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.
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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.
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?
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.
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.
