The bra you wear could influence how well you ride, pioneering new research has found.

Researchers have discovered that different types of bras influence breast pain in riders – an important point in itself – but that breast support also has a bearing on rider symmetry. They found that when riders wore an encapsulation-type sports bra, which supports each breast in individual cups, they had the greatest elbow and knee symmetry. In other words, the smallest difference between left and right movement patterns.

“An asymmetrical rider position has been linked to reduced performance, laterality, pain and increased injury risk,” stated the study. “Reduced rider asymmetry may contribute to better tactile cue application, improving communication with the horse, enhancing rider stability, honing rider skill and subsequently impacting the experience of the ridden horse.”

The study added that consistent with previous findings, higher breast support brought the rider's torso closer to the vertical in trot.

“More upright torso positions are associated with greater equestrian skill levels, suggesting that inadequate breast support may compromise rider biomechanics by mimicking those of lower skill levels or reduce the efficacy of tactile cue application to the horse,” stated the report.

“These findings highlight the consequences of breast support beyond rider comfort, suggesting that avoiding excessive breast movement enhances rider performance, potentially improving welfare of the ridden horse.”

The study, titled The biomechanical and perceptual impact of breast support during riding and running in female equestrians, was published in the International Journal of Equine Science. It is part of an ongoing collaboration between Hartpury University, University Centre Sparsholt and the research group in breast health at the University of Portsmouth.

Researchers investigated the effect bras had on breast movement, comfort and pain and rider position and asymmetry. They also compared breast movement and pain in riding to running.

The 21 participants rode an equine simulator in walk, trot and canter, and also ran on a treadmill, while their breast movement and riding position in different bras was measured in 3D. They each wore an everyday bra, an encapsulation sports bra, a combination sports bra and went braless. They rated their breast pain after each gait, and how comfortable they found each bra.

It was found that the type of bra worn influenced exercise-induced breast pain, rider position and symmetry. Both types of sports bra improved comfort, reduced breast movement and enhanced rider symmetry and torso alignment, which the study stated demonstrates “functional implications for rider performance and potentially critical aspects of horse-rider communication that may affect equine welfare”.

“These results highlight the need for equestrian-specific bra design and practical guidance tailored to the unique movement and aesthetic demands of this sporting population,” the study concluded.

Lorna Cameron, senior lecturer at Hartpury University and one of the study’s authors, said the researchers are “incredibly excited to see this research published”.

“Breast health and appropriate support can have a very real impact on women participating in sport but there has historically been relatively little research investigating specifically the needs of equestrians,” she said.

“What makes this study particularly exciting is that we have been able to establish relative breast movement in three dimensions during riding and compare it directly with running in the same participants. That gives us a much better understanding of how the demands of riding differ from an activity on which much existing sports bra research and design has been based.”

She added that the findings also show that breast support is not just about comfort.

“The type of support worn was associated with differences in breast pain, rider position and symmetry, which makes this an important area for further research,” she said.

“We hope this work will encourage greater conversation around breast health in equestrian sport and ultimately contribute to better information and products designed with the specific needs of riders in mind.”

● What do you think? Let us know your thoughts at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, for the chance to have your thoughts published in a future issue of Horse & Hound magazine

• To stay up to date with the latest equestrian news, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Whether you love to take a little piece of the magic home, you prefer to purchase in advance or you can’t make it this year, the 2026 official Blenheim Horse Trials merchandise has been created just for you.

Rydale is the official merchandise partner of this year’s Agria Blenheim Horse Trials and its limited edition collection features rich wine and navy tones along with special event embroidery. The collection covers a range of clothing and accessories for men, women and dogs.

We’ve rounded up a few of our favourite items from the official Blenheim merchandise collection below, so that you can get the look even if you’re watching Blenheim on TV from home.

2026 official Blenheim Horse Trials merchandise

Shop the full collection now at rydale.com

• For unlimited access to the latest product news, buying guides and reviews, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Burghley Horse Trials is a great day out for any equestrian sport fan, but it’s also a great opportunity to get some shopping in, so we’ve rounded up our favourite official Burghley merchandise for 2026. Whether you want to remember the autumn event with a limited edition souvenir or pick out a gift for a horse lover, there are some great options for ladies, gents and children.

The vast shopping village at Defender Burghley Horse Trials is one of the many highlights of the event, attracting a huge collection of many well-known brands – from equestrian fashion to country lifestyle brands, there is plenty to choose from. On that note, if you’re not sure what to wear to Burghley, we’ve got this covered too.

This year’s official merchandise partner is Joules and the 2026 collection combines traditional event branding, classic Joules country styling and heritage embroidery across clothing and accessories. We’ve rounded up our favourite items of official 2026 Burghley merchandise below, so that you can shop the collection even if you’re watching Burghley on TV or following our Burghley live news service from home.

2026 official Burghley merchandise

• For unlimited access to the latest product news, buying guides and reviews, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

I’ve selected some of the best long waterproof riding coats designed to help keep you dry in the saddle no matter how heavy the downpour. Don’t let bad weather or clothing stop you from riding.

If you’ve been looking at the best winter riding coats on the market, and have decided you would prefer a long waterproof riding coat rather than one of the best short winter riding jackets, we’ve got you covered.

Best long waterproof riding coats: H&H’s quick guide

Most technical long waterproof coat: Equidry Bronte

Warmest long waterproof coat: Harry Hall All Weather Long Jacket II

Best value long waterproof coat: Shires Aubrion Eltar Long Coat

Smartest long waterproof coat: LeMieux Stormwear Performance Riding Coat

Best long waterproof riding coats

The Bronte riding coat is part of Equidry's fitted range, engineered with advanced waterproof technology. Don’t just take my word for it Equidry is trusted worldwide by riders.

There is a lot to like about this coat if you are after a long, tailored coat packed full of features. The fabric has a 20,000mm waterproof rating, 36,000g/m² breathability with Proshield technology developed exclusively by Equidry, it combines a durable polyester outer fabric with an advanced waterproof and breathable TPU membrane. The construction quality is high throughout, with fully taped seams and waterproof zips. This jacket is made without harmful “forever chemicals.” Equidry’s eco-friendly waterproofing keeps you dry while protecting the planet.

There are practical fleece-lined hand pockets, and multiple waterproof zip pockets, with well-considered positioning. The main zip is covered by a stormflap, to prevent any seepage in wet weather. The detachable hood adds versatility with toggle adjustment for an individual fit. This is a jacket for the most dedicated rider or trainer expecting to be out in all weathers and looking for that reliable protection.

This long coat from Harry Hall gives similar looking but higher priced coats a run for their money. At an affordable price this coat offers great value, good coverage and protection in wet weather. In terms of warmth, it has a thermal filling of 100g in the body and 80g in the sleeves and hood, ideal if you feel the cold.

It features a large rear riding vent for added comfort in the saddle, detachable hood, and a two-way front zip. The elasticated drawcord gives the waist a more tailored fit. It has generous side pockets and a hidden chest pocket for your valuables. This year they have released some new colours.

I tested this Harry Hall jacket and found it offered warmth without being heavy or bulky. It provided good coverage and stood up to long periods of time out in the elements. If you prefer something a little shorter, just covering the top of your thighs, Harry Hall has a very similar coat with the same waterproof rating so I’d recommend the Harry Hall Original All-Weather long coat instead.

If you have a smaller budget but want a warm, waterproof coat, this all-weather full length coat is a great purchase, especially when it is in the sale.

I have featured this coat from Shires as I think it's a strong option for riders seeking a good value warm long coat that is designed to withstand heavy rain. It combines practical features with cosy winter warmth. It offers calf length coverage for extra protection from the weather for your legs, while a hidden gusseted rear riding vent opens up to accommodate the saddle and allow for greater freedom of movement.

The two-way zip makes it easier to adjust the coat when mounted. The removable adjustable hood, stretch inner cuffs and secure zipped pockets add versatility for hacking yard duties and everyday wear.

The waterproof rating of 10,000mm is up there with some of the more expensive coats and durable water repellent finish (DWR) allows rain to bead and run off the outer fabric means it can withstand heavy rain.

If you prefer a slightly shorter long coat that reaches mid-thigh, I recommend the Aubrion Eltar Mid Length Waterproof Coat. It offers a very similar style and the same waterproof rating from Shires. Be careful you’re choosing the correct length as some retailers, including Amazon, have listed the name incorrectly.

LeMieux have used its long-standing expertise to create a jacket designed to be the one long coat you’d need for even the toughest most demanding day at the stables, weather you’re riding, teaching or working on the yard it's designed to withstand the demands of a rider who is out in all weathers.

It is crafted from a durable 15k waterproof rated shell fabric, with a DWR coating, meaning water simply beads and rolls off. The 10k breathability fabric and a vented back offer ultimate airflow for those hot moments making it suitable for milder conditions, too. Features a clever zipped side back skirt reveals a semi-circular cover to protect your saddle and horse's rump, while an inner removable apron protects your pommel and lap. The large over helmet hood is securely fitted with adjustable toggles.

This coat has a premium price but if you are after a smart long coat that will perform when riding in bad weather and low light conditions.

The All Purpose Waterproof Insulated Longline Riding Jacket is at the top of Weatherbeeta’s jacket price range, with an RRP of £149.99. It has the highest waterproof rating (15,000mm) from its range with a DWR coating to help prevent the material getting saturated and rain just beads off and offers windproof protection, too. The removable hood fits perfectly over your riding helmet to help keep you protected in all conditions.

This is a jacket which can be comfortably used in winter conditions. The fleece around the collar give a cosy, warm feel around your face when the main zip is fully closed, and this makes quite a difference on particularly damp and chilly days. Other useful features include a two-way zip, fleece pockets, magnetic back gusset and internal waist drawcord allowing a tailored fit for optimal movement and ventilation.

This long coat from Ariat combines advanced waterproof and breathable technology with practical riding-focused features, keeping riders' needs at the front of the design process. This premium long coat provides practical protection from the elements with the freedom of movement needed around the yard and in the saddle.

Features 80 gsm cool climate insulation to provide lightweight warmth in colder conditions. The longer length design offers extra coverage against the wind and rain, making it a great choice for wet-weather riding, yard duties and everyday equestrian life.

Combining Ariat’s equestrian-inspired practicality with dependable wet-weather coverage, the long rider coat would be a valuable addition to any rider's wardrobe who is planning to ride in all weather conditions.

Originally established as a classic fixture of Musto's countrywear and equestrian collections, the iconic Musto Suffolk coat made a celebrated return in September 2026 following popular demand after years out of production.

Engineered specifically for riders, this full-length coat features body-mapped insulation, completely taped seams, and a high tricot-lined collar to maximise weather protection. Crafted from lightweight, breathable waterproof stretch fabric, it offers unrestricted movement while working around the yard.

Designed with saddle comfort in mind, it includes a long back vent with snap fastenings that unclip upon mounting to keep your legs and back covered while riding. Elastic leg straps eliminate flapping in heavy winds, while a versatile two-way front zip lets you sit comfortably in the saddle without compromising top-half coverage.

Its adjustable hood can be detached or stowed away. Ample storage is provided by several pockets, and reflective details at the cuffs and hem improve low-light visibility.

Reincoat is formerly known as Equicoat and the previous model of this coat topped our guide to the best horse riding robes. A long coat built for serious weather and all-year round use. This Reincoat Lite 2.0 is an upgraded version of the original Reincoat Lite jacket, with updated styling, increased waterproof rating of 20,000mm, breathability rating of 10,000g/m², plus enhanced weather sealing. The Reincoat 2.0 is known for its high-performance waterproof protection, making it a strong choice for horse owners who want one jacket that can handle demanding conditions without feeling bulky. This coat leans more toward serious outdoor performance than casual rainwear.

The oversized stowaway hood adjusts nicely with three-way toggles around your head, with room for a riding helmet if needed. The roomy, fleece lined pockets are great for keeping hands warm on those colder days and the sleeves are a good length, with easy-to-use Velcro adjustment at the cuffs. The inclusion of hi-vis on the hood and on the reinshields is a nice added extra for anyone likely to be riding out during the winter and adds to the jacket’s versatility.

While the Reincoat Pro 2.0 has the same outer features as the Lite 2.0 it also has an added soft full fleece lining, which is perfect if you feel the cold.

To avoid accidentally purchasing the older model, take extra care when shopping, as some retailers list both the Reincoat Lite and the Reincoat Lite 2.0 under the same product page. The simplest and fastest way to verify that you are buying the updated version is to check the specifications: the 2.0 features a 20,000mm waterproof rating alongside a 10,000g/m² breathability rating.

I tested the Reincoat Lite last winter – read the full Reincoat Lite riding robe review.

This coat is Equetech’s most technical coat to date. It is based on the award-winning Utopia long coat with even more features to keep you warm, dry and stylish no matter the weather. It is made with an innovative luxe fabric and Bluesign fabrics, which is a system that provides safer and more sustainable environments for people to work and everyone to live in.

The coat features a magnetic storm flap that conceals the front zip, a rear gusset with reflective opening, double front zipped pockets, Velcro leg straps and storm cuffs. This model has improved leg straps and redesigned front pockets.

Our senior news writer Becky Murray, tested the original Equetech Utopia and said some of her favourite features included the zip-away gusset with reflective strips and the magnetic pocket closures. She said: “It is a very smart jacket and would be a brilliant addition for riding, teaching or spectating at shows.”

How to choose the best long riding coat for you

You need to make sure you pick the right coat to keep you dry and protected while riding in the rain. It’s never as nice as riding in the drier seasons, but riding in poor weather is often a necessity and can be made not just bearable but enjoyable with a reliable waterproof riding coat.

When picking your long riding coat there are a couple of style variations to consider. Some coats come down as far as your ankles, while others cover to mid-thigh – and of course there’s everything in between. There are fitted styles with rear gussets to help with fit over the saddle and prevent flapping, while others are a loose fit to sit over your existing layers – and these are particularly great when you’re standing around at a show, teaching or waiting for a lesson.

Other features to look out for are high collars, leg straps, two-way zips, adjustable cuffs, multiple zipped pockets, storm flaps and taped seams.

Who tested the best long waterproof riding coats?

Our team of experienced testers, all of whom are regular riders and horse owners, rigorously tested a selection of long riding coats. These coats were put through their paces in all weather conditions.

The testing wasn’t limited to riding; our team also wore the coats while carrying out daily yard duties, and some even had them on during dog walks. This comprehensive approach ensures these long, waterproof coats were thoroughly evaluated both on and off the horse, giving us confidence in their performance during cold and wet weather adventures.

Waterproof vs water-resistant

A waterproof coat will give you protection from rain or other water for a significant period of time, while a water-resistant material will prevent water penetration, but only to a certain level. If you’re a fair-weather rider who avoids riding in the rain then a water-resistant coat may be sufficient, but if you envisage yourself riding out at the yard in all weathers, a fully waterproof coat is the way to go.

Many manufacturers will provide waterproof ratings – and we’ve listed all the ratings we can get our hands on with each product in this guide.

Waterproof ratings explained:

• 0–1,500mm = water resistant, suitable for very light rain
• 1,500–5000mm = waterproof, suitable for light to average rain
• Over 5,000mm = very waterproof, suitable for moderate to heavy rain
• Over 10,000mm = highly waterproof, suitable for heavy rain
• Over 20,000mm = extremely waterproof, suitable for torrential downpours

Are waterproof coats fully waterproof?

A coat can be treated with a waterproof coating and have a waterproof membrane but that doesn’t mean it will be fully waterproof. For a jacket to be waterproof it needs to have taped seams. Taped seams are heat sealed seams that stop water coming through the stitching.

How to wash and reproof a waterproof riding coat

Some coats are hand-wash only, so always check the manufacturer’s washing instructions.

Most manufacturers recommend reproofing coats regularly and you can do this in the same way that you’d waterproof a horse rug.

• For unlimited access to the latest product news, buying guides and reviews, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Are you looking for a horse Christmas jumper to wear to the yard Christmas party, on a festive hack or for a relaxing after morning doing the horses? This selection of seasonal jumpers are perfect as they all have a horsey twist!

With a wide range of styles, there is something for every equestrian to enjoy wearing this holiday season. Some will be great for yard layers, while others are best saved for Christmas get-togethers. And they make ideal gifts for horse lovers, too.

H&H’s pick of horse Christmas jumpers

When is Christmas jumper day?

The official Christmas Jumper Day for 2026 is Thursday, 10 December 2026, and is organised by Save the Children UK.

It’s your big chance to raise money, have fun, and create change for children for generations to come! Sign up with your workplace, school, community or friend group and join millions of people getting silly for a seriously good cause with Save the Children UK.

• For unlimited access to the latest product news, buying guides and reviews, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Website www.luxeequine.com

Telephone 07712116023

Email info@luxeequine.com

Luxeequine was born out of a desire to provide unique British designed horse and rider products to superior standards.

Made with premium and sustainable fabrics and often made in England.

Working with top riders, professionals and those that want to work with the best brands for themselves and their horse.

There is a reason we secured two top sponsored riders in our first year of trading. Pippa Hutton and Laura Collett.

One of our self designed and patent pending products was used by Laura at the 2021 Olympics where the team won a gold medal in the eventing.

Designed by Riders for Riders

We offer beautiful rider wear designed in our design studio in Cheshire. Spanning all disciplines so that whichever riding discipline you practise you are guaranteed products of superb quality, functionality, and durability. We design everything, we do not sell off the shelf products with a logo added. We have an amazing team that bring a sketch to life online, we go through numerous sampling processes and then test, test, test with real riders to ensure the super quality that has quickly become recognised in the horse world.

A Complete Range of Unique Riding Goods

Check out our site for a full range of products from riding leggings that keep you looking smart and comfortable in the saddle to anatomical bridles for the comfort of our best friends. For a better fit, a better function and a better ride click here to start your journey.