We practise our equestrian sport come rain, snow or wind. While some are lucky enough to be able to take shelter in an indoor riding arena for their training sessions in case of rain or extreme heat, this is not always the case. It can sometimes be difficult to choose the right outfit for the conditions, which is why we present “standard” outfits for each season.
How to choose the right riding equipment for each season
In winter, use layering
For the winter season, the principle of layering allows you to protect yourself from the elements while regulating body temperature.
The objective: to modulate and choose layers of clothing according to weather conditions and the intensity of effort.
The idea is to layer 3 different layers of clothing: the first serves to regulate perspiration, the second to keep you warm and the third to protect you from cold, wind and/or rain while being breathable.
- The Optimax T-shirt is an excellent first layer. Directly in contact with your skin, it effectively wicks away perspiration and dries quickly, thanks to its Thermoregulation technology.
- You can then add, as a second layer, the Merino sweatshirt, both breathable and insulating. This "wicking-insulating" combination is a very effective thermal protection base for winter.
- Then comes the third layer, the first barrier against external elements. It must be chosen according to training conditions.
If you need to brave wind and rain
Opt for the Raintech jacket, which has been designed to face the elements. It's the most protective and most breathable jacket in the collection.
It incorporates a 3-in-1 system, which allows the Rider Vest to be attached underneath, for additional warmth.
If you need to face the cold
Choose the Essential jacket: warm and breathable, it has an insulating lining, ideal for training in cold weather.
But if the cold proves intense, the Fahrenheit down jacket will allow you to spend the day at the stables, while staying warm. Its Coldblock insulation makes this down jacket the warmest jacket in the range while remaining breathable.
To protect the lower body
The layering technique applies just as much.
Thus the X-Balance Winter breeches offer an effective thermal barrier against cold, thanks to its removable bib and brushed fleece lining. To increase warmth you can wear, under the breeches, the Optimax Tights thermal leggings. It's an effective first layer.
To protect yourself from rain, you can also opt for X-Perform breeches protected by Rainpants.
Finally, for your feet, warm compression socks keep your feet warm. To complete your outfit when you're not on horseback, you can also add a beanie to protect your ears from the cold.
The layering technique is an essential technique for equipping yourself for winter seasons, but also for so-called intermediate seasons like spring and autumn.
In spring, protect yourself from unpredictable temperatures
Spring often experiences temperature variations
If temperatures rise, they sometimes remain a little cool. For this reason, it's necessary to have an outfit suitable for all conditions. Depending on the temperature and intensity of training, you'll need to remove or add a layer to achieve the desired thermal comfort and level of protection.
The Merino sweatshirt set with the Rider Vest on top is ideal for this season. The sweatshirt is both insulating and breathable, to allow you gentle training in cool weather. The vest, meanwhile, adds a little touch of warmth and style, which you can remove if you get too warm.
For March showers
The Rain Free will be your ally. Lightweight, it protects the rider from rain on the most exposed parts of the body: the head, shoulders, arms and torso. It also ensures good breathability thanks to Thermoregulation technology.
Which riding breeches to wear in spring?
Regarding breeches, you can choose between the X-Prime or the X-Balance 2.0 according to your preferences with or without grip. You can also wear Compression socks, to promote blood circulation and limit the risk of muscle soreness.
In summer, choose light and breathable outfits
Summer and its intense heat sometimes make life difficult for riders
The idea is to favour light and breathable outfits for more comfort during training.
The Ariia polo shirt is a light and breathable garment, specifically designed for training in hot weather. Equipped with Thermoregulation technology, it wicks away perspiration and dries quickly for optimal comfort.
You can then opt for X-Aerotech breeches, whose material is thin (while being opaque) and light. This outfit will allow you to enjoy your session without getting too hot.
For men, the new Atlas polo shirt, with its stretchy and very breathable material, is an excellent training polo for sunny weather. For breeches, the X-Balance 2.0 remains a classic. Versatile, breathable and protecting from UV rays, it's ideal for riding in summer.
Another essential function: protecting the rider from harmful sun radiation.
Female riders can protect themselves from it, without getting hot, thanks to the Suntech, designed to protect from UV rays, thanks to our UV-Block technology. This long-sleeved garment is designed with 2 materials, one for UV protection and quick drying, the other to promote air circulation. It's the ideal model to accompany the female rider during hot training days.
Also equipped with UV-Block technology, the X-Design breeches will allow you to protect yourself from the sun. Light colours being strong allies when the sun is present, favour light colours like hunter to feel less hot.
In terms of accessories, Light Socks, in very fine mesh, allow the rider to have better comfort in boots for high temperatures. Moreover, don't forget the cap when you dismount to avoid sunstroke.
In autumn, prefer versatility
In autumn, when leaves begin to fall along with temperatures, you should favour versatile layers of clothing, both for breathability and protection against the elements.
Equipping yourself against varying weather conditions
- For this, you can wear the Merino T-shirt as a first layer, with the Storm jacket as a second thermal layer. It combines warmth and breathability, with Thermoregulation technology, for efforts in cool weather. A drawstring at the bottom of the garment allows more or less air to pass through depending on wind intensity or temperature conditions.
- For cooler days, the Essential jacket offers the rider protection against cold, wind but also against rain. It's a very versatile outer layer.
- If the wind picks up, choose the Wind Free jacket as a third layer. Lightweight, this windbreaker jacket can be worn on foot as well as on horseback.
Once again, breeches should be chosen according to your preferences between the X-Perform or the X-Balance 2.0. Favour darker colours for this season. For men, the X-Perform is a versatile pair of breeches.
