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.
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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.
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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.
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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?
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.
