Good news, equestrians: fall is here! Arguably one of the best times of year for all things horse-related, horse riding in the fall means fewer bugs and beautiful views. But it also means variable temperatures and weather that changes quickly. Knowing how to dress for the weather can mean the difference between an enjoyable ride and one that’s not so great.
What time of year is best for horseback riding?
Autumn is widely regarded as the perfect time of year for horseback riding. The crisp fall air is refreshing and usually the right temperature for both horse and rider, compared to the hot sun of the summer months and frigid winter days. If you’re trail riding, you can enjoy spectacular fall views. Nothing beats enjoying colorful fall leaves from horseback, it is truly the best form of leaf peeping. As bugs start to die off, you can enjoy your ride unbothered by flies and mosquitoes.
The horses also enjoy the crisp autumn weather. Just like humans and dogs, horses tend to be lazier in the dog days of summer, when most people would rather be relaxing by the pool instead of working outside in a hot, sandy arena. However, young horses and fit sport horses can become a bit fractious, to say the least, in the cold winter air. Fall offers the best of both worlds. Horses are usually well-behaved, but have plenty of energy as the temperatures drop from summer highs.
What not to wear when horse riding?
When you’re horse riding, it’s important to wear durable clothing that can withstand the wear and tear of caring for and riding horses. To that end, wear full-coverage clothing. Do not wear shorts, as the saddle will cause chafing and rubbing along your legs, particularly the inner thigh and calf. Also stay away from open-toed shoes, or shoes without a heel. Both of these styles can be a safety risk. Open-toed shoes will not protect your feet if a horse accidentally steps on your foot. Flat-soled shoes can slide all the way through the stirrup, creating a drag risk should you fall off and get stuck.
Can you wear a hoodie while riding a horse?
While you can technically wear a hoodie while horseback riding, it’s not always advised for every scenario. If you’re trail riding, the hood may get snagged on tree branches, causing discomfort. Hoodies also typically aren’t waterproof or durable. When you’re layering horse riding outfits for fall weather, a vest is typically a better choice.
Best practice is to start off with a comfortable sweater, like the Equine Couture Ladies Zara Cable Knit Sweater. This is a great base layer, thanks to its stylish and practical features like the quarter-zip front and cozy cable knit material. Layer a vest, such as the Equine Couture Ladies Techno Vest, over the sweater for extra warmth. It’s always good to add additional layers, particularly in the fall, as you can easily remove them if you get too hot. Finally, if it’s a rainy autumn day, add the Equine Couture Element Rain Jacket on top. The three-quarter length is not only stylish, but it will help protect your saddle from some of the rain as well. Convertible split coat tails make sure you don't sit on your jacket and keep contact with the saddle.
What pants are best for horseback riding?
While the best pants for horse riding are those designed for the sport, like equestrian riding breeches, any pair of durable pants will do for beginner riders. Most beginner riders choose to wear jeans, like the Rock & Roll Denim Men's Relaxed Fit Stretch Straight Bootcut Jeans. The best jeans for riding are extra long so they don’t ride up due to the friction created as your leg rubs against the horse and saddle. Jeans for horse riding have reinforced seams, particularly along the inner thigh, to prevent the jeans from wearing out prematurely.
Most English riders wear equestrian riding breeches every time they ride. These are made of thin, but durable, fabric to allow the rider to feel more closely connected to the horse and to better feel the motion of the horse’s back. There are two main categories of equestrian riding breeches: full-seat and knee-patch breeches. Full-seat breeches are lined with either leather or silicone along the inner thigh and seat to help the rider maintain their security and balance in the saddle. Knee-patch breeches are designed to add extra grip along the knee roll of the saddle and are favored by jumpers.
Breeches.com features equestrian riding breeches that are designed for comfort in spring, summer, and fall. For example, the Equine Couture Ladies Nicole 3-Season Silicone Full-Seat Breeches combine practicality and fashion. A phone pocket ensures you’ll have your phone on you for emergencies, while the wide waistband and soft and stretchy, nylon fabric blend wicks moisture and adds style.
If a full-seat style breech isn’t for you, check out the TuffRider Ladies Minerva 3 Season Printed Knee Patch Tights. These equestrian riding breeches are constructed of a soft, stretchy nylon/spandex blend, which allows for moisture-wicking as well as light insulation, making these breeches perfect for crisp fall days.
What shoes to wear when horseback riding?
When you’re putting together a horse riding outfit, what shoes you choose are as much about safety as it is about fashion. Shoes designed for horseback riding will feature a stiff toe and two-inch heel to protect your toes in case your horse steps on your foot and prevent your foot from getting caught in the stirrup, respectively.
Western riders will favor western riding boots, or cowboy boots, like the TuffRider Moran Leather Square Toe Western Boots. These boots have a square toe design to keep your foot comfortable with a sophisticated and feminine look. The resin rubber sole and heel offer comfort and safety, while also looking sharp. These boots can work double-duty; they look at home whether you’re in the saddle or out with friends.
English riders typically wear either tall boots or a combination of paddock boots and half chaps. Either one works to protect your feet and your calf from rubbing on the stirrup leathers as you ride. Tall horse riding boots are usually the choice of more advanced riders who compete regularly. Paddock boots and half chaps are more often worn for everyday riding and trail riding.
The TuffRider Baroque Front Zip Paddock Boots are a great choice that offer both style and fashion for autumn horseback riding. Available in both mocha and black, these fan favorite boots offer classic stylish features like a punched toe cap and spur rests, while the high quality leather and rubber outsole are water-resistant for rainy days. Plus, you can get a pair of matching half chaps with the TuffRider Ladies Belmont Leather Half Chaps to get the look of tall boots, but the convenience of half chaps.
Breeches.com: Horse Riding Outfits for Autumn
There’s something for everyone on our online tack store. From western jeans and footwear to english equestrian riding breeches and tall boots, we have something for you, no matter what discipline you ride in. If you’re looking for the best deals on autumn outerwear, you’re in the right place.