yard. This coat is very comfortable to wear both in and out of the saddle, although I’ve found it is too warm for wear for a full schooling or jumping session. However, it is ideal for wearing out hacking on cold, inclement winter days, especially as it easily covers the top of two-thirds of my thighs, as well as the back of my saddle, while I am riding.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The jacket has plenty of pockets, which is always a plus for an equestrian jacket. On the outside there is one with a zip on the left chest, which I find useful for my phone, then two lower down on either side – one that opens at the top and secures with two press studs and then a diagonal one over the top of that with a zip.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

I’ve found the diagonal ones a little awkward to open and close with one hand, while I’m always concerned about things falling out of pockets that are only secured with a flap and press studs. Also, because the pockets overlay each other, it’s not easy to know which pocket the item you are looking for is in, which can be annoying when you dive into one to get something and then realise it is in the other, however my ability to remember what I’ve put in each pocket has improved with time. There is also a pocket on the inside over the left chest, which is secured with a zip fastening.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The jacket comes with a removable and adjustable hood, which is secured with hidden press studs to maintain a stylish appearance and has the same plush lining as the body of the jacket. Once removed, there is a clever flap that covers the studs, which is secured via hook and loop fastenings to maintain the sleek appearance of the jacket. The size of the hood can be adjusted via a hidden toggle fastening at the rear of the hood. I can confirm the robustness of this elastic and toggle fastening after my horse got hold of said toggle and decided to tow me around the stable as a source of his own entertainment! Much to my relief, everything emerged unscathed as I had images of said toggle disappearing down his throat, never to be seen again…

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

I am a UK size 8, have the small size jacket on test and it is a good fit with room to wear a thick jumper underneath if needed. If you prefer your jacket to be nipped in around the waist, there is an internal elastic adjustment (shown above) so you can tailor the fit to your preference.

The jacket has washed well on a cold delicate cycle in my washing machine, coming out looking as good as new.

We also tested the AW24 version

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Our products editor Franchesca Slack, also tested this jacket she is a UK size 12/14 and tested a size large, which gave her plenty of room to wear a thicker layer underneath if needed – which is rarely needed with the warm lining.

The features that she really loved included the faux-fur lined hood, neck and upper body, which kept her super cosy. She also liked that the hood can be adjusted by a toggle to prevent it falling down and this has proved to work even during gale-force winds.

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Franchesca felt the coat offers good coverage in the saddle and was pleased that it doesn’t flap. This is the coat she grabs when she knows she’s going to be outside for long periods of time and the temperature is going to be low. It has also kept her dry dry during heavy downpours.

It is an expensive coat but it is worth the investment as it is designed to last and it really does keep you protected from the elements.

Verdict

*H&H Approved* With a RRP of £310, this isn’t the cheapest long winter riding jacket on the market, but is it stylish, really warm, with clever design elements and it currently looks as good as when it first arrived, so I would say it was worth the investment if your budget will stretch to it.

Who tested the Ariat Tempest Waterproof Insulated Parka?

Carol Phillips is Horse & Hound’s website editor, who has ridden since childhood. She has a seven-year-old Irish Sport Horse kept at livery, who she rides most days.

Franchesca Slack is Horse & Hound’s products editor, she has ridden since a very young age thanks to having a mum who was a riding instructor. Franchesca now keeps her three horses on DIY livery – an Irish Draught and two Shire horses who she enjoys hacking around the countryside. Regularly riding up to five times a week. She is also a member of her local riding club and competes her friends horse “Barbie” in dressage, showjumping and cross-country.

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LeMieux Brooke Waterproof Hybrid Jacket H&H Approved

Franchesca Slack — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 16:36:51 +0000

Franchesca Slack

LeMieux Brooke Waterproof Hybrid Jacket

I have loved this winter riding jacket from the moment it arrived. It’s a gilet, a lightweight waterproof jacket and a heavyweight winter coat with a detachable hood – so it’s a 3-in-1 coat. I really underestimated how much I would wear this and it’s my go-to jacket most days! It is really stylish and I have worn it for riding, dog walking, on school run and to the shops and it has excelled at all of these.

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How well does it fit?

I am UK12/14 and usually size up in coats to allow extra room for layers. I tested the UK14 and it offers a true-to-size fit. It has a good length to it and I never had any trouble with it riding up and exposing my back to the cold. It is slightly shaped at the back, too. This coat is available in sizes UK 6–18 with a choice of four colours. I had the black on test and it looks very smart and even with heavy use it’s still looking great.

Was this coat waterproof?

The LeMieux Brooke Hybrid Jacket has a waterproof rating of 5,000mm and I can confirm I have worn it in all weathers, including heavy rain and, I’ve never got wet. I was also very impressed when I wore it out on the beach during very strong winds and it kept me protected.

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I have worn the gilet on its own and it has subtle branding with a light fill and has proven to be useful especially when I’m out at the yard and short on pockets and need a thin layer on. It easily zips in and out of the coat with minimal effort and is perfect for layering. The only wear I have noticed is the branding and sizing inside the gilet has worn away, but obviously this does not affect the performance of the gilet at all.

The outer coat has a lightweight fill with a fleece-lined neck for added comfort and warmth. The taped seams have proven to be durable and the hood has toggle adjustments on each side, so I could adjust it to prevent it from falling down in the wind. I managed to keep it in place with gale force winds so I was very impressed.

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This coat is really comfortable and smart. The outer material does not attract hair, bedding or hay so it is still looking smart. It has a two-way front zip but no riding vents – however, I didn’t feel restricted when riding. I have worn it for schooling, hacking and fast work and I can’t fault it. It has subtle branding down one arm so you could get away with wearing it out in a non-horsey environment.

I haven’t washed the LeMieux Brooke yet, but it is described as machine washable at 30°C. I will report back how it washes when I do.

Value

This coat is priced at £159.95, which I think is good value as you are getting a lightweight coat, gilet and a heavyweight coat in one product. I have previously found LeMieux clothing to be well made and long lasting so I expect this coat to last for many winters to come.

Verdict

*H&H Approved* I really love this coat, it’s smart, versatile and good quality and I have received compliments while wearing it. The flattering fit and lightweight feel has meant that it has become my favourite go-to coat. I am going to buy it in a different colour to keep as my non horsey coat!

Who tested the LeMieux Brooke Waterproof Hybrid Jacket?

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Harry Hall All-Weather Full Length Riding Coat review

Franchesca Slack — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 17:19:54 +0000

Franchesca Slack

Harry Hall All-Weather Full Length Riding Coat

The Harry Hall All-Weather full length riding coat has an official waterproof rating of 10,000mm and I can confirm it has always kept me dry even during long periods of heavy rain. It has a slightly longer cut at the back, which I liked as it offered extra coverage from the elements. This long waterproof riding coat has 100g fill so ideal if you are looking for a warm winter coat or you feel the cold.

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Fit

I’m 5ft4in and a UK12 but would normally size up in coats to accommodate layers and I tested the size L. You can adjust the draw cord on either side, to either make the coat more fitted or a bit looser to your preference. I found I had plenty of room and with the 100g fill I didn’t need as many layers so I don’t actually think sizing up (if you usually would) is necessary.

It was a little long in length, but didn’t get in the way. It came down to below my knees covering the top of my wellies and slightly lower at the back, which meant the hem became dirty quickly if I was walking across muddy ground. My mum is size UK16 and she can wear this coat with a couple of layers and not feel restricted, so I would say the sizing is generous. It’s available in XXS–4XL (UK6–22).

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Features

The leg straps meant the coat didn’t flap around in the wind. I have worn it when hacking, doing fast work and for flatwork lessons during the cold snap but found after I had warmed up I was a little too hot.

The front of the coat has a two-way zip for added comfort in the saddle. I found the outer material makes a rustly noise compared to other coats I have – this was not a problem for me but it might be if you have a sensitive horse.

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I really liked the added high-vis detailing to the back gusset.

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The large rear zip riding vent allows the coat to sit comfortably and cover the saddle when riding without being restrictive. I found the vent a bit more fiddly than others, but I think this was due to the overall length on me. It offered the most coverage when in the saddle out of all the coats I tested. The hood was a nice size that didn’t get in the way when riding. It also has a storm peak and bungee cord at the side for a closer fit, which together kept the rain out of my face.

The high collar has a fleece lining. One feature I loved was the magnetic closure of the storm placket with poppers at the bottom; this saved time especially when I had my gloves on. All the fittings have stood up well to regular use. The storm cuffs were an added bonus – not something I usually look out for.

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This coat has performed well and I preferred wearing it during colder wet weather for general yard duties and riding, particularly because hay and bedding didn’t stick to the material.

It is described as machine washable at 30°C. I haven’t washed it yet, as it’s still looking great even after three months of regular wear. I have just been letting the mud dry and brushing it off.

If you prefer something a little shorter, just covering the top of your thighs, Harry Hall have a very similar coat with the same waterproof rating so I’d recommend the Harry Hall Original All-Weather Coat instead.

Verdict

This coat is warm and waterproof without being heavy – it’s ideal if you feel the cold or spend long periods of time out in the elements.

Who tested the Harry Hall All-Weather Full Length Riding Coat?

Franchesca Slack is Horse & Hound’s products editor, she has ridden since a very young age thanks to having a mum who was a riding instructor. Franchesca now owns an Irish Draught and two Shire horses who she enjoys hacking around the countryside. She is also a member of her local riding club and competes her friends horse “Barbie” in dressage, showjumping and cross-country.

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Equetech Stratus Padded Waterproof Jacket H&H Approved

Georgia Guerin — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 16:19:02 +0000

(Image credit: Georgia Guerin)

Equetech Stratus Padded Waterproof Jacket

My first impressions of the Equetech Stratus were that is looked gorgeous but I wondered how long this might last. I particularly loved the faux fur hood edge.

How well does the Equetech Stratus fit?

I am a 5ft3in curvy UK10, so I ordered (on advice of the size guide) a size S. Unfortunately, I received an XS – however, after a few minutes of panic that my beautiful new coat might not fit, I was pleasantly surprised at how well it did. Yes, the S would probably look slightly better on me, but I am comfortable wearing it and love the design so much that I can’t bear to part with it. Moral of the story is – you definitely don’t need to size up even if you prefer a looser fit as this coat is true to size with room for a layer.

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The actual cut of the coat is very flattering – while you can see that it is stretched over me in some places due to it being a size too small, the overall shape still looks great. The rear vents help with this too.

Performance in winter weather

This coat is waterproof to 16,000mm, which is one of the highest of all waterproof riding jackets on the markets – it will keep you warm and dry if you get caught in one of the worst downpours.

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You can remove the fur trim on the hood if desired – which might be wise if you know bad weather is coming – and it simply zips off. The hood does fit over a riding hat if you need it to, and it can also be tightened at the front for really windy weather. Suddenly this coat is looking much more practical!

The storm flap is popper-free thanks to hidden magnets (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Features

Like all good riding coats, the Stratus has a two-way zip, which is covered by a storm flap with hidden magnets. I love this detail because it’s always closed, keeping water out and looking tidy, but it also eliminates any fiddling when doing up or undoing your coat. It also has zipped rear vents, which make it sit beautifully (and comfortably) over the saddle.

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The coat has zipped pockets on the front, with the lovely snaffle detailing you see on many Equetech products. The storm cuffs have thumbholes to help keep your wrists covered.

Is the Equetech Stratus worth the money?

Yes, in short. Coats are expensive, but I believe this one will last – and it has the bonus of looking great on, too. I’ve also worn it to non-horsey outdoor social activities and it’s been perfect. There are, of course, cheaper coats out there, but I haven’t seen any in this style that are quite so practical, too.

Verdict

*H&H Approved* – This super-stylish riding coat isn’t just nice to look at, but it’s highly technical, too. Of all the coats I’ve tested, this is my favourite to look at so if you’re looking for a short coat that makes you feel great while also keeping you dry, this could be the one. I really don’t have anything negative to say about this coat other than if you’re likely to get covered in head-to-toe in mud doing yard chores, I would opt for a long coat for yard wear and save this one for riding.

Who tested the Equetech Stratus?

Georgia Guerin is H&H’s head of ecommerce and editor of PetsRadar. She has a 17-year-old Fjord, Utah, who is on DIY livery, so she’s at the yard twice a day doing all the jobs horse owners do and riding up to five times a week.

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Pikeur Renee Rain Coat review H&H Approved

Georgia Guerin — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 16:44:42 +0000

Georgia Guerin

Pikeur Renee Rain Coat

The Pikeur Renee Rain Coat does not match my usual choice of yard or winter riding coat when it comes to style – I tend to opt for something that might be considered more practical, such as the WeatherBeeta Kyla. However, since having it on test, I have reached for it ahead of all my other options on many occasion and I have to say that I’ve been converted to the puffer style. If I want to feel like I’ve worn my duvet to the yard in the morning, this is my number one choice.

I’ve had a lot of compliments on this coat, too. And while I might not have chosen red initally, it does look good on and I feel good wearing it (and that’s not just because it’s super cosy). It felt like a bit of a strange shape at first – but I reminded myself that this is a riding coat, not a school run coat and it will come into it’s own once I’m in the saddle.

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How well does the Pikeur Renee fit?

I am a 5ft3in curvy UK10 and the size 10 was the perfect fit. The bottom of the coat sits just above my knees when standing and covers most of my thigh when I’m in the saddle. One someone of average height, it would probably finish mid-thigh when standing. It’s available in UK4–18 and in dark navy or red.

Because of the two-way zip and the way the bottom half of the coat splits, it does sit nicely in the saddle, but I found that some areas of my leg felt the wind chill. Long waterproof riding coats that only split down the centre at the back are likely to cover more area without gaps, but I understand that a puffy design like this one probably wouldn’t work so well like that.

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My leg was well covered, but I could feel the breeze on the back of my thigh (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The sleeves were a good length, covering my arms without interfering – and the cuffs felt solid and didn’t sag over time, which I’ve found with other coats.

There are two zipped outer pockets in addition to a zipped inner pocket. The outer pockets sit quite high and aren’t accessible if you wear a hi-vis tabard – but this is unlikely to be an issue for many.

Otherwise, the coat was easy to move in (thanks for the four-way stretch material) and fitted well overall. The zip-off hood is generous (and accommodates a riding hat) and has an adjuster at the rear, but it still blew off in strong winds.

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How does the Pikeur Renee stand up to bad weather?

The Pikeur Renee is very waterproof (8,000mm), which means it should stand up to moderate rain, but won’t be as effective as coats with >10,000mm in a downpour. I found it to cope absolutely fine in light rain or snow, and I wore it in a downpour, just to see, and while the water didn’t come through, I wouldn’t opt to wear it in that weather again as the raindrops don’t bead up and run off. It did keep me dry for as long as it took me to do my yard chores that evening, but everything stuck to the material – I looked filthy.

After I wore the coat in heavy rain (Image credit: creditUnknown)

If you’re looking for a truly waterproof coat, then this probably isn’t for you – but if you’re more of a fair weather rider and only don’t find yourself in heavy rain too often, this coat is a great option.

It’s also worth noting that this coat is very warm – absolutely ideal for cold days, but too much if you’re poo picking in mild weather.

Is the Pikeur Renee worth the money?

You can’t get away from the fact that this coat is expensive, but I do think Pikeur is always fantastic quality. If you wore the coat every day for five months over winter, it would work out £1.76/day – and that’s just one winter’s wear, this will last you a few. You could keep it on for the school run and supermarket trips, too, so you’d get a lot of wear out of it, increasing the value.

In short, yes it probably is worth the money – I’d certainly be reluctant to give it back and go through the rest of this winter without it, that’s for sure. And I wouldn’t have guessed that when it arrived.

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Verdict

*H&H Approved* – I really didn’t expect to love this coat as much as I did – and I chose it over others far more than I imagined. It’s a great coat and I would recommend it to anyone who wants to feel like they’ve not really got out of bed in the morning.

Who tested the Pikeur Renee Rain Coat?

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Shires Aubrion Halcyon Long Waterproof Riding Coat review

Franchesca Slack — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 12:56:02 +0000

(Image credit: Franchesca Slack)

Shires Aubrion Halcyon Long Waterproof Riding Coat

I was pleasantly surprised at how smart the Shires Aubrion Halcyon long waterproof riding coat was when it arrived. It is cut slightly longer at the back and the outer material was tough but not rigid with a smooth finish and it was in a lovely smart charcoal colour. This coat was perfect for the cold winter weather. It has proven to be waterproof and has kept me dry, cosy and warm even in -2°C.

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Waterproof performance

The Halcyon long coat has an official waterproof rating of 5,000mm. It has kept me dry during heavy rain, but I did find the cuffs soaked up water when riding so I ended up with wet gloves.

When out in the rain, the water just runs off the material so it doesn’t soak into the fabric, which allows the coat to dry faster. This was perfect for me as when it rained in the morning the coat would be dry before I needed it again in the evening.

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Fit

I’m 5ft4in and a UK12 but would normally size up in coats to accommodate layers and I tested the size S. This coat was originally ordered for my colleague who is a UK8 and found the sizing to be too generous. I fitted in the coat but found it to be tight around the bust area. I think my ideal size in this coat would be M.

It was a good length, coming down to below my knees covering the top of my wellies and coming past the top of my riding boots. My riding instructor borrowed it during a lesson and commented on the warmth and good length saying it was perfect for teaching. It’s available in XXXS–XXXL (UK4–22) and blue and charcoal colour options.

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Features

The rear zip riding vent makes this coat comfortable to ride in and you don’t feel restricted when in the saddle. It’s easy to undo when needed. It was a good length and kept my legs warmer and protected from the rain. The back gusset is a good size and it covers the saddle. The front of the coat has a two-way zip for added comfort in the saddle.

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The hood is a generous size and I found I needed to take it off when riding. It has bungee adjustment to help get a closer fit and prevent it from falling off with the wind.

I really liked that the high collar, upper torso, pockets and hood are lined so offered added warmth where needed. I was a little put off by some of the plastic fittings as it make the coat look cheap but they have proven to stand up to regular use.I preferred wearing this coat when hacking and on the yard but during colder temperatures and found it quite warm, and I could easily wear it with just a base layer and be warm enough.

I haven’t washed the Shires Aubrion Halcyon long coat yet, but I have found if it gets muddy it’s easy to wipe off with a sponge. It is described as machine washable at 30°C. I will report back once I’ve washed it.

H&H’s Carol Phillips tested the mid length version of this coat this winter – read the full Shires Aubrion Halcyon Mid Coat review.

Verdict

This coat looks and feels smart and good quality and I have received so many compliments while wearing it. Overall its a great value for a good looking practical, warm long coat.

Who tested the Shires Aubrion Halcyon Long Waterproof Riding Coat?

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Toggi Murphy Riding Jacket

Bethany Stone — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 12:47:38 +0000

(Image credit: Bethany Stone)

Toggi Murphy Riding Jacket

Fit

The Toggi Murphy riding jacket is flattering. I am a UK10 but usually size up to a UK12 in winter riding coats to allow for layers and freedom to move. I did the same for this test and liked the fit – that said I would only recommend sizing up if, like me, you like a pretty loose fit as the jacket is true to size gives a tailored fit.

The sleeves have adjustable cuffs, and came up ever so slightly short on me. However, this didn’t affect its performance for me – I do have quite long arms so I’m used to it. It’s available in UK8-20.

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Waterproof performance

The coat performed satisfactorily in the rain and cold, keeping me warm and dry. I like the concealed hood, and the jacket length and riding vent makes it ideal for schooling on chilly days. I’d say it’s ideal for chilly autumn or spring mornings – the weight of fill in this jacket isn’t for the absolute depths of winter. However, this makes is really good for schooling in the cold without overheating.

I’ve worn this coat out for hacking, schooling, dog walks and yard chores – including poo picking in the rain – and it’s worked well for more active tasks as I don’t get too hot in it. However, I found dirt didn’t brush off it too easily, making me hesitant to use it while grooming!

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Features

Unfortunately, this jacket has no inside pocket – this was a real downside for me as I like to keep my phone and keys secure inside my jacket. Plus, the side pockets are not secured in any way, so I was worried about losing the contents. They have a neat pocket flap, so don’t let rain in and look sweet, but I found this an odd design choice for a rider’s coat.

The poppers snap together easily and secure the riding vent well when not in use. The riding vent allows the coat to sit nicely in the saddle and means the jacket doesn’t bunch and keeps its flattering silhouette.

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While the inner lining is a shiny and slippy, the high collar is lined with faux suede, which feels nice on the skin. The storm cuffs keeps the sleeves in place and I can still bend my arms freely – I just have a little wrist poking out. The hood doesn’t fit over my rather bulky skull cap, but this isn’t something that’s a priority for me.

I firmly believe this coat comes down to personal preference. For me, the shiny metallic lining and gold details are a little off-putting and to blingy for everyday use – but that’s just me. Overall, this just wasn’t the coat for me. While I enjoyed riding in it and like the fit, the large branding on the arm and shining details and pocket situation means I wouldn’t buy again. If you’re a regular competitor who is looking for a smart coat to warm up in at shows, this coat is an absolute winner. It’s chic and smart and looks attractive – something I am not too concerned about!

The coat doesn’t lose its shape or waterproofness after washing, and it dries quickly. I’ve even left it in the car wet a few times and it’s dried! Washing instructions say 30°C, and to drip-dry out of direct sunlight.

Verdict

A chic and smart coat that offered a flattering and comfortable fit both in and out of the saddle and allows you to school without overheating. Ideal if you’re looking for a smart jacket to wear in the warm-up at shows.

Premier Equine Motet Ladies Waterproof Jacket review

Bethany Stone — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 16:39:47 +0000

(Image credit: Bethany Stone)

Premier Equine Motet Ladies Waterproof Jacket

My first impression of the Premier Equine Motet waterproof riding jacket was its sleek, uncomplicated style – I’m a fan of the subtle branding details and think it offers a sophisticated yet understated horsey look.

Fit

This coat has a relaxed fit and is easy to move about in – I am a UK 10 and usually size up by one to a UK 12 in jackets to allow for layers and roominess. I did the same for this test and I found the jacket to be comfortable and functional whether I wore one thin layer or a couple of bulky ones underneath. That said, I would only recommend sizing up if, like me, you like a pretty loose fit – the jacket is true to size. The Motet is available in sizes UK 6–16 in French navy or black.

I’m 176cm (5ft 9in) tall, and coat covers the tops of my thighs, slightly longer than a standard coat, which I like.

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Waterproof performance

The coat is lightweight yet insulating with an effective waterproof outer (which was just as effective after a wash) and a padded inner. The thin but effective waterproof outer extends beyond the lining around the hem – there’s an inch or two of ‘empty’ coat, but I found this prevents the lining from getting wet. It kept me dry on soggy days poo picking and walking the dog, but despite this I never got too hot in it.

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Features

The downsides of this coat are the fact there’s no riding vent, meaning it doesn’t sit terribly neatly on the saddle – you can pull up the bottom part of the two-way zip, though. The coat doesn’t ride up while riding, and I haven’t noticed any discomfort while in the saddle, but the material bunches a bit at the sides because it can’t sit over the back of the saddle.

The drawstring in the hood isn’t knotted or toggled, and over a few wears slid out completely. I haven’t been able to replace it – I’m sure it could be done but it might take someone with a bit more patience than me! However, the storm peak keeps rain out of my face and the hood is big enough to fit comfortably over a sleek riding hat – it will just about fit over my bulky skull cap! The popper secures the hood and stops it flapping about when not in use, which is a great touch.

The pockets are plentiful which I love, there’s on the chest, one inside and two side pockets. However, they have quite stiff zippers, possibly due to the taped seams that keep the pockets watertight. I often have my hands full as an equestrian so I like to be able to do pockets one-handed – this I could not do with the Motet. I found the sleeve length perfect for my long arms and the velcro tabs secure the cuffs effectively.

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This coat is described as machine washable at 30°C. As well as staying waterproof after a wash, the coat dries quickly and keeps its shape.

Verdict

Overall, I do really like the coat for its great climate control and top job at keeping the rain out. I’m not too upset by the lack of riding vent, but, while the number of pockets are a big bonus for me, the stiffness and drawstring issues are irksome. It’s a high-performing yard and dog-walking coat, but if I was looking to buy one of the best winter riding jackets, I would personally look for something that could do it all, even if that meant spending a little more.

Who tested the Premier Equine Motet Ladies Waterproof Jacket?

Bethany Stone is Horse & Hound’s features assistant, who started riding as a small child. Both her horses are retired, so she shares a 17.3hh warmblood gelding called Leo alongside caring for them.

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LeMieux Anya Waterproof Riding Coat H&H Approved

Sophie Cheeseman — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 15:26:09 +0000

(Image credit: Sophie Cheeseman)

LeMieux Anya Waterproof Riding Coat

The LeMieux Anya long waterproof riding coat really surprised me when it arrived. It looks so stylish and smart that I’ve worn it to the yard but also out every day and for dog walking. It’s quite weighty, with a velvety lining, but once on feels super cosy and comfortable and is perfect for those low temperature, frosty mornings on the yard.

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The LeMieux Anya has an official waterproof rating of 8,000mm and has kept me warm and dry in heavy rain and colder temperatures.

I’m 5ft6in and a size 12 and tested the size 12 and found it was a good fit, even with winter layers underneath. It was a decent length, coming down to around my knees covering the top of my wellies. It’s available in UK6–18.

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The colour gives off shooting jacket vibes, and is a waterproof twill fabric, which I wasn’t convinced would be hugely waterproof, but it definitely held its own in torrential rain and I stayed pretty dry. However, I did find the cuffs and hem did collect a bit of water, which resulted in soggy knees and gloves but apart from that I was warm and dry underneath.

It comes with a removable fur trim for the hood, which I removed quite easily as my whippets took a fancy to and I didn’t want them to damage it. The hood also packs away neatly into the back of the collar for safety when riding. When I was dog walking in the rain it would have been nice for the hood to have a bit more of a peak to keep my face dry, but it does fit over a cap or hat, too.

The collar is nice and high, keeping wind and rain out of my neck efficiently. The front of the coat has a two-way zip and popper close, teamed with a clever magnetic close on the back to keep your saddle and legs dry.

When riding the coat was a lovely length and kept my legs warm and dry. It has two zip pockets on the outside, and one internal pocket. The coat also features elastic leg straps, which when secured round your leg whilst riding keep it in place, reducing any flapping.

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The coat was quite bulky to ride in, and I preferred wearing it out hacking to in the school as I felt it limited my movements a bit while schooling due to the thickness. I wore it while warming up in the school (walking and stretching), however, and found it to be a good layer until I started to warm up.

It really kept me very warm out hacking – the length of it and the amount it covered my legs was perfect – and I was toasty even in minus temperatures and riding in walk.

It is easy to remove when in the saddle and the weight of it meant it stayed on the fence and didn’t blow away!

The vent at the back was super easy to adjust when in the saddle with one hand, as it just uses a magnet close. I found the two way zip at the front a bit tricky to do up, you have to hold both zippers quite securely at the bottom and as they are big this can be fiddly. But, once done up it is easy to open and close both zips and they don’t move from their positions when riding.

I haven’t washed the LeMieux Anya yet, but it is described as machine washable at 30°C. I have found that dirt and grease sticks to the fabric and doesn’t wipe off very easily so am hoping it washes well.

The LeMieux Anya coat is similar to the LeMieux Loire which Georgia at H&H tested last year read the full review here.

Verdict

*H&H Approved* Overall I really love this coat, it looks and feels smart and good quality and I have received so many compliments while wearing it.

Who tested the LeMieux Anya Waterproof Riding Coat?

Sophie Cheeseman is Horse & Hound’s Deputy Art Editor, who has ridden since she was 4 years old thanks to a family friend. Having non-horsey parents, Sophie worked her way through riding schools in exchange for lessons during the early years, then built relationships with a few different owners through her teens. Sophie then loaned a PSG gelding for a few years, produced a 3yo Connemara to sell and rode various hunters, showjumpers and dressage horses. After a year out of the saddle to have a baby, Sophie is now exercising a lovely Billy-bred mare over the winter, getting back into the swing of things around mum life!

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Toggi Griffiths Long Riding Coat

Sophie Cheeseman — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 15:23:14 +0000

(Image credit: Sophie Cheeseman)

Toggi Griffiths Long Riding Coat

This Toggi Griffiths coat is so comfortable and smart, it has been my go-to in this wet but mild autumn as it’s not overly heavy and provides an effective waterproof layer that’s not too hot.

The Toggi Griffiths long riding coat has an official waterproof rating of 10,000mm and has kept me dry in light and heavy rain, while dog walking and hacking/schooling.

I am a size 12 and tested the size 12, finding it a snug fit over multiple winter layers, but very comfortable.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The front of the jacket has a two way zip, and the back also has a zip that enables you to keep most of your saddle dry while riding. Being mid-length it doesn’t cover a lot of your leg when you are in the saddle. I am 5ft6in, and the coat came to about mid-thigh at the front and the tops of my knees at the back when standing. When riding, it was about mid-though, too.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The shape of the jacket is really flattering, it curves down at the back and tapers in at the waist which looks lovely. There is a foldaway hood that stores neatly into the back of the collar. There is quite a large Toggi logo in gold foil on the right arm, which is the only design element I wasn’t keen on purely from an aesthetic point of view, but that’s just personal preference. There are two pockets on the outside and one on the inside, all with zips.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The articulated cuffs of the coat have a really clever shape to them, that stops any water running down and soaking into your gloves or sleeves – I definitely benefited from them when dog walking in heavy rain, too.

I found it a perfect weight for the autumn – it has a light fill that doesn’t restrict movement in the saddle at all and I didn’t get too hot while schooling. The back is a bit fiddly to unzip with gloves when you are in the saddle and trying to hold the reins, too. But, when unzipped, was lightweight, comfortable and didn’t flap around much and so therefore didn’t spook the horse.

I haven’t washed the Toggi Griffiths long riding coat yet as any dirt has wiped off easily with a cloth so far, but if I needed to it recommends on the label inside to wash at 30°C and drip dry somewhere warm. The coat also dried pretty quickly after being in the rain with the sleeves/seams not holding any more water than the rest of the fabric.

Verdict

Overall I was surprised with the performance of this jacket, it was breathable, so comfy for riding and looks smart.

Who tested the Toggi Griffiths long riding coat?

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Aubrion Halcyon Mid Length Coat review

Carol Phillips — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 14:38:25 +0000

Our reviewer describes the Aubrion Halcyon Mid Length Coat as a practical choice at a reasonable price. (Image credit: Carolyn Northcote Monroe)

Aubrion Halcyon Mid Length Coat

This coat is very warm, so I’ve had to wait until colder UK winter temperatures arrived in order to test it properly, as I quickly overheated when wearing it on milder days, despite its high breathability rating of 5000g/m². It has an official waterproof rating of 5000mm and has kept me warm and dry in both heavy rain and early winter snow.

I am a UK size 8/10 and the small is a good fit.

The bottom half of the coat is lined with a non-plush material and the whole coat is lightly quilted for warmth. The robust outer material is more bulky than some other winter coats I’ve tried, which makes it less practical for wearing during doing active yard tasks like mucking out and grooming. But it has kept me warm and dry while poo picking fields, checking field horses, turning horses out, etc.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

I have hacked out in rain and snow while wearing it and I stayed warm and dry on my body with the soft plush material on the collar making it comfortable to wear when the zip is fully fastened at the top. I was concerned that the two-way plastic zip, which has no external protection in the form of a storm flap, might leak, but I’m pleased to say that hasn’t been the case so far.

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While it is designed to wear both in and out of the saddle, thanks to the single rear riding vent that is easy to open and a two-way zip in front, the length of the coat means it only covers the top of thighs in the saddle so my knees did get wet, but it did a good job protecting the rear of the saddle.

There is a longer version of this coat available, which may be a better choice for riding out in inclement winter weather if you want to keep your legs and the front of the saddle dry. Although I have done some very quiet schooling in the arena while wearing this coat, I’ve found it too warm for doing anything more active than this in the saddle.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The hood is lined with the same plush material as the collar and body of the coat and attached via a zip, which makes it easy to remove. While it is adjustable via an elasticated drawstring, it isn’t big enough to put over your riding hat so I would recommend separating it from the coat when you are riding to remove any risk of it getting caught on something.

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The wrist cuffs are quite large and thick and aren’t very close fitting around my narrow wrists, plus there is no additional adjustment option here, unlike the Mountain Horse Flash Deluxe Parka I’ve also been testing. The cuffs also poke out beyond the sleeve. I was concerned that the cuffs might allow drafts in or get wet, but when it is cold enough to wear this coat, I am also wearing a pair of winter gloves over the cuffs, so that hasn’t been an issue.

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This coat has an inside chest pocket on the left, which is ideal for keep a mobile phone secure and dry, and is particularly convenient if you are right-handed. There are also two outer pockets with zip fastenings, that are of a good size and easy to use one-handed. The external branding is just a subtle rubberised logo on the left sleeve.

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With a RRP of £129.99, this is one of the more economically priced winter riding coats on the market and I’ve found it to be a very functional item for doing essential horse care tasks during the winter.

I personally prefer the Ariat Tempest Waterproof Insulated Parka that I tested two years ago, which has a more stylish appearance and still going strong after two winters of regular wear, but it is in a very different price category at +£300. Now that I have options, I’m tending to wear the Ariat Insulated Parka when attending shows or training, walking dogs with friends and other similar public outings, and wearing the Aubrion Halcyon coat to do daily jobs around the stables.

I haven’t yet washed the Aubrion Halcyon coat, but it is described as machine washable at 30 degrees. I’ll report back once I’ve done that, but as yet, I haven’t had the need as any dirt has been easy to sponge off.

Verdict

A practical coat at a very reasonable price for doing outside tasks around the yard as well as hacking in cold and wet winter weather.

Who tested the Aubrion Halcyon Mid Length Coat?

Carol Phillips is Horse & Hound’s website editor, who has ridden since childhood. While her own horse is currently having some time turned away after an injury, she typically rides friends’ horses three or four times a week, alongside doing regular yard tasks.

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Ariat Valor 2.0 Waterproof Jacket H&H Approved

Becky Murray — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 10:32:01 +0000

The coat features a cinched in waist, waterproof zips, plus an inner storm cuff and out velcro.creditUnknown

The coat is warm but lightweight, making it comfortable to ride in.creditUnknown

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The coat has zips at the back that can be opened while in the saddle.creditUnknown

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The Ariat Valor 2.0 comes in black with a camo print.creditUnknown

Ariat Valor 2.0 Waterproof Jacket

When looking for a new short waterproof riding coat, the Ariat Valor 2.0 Waterproof Jacket should definitely be up there on your wish list.

The coat comes under Ariat’s “warmest” rating – described as “substantial warmth, perfect for very cold conditions”, and while it is very cosy, I like that it still feels light and not bulky. For reference, Ariat also offers a rating one step up; “extreme warmth” in other products.

I’m 5ft4in and a UK6, and the extra-small was the perfect fit – with or without a jumper. I was also able to comfortably fit it over my show jacket. The coat has a tailored fit and cinched in at the waist, which not only holds-in the warmth, but makes it very flattering.

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The coat is black with a cool camo pattern down the sleeves. When it comes to my equestrian wardrobe, being entirely honest ‘fashion’ isn’t usually very high on my list, but I love the way this coat looks – and it even got the approval from my non-horsey partner, who rarely has anything to say about my horse gear!

The Ariat Valor 2.0 comes in black with a camo print. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

There are all the usual features you might want and expect with a good riding coat. It has a generous removable hood, an external front pocket at each side, plus one internal pocket – all of which zip up and fit my mobile phone. At the back there are two zips that can be opened to allow more movement in the saddle, if needed, though I found it perfect without opening these.

The coat features a cinched in waist, waterproof zips, plus an inner storm cuff and out velcro. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The coat zips up the middle with a waterproof zip, preventing leaks. The zips all feel well-made, which is something I pay attention to as I’ve had numerous jackets in the past where zips have given up after long-term wear. I like that the coat also has internal cuffs, which are just the right length for riding – though I personally prefer cuffs that are a bit longer and offer thumbholes, which this doesn’t.

The coat is warm but lightweight, making it comfortable to ride in. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

In terms of material, the coat has a three-layer stretch material – made from 94% polyester and 6% elastane – and features Ariat’s “Premium DryMax” waterproof breathable construction, “Cool Climate Insulation”, and PFC-free “EcoDry” finish to repel water. I tested the coat riding outdoors in the wind and rain, and with Scotland’s autumn temperatures dropping to seven degrees one morning, I remained pleasantly warm and dry. When winter comes around and the temperatures drop further I feel confident that this coat will be up to the job, and I will provide an update.

The coat has zips at the back that can be opened while in the saddle. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

One downside I noted, was the coat really seemed to attract dirt – I’m not sure if this is down to the material or the black camo pattern – but the minute I got some mud on it (or a lovely slobber from my mare) they seemed to really get into the material, so I think I’ll find myself washing this coat more than my others. It is machine washable on a delicate cold wash.

The coat comes at a premium price of £290 and therefore I would class this as quite a considered purchase. There are cheaper waterproof riding coat options on the market, but I have always found Ariat products to be well-made and high quality, and I would expect this coat to last many winters.

Verdict

Based on the camo pattern, and the flattering fit alone, this coat has quickly become a favourite. It looks very smart on – and as I’m often walking the dogs, or sheepishly visiting the supermarket still in my horse gear, I’d be more than happy wearing this away from the yard. It has stood up well to the heavy rain and the autumn chill, and I like that I don’t feel restricted in the saddle or doing my general horsey jobs. Being the owner of four mud-monsters, I do worry it’s almost too nice to get dirty – especially as the dirt seems to embed slightly – but for warm riding and style, it gets my vote.

Who tested the Ariat Valor 2.0 Waterproof Jacket?

Becky Murray is a senior news writer at Horse & Hound. Since joining H&H in 2018, Becky has covered a broad range of equestrian news including welfare matters, veterinary studies, FEI Tribunal hearings and road safety campaigns. She has also interviewed top riders including Scott Brash, John Whitaker and Ian Stark, to name just a few. Becky’s reporting has taken her to Canada for Spruce Meadows and France for Pau five-star, as well as the Royal Highland and Blair Castle International Horse Trials closer to home. She was also a key part of the remote reporting team for the Tokyo and Paris Olympics and the Europeans.

Based in north Scotland, Becky enjoys showjumping with her Irish mare Chloe. She also has two miniature Shetland sisters, Mootie and Poppet, and a World Horse Welfare pony named Gilly, who all keep her on her toes.

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Mountain Horse Flash Deluxe Parka review

Carol Phillips — Thu, 10 Oct 2024 12:21:04 +0000

The Mountain Horse Flash Deluxe Parka is a great choice for autumn. (Image credit: Carolyn Northcote Monroe)

Mountain Horse Flash Deluxe Parka

The Mountain Horse Flash Deluxe Parka is a knee-length coat that I found comfortable to wear while doing tasks around the yard as well as in the saddle for hacking and light schooling.

An added bonus is that the wind and water resistant outer material is impressively reflective in the dark, as shown below. Both the coat and the removable hood have a lightly quilted lining, which makes it ideal for those autumn days when the temperatures are starting to fall away, but it’s not yet bitterly cold.

The outer material is impressively reflective in the dark (Image credit: creditUnknown)

My first impressions of this coat was that it was not bulky to wear, allowing me to move around easily both while doing chores and when in the saddle. It keeps the chill off, but is not so warm that I felt the need to remove it as soon as I started doing active tasks like poo picking. I’m 5ft4in and a UK 8/10 and had a size small to test. It was a good fit with a decent length, coming down to around my knees, similar to many of the best long winter riding coats. It’s available in XS–XXL.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The hood is generously sized but has good options to adjust the fit to suit heads of all sizes. While I was initially concerned that the “peak” of the hood felt a little flimsy, once I had the hood adjusted correctly it did its job of preventing water dripping down on to my face in the rain.

I really like the wrist cuffs on this coat, which are thin and very stretchy so great for preventing drafts without being restrictive. They don’t stick out beyond the end of coat’s arms while being worn, so stay dry, and there are useful Velcro adjustments on the wrists too.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The two side pockets are of a good size with zips that are easy to open and close one handed. However, I was disappointed there was no phone pocket on either the inside or outside of the jacket at the chest, which I would find useful.

The collar has a soft lining that makes it very comfortable to wear when fully secured. The two-way zip is easy to use with just one hand and it is protected with a storm flap over the top that is secured by press studs with a cover to the top of the zip for added comfort.

The coat has the Mountain Horse logo across the back and is fitted with a single rear riding vent secured with press studs, which is easy to open once in the saddle if you forget to do so before you mount, as shown below.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

I’ve ridden out in the Mountain Horse Flash Deluxe Parka in both drizzle/light rain and steady rain for up to about 40mins with absolutely no signs of leakage – my body, arms and thighs all remained bone dry, just my knees got wet as it doesn’t quite cover those. It protected the saddle well too. I also didn’t get rain dripping down the inside of my neck, even though I wasn’t wearing the hood. Bearing in mind it is described as “water resistant”, rather than “waterproof”, I’m very impressed with how well it stood up to the conditions.

The Mountain Horse Flash Deluxe Parka stood up to steady autumn rain well. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The coat dries off fairly quickly when hung up at room temperature.

After a dozen or so rides, I have noticed that the quilted stitching on the inside of the lower part of the coat has started to pill. The stitching remains secure and this doesn’t affect the jacket’s use, but it does make it appear less smart on the inside.

The inside of the Mountain Horse Flash Deluxe Parka showing some pilling of the stitching (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Verdict

A useful coat for the changeable autumn and spring weather.

Who tested the Mountain Horse Flash Deluxe Parka?

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Harry Hall All-Weather Long Jacket H&H Approved

Sophie Cheeseman — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 13:22:00 +0000

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Harry Hall All-Weather Long Jacket

This full-length Harry Hall All-Weather jacket has been the perfect addition to my winter riding wardrobe, having never owned a full-length riding jacket before I was apprehensive about it’s performance but I was pleasantly surprised.

The jacket is made from fully waterproof material which, having been caught in a torrential downpour out hacking, I can confirm is definitely waterproof. The material isn’t hugely breathable, so I wouldn’t say it is suitable for milder weather but it’s perfect in the frosty months when you need to be staying warm at the yard or out riding. There are taped seams throughout, ensuring you stay warm and dry.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

I am a size 10, and wore a size S, which fitted me perfectly with or without a jumper underneath – the overall fit is flattering and feels stylish and comfortable. You can adjust the tabs on either side, to either make the coat more fitted or a bit looser to your preference. One of my favourite features of the jacket is the elasticated storm cuffs, which make you feel super snug and prevent any water from dripping down the arms. There are plastic fastenings on the end of the sleeves which are a stylish addition.

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The back of the jacket features a large vent that can be poppered shut if you are not on a horse. When riding, the vent covered the back of both a dressage and jump saddle very well, and teamed with the two-way zip meant my legs stayed very dry and warm whilst hacking, schooling and warming up at competitions. There are no leg straps on this jacket, which I know some other, more expensive jackets sometimes feature, I was dubious as to whether the jacket would stay put and keep me dry in wind or when galloping but the rigid structure kept it firmly in place, and I wasn’t disappointed with it’s performance.

There are two zip pockets, which I found a little small but fitted my phone and keys well. I found two downsides to the pockets: one was when cantering in a forward seat, with the vent and two-way zip open, my phone did bash against the saddle quite a bit. Secondly, the lining of one of them has torn slightly and my keys tend to get stuck in it, which is a bit annoying.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The coat has a hood that attaches with poppers, I didn’t use it much as I prefer to ride without a hood but for walking the dogs it was useful, and fitted well over a cap. There are a few little reflective details on the coat, I feel it could have featured a panel on the back to aid visibility out hacking or some more details.

I think compared to other long riding coats on the market, this one is quite expensive considering it has less features. However, I was really pleased with the performance of the jacket, it did what it said on the tin and kept me warm, dry and cosy. I would recommend this coat for anyone looking for a hard wearing, practical garment for yard work, riding and country activities.

Verdict

*H&H Approved* – Smart, practical and stylish jacket. I’ve reached for it every time I leave the house – be it for riding, yard work or walking the dog – and it’s lasted really well.

Who tested this jacket?

Sophie Cheeseman is Horse & Hound’s deputy art editor. She owned a five-year-old Connemara mare, who she bought in 2020 to produce for dressage but ended up hunting, going cross-country and generally having a lot of fun on. After selling her in 2022, Sophie now rides for other people, producing young horses, keeping hunters fit for the winter and regularly competing up to elementary dressage.

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LeMieux Loire Waterproof Coat review H&H Approved

Georgia Guerin — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 12:34:59 +0000

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LeMieux Loire Long Waterproof Coat

The LeMieux Loire Waterproof Coat looks gorgeous and my first thought when it arrived was “this is too good for the yard” but I was determined to still put it through its paces. This long waterproof riding coat is available in black, navy or grey – I tested the grey – and in a shorter version, too.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

I’m 5ft2in and a pretty standard UK10. I tested the size 10 and found it to be quite narrow across the shoulders. This isn’t something I usually find with coats so definitely worth noting if you have broad shoulders. The sleeves were a good length until I reached and extended my arms to do anything, and then my wrists quickly became exposed. You don’t want sleeves to be too long and getting in the way, but I’m quite short, so I don’t usually find that sleeves are too short for me. That said, I wouldn’t have wanted to size up and was happy sticking with a UK10. I could fit a couple of layers underneath, but I found it most comfortable with a baselayer or light jumper.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The coat was warm and certainly protected my legs, both in and out of the saddle. It has a two-way zip as well as leg straps, but I found that the coat stayed put without them so didn’t always use them. The rear of the coat splits in half to sit comfortably over the saddle and cover your legs.

The rear tails fasten with magnets (Image credit: creditUnknown)

You don’t need to unzip it or pull poppers apart as it’s got discreet magnets down each side of the split. These are easy to separate and sort themselves out when you get off – I didn’t even need to think about them.

The rain beads up on the outer material before running off (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The coat has a waterproof rating of 8,000mm (very waterproof, suitable for moderate to heavy rain) and a I can confirm this is the case. The rain beaded up on the outer material and simply ran off.

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The hood is really quite luxurious. I was worried that once I’d worn it in the rain the faux fur trim would be ruined, but it dried and bounced back to its original softness. You can remove the hood, which is zipped on, as well as the faux fur trim, which is also zipped and poppered.

The hood itself is really large – it fits over my riding hat – and there’s nothing worse than a small hood, so I was very pleased. I did find that it hung down over my eyes and I was often walking round holding it up. This wouldn’t be a problem if you’re standing still – watching a lesson, for example – but was annoying when I was doing jobs at the yard. Removing the fur trim soon fixed this, so I’d say keep the trim on for style if you’re hanging about at a competition but whip it off if you’re doing yard jobs. The hood also has a soft fur lining, which just feels great.

The zips have taped seams to prevent water getting in (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The pockets are a fairly good size. They’re fur-lined, like the hood, which feels lovely, so I made a real effort not to fill them with stray bits of hay and treats. I would have liked an additional interior pocket, too, though.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The inside of the coat has a fur lining above the adjustable waist and across the back, and is quilted below.

It’s lasted well so far – although the metal LeMieux logo on the arm has popped off – and it feels like it’s definitely designed and made to last. At just under £200, this coat is a significant purchase but I’ve seen coats out there for a lot more. This riding coat is not only very waterproof, but it looks great and I think this coat will last a long time, so I’d say it’s a fair price.

Verdict

H&H Approved – I love the look of this coat and I really enjoy wearing it, especially if I’m out for the day. If I was heading to a show to help a friend, this would definitely be my coat of choice. This coat would be perfect for someone who isn’t trudging up muddy fields or scrubbing out troughs on a regular basis – I tend to save this coat for days when I know I’ll just be riding or walking down to the field.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk

Who tested this LeMieux coat?

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Shires Aubrion Woodford Coat H&H Approved

Becky Murray — Mon, 14 Nov 2022 11:24:23 +0000

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Shires Aubrion Woodford Coat

A warm winter riding jacket that can withstand the elements is an essential part of every equestrian’s winter wardrobe, and the Shires Aubrion Woodford Coat promises to deliver.

The padded coat – with removable hood – is designed for riding, complete with a concealed pleat that can be unbuttoned to allow more movement in the saddle, and it claims to offer “maximum weather protection”.

The riding pleat is concealed by buttons (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The coat – with removable hood comes in charcoal colour, and has a beautiful purple and green patterned lining that really brightens it up. It has inner sleeve lining with thumbholes which keeps everything snug and your wrists dry, which is a feature I particularly appreciate when it comes to coats and jackets. The outer sleeves have Velcro adjustments.

The patterned inside lining (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Other features include toggles at the waist and hood to adjust fit, and two good-sized external pockets with zips. The coat also has an internal zip pocket on the left hand side that can fit a mobile phone.

The coat is 100% polyester, and claims to be waterproof to 5,000mm (suitable for average rain), with breathability of 5,000g/m2. It has a waterproof repellant to prevent saturation, and means water should bead on the fabric and run off. It can be machine washed at 30°C, but should not be tumble dried.

Front logo (Image credit: creditUnknown)

I would describe the coat as very warm and perfect for a chilly day. When I rode in it was around 10 degrees and I was erring on the side of being a bit too warm, so as the temperature drops I think this will be just right. I look forward to trying it as winter really takes hold.

The Aubrion Woodford coat comes in seven sizes, starting in XXS up to XXL and Shires offers a user-friendly size guide online. I am 5ft4in and usually a size 10, and the size S in the Aubrion Woodford was a great fit. I had room to wear a jumper, but it wasn’t too big or baggy without one. I especially like that the coat did not feel restrictive when riding, and it feels like a brilliant general riding jacket – but it is worth noting it did not fully cover my legs so if riding in the rain, your legs will get wet. The hood is large and I like that it is padded too, I find flimsier hoods tend to fall down very easily.

Although the coat is great for riding at home, I feel it is also smart enough to wear for lessons and clinics. I wore it out interviewing on a drizzly day, and I like that the riding pleat is concealed by buttons so it turns into a “normal” coat when you’re not riding. It would be great for walking the dog, spectating at shows, or doing your weekend feed run.

Verdict

H&H Approved – I really like the Aubrion Woodford coat. It’s smart, very warm, and feels super for hacking during those soggy winter days. I look forward to trying it during some schooling sessions, especially as the temperature drops. The £99.99 price feels very fair for what feels like a well-made coat, and it has lasted well over time. I’ve even bought more Shires Aubrion products off the back of testing this coat!

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or equus.co.uk

Who tested this coat?

Becky Murray started freelance writing for Horse & Hound in 2016 alongside other equestrian titles, before joining the H&H news team in July 2018. She was made senior news writer in January 2022. During her time at H&H she has reported on a broad range of topics across the equestrian industry including welfare issues, veterinary studies, FEI Tribunal hearings, rider safety, and road safety campaigns. In 2019 she attended the national Strangles Symposium and the Scottish welfare conference.

Becky was part of the home remote reporting team for the Tokyo Olympic Games and the 2021 European Showjumping Championships and has reported from Morris Equestrian, the Royal Highland Show and Blair Castle International Horse Trials. She also regularly contributes to the weekly H&H podcast.

Based in north Scotland, Becky learnt to ride at the age of five. She got the showjumping bug with her 13.2hh older pony Phoenix, who used to particularly enjoy a chase-me-Charlie. She went on to compete in British Showjumping and riding club activities as a teenager with her pony Sparkle. After losing two horses in 2015 to illness and injury, Becky is now producing two Irish mares, Ruby and Chloe, and hopes to get back in the showjumping ring in the future. She also has two miniature Shetland sisters, Mootie and Poppet, who keep her on her toes.

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Equetech Utopia Long Waterproof Riding Coat H&H Approved

Becky Murray — Mon, 14 Nov 2022 11:06:10 +0000

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Equetech Utopia Long Waterproof Riding Coat

Winter riding is much more enjoyable when you’re able to stay dry, and that is definitely something the Equetech Utopia Long Waterproof Riding Coat can offer.

Described as the brand’s “must technical, innovative coat in its collection to date”, the coat certainly ticks many boxes for a long waterproof riding coat. It has a very luxurious feel to it and when you put it on there’s some lovely weight to it, which will definitely help with keeping warm on those chilly days.

One of the best features is the large gusset at the back of the coat, which provides plenty of freedom when you’re in the saddle – and keeps your saddle nice and dry. The gusset, which has reflective strips, zips away neatly when you’re not riding.

The gusset offers plenty freedom of movement, useful for mounting and dismounting (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Other great features include large external pockets with magnetic closing (great for when you have gloves on and don’t want to fiddle with buttons), an internal zip pocket, a large hood, additional reflective strips on the arms, inner sleeves with thumbholes, and adjustable toggles at the waist.

The large external pockets have a magnetic closing for easy access (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The one feature I wasn’t keen on was the inside leg Velcro straps. While they are a brilliant idea and I’ve found these to be a great addition to other coats in the past, the Utopia straps wrap round your leg and Velcro at the back of your leg with the Vvelcro facing outward – making them a little tricky to do up, and it feels like it would benefit from having two straps that join instead of one. I found when mounting or moving too much these came undone. However despite this, I didn’t find the coat moved without them.

The material feels really high quality and like it will be very long lasting. It has a nice stretch to it so even though you’re wearing a long coat, you don’t feel restricted by it. I am 5ft4in and the coat came down past my knees and I felt very satisfied it would keep me dry. I am a UK 10 and the small size was a great fit, with enough room for a jumper if necessary.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The 100% polyester coat, which is machine washable, has been made from Bluesign fabrics and manufacturing processes, which is a system that provides safer and more sustainable environments for people to work and live in. Bluesign traces each textile’s path along the manufacturing process, and makes improvements at every stage from the factory to the end product.

I think the Utopia is great as a coat for hacking or for doing flatwork. It is also very smart and would be a brilliant addition for teaching, spectating at shows.

Verdict

*H&H Approved* – Equetech describes the Utopia as a “timeless, heritage piece” and I absolutely agree. It is a really impressive coat with lots of likeable features, and it keeps you dry. It does come with a substantial price tag of £199.95, but it feels like a worthwhile investment and that it will last a number of winters.

Who tested this coat?

Becky Murray started freelance writing for Horse & Hound in 2016 alongside other equestrian titles, before joining the H&H news team in July 2018. She was made senior news writer in January 2022. During her time at H&H she has reported on a broad range of topics across the equestrian industry including welfare issues, veterinary studies, FEI Tribunal hearings, rider safety, and road safety campaigns. In 2019 she attended the national Strangles Symposium and the Scottish welfare conference.

Becky was part of the home remote reporting team for the Tokyo Olympic Games and the European Showjumping Championships and has reported from Morris Equestrian, the Royal Highland Show and Blair Castle International Horse Trials. She also regularly contributes to the H&H podcast.

Based in north Scotland, Becky learnt to ride at the age of five. She got the showjumping bug with her 13.2hh older pony Phoenix, who used to particularly enjoy a chase-me-Charlie. She went on to compete in British Showjumping and riding club activities as a teenager with her pony Sparkle. After losing two horses in 2015 to illness and injury, Becky is now producing two Irish mares, Ruby and Chloe, and hopes to get back in the showjumping ring in the future. She also has two miniature Shetland sisters, Mootie and Poppet, who keep her on her toes.

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Ariat Coastal Waterproof Jacket H&H Approved

Carol Phillips — Mon, 14 Nov 2022 10:55:43 +0000

Carol Phillips

Showing the waterproof quality of the coat following a hack in heavy rain.Carol Phillips

Ariat Coastal Waterproof Jacket

My first impressions of the Ariat Coastal Waterproof Jacket were very positive. It is a lightweight waterproof casual riding jacket with much to like, thanks to its stylishly fitted appearance, and it ticks all my key requirements of a jacket of this nature. It also stood up to its waterproof claims in a very heavy rain shower during its first use in the saddle.

The jacket stood up to heavy rain and strong winds during a short hack. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

My review jacket is navy and size small. I am a UK size 8 and it is a good fit. The jacket is cut stylishly short at the front, longer at the back and has two riding vents that can be easily opened and closed with zips.

The rear riding vents can be easily opened without needing to remove the jacket. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

It has “ARIAT” embroidered in white on the left shoulder and the Ariat logo on a top of the left arm. It also has “ARIAT” incorporated into the hook and loop fastening on the cuffs. None of this branding is overt and it is all in keeping with the stylish, yet understated appearance of the jacket, which appeals to me.

The Ariat branding is incorporated into the cuff fastening, which allows the cuff size to be adjusted. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Any jacket that is going to be used by busy equestrians needs to have good sized pockets, that are easily accessed and secured. This jacket has four pockets, all of which are a generously size and secured with zips, reducing any risk of an item dropping out accidentally while you’re busy doing tasks around the yard. Three are on the outside of the jacket – a pocket on each side at the waist, plus one on the left hand side of the chest – and one internal pocket, also on the left side at the chest.

The external pocket on the chest is easy to access and a good size. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The front of the jacket has a two-way zip, with a generously sized toggle for the primary slider, and a storm flap that is secured top and bottom by a press stud, which cannot be seen when closed. The jacket includes a small webbing loop that can be used to hang the jacket on a hook when it is not in use – a small thing, but one that is very irritating when it is missing.

The size of the hood can be changed via a hidden elastic adjustment on the back of the head. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

It has a generously sized removable hood, which is secured to the jacket via press studs around the back of the collar with Velcro attachments hidden inside small secluded compartments on either side of the collar at the front. Once the hood has been removed, the line of press studs can be cleverly hidden away via another hidden compartment so they do not distract from the line of the jacket. The hood has a slightly stiffened peak to help keep the rain off your face and a hidden adjustment at the rear to allow you to tailor it to the size and shape of your head.

The lining of the jacket and the entrance for the internal pocket can be seen top right. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The body of the jacket and the hood have a breathable lining, while the satin-like lining on the arms makes the jacket easy to slip on and off regardless of what type of clothing you are wearing. There is no additional internal cuff on the sleeves, but their fitting can be adjusted as needed via the branded hock and loop fastenings. I found the sleeves to be a good length.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The washing instructions state that the jacket should be machine washed separately on a delicate cycle in cold water without using fabric softener. I have washed it following these instructions and it came out looking as good as new. I have worn the jacket in light rain since washing and the waterproof qualities of the jacket did not appear to have been affected. I have also successfully sponged some minor dirt off the cuffs using just water as I prefer not to wash waterproof clothing any more frequently than is absolutely necessary.

I have worn this jacket in a variety of situations, including while in the saddle during steady rain for a number of hours while on a trail riding holiday in Turkey. The jacket retained its waterproof qualities and ensured my arms and torso remained dry and at a comfortable temperature. I found the jacket easy to put on and remove while in the saddle, it folded up small enough to fit easily inside my saddle bag when not needed, and it didn’t appear crumpled when removed to be worn again.

It’s definitely the best lightweight, breathable, waterproof riding jacket I have owned to date.

Verdict

H&H Approved – A really stylish, lightweight and breathable jacket, which is comfortable to wear both around the yard and in the saddle. It has excellent waterproof qualities. While it is not cheap, I thoroughly recommend it – it is now my go-to jacket for riding in the rain.

Who tested the Ariat Coastal Waterproof Jacket?

Carol Phillips is Horse & Hound’s website editor, who has ridden since childhood. She has a seven-year-old Irish Sport Horse kept at livery, who she rides most days.

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Coldstream Kimmerston Quilted Coat

Martha Terry — Mon, 14 Nov 2022 10:19:23 +0000

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Coldstream Kimmerston Quilted Coat

The Coldstream Kimmerston Quilted Coat is a beautifully warm short coat that keeps you snug without making you feel like the Michelin Man. The quilted panels are designed to retain heat with insulating faux duck-feather down.

What I really love about this short winter riding coat is how stylish it is. The overall look is flattering and smart, rather than wrapped up for winter at all costs, with no thought of meeting the fashion police. I tried this in the charcoal grey, which is almost black. Navy, taupe and Windsor wine are also currently available – as is a longer version. The silver zips and poppers, as well as the Coldstream badge on one shoulder, add to the chic appearance. I am a fan of the high “storm breaker” collar which you can pull up round the back of your neck to keep the wind out, and it looks good too.

The coat is warm and padded, but still streamline and chic (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Quilted coats can be very bulky, and often feel restrictive riding, but this one was great to ride in, offering plenty of freedom of movement. There also zip vents on the sides, but I didn’t find I needed to open these while in the saddle. The main full-length zip is two-way, so you can pull up the bottom zip when you’re riding to give more room for the pommel, but again, I didn’t find it interfered.

Comfortable in the saddle (even if the young horse refuses to pose nicely…) (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The fit is true to size – I tried a small which equates to a UK 10 (I’m size UK 8–10, 5ft 7in) , and it was perfect for me, allowing plenty of room for a thick woolly jumper underneath. I appreciated the length. Sometimes I find that short coats can be too short, but this is a decent length, ensuring you avoid cold draughts up your back. It is available in five sizes from XS–XL (UK 8–16).

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The pockets are great – two zip-up ones on the hips that can take a phone or a wallet. These are fleece-lined which is a bonus for cold fingers. There is also a zip-up chest pocket inside the coat.

I first tried this coat on a cold sunny day, so I can vouch for its excellent warmth and breathability. As well as the storm breaker neck to keep out the cold, it has a small faux fur collar, which is comfortable and adds to the cosiness.

A small faux-fur collar adds to the warmth-factor (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The manufacturer claims it is water-repellent, and although I didn’t test it in the rain, it looks and feels like it has these qualities.

The coat is water-repellent (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Verdict

I loved this coat – it had all the cosy benefits of the down quilting, storm-breaker collar and faux fur, but without being bulky or heavy.

In the UK? View the short version now at viovet.co.uk or equus.co.uk

In the UK? View the long version now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

Who tested this coat?

Martha Terry is Horse & Hound’s features editor. She has a horse and is at the yard every day. She is currently producing a four-year-old ex-racehorse with a view to eventing after several years off the circuit.

Hy Equestrian Synergy Shield Long Waterproof Coat H&H approved

Martha Terry — Wed, 09 Nov 2022 16:13:02 +0000

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Hy Equestrian Synergy Shield Waterproof Coat

If you want to maintain a smart appearance while battling the wind and rain, the Hy Equestrian Synergy Shield Waterproof Coat is an excellent choice. This long, padded jacket is elegant and streamline, despite its cosiness, for a fairly formal look, as it’s not bulky. You can cinch in the waist for “a flattering fit”, but this was a bit high up for my body shape, and I think it is elegant enough without pulling in the waist.

I loved the navy colour – it went well with my Pikeur riding tights. The shiny silver zips add a classy touch. The only “downside” to the smart appearance is that it’s a bit of a waste to wear it mucking out!

Rest assured, the smart look does not mean it compromises on practicality. The jacket is seriously warm. It has a soft fleece lining, including in the pockets to warm up cold hands, as well as storm cuffs for extra protection. There is also a detachable hood, which is both waterproof and warm, and it can be detached if it is annoying to ride in.

With hood up, storm-cuffs on and cinched-in waist – ready for all weathers (Image credit: creditUnknown)

I tried the Hy Equestrian Synergy Shield Waterproof Coat out initially for some flatwork schooling, and by the time I was cantering I was very warm on a mild autumn day – it will be perfect once when the temperature drops. It is breathable so although I was a bit hot, I wasn’t sweating under the fleece. Hy Equestrian also do a lightweight rain jacket within the same Synergy collection, which I’ve tried and it’s a better option for the milder days.

It is impressively waterproof. I tried it out hand-walking a horse for an hour in a downpour. Somehow there was water inside my wellies, the parts of my legs not covered by the coat were damp, despite waterproof trousers – but underneath my coat I was bone dry. With a baseball cap under the snug hood, I felt ready for whatever the weather could throw at me.

The coat is comfortable to ride in. While I enjoyed the length while out I was on my own two feet, I was concerned that as it is mid-thigh at the back, it might impede sitting in the saddle. However, in practice the length is ideal. It has vents at the back, that can go over the cantle, and a two-way zip at the front, that I pulled up a few inches to rest over the pommel.

Vents at the back make the coat comfortable to ride in and don’t interfere with your seat (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The fit is good and true to size. There are five sizes from XS to XL. I tried a size small and I’m size UK 8/10 and 5ft 7in. It is a narrow rather than puffy coat, which made me think it might not offer good freedom of movement while riding – this was not the case. However, it’s probably best suited to hacking or walk/trot rather than jumping and galloping. I would think it would be absolutely ideal for those who spend their winter days teaching, standing in an arena.

View from behind to show the two zip-up vents at the back to allow more room round the saddle, and large, fleece-lined, detachable hood (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Verdict

This is a super coat for the colder months, being very warm and waterproof. It has a smart, stylish look, so I feel it’s wasted on daily chores and ideal for when you want a slightly more formal appearance. And there’s also shorter version of exactly the same coat (with a slightly lower RRP) if that’s what you prefer.

In the UK? View the long version now at viovet.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

In the UK? View the short version now at viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

Who tested this coat?

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Hy Equestrian Synergy Rain Jacket: first look

Martha Terry — Thu, 27 Oct 2022 08:17:51 +0000

This lightweight waterproof jacket can also accommodate an under-layer for extra warmth if needed (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Hy Equestrian Synergy Rain Jacket

If you’re after an anorak with a seriously quality feel, the Hy Equestrian Synergy Rain Jacket ticks all the boxes. Some raincoats can feel a bit plasticky, but this one – made from micro polyester and spandex – is soft and doesn’t rustle when you move.

The jacket is designed to protect you from the elements, being both wind-resistant and waterproof. An added touch I liked was the thumbhole cuffs, which prevents water or wind going up your sleeves and keeps you feeling cosy (although I didn’t use them while riding). It also has a stand-up collar to protect the back of your neck from inclement weather, and a lightweight fold-away hood for when you’re off the horse, which zips up neatly into the collar.

Back of the jacket, showing the discreet fold-away hood (Image credit: creditUnknown)

I can vouch for the jacket being reassuringly waterproof. I rode out for a long hack in varying degrees of autumnal rain, from drizzle to downpours. The rain simply runs off the fabric! When I returned, my top half was bone-dry. Because the jacket is lightweight and breathable, no perspiration built up inside even during longer spells of trot and canter. There’s no padding, which makes the jacket wonderfully lightweight and easy to wear while riding. I also tried it on with a gilet underneath for extra warmth, and it accommodated the extra layer comfortably.

Impressively waterproof – the rain just runs off (Image credit: creditUnknown)

What I love about the Hy Equestrian Synergy Rain Jacket is how stylish it is. This is not simply an essential item to keep you dry, it’s chic, stylish and fits well. The navy colour is smart, while the silver zips give it a classy touch. You can also cinch in the waist with an elastic pull – and while it’s not a look everyone will go for, it flatters the figure and accentuates the rider’s waist. The hood is the least flattering component as it’s quite lightweight, but a very useful option to have and it in no way deflects from the overall look as it is tucked away in the collar when not in use.

The cinched-in elastic belt accentuates the waist for a more feminine look (Image credit: creditUnknown)

This jacket comes in five sizes from XS–XL, and it also comes in a long version. I’m 5ft7in and a UK 8 and found the size small to be just about spot-on. It is on the short side, so it never interferes with your seat or bunches up when you are in the saddle, and gives quite an athletic impression. Only when I pulled on the thumbhole cuffs, I felt the arms were a little on the short side for stretching forward for riding, but as long as I ignored the thumbholes during the ride it was perfect, and they didn’t impede at all while carrying out chores on the yard.

Without the cinch (Image credit: creditUnknown)

It should be washed inside out with a mild detergent and hung to dry away from direct heat to maintain its waterproof properties.

Verdict

Initial thoughts: I’d give this jacket 10/10 in almost every aspect! Super smart, stylish and comfortable, while giving excellent protection from the elements.

In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk, rideawaystore.com, equus.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

What is a first look review?

These are our first impressions of a piece of kit or clothing based on spending some time with it. We will have had our hands on it and given it a really thorough going over before trying it on ourselves or our horses and using it. The information we can give you after this first look will give you some sense of what it’s like to use, even if it’s only an initial view. As soon as we’ve given it a more thorough test, we will update the review with a full scoring and additional thoughts.

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Who tested this rain jacket?

Mountain Horse Flora Tech Riding Tights: first look

Martha Terry — Thu, 29 Sep 2022 09:51:21 +0000

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Mountain Horse Flora Tech Riding Tights

These Mountain Horse Flora Tech riding tights are lightweight and practical, ideal for summer on the yard. When I first put them on, they had an almost slippery, silky feel – which is very nice on the skin but I was concerned they would not be robust enough for a day’s yard chores and riding. They felt ideal for whizzing out on a run! But despite their lightweight appearance and feel, they stood up well to all a day’s work and were comfortable both in and out of the saddle.

Comfort

A highlight is how comfortable these tights are. With the wide elastic waistband, they are easy to pull on and it’s a bonus in hot weather particularly not to feel constricted round the waist. They are very stretchy, so although they look tiny when you pull them out of the packaging, they conform nicely round the leg and bum. I was surprised how flattering they are given they so lightweight, but they are supportive in the right places!

The elastic waistband and stretch fabric make the tights very comfortable (Image credit: creditUnknown)

For summertime they are ideal, because the lightweight fabric doesn’t overheat you despite being close-fitting.

Mountain Horse Riding Tights: in the saddle

Riding-wise, my concerns over their slipperiness were quickly allayed. The silicon grip pimples extend right from the seat down to mid calf, and do their job well. I unintentionally brushed past some brambles and branches and the fabric stood up well with no snagging. An additional bonus was when I was washing my horse down afterwards and spraying myself accidentally, the fabric dried almost immediately.

There is silicone grip on the inner leg and the seat (Image credit: creditUnknown)

There are mobile pockets on each leg, and I found them to be at a suitable position not to be noticeable when riding, but within easy access. They held firmly without sagging when I was mucking out, too.

There is a well-positioned phone pocket on each side (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The look

These are a flattering pair of tights, but they are quite thin and lightweight for those who prefer a more robust look in their riding wear. The dark navy colour is smart and I’d be happy to wear these both on the yard for every day and for lessons or clinics in summertime.

Sometimes riding tights come up a bit short, but these are a good length, going down to the jodhpur boot. I tried a size EU36 (UK 8 or S) and found it to be spot-on. I am a UK8 and while I wouldn’t want them any smaller, they fitted well.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Verdict

A great pair of summer riding tights. They are lightweight and stretchy, so you feel well supported within a snug fit. They have a silky feel when you put them on, but the silicone grip gives you good security in the saddle.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

In the US? View now at statelinetack.com

Who tested these riding tights?

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What is a first look review?

Fouganza 500 Women’s Short Sleeved Polo Shirt: first look

Sophie Cheeseman — Fri, 15 Jul 2022 12:53:22 +0000

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Tailored, curved back is flatteringcreditUnknown

Contrasting button panel and mandarin collarcreditUnknown

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Fouganza 500 Women’s Polo Shirt

The tailored, curved back is flattering (Image credit: creditUnknown)

This Fouganza 500 polo shirt from Decathlon is a good summer top, made from an 80% cotton, lightweight breathable fabric. It is available in asphalt blue and green (pictured, and I would say it is more of a turquoise colour). It has a lovely mandarin style collar with a contrasting panel and buttons – it is flattering on the neck and not bulky under a jumper. The sleeves have a contrasting colour binding and feature a small ‘Fouganza’ logo on the left arm. The shirt has small splits on either side to enable the longer, curved back to sit nicely. This longer back is really flattering, ensures you’re cover and is a lovely feature to the overall shape of the top.

Contrasting button panel and mandarin collar (Image credit: creditUnknown)

I wore a medium and it fitted perfectly. The shirt washed well at 40°C and retained its shape well. The fabric feels a bit cheap after a few wears, and isn’t as breathable as I expected. But it is priced at £14.99, which I feel is very reasonable for the product.

Verdict

Initial thoughts – This product is a great, low budget everyday top which looks smart when riding or around the yard.

View now at decathlon.co.uk

Who tested this polo shirt?

Sophie Cheeseman is Horse & Hound’s deputy art editor. She has a four-year-old Connemara mare with Glencarrig and Coosheen lines, imported from Ireland, who she bought to produce for dressage. Together they also hunt regularly with The South Downs Bloodhounds alongside doing low level dressage. Sophie also rides for other people, producing young horses and gaining further experience on a variety of rides.

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Fouganza 500 Leggings: first look

Sophie Cheeseman — Fri, 15 Jul 2022 12:40:16 +0000

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Nice, thick waistband kept the leggings in placecreditUnknown

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Clever zip closure pocket keeps belongings secure whilst ridingcreditUnknown

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Fouganza 500 Leggings

Nice, thick waistband kept the leggings in place (Image credit: creditUnknown)

These Fouganza leggings are available in four colours: asphalt blue, bright damson, dark petrol blue and Bordeaux (pictured). They are made from 77% recycled materials, and are super stretchy and comfortable. They have a fairly high waisted waistband, which is nice and thick so feels secure when on. There is a small logo printed on the back right, as well as a tonal ‘Fouganza’ logo on the left thigh. They have a delicate diamond shaped seat and knee grip, in tonal colours that look really nice. The leggings weren’t see through at all even after washing.

Clever zip closure pocket keeps belongings secure whilst riding (Image credit: creditUnknown)

There is a zip closure phone pocket midway down the right thigh, with the zip at the front this pocket works really well when riding (unlike other Fouganza breeches I’ve tried that have the zip at the bottom). This zip placement means that anything inside it is really secure and not at any risk of falling out. The pocket was easy to use when on or off a horse and anything in it didn’t interfere with the fit. The lower leg features a small stretchy panel to allow a snug fit around the ankle. There are a few bulky seams but I didn’t find they rubbed under socks or long boots at all.

I am 5ft8in and the leggings were a good length, possibly a little short. I wore a medium/UK 10, which fitted me snugly, but after a few wears I felt that the material stretched a little. Although testing all other Fouganza legwear in this size, I may have been better to size down with these to retain a tighter fit. They washed well at 40°C.

The leggings are priced at £39.99, which is the lower middle end of the market. I feel they are a little over priced for the quality, but they were comfortable and easy to wear. I found these to be considerably nicer than the Fouganza 100 leggings – the material is much better quality and they also had a better fit. It’s also worth noting that you might have trouble fitting one of the larger iPhone models in the pocket, especially if you have a case on it – smaller phones are no problem.

Verdict

Initial thoughts – I think these leggings are a good, mid-budget product suitable for riding, yard work and lounging.

View now at decathlon.co.uk

Who tested these leggings?

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Fouganza Classic 900 Jodhpurs: first look

Sophie Cheeseman — Fri, 15 Jul 2022 12:09:08 +0000

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Flattering, high-rise waistband with double belt loops and detail seamscreditUnknown

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Zip closure phone pocketcreditUnknown

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Soft, stretchy ankle panelscreditUnknown

Fouganza Classic 900 Jodhpurs

Flattering, high-rise waistband with double belt loops and detail seams (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The Fouganza Classic 900 jodhpurs come in two colours, deep chocolate truffle and asphalt blue (pictured), and are made from a stretchy, matte fabric. They are high waisted and feature quite a wide, thick waistband, which is very flattering. With belt loops all the way round, and contrasting tonal binding they look like they’re worth more than they are. There is a small metal ‘Fouganza’ detail on the back left of the waistband, and also a small logo printed on the right. The two main pockets have a matching tonal binding to the belt loops and are a lovely, curved shaped. There is also a zip pocket on the back right. The jodhpurs have quite a thick seam between the waistband and the ‘seat’ seam, which creates a flattering curve across the back and adds detail.

Zip closure phone pocket (Image credit: creditUnknown)

There is a phone pocket on the outside of the right thigh that, while being very secure with a zip closure, was tricky to put my phone in when I was in the saddle. The zip sits at the bottom and was worried my phone would fall out when the zip was opened. However, when zipped in securely around the yard my phone sat in a comfy position on the leg and was easily accessible.

Soft, stretchy ankle panels (Image credit: creditUnknown)

There is another small ‘Fouganza’ logo printed on the left thigh, and a sillicone knee grip panel from the mid-thigh down to the knee. From just below the knee there is a soft, stretchy fabric panel that sits snug on the ankles and doesn’t bunch up or rub under socks or long boots. I am 5ft8in and the jodhpurs were a good length, I wore a medium/UK 10 and felt that the fit and size was accurate. They washed well at 4o°C, retaining their colour and shape.

They are priced at £54.99, which I think is really reasonable. The jodhpurs are good quality, a lovely colour and comfortable to ride in and wear around the yard.

Verdict

Initial thoughts – These jodhpurs are very smart, comfortable and great value for money. I would recommend to anyone wanting fair-priced jodhpurs that look more high end.

View now at decathlon.co.uk

Who tested these jodhpurs?

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Fouganza 580 Light Jodhpurs: first look

Sophie Cheeseman — Fri, 15 Jul 2022 11:49:48 +0000

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Contrasting binding on the pockets and subtle brandingcreditUnknown

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Contrasting colour silicone grip, wrapping around the kneecreditUnknown

Zip closure phone pocketcreditUnknown

Fouganza 580 Light Jodhpurs

Contrasting binding on the pockets and subtle branding (Image credit: creditUnknown)

These lightweight, technical fabric jodhpurs appear to be fairly good quality – and although Decathlon have called them jodhpurs, the ankles are really more like breeches. They are available in dark grey, petrol blue, burnt sienna (pictured), powdery beige and dark blue, so there is something to suit everyone, even if you can’t see yourself in this orange. The fabric is matte and really flattering, with contrasting binding and pocket trims. There is a small, tonal ‘Fouganza’ logo on the left thigh. They are mid-rise, and feature belt loops all the way round. The front pockets are a good depth, and easily accessible.

Zip closure phone pocket (Image credit: creditUnknown)

There is a phone pocket on the outside of the right thigh that is very secure with a zip closure. However, when riding I found it a bit tricky to put my phone in as the zip sits at the bottom and was worried my phone would fall out when the zip was opened. However, when zipped in securely around the yard my phone sat in a comfy position on the leg and was easily accessible. The pocket did mark after use with my phone in it (shown in picture above), which didn’t come out after washing.

Contrasting colour silicone grip, wrapping around the knee (Image credit: creditUnknown)

There is full-seat silicone grip in a contrasting tonal colour that also wraps around the front of the knee and goes midway down the calf. The lower leg features a soft, stretchy fabric panel that sits snug on the ankles and doesn’t bunch up or rub under socks or long boots. I am 5ft8in and the jodhpurs were a perfect length – I wore a medium/UK 10 and felt that the fit and size was accurate. They retained their shape and washed well at 40°C.

They are priced at £54.99, which I think is a fair price. I much preferred the Fouganza Classic 900 Jodhpurs, which I think felt higher quality, but these are still a good product that I have enjoyed testing, both in the saddle and around the yard.

Verdict

Initial thoughts – These jodhpurs are a super comfy, non restrictive, lightweight material. They are comfy to ride in and look great in the summer. I would recommend for anyone wanting stylish, breathable summer jodhpurs.

View now at decathlon.co.uk

Who tested these jodhpurs?

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Pikeur Gia Grip Athleisure Full Seat Riding Tights H&H Approved

Martha Terry — Tue, 07 Jun 2022 09:06:01 +0000

Future owns

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Future owns

The glittery logo gives the leggings a touch of classcreditUnknown

Pikeur Gia Grip Athleisure Full Seat Riding Tights

If you’re new to the concept of riding tights and leggings over breeches, then the Pikeur Athleisure riding tights will be the ones to convert you. With all the benefits of leggings in being super-comfortable and easy to pull on, they are also robust, supportive and provide excellent grip in the saddle.

A wide elastic waistband provides comfort and flexibility (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Comfort is a key factor. These leggings have a wide elasticated waistband, which feels supportive as well as comfortable and unrestrictive. For riding, they feel like a pair of breeches in their thickness and quality, but as they are highly elasticated, they offer more flexibility. They have just the right amount of stretch – enough to give support while retaining the supple feel. And I found the full-silicone seat to be a major bonus, as there was no sliding around as can happen with some slippery tights. They helped rather than hindered my efforts in the saddle.

The full-seat silicone grip is an asset (Image credit: creditUnknown)

These leggings were a generous fit – I am size 8–10 and the size 8 (36) fitted very nicely. They were perhaps a little on the loose side even, meaning they can wrinkle a bit rather than looking like you’ve been poured into them, but I prefer this to overly tight. After wearing them all day they can get a little on the baggy side.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Unlike many riding tights, the Pikeur riding tights are available in both regular and long. I tried the long version (I am 5ft7in but find riding leggings tend to come up short) and found these had a good length of leg, going right down to the ankle, which is great for those of us who wear short boots on the yard. If you’re tall or have long legs, I would say these are your best option.

Good length of leg (Image credit: creditUnknown)

I tried them in Night Blue – basically a dark navy – and they are also available in black. With the glittery logo and sparkly detail on the waistband, these leggings are perhaps smarter – or more bling – than some might like for everyday use on the yard. However, the sparkle is not OTT and I think gives the leggings a touch of class. Moreover, I was happy to nip into the petrol station after a ride without feeling like I was half-dressed as can be the case with the more lightweight leggings.

A touch of sparkle in the glittery logo (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Verdict

H&H Approved – A first-class pair of riding tights. These feel supportive and sporty, while smart enough for looking good on an everyday basis. They are robust and thicker than some leggings and the full-seat silicone grip gives extra security in the saddle.

View now at amazon.co.uk, rideawaystore.com, naylors.com or sportsdirect.com

Pikeur Gia Athleisure Breeches – just £99.99 at naylors.com
Save 20% on these “H&H Approved” riding tights that our tester called “first class”View Deal

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Ariat Ascent Half Grip Tights review H&H Approved

Martha Terry — Mon, 06 Jun 2022 12:37:47 +0000

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Ariat Ascent Riding Tights

I loved these Ariat Ascent riding tights! They have all the flexibility and comfort that you would want from a pair of leggings, but with a robust, technical feel more like thicker breeches. I’ve worn them out hacking, long-distance riding and in schooling and jumping sessions, and couldn’t fault them in the saddle. They neither pinch nor wrinkle and they allow full freedom of movement, yet have enough structure and cushioning to ensure there is no rubbing.

Appearances are important even when you’re schooling at home, and these do look the part. They are smart for an everyday, casual pair of tights, and I’d happily wear them for a lesson or clinic. They look (and feel) sporty, and I like the different panels – mesh, compression strips and silicone grip – which make the tights look as technical as they are.

Compression panels run down the leg and across the thigh (Image credit: creditUnknown)

On the technical side, the highlight is these engineered compression panels, which run down the length of the leg and diagonally across the thigh. I am not currently suffering from an injury, but I did appreciate their supportive action. They are designed to deliver the benefits of athletic taping, supporting muscles and joints without constriction. This is supposed to help reduce injury and promote post-training recovery. They are so comfortable I actually wore them for a jog, and I did notice the support .

The silicone grip is effective and looks durable (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The silicone grip did its job in stopping me sliding about in the saddle. It looks quite strong and durable, so only time will tell if the pimples rub off. I’ve now worn them for several hours in the saddle and a few washes, and there is no sign of wear. A friend tells me her five-year old Ariat breeches still look as good as new, so I’m hopeful their durability compares.

The snag with some tights can be that they are overly lightweight, but that is not the case with the Ariat Ascent riding tights. The compression fabric, four-way stretch and high waist all help to make you feel supported throughout your legs and core.

Another useful accessory is the excellent phone pocket. There are two of these, which are situated in the appropriate place on the upper thigh/hip so as not to impede any freedom of movement. The flaps that secure the phone are very reassuring, and my phone didn’t budge throughout my rides. The pockets either side are handy for left- or right-handers depending on preference, or simply another phone-sized pocket for a handkerchief. Anyway, it does not affect the overall look, as the pockets lie completely flat when they are empty.

Phone pocket is secure (Image credit: creditUnknown)

I tried the black tights, which look smart. Navy is also available. They are expensive for leggings at RRP £110, however Ariat is a high-class brand and this item is quality.

A tiny bit on the short side… (Image credit: creditUnknown)

They come in sizes XS to XL. I am a size 8/10 and I tried the size small, which I feel is true to size, if anything on the small side. They feel very snug when you put them on, but not tight anywhere – you can just notice the compression panels in a subtle way. Ideally, they would be slightly longer in the leg – they only offer “regular”. I’m not particularly tall at 5ft7in and there was a gap above my jodhpur boot. It doesn’t bother me as I wear either chaps or long boots for riding.

Verdict

Smart, technical and sporty both in look and feel. Really comfortable and supportive both in and out of the saddle.

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GS Dexterity riding tights review

Martha Terry — Mon, 06 Jun 2022 08:23:20 +0000

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The mesh ankle cuff is a good touch in summertime – but the leggings are on the short sidecreditUnknown

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GS Equestrian Dexterity Knee Patch Riding Tights

The GS Dexterity riding tights are made from a combination of nylon and spandex, and designed with flexibility and comfort at the fore. This is a very lightweight garment, extremely comfortable to wear – so much so that you feel like you have stepped into the yard in your actual tights! Personally I prefer a more robust feel, but maybe a younger rider would feel more confident to wear these. In fact, I lent them to my teenage daughter who loved them.

These riding tights arrive in a 100% biodegradable zip-lock bag, which is a great sustainable initiative. However, although I do typically measure a small, when I pulled the tights out of the package I was concerned to see quite how tiny the tights are. Some riding tights are more like lightweight breeches, however, these look more like a pair of thick-denier tights. Mercifully, they stretched beautifully when I put them on, and were very comfortable around the waist and hips, with a nice, thick waistband, although they are too short in the leg. They are on the small side overall – I measure UK 8/10 and if I ordered again, I would take a medium for this garment. (My tights were marked S, which I presume equates to a UK 8). My teenage daughter is size UK 6/8 and they fitted her perfectly, although again they were too short for preference.

Riding-wise I had no complaints – the GS Dexterity riding tights are comfortable, not restrictive at all, they feel more robust than they look, and there was no chafing. The “GS” silicone grip is effective and despite the fabric being like a second skin, I did not feel like I was sliding in the saddle. However, they did wrinkle up and cling in the wrong places, which was not flattering though this may be because they were too tight for me.

I did love the mesh ankle cuff, which allowed my lower-leg to breathe under my chaps while riding, and on a hot day meant that I wasn’t sweating away doing the mucking out. However, it rather lost its cooling efficacy while I was riding because I needed to wear knee-length socks to cover the gap between my short boots and the bottom of the tights, which nullified the mesh factor.

The mesh ankle cuff is a good touch in summertime – but the leggings are on the short side (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The phone pockets are secure and in the right place on the upper thigh. There is also a zipped pocket on the back of the waistband. I like the GS logo on the left side, which apparently has a reflective hint, as it makes the tights look slightly smarter than if they were unbranded. The overall look is everyday rather than formal – I wouldn’t wear these for a clinic or lesson, but they are fine for round the yard and general riding. The only snag is that I felt a bit self-conscious going to the petrol station after my ride looking like I was in a pair of tights!

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

I tried the navy, but they are also available in petrol – an attractive teal colour. Sizing goes from UK 6–14, and they do come up a touch small.

Verdict

A good, affordable everyday legging. A simple design, but with every accessory you would want for a day on the yard, from phone pockets to silicone grip. The mesh ankle cuff is a great touch. As a middle-aged rider, I personally found these on the skimpy side – and they did come up too short for me – but they would be popular with younger riders at a very competitive price.

View now at amazon.co.uk

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Mochara Technical Leggings H&H Approved

Sophie Cheeseman — Mon, 16 May 2022 15:08:43 +0000

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Mochara Technical Leggings

When I opened the compostable packaging, the beautiful rich burgandy colour of the Mochara technical riding leggings immediately caught my eye. These leggings are very simple in design, but classy and elegant. Available in jet black, slate grey, charcoal grey, navy, berry, burgundy or mauve, plus a white competition version (with belt loops) and a limited edition black leopard print. There is plenty to choose from and they could easily be matched to a colour scheme.

The leggings are not see through (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The technical, breathable fabric feels super silky and has UV40+ protection. It feels cool on the leg especially on warmer days or during training when you are likely to get hot. They are not see-through at all, but are a lighter fabric than others so may show an obvious VPL if you didn’t have seamless underwear on.

The leggings have a lovely, wide and flattering high waistband that features a delicate Mochara logo across the back, which is the only detail on the leggings. There are tonal seams throughout the whole design of the leggings, including a “seat” seam, although there is no seat or knee grip at all. This isn’t too much of a problem for me, but it does mean they are slightly more slippy in the saddle than other pairs of leggings that have grip, such as the Aztec Diamond riding tights. The ankle is not bulky at all, I am 5ft8in and the leggings finish just on my ankle and don’t feel uncomfortable under riding or walking socks.

The pocket sits higher compared to many other leggings (Image credit: creditUnknown)

There are two phone pockets on these leggings – one on each thigh – which are neat and seamless but not overly wide. The pockets sit higher up the thigh than some other leggings on the market, which does feel more comfortable when you put things in them. However, I did struggle to get my iPhone XR into the pockets easily with a case on, but without a case it fitted snugly. The pockets are deep enough that I wouldn’t worry about my phone slipping out during riding or other yard chores.

Following the online size guide I went for a size small. I usually wear a UK 8/10 in bottoms and I’d say these are a perfect fit. They did slip a little when I was walking a long distance with my phone in the pocket. After a few wears, this also happened without my phone in the pocket, making them sit slightly low in the crotch, but I think the size down may have been too tight. They do say online to size down if you are usually between sizes so that is definitely something to consider when ordering.

The leggings are a nice simple design, and are definitely versatile enough to be a crossover between riding and every day wear. I happily wore these to the shops, to walk the dog and to the gym without feeling like they were obviously ‘horsey’. They look nice with riding tops, or even with a normal t-shirt or jumper and some smarter trainers.

They washed really well a few times at 40°C, dried nicely hung outside and retained their shape and fit well. After each wash they felt super tight again (as they were when I first put them on), my only concern would be that in time the material would stretch and they wouldn’t ping back to their snug fit. I’ll report back on this at a later date.

The retail price for the Mochara leggings is £40, which is the lower end of the market but, I feel, very reasonable for the quality and fit. I would recommend for someone wanting a nice, versatile legging that can be worn to the yard then switched up to head straight out for lunch with the girls!

Verdict

H&H Approved – These leggings are super comfy, flattering and available in a range of really gorgeous colours. I have worn them for all sorts of activities and received so many compliments. The only issue I’ve had is that they do slip down a little when worn a lot or with a heavy phone in the pocket.

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Hy Equestrian Synergy Riding Tights: first look

Sophie Cheeseman — Mon, 16 May 2022 14:35:44 +0000

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Hy Equestrian Synergy Riding Tights

These Synergy riding tights from Hy are made from a flexible material, that is supportive but not overly stretchy. I found that the legs were nice and snug, but the low-rise, thick waistband immediately felt looser than I would like and this was evident when riding or walking the dog as they did slip down quite often meaning the crotch was baggy and not so comfortable. They did stay in place when riding, however, and were very comfy and not restrictive over the knees.

The elastic ankle helps to reduce bulkiness under long boots (Image credit: creditUnknown)

They are a lovely dark navy colour (also available in black) with subtle sliver detailing to the waistband and phone pocket. There is an elasticated ankle panel to prevent bulkiness under socks and boots – it is thicker than I expected but I didn’t have any issues with rubbing or pinching.

Sticky elements provide grip from mid-calf to the top of the thigh (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The leggings feature a tonal ¾ silicone seat, while the sticky parts are little Hy logos, which is a stylish touch. The seat is not overly sticky, but provides ample grip from the mid-calf to top of the thigh area. There was a slight VPL.

The pocket is quite small, but my phone felt secure once in (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The mesh phone pocket is quite small, and the stitching pulled/laddered after a 2 hour ride on the first use with my larger model iPhone XR. It is also quite hard to get a phone into the pocket whilst riding with one hand, due to the curved shape. However, it held my phone firmly in place and I wasn’t at all worried about it falling out when I was galloping.

The tights are not see through at all, and after a wash at 40°C they retained their shape. They have all the washing and care information printed inside the waistband, and can be tumble dried. The leg length is OK, I am 5ft8in and they finish a little above my ankle. I usually wear a UK 8/10 in bottoms and these size medium fit me well on the legs but are a little big around the waist, so I would recommend sizing down if you’re between sizes to get a snugger fit.

The retail price is £44.99, which compared to other leggings on the market is a little expensive for the overall quality/fit.

Verdict

Initial thoughts – A nice looking pair of riding tights, with discreet detailing. Not a perfect fit for me, would prefer a higher waist to prevent them slipping down and a more substantial phone pocket.

View now at viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

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Aztec Diamond Icon Riding Leggings H&H Approved

Sophie Cheeseman — Mon, 16 May 2022 14:06:19 +0000

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The curved seam mimics full-seat breechescreditUnknown

The Aztec Diamond logo sits on the waistband to the rearcreditUnknown

This Aztec Diamond logo is on the pocketcreditUnknown

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The grippy logo elements help the leggings to stay in placecreditUnknown

Detailing on the outer thighcreditUnknown

The pocket sits on the right thighcreditUnknown

Silicone grips inside the pocket help to keep your phone securecreditUnknown

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Aztec Diamond Icon Riding Leggings

These Aztec Diamond riding leggings are available in 11 colours: beige, black, burgundy, charcoal, chocolate, grey, khaki, maroon, metal, navy and taupe. I have the black pair, which don’t look too dissimilar to an expensive pair of sports leggings. They arrived in really smart packaging, in a ziplock bag with a brochure and lots of clear, informative labelling about the product.

They are made from a new ‘recycled plastic bottles’ fabric, which is very soft and has a slight shine. The material is very stretchy, but not see-through, providing a nice supportive fit that also sculpts the legs, too. Even on a hot day the leggings felt breathable and I didn’t feel at all clammy, and after bathing my horse they dried quickly.

The grippy logo elements help the leggings to stay in place (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The high waistband is seamless at the front, and features a wide elastic panel inside with the Aztec Diamond wording as sticky, grip elements that help to keep them in place. When you’ve got them on, this really makes them feel secure and prevents any slipping. Even after a long dog walk, or yard work they didn’t go baggy or slip down at all. There is also subtle tonal branding on the back of the waistband. On either side there is a ribbed fabric panel, which is very flattering on the hips and again makes the leggings feel super secure and fitted.

There are silicone grips inside the pocket that keep your phone secure (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The phone pocket is on the right thigh, and is the same recycled fabric as the legging but features an Aztec Diamond roundall logo in black and dark silver. I felt the pocket was a comfortable fit for my iPhone XR, which is a larger model phone. This logo did mostly peel off after lots of wear. There are silicone grip strips inside the pocket, which are really great for securing your phone but do make it a little tricky to get it in and out while riding. The pocket is deep so you can easily fit more than just a phone in it – a good polo-storing option!

The leggings have silicone knee grip (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The leggings have silicone knee grip that sits neatly on the inside of each leg. It is tonal with a white Aztec Diamond logo in the middle. On the outside of the left knee there is also some delicate dotted silicone detail.

The curved seam mimics full-seat breeches (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The leg length is really nice, I am 5ft8in and they finish just on my ankle with soft seams that don’t rub under boots or socks. I usually wear a UK 8/10 in bottoms and these size small fit me perfectly. There is also a curved seam on the back of the leggings that mimics that of full-seat breeches, I think this detailing is nice and differentiates them from normal sports leggings.

They washed really well at 40°C, and dried well hanging outside. The fabric didn’t lose any stretch even after a few washes and the grip all over the leggings is still perfectly sticky!

The retail price for these leggings is £50, which sits around the middle of the general market. They feel high quality and I would definitely say that they are worth the money. I’d recommend these for anyone wanting a really smart, professional looking pair of leggings that stand up to lots of riding, yard work and dog walking without going baggy or looking worn out.

Verdict

H&H Approved – I loved these Aztec Diamond riding leggings from the moment I opened the bag, they are really smart and professional looking and so far haven’t slipped, gone baggy or provided me with any issues.

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LeMieux Summer Pull On Breeches H&H Approved

Sophie Cheeseman — Mon, 16 May 2022 12:51:50 +0000

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LeMieux summer riding tights

I could feel the quality of these LeMieux summer riding tights as soon as I opened the packaging and they were my favourite my far from the leggings I tested. The material is silky soft but has a nice substantial weight to it and they look so clean and stylish. The high waistband is quite thick and sits neatly above the hips, and there is a silicone ‘Activewear’ logo on the outer back, plus all washing instructions on a label inside.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The breeches are a simple design, with two tonal phone pockets, one on each leg, that have a thicker seam to the top that almost ‘locks’ your phone in for extra security. My iPhone XR fitted really well into both pockets, and was super-easy to get in as the material isn’t too tight and has a bit of give allowing you to wiggle it in with one hand while riding. The pocket on the left leg features a small, discreet tonal silicone LeMieux logo halfway up.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The breeches have a full silicone seat that goes down to mid-calf, in a striking zig zag pattern. The seat is sticky but not overly so, allowing movement in the saddle but also security. The ankles are soft and not bulky at all, sitting neatly under socks and finishing just on the ankle on legs (I am 5ft8in).

The sizing guide is fairly accurate – I wear a size 10 in these breeches, which would be my normal size in bottoms. I must admit when I got them out I initially thought there was no way they would fit even one of my legs but as soon as I got them on they were supple, comfortable and supportive without being restricting or tight anywhere.

Following a few long hacks and schooling sessions the breeches didn’t slip down or twist at all – they stayed in place and didn’t appear to get baggy or loose anywhere. The fabric is airy and breathable but not see through, and they were also super-comfy around the house, for gym workouts and for walking the dog – which is always a bonus!

They washed really well at 40°C, and didn’t bleed even in a mixed load. They dried well hanging outside and retained their shape and stickiness.

The breeches retail at £69.95 which is the higher end of the market, but I would say they are worth the money as they are fantastic quality and performed well.

In addition to the navy colour I tried, they are available in aubergine, bluebell, grey, ocean and white. I think the navy are a lovely rich colour that looks smart paired with black or brown boots, and lots of different coloured riding tops.

I would recommend these LeMieux riding tights for people wanting a good quality, smart looking pair of lightweight breeches that will stand the test of time.

Verdict

H&H Approved – These tights are super quality, they fit like a glove and feel supportive and secure in the saddle. I am looking forward to wearing them throughout the summer as they feel breathable and would style nicely with trainers off the yard, too.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, equus.co.uk, naylors.com or ebay.co.uk

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Equetech Signature Luxe Silicone Seat Riding Tights H&H Approved

Sophie Cheeseman — Mon, 16 May 2022 12:36:33 +0000

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Equetech Signature Luxe Silicone Seat Riding Tights

Having a few Equetech products already, I was excited to try these riding tights, and I wasn’t disappointed. These Equetech riding tights are made from four-way stretch fabric that on initial thoughts I was worried didn’t seem to be very forgiving, but once the tights are on they fit snugly and provide a nice supportive fit that smooths the legs.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The high waistband on the tights is a good 2–3in inches, which is really flattering and slimming. There is a silicone dotted feature inside the back of the waistband that helps to hold them in place and prevent slipping – these dots aren’t overly sticky, which is good as they are still easy to pull up!

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The phone pockets are a good size and on both legs, mid-way down the thigh. It was easy to get my iPhone XR into the pockets and it stayed nicely in place when I was riding, walking and doing other yard chores.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Down the outside of both legs there is a branded tonal ‘Equetech’ elastic strip that sits behind the pockets and stops at the vented ankle feature. The vented outer panels on the lower leg are a stylish feature, although underneath long riding socks and long boots or wellies seemed a purely aesthetic addition. However, the tights are nice enough to wear with trainers or to the gym as well so in that instance they would be on show and be perfectly useful. The tights came up a little but short on me (I am 5ft8in). There is a little bit of bulk to the flatlock seams that you can feel in tight boots but it didn’t rub or chaff noticeably.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The tights feature a snaffle bit-shaped silicone seat, which is stylish and different to others on the market. Again the silicone is grippy but not too sticky, which I prefer when schooling. The product description says the “print to the seat and upper thigh, improves grip in the saddle while allowing for smoother subtle movements of your knee and lower leg – great for dressage riders during training”. I agree that this is preferable for a deep seat, however it does look a bit odd that the print just stops below the bottom area.

They’ve been washing really well at 40°C, dried nicely hung outside and retained their shape and fit well. The matte fabric creases easily but once they are on you wouldn’t notice at all.

The Equetech size guide is a little bit confusing with crossover sizes. I am usually a size UK 10 in bottoms and wear a size small in these tights. I’d say they fit very well – if I was being fussy I would prefer a slightly higher waistband but they didn’t slip down or move too much at all so that is purely preferential. They come in sizes XS-XXXL, and are priced at £59.95. I think this is a very reasonable price for a pair of leggings that are versatile, flattering and comfortable.

Verdict

H&H Approved – I really like these tights, they are stylish and flattering without being too in-your-face. The snaffle bit silicone design is eye catching and provides ample grip in the saddle. They are very comfy, and I’d happily wear them away from the yard, too.

In the UK? View now at equus.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

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Fouganza 100 Light Horse Riding Leggings: first look

Sophie Cheeseman — Mon, 16 May 2022 12:22:01 +0000

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Fouganza 100 Light Horse Riding Leggings

On first impressions these Fouganza 100 light riding leggings look quite nice, they are made from a lightweight, silky material and this colour features a tonal swirly pattern all over. They are available in three colours, asphalt blue, cardinal pink and blue (pictured).

These leggings feature a nice swirly pattern and prevent any VPL (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The Fouganza 100 light riding leggings have a thick, high waistband that sits just on the hips. It only has a narrow elastic in, which meant they don’t feel as secure as other riding tights and leggings on the market that have a thicker elastic.

There are some bulky labels inside the leggings that were a bit irritating but they are easily removed with scissors.

A vented panel runs down the outside of the leg (Image credit: creditUnknown)

There is a shaped, vented panel down the outside of both legs, which provided a good level of breathability in warmer weather. There is a small tonal “Fouganza” logo on the left thigh, and another icon logo on the back just below the waistband.

The knee patches are soft faux leather and provide some friction but don’t offer the same grip as silicone gel (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The leggings don’t have any grip on the seat, but feature a soft faux-leather style pad on the inside of both knees – I wouldn’t say it is particularly “grippy” but does provide some friction when in the saddle.

The ankles are soft and sit nicely under socks (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The bottom of the legs have a lovely, soft ankle panel that tapers nicely with a thin seam. This sits really neatly under socks and doesn’t rub or rise up at all, I am 5ft8in and they finish just on the ankle.

The pocket is quite small but perfect for keys and treats (Image credit: creditUnknown)

There is a pocket at the top of the right thigh – it is a good size but has a very narrow opening, which meant I couldn’t fit my iPhone XR in it, even without a case. The top of the pocket has the same faux-leather binding, which looks smart. The pocket would be functional for keys or money or treats, but unfortunately not a phone, which is a shame.

The leggings are available in sizes UK 2/XS–16/XL, which is a good range. I wear a 10/medium and they fit snugly, however they very quickly started to feel loose, and became baggy around the crotch area, especially when I sat down. When on, the material feels quite slippery and a bit like a swimming costume, which for riding isn’t ideal! Without any seat grip they did feel quite unstable in the saddle, but were comfy enough for hacking, yard chores and dog walking. The material didn’t show any VPL, which is a real positive.

The leggings retail at £19.99, which is the low end of the market. I feel this is reflected in the quality of the product, they don’t feel like they would be particularly hard wearing over time but for that price I wouldn’t expect them to. They washed well at 40ºC.

Verdict

Initial thoughts – These are smart-looking leggings, but quite the material feels doesn’t feel as quality as others I’ve tested and there is no seat grip. The phone pocket is also very small. I’d recommend them for someone looking for a budget buy for every day yard chores and general low-level riding.

View now at decathlon.co.uk

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Toggi Sculptor Riding Tights review

Martha Terry — Wed, 11 May 2022 09:38:17 +0000

Toggi Sculptor riding tightscreditUnknown

Silicone pimples on the inside of the leg aid grip in the saddlecreditUnknown

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Smart either with or without half-chapscreditUnknown

No VPLcreditUnknown

Silicone pimples aid grip in the saddlecreditUnknown

Discreet phone pocket on the hipcreditUnknown

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Toggi Sculptor Riding Tights

I should admit I haven’t been brave enough to try riding tights as opposed to thicker breeches, but I loved these Sculptor riding tights from Toggi! They are extremely comfortable and smart to wear both round the yard with a pair of short boots, or teamed with chaps in the saddle.

Smart either with or without half-chaps (Image credit: creditUnknown)

For me, they ticked all the boxes required for a sporty garment appropriate for the activity. The fabric is lightweight and flexible so you are not restricted in any way – some thicker fabrics can wrinkle up behind the knees. I’ve tried them out hacking, long-distance riding and for schooling and jumping lessons and they don’t ride up, wrinkle or rub at all. They have small silicone pimples to aid grip in the saddle and I never felt like I was slipping around. They feel like a second skin but without you feeling like you’ve forgotten your trousers! Pleased to report that despite their lightweight aspect, the VPL is unnoticeable.

No VPL (Image credit: creditUnknown)

I was a little concerned about their durability as they do feel lightweight, but the fabric feels quality and isn’t misshapen after a few wears. However, the silicone pimples are starting to wear off already, and I would prefer these to be more heavy-duty.

The phone pocket is useful if you’re not riding, for instance for yard chores, but it felt a bit precarious carrying it out in a stretchy pocket, with no zip, on my hip out hacking.

Discreet phone pocket on the hip (Image credit: creditUnknown)

I tried the navy tights, which is a nice bold navy rather than really dark. Black, grey and pink are also available. The overall impression gives a smarter look than I expected for riding tights. They are reasonably expensive for leggings at RRP £57.50, however Toggi is a well-known brand and they do look like a quality item.

They come in sizes 24–34in. I am a size 8/10 and I tried the size 28in, which I feel is probably closer to a size 12. As such they were a bit loose around the waist and so tended to slip down a bit, but I think they are a true fit, I just selected the wrong size. Luckily they are high waisted so there is room for some slippage.

Ideally, they would be slightly longer in the leg – or offer a long leg version. I’m not particularly tall at 5ft 7in and would have been happy with an extra inch or two.

Silicone pimples aid grip in the saddle (Image credit: creditUnknown)

A final note – the specification says they are finished with reflective prints. These are barely noticeable, so I think of little use for reflective purposes. However, as this is not something that I’d be looking for in a pair of riding tights, this was immaterial to me.

Verdict

A smart-looking, lightweight pair of riding tights that are extremely comfortable both in the saddle and for yard chores.

View now at amazon.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

Who tested these riding tights?

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

LeMieux DryTex Breeches review H&H Approved

Carol Phillips — Mon, 21 Feb 2022 09:24:42 +0000

Carol Phillips

creditUnknown

LeMieux DryTex breeches

My first impressions of the LeMieux DryTex winter breeches were good. I liked the carbon grey colour, they have a good size waistband with robust belt loops, generous sized front pockets and the branding is subtle, which appealed to me. The material felt robust and like it would repel dirt easily, while the lining is a soft fleecy material that I expected to be warm. They have a full seat of stylish diagonal silicon dashes ovals to help with security in the saddle and stretchy inserts at the ankles.

Once on, I found the size eight to be a comfortably snug fit around my waist – I did not need to wear a belt to hold them up, but they weren’t uncomfortably tight either. The fit around my hips was slightly generous, which made them look less flattering from the front when in the saddle than the Toggi Winter Flexi women’s fleece-lined breeches. But they do not show a VPL and were very comfortable to wear for all types of riding, when doing jobs around the yard and also sitting in the car driving to and fro, which is when I’ve found the Toggi pair are a little tight on the waist. The fit around my legs was good, including the stretchy sections around my lower calf. Overall, they fitted my shape better than the Equetech H2O winter breeches.

Having worn these for a couple of months, I’ve found they are warmer than the Toggi Winter Flexi breeches, which are currently my go-to choice on milder winter and cool wet spring days. They also have excellent water-repellent properties. I have not had wet legs while wearing them, and while I haven’t tested them in the saddle during heavy rain, I’ve stayed warm and dry on cold days and while out riding in light rain showers. The silicon seat offers an ideal level of resistance in the saddle, providing grip when needed but without making me feel restricted.

The breeches have washed well, looking like new when they come out of machine and dry reasonably quickly. They are currently showing no signs of wear.

Verdict

H&H Approved – Of the three pairs of winter breeches I have tested so far, these are my favourites. They are warm and comfortable to wear in all situations and the level of grip provided by the silicon seat is the best I’ve experienced, providing grip without restriction.

View now at amazon.co.uk or equus.co.uk

Who tested these breeches?

Carol Phillips is Horse & Hound’s website editor, who has ridden since childhood. She exercises her six-year-old Irish Sport Horse every morning before work, come rain or shine throughout the winter. They are currently following a careful rehab plan, which involves ridden schooling, work in-hand and hacking to help build strength so the clothes Carol tests will have been put through a thorough workout both in the saddle and around the yard.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

Mark Todd Performance long waterproof coat H&H Approved

Martha Terry — Fri, 28 Jan 2022 08:25:07 +0000

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Mark Todd Performance long waterproof coat

Everything about the Mark Todd Performance long waterproof coat is designed to keep you warm and dry during the colder months. Although a winter riding jacket it looks sleek and smart, it is manufactured from a sturdy outer fabric with a 200g soft filling in the body and 125g in the arms. It’s more robust than it looks, and warmer too. It is not as bulky as some long coats, but it really packs a punch when it comes to withstanding the elements.

As a skiing fan, I have a good idea what’s needed to keep the cold and rain out, and this coat ticks all the boxes: taped seams, waterproof two-way zips, fleece lining, storm cuffs and a high collar to keep the wind out. If you find a hood annoying when you’re riding on working on the yard, you can simply remove it.

I tried the coat out both for walking the dog and out hacking, both on rainy days. I came home with all the parts my body was covering (which is a considerable amount as the coat comes down to the mid-thigh) completely dry.

Riding-wise, I found the coat was comfortable and fitted over the saddle and my legs without me really noticing it was there. There is a vent with poppers at the back, and a double zip at the front so you can split the coat around the saddle while still keeping your thighs dry. Some zips rise up so you end up exposing your tummy, but this stayed firm throughout the ride, in walk, trot and canter. Although it is a fitted shape rather than baggy, I had no problems with my range of movement.

I really appreciated the snug storm cuffs, as I think keeping the wrists warm definitely helps prevent freezing fingers.

Storm cuffs ward off freezing fingers (Image credit: creditUnknown)

I put the hood up while walking the dog, and there is plenty of room over the head, while the high collar means the hood stays secure and keeps your face dry too.

The hood has plenty of room and keeps the face warm (Image credit: creditUnknown)

I have tried it in freezing conditions watching a hockey match and was comfortably warm even though I was barely moving. It was about 5–10ºC when I was both walking and riding, and the coat kept me toasty warm. In fact, once I started cantering and raising the heart-rate, I was almost too hot! It is idea on a cold, frosty day.

The fit is true – I take a size 8-10, and this jacket (size S) fitted perfectly. The hood is perfect, and it has a good length of arm (I’m 5ft 7in) and plenty of room for extra jumpers or a gilet underneath. However, it really is very warm, so even on a cold day, I doubt I’d need an extra gilet.

With the high-quality fleece lining, it is snug and comfortable to wear. The arms are fairly well fitted rather than baggy, but no problems with flexibility.

I must admit I have never worn a long coat before as I didn’t imagine they would be comfortable to ride in. However, with the front and back vents, range of movement in all paces was no problem at all. The coat didn’t flap at all.

The coat is comfortable while riding (Image credit: creditUnknown)

A long coat is probably not the most flattering style if you like to show off your legs, but that’s certainly a sacrifice worth making for those of us who need to be outside all day during winter. It makes a big difference covering the body down to the mid-thigh in terms of warmth.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

I tried the brown coat, but black and navy are also available. This was the only con for me – I wouldn’t personally pick brown, and it has a slight sheen when new which looks almost a bit too smart for the yard.

As such, it is a great option for those who like to look smart, but stay warm outside. At £154.99, it’s a bit of an investment, but it’s a high-quality garment that does the job on a cold winter’s day.

Verdict

H&H Approved – This long waterproof coat keeps you extremely warm and dry – suitable for riding or walking the dog, and it looks smart to boot. The fabric doesn’t mark easily, and water just runs off, and it is resilient against scratches. It is proving to be durable, as despite being worn round the yard, in the mud and muck, it still looks smart after a few months’ wear. So much so, that I haven’t needed to wash it. However, I am happy to see it’s machine washable on a gentle cycle at 30ºC, and goes in the tumble dryer.

View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or rideawaystore.com

Who tested this jacket?

Martha Terry is Horse & Hound’s features editor. She has a horse and is at the yard every day. She rides regularly and currently competes in low level dressage and occasionally hunts.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

Toggi Winter Flexi women’s fleece-lined breeches review H&H Approved

Carol Phillips — Thu, 06 Jan 2022 15:31:31 +0000

creditUnknown

Toggi Winter Flexi breeches

My first impression was that these Toggi Winter Flexi breeches look smart and have some useful features such as the belt loops and zip pocket on the side. I like the purple contrast piping across the back and on the stitching of the belt loops. In some lights the breeches look deep navy rather than black, but they are flattering either way, although as you can see in the photos, there is some VPL shown when not in the saddle.

On first wear I found these winter breeches to be a good fit around the hips, bottom and thighs for my body shape, although slightly generous around the calves and ankles. The material is a fairly lightweight cloth that has a cosy and comfortable brushed inner and is nicely supportive, particularly around my thighs. The material around the ankles is very soft and stretchy.

The zip pocket on the side is big enough for my phone, and thanks to the zip there were no concerns about it falling out. However, when I was crouching down to fit my horse’s brushing boots, the phone did dig in prompting me to put it in my coat pocket instead. I have found the waist slightly restrictive when sat in my car driving to and from the yard.

Personally I’m not a massive fan of silicon grip full seats as I prefer to have a little more freedom in the saddle. I find the seat pattern of this pair less grippy than the Equetech H2O Winter Grip breeches, but initially I still felt slightly restricted in rising trot. This has improved over time, so either the grip is becoming less sticky, or I’m just getting use to it. Either way, I’m happy to ride in them.

These breeches are comfortable to wear in milder UK winter and typical spring temperatures (up to 10°C), as well as on cooler days. If I was hacking out on sub-zero days, I would choose to wear the LeMieux DryTex breeches instead as they are warmer, or add a pair of thermal under breeches or over trousers, but on most UK winter/spring days these breeches have kept me at a comfortable temperature. They are water resistant and I’ve remained dry when riding in drizzle/light rein, but in heavier rain the damp does penetrate the material over time – however I did not feel cold when this happened.

These breeches have washed well in my machine at 30°C as per the washing instructions and are showing no significant signs of wear after a couple of months of frequent wear for testing purposes.

Verdict

H&H Approved – A smart and comfortable pair of breeches that are suitable for most winter leisure riding and schooling – good value for money.

Who tested these breeches?

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

Equetech H2O Winter Grip Breeches review

Carol Phillips — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 11:00:42 +0000

creditUnknown

Equetech H2O Winter Grip breeches

On first glance some of the design elements of these Equetech H2O winter breeches really appealed to me, including the high waist with double front fastening and deep pockets on both upper thighs, which reminded me of the useful phone pockets found in many summer riding leggings. The material felt really robust and like it would repel dirt easily as it was quite slippy to the touch, while the lining is a soft fleecy material that I expected to be warm. Bearing in mind the slippy feel of the outer material, I was pleased to see they had a full grip seat with hatched pattern of small silicon ovals to help with security in the saddle. The breeches also have belt loops around the waist and lycra inserts at the ankles.

Once on, I found the high waist to be slightly on the tight side, while the rest of the breeches were very generous, which made them slightly baggy. I am of slim build (UK size eight) with a fairly straight up and down figure. I normally wear 24in waist breeches and had received the XS size for testing. I expect I would have found the small (S) size more comfortable around the waist, but as the XS were already a bit baggy elsewhere, I think the cut of these breeches is just not ideal for my shape. I suspect they would fit a more curvaceous body shape with more difference between the waist and hips better.

On wearing around the stable yard, the breeches were comfortable and one of the warmest winter breeches I have worn, with a supportive feeling to my lower back, but I wasn’t a fan of their baggy appearance. The nice deep pockets have plenty of room for my mobile phone without any concerns about it accidentally falling out.

In the saddle I found the grip seat a little too sticky, which caused the saddle to move the breeches around underneath my seat when in rising trot, which wasn’t a pleasant experience. This grip did proved invaluable out hacking though when pheasants exploded out of the grass beneath my horse. These breeches have kept my legs warm and dry when riding in light rain.

The breeches have washed well, looking like new when they come out of machine and dry fairly quickly, but the issues with the fit mean I have not worn them as frequently as the other pairs I have been testing.

Verdict

Keep you warm and dry both in the saddle and around the yard, but better suited to a more curvaceous body shape than my own.

View now at ebay.co.uk

Who tested these breeches?

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

Cavallo Luzy jacket: ‘smart enough to wear out’ 9/10

Jamie and Georgi Broom — Thu, 05 Dec 2019 08:25:50 +0000

Andrew Sydenham

Welcome to our group test of quilted riding jackets. All of the jackets in this group test have been put through their paces by dressage rider Jamie Broom, his wife Georgi and their team. Find out what they thought below.

Official description

The Cavallo Luzy is a ladies functional parka. It features a removable hood with a faux fur trim.

First impressions

I loved the colour, style and design of this jacket. It fitted me really well and was really true to size — you can’t really fit any extra layers underneath but it’s thick enough to keep you warm without.

Overview of performance

I wore this jacket for riding and yard work — it was really comfortable. I would say it’s slightly more than showerproof, which was good. It’s also breathable and washes well.

Their likes and dislikes

I liked that it was also smart enough to wear out.

Verdict

*H&H APPROVED* I would recommend this jacket for any equestrian.

Noble Equestrian Aspire jacket: ‘this jacket certainly had its uses’ 8/10

Jamie and Georgi Broom — Thu, 05 Dec 2019 08:24:27 +0000

Andrew Sydenham

Official description

The Noble Equestrian Aspire jacket provides warmth and water resistance to protect from cold and wet weather. The contemporary chevron design and dropped back hem provides a flattering shape and fit, while the zipped pockets with warm brushed lining provide somewhere to warm chilly fingers and store valuables.

First impressions

There were a mixture of opinions about the style of the jacket — it wasn’t my personal preference, but a member of my team really liked it.

Overview of performance

This jacket fitted well and had pockets large enough to fit a big phone, which was a real bonus. It stood up well to wear and was showerproof, unlike many quilted jackets. I wore it for riding and yard work and kept me really warm.

Their likes and dislikes

The style wasn’t for me, but it was handy that it was showerproof as many jackets of this type aren’t at all.

Verdict

Warm and showerproof — which is unusual for this style.

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