Riding in winter, how to gear up properly?

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Choosing the right riding clothes for winter

All riders go through different phases during their training sessions: preparation, warm-up, long and/or intense effort, recovery, rest, and horse care. The body’s temperature changes regularly, meaning it has varying needs.

To be properly equipped, your outfit should:

Keep you dry in all circumstances
Maintain a comfortable internal temperature during each of these phases

Contrary to popular belief, adding more layers does not necessarily make you warmer. To retain body heat, you need to choose close-fitting clothing that prevents drafts, which are often responsible for the sensation of cold. That’s why we recommend following the 3-layer system, which consists of wearing three levels of thickness in a specific order.

The 3-layer principle to stay warm while riding

A comfortable and breathable first layer

The first layer is the most breathable. Since it sits closest to your body—and therefore to perspiration—the fabric must be able to wick away water vapor and sweat to keep you dry.

Choose synthetic fabrics that are hydrophobic: they do not absorb water.

A second layer for warmth

The second layer helps maintain body temperature. We recommend choosing it according to the outside temperature and also considering the intensity of your effort to avoid overheating.

In cool weather, a fleece jacket or a lightweight down jacket is usually sufficient. In very cold conditions, a thicker jacket or vest should be considered.

If cold is your main enemy in winter, an insulating second layer is essential. Opt for a heated down jacket to stay perfectly warm.

A third layer to protect against the elements

The third layer protects you from the elements. There are three levels of protection:

Windproof: designed to prevent cold air from penetrating the garment
Water-repellent: fabric treated so that water beads off the surface, effective in light rain or light snowfall
Waterproof: designed to prevent water from passing through the fabric, even in heavy rain

The Extrem Layer technology developed by Horse Pilot makes it possible to create garments that are fully waterproof and windproof while remaining highly breathable.

Our outfit examples

The ideal outfit for riding in wind and rain

Whatever the conditions, we recommend always starting your outfit with a breathable first layer.

In wet and unsettled weather, a windproof and waterproof jacket is essential for riders. Some hoods can be worn over the helmet to stay dry safely.

A down jacket or an insulated sleeveless vest can be added at the beginning and end of the session to stay warm, even while resting.

RAIN126|VESTE COURTE EQUITATION|FORESTNIGHT|IMPERMEABLE|HORSEPILOT

The ideal outfit for horse riding in cold winter weather

If cold is your main enemy in winter, an insulating second layer will be essential. Opt for a heated down jacket to stay perfectly warm.

Some versatile jackets combine rain protection with insulation against the cold, allowing riders to go out for long hours on trail rides without having to worry about the weather.

In extreme cold, there are down jackets that combine warmth and breathability, meaning they can serve as both the second and third layers.

Protecting your lower body with winter riding pants

In winter, riders can absolutely apply the three-layer principle to their lower body by wearing tights as a first layer. The Optimax Tights thermal leggings are perfectly suited for this role, providing extra warmth under your riding pants, which will delight even the most cold-sensitive Pilots.

In cold and wet conditions, warm riding pants will be the key piece to protect your lower body. It’s also possible to combine your everyday riding breeches with pull-on rain pants worn over the top.

Choosing boots or shoes in a slightly larger size is a smart option in winter, as it helps promote blood circulation in the feet while still leaving enough room for a pair of thick socks.