A buying guide : Riding jackets

Specialist riding clothing is an important part of the equipment of a horse rider and many types of specially designed riding coats are available. It is vital that the rider remains warm and dry whilst still being able to move freely, which is why it is better to wear something that is designed for the purpose rather than just wearing anything. This article contains more information on riding jackets and what to look for when choosing one.

Everyday jackets

Designs There are many different designs of riding jackets for everyday riding and hacking. All of these are made with certain special elements, which are included for the rider's convenience. The cut of the jacket is generally slightly different to a regular jacket in that it is styled to allow for more freedom across the upper back, shoulders and arms. It is important for safety reasons that the rider is not restricted by their jacket. Comfort There is also usually a vent at the back of the jacket at the bottom, which allows the jacket to sit nicely around the saddle rather than making the rider uncomfortable by being in between them and the saddle. Plenty of jackets are available with reflective panels on them, which is vital if you plan to be riding out in dull conditions such as during the winter. You should also choose a breathable jacket which will allow sweat to evaporate rather than stay on your skin. These can be slightly more expensive but are worth it for the rider's comfort.

Competition jackets

Competitions Jackets designed for competitions are completely different to those used everyday. They generally fall into two categories: hacking jackets and show jackets which are both very smart and a necessity in most competitions. These jackets are generally cut so as to fit more closely to the body to keep the tailored look, but it is again important to ensure that the jacket fits well and is not restrictive. Hacking jackets are generally made from tweed and can be quite heavy. If you need to wear one for summer competitions, it is well worth finding a lightweight version which will be cooler. Show jackets look more formal and are generally dark in colour. They are usually more lightweight than hacking jackets and are made from a polyester and cotton mix. They are most commonly found in navy and black as these are usually the colours that are required in competitions.