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.
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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.
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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.
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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?
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.
Franchesca is Horse & Hound’s Products Editor. She produces all of our buying guides and gift guides, as well as organising product testing and bringing you news about the latest products to hit the market. If there’s a new launch, Franchesca is the first person to hear about it. She brings you the best deals and is passionate about arming Horse & Hound’s readers with honest, unbiased product reviews. Franchesca loves letting riders and horse owners know what products are coming out, how to make their lives easier and how to spend their money wisely.
