Feature: Winter Wardrobe

FEATURE

Performa Ride Reflective Hooded Jacket

What better time for a wardrobe makeover then when the days shorten and winter begins to bite. Read on for our top tips on staying snug, dry and super stylish this winter.

With winter steadily approaching or, in some cases in Australia, already well set-in, selecting the right riding attire is a must. With a shift away from the warmer, dryer El Niño weather patterns, this winter could well prove wetter and colder as La Niña makes her presence felt.

Whether you’re out riding, or doing the feed up just as it hits dark, the only thing worse than being cold is being cold and wet. Fortunately, we’ve got you covered with the latest, functional fashion trends to keep you riding right and looking onpoint this season.

Equestrians know that staying inside, even if on some days that’s where you’d rather be, is simply not possible when you’re a dedicated horse owner. But let’s face it, we all love getting outdoors anyway, or else we wouldn’t be so keen on horses! The trick is staying warm without the bulk – being able to move and flex without being restricted, and letting your body breathe when you get your cardio trot on. So here are our tips for keeping the rain off your back and your tootsies toasty.

There’s nothing quite like layering up to keep you snug from the start of your ride until your horse is back in the paddock. Base layers are high on the must-have list, ranging from fancy, feminine options, to those that are more simple and straight to the point. A good technical piece should, of course, be functional no matter what the outward appearance. Find a base layer that’s light weight, breathable and moisturewicking to keep you cool and dry, even when you start to heat up. Many on the market are anti-odour and quick dry, both highly desirable features when exercising in cooler conditions.

Some brands offer thumb holes, to keep your sleeves down and wrists covered, while others are cut off at the sleeve, so as not to interfere with reins or gloves; personal preference is ultimately the

deciding factor here. Usually worn close to the skin, a good base layer provides an all-over level of insulation without locking in too much heat. As the seasons change, the top layers you add to your base will determine just how warm you stay. We love that there are so many colour options available in all the different base layer brands. Go for a classic look with neutral tones, or make a statement with something bright and colourful – a great way to introduce your pony’s matchy matchy colour scheme into your own wardrobe.

Experiencing that in-between feel and can’t decide if you’re warm or cold? Wear a vest to impress, the perfect piece to layer over your base. With multiple styles on the market, you can opt for a close-fitting vest with a flattering cut and additional length down over your lower back. Picking out hooves is no longer a recipe for a cold midriff with this super winter style.

Or, when temperatures plummet, you may prefer to go for a heavily padded number that really traps the warm and keeps your core comfortable. The benefits with any vest is that your arms are free and mobile, and that you stay warm without overheating no matter whether you’re riding, grooming or sweeping the yard. When it’s not freezing but the sun has lost its sweet summer promise, a vest is the perfect go-to.

When it comes to all-over cover, hooded riding jackets are a great addition to any equestrian’s wardrobe. Made from fleece-like fabric, they tend to be both lightweight and warm, with the perfect amount of stretch – an ideal style and weight combo whether you’re exercising your mount or in between rides. We’re liking options such as thumb-hole sleeves, zip closures, and one of our favourites: reflective strips along the back. A perfect safety feature if you’re riding in low light conditions, or you’re still outside past dusk.

Penny Equestrian Base Layer

Nicky Marie breeches – super comfortable whether you're on or off your horse. And as with any wardrobe item, jackets in simple, basic colours will happily mix with a multitude of outfits. But if keeping winter bright is your thing, feel free to opt for something in a bolder shade.

If you’re based in a colder climate and fancy something with a bit more padding, we think you’ll love the feel of a heavy-duty jacket. There are some beautiful choices available, and if you need superior warmth, select a jacket that is wind and water resistant and filled with high quality insulation. It’s important to consider the level of stretch offered, as staying mobile is super important while mounted. There’s any number of great equestrian styles out there that include stretch technology, meaning you stay warm while still moving with ease.

Once the wind starts whipping and the rain starts to fall, next level all-over protection is called for. Go for a 100% waterproof, windproof and breathable long lined parka, complete with sealed seams for optimum protection.

Choose one that has a fully quilted inner lining for warmth, with a high funnel neck designed to keep the warm air in and the cold breezes out. Detachable hoods offer even more versatility, and a jacket in an elongated A-line plus a back hem saddle gusset gives freedom of movement while riding. Double front zips let you zip down from the top or up from the bottom, allowing for an adjustable fit even while mounted. And you can’t go past a jacket with a multitude of pockets to store your phone, keys and other essentials. Now let’s move on to keeping your bottom half warm – but if you’re thinking thick and uncomfortable, not to mention downright unlovely, is prerequisite to not freezing your tushie off, think again! Thankfully these days you have some great options. We’re loving a modern twist on classic jodphurs. Styled for comfort and ease, these are pull-on riding tights with a grippy, full-silicon

seat, handy phone pocket, and belt loops to give the flattering appearance of traditional riding attire. Figure-loving yet without restriction, they sit smoothly and firmly in all the right places, and will serve you just as well at the gym as they do in the saddle. Featuring a fine fleece lining that sits against the skin, the lightweight, stretchy fabric is more than just Lycra. It’ll keep you warm while riding on a chilly morning, while the moisture-wicking properties ensure you stay comfortable and dry, even at the end of a good workout. Available in black, navy and graphite grey, there’s a pair to match any riding top in your wardrobe.

What winter ensemble would be complete if your ears were left out in the cold while you feed up in a brisk breeze? Protect them with a functional and trendy knitted headband, we love the ones lined with a super soft fleece to keep your ears warm on the coldest of days. We also love cosy knitted neck mufflers lined with that same deliciously soft fleece. Available in the neutral tones of navy, black and grey, these are so snug they almost make you want it to be

cold out, just so you can bundle yourself up in them.

Finally gloves, gloves, gloves, because everything is trickier with cold hands. But bulky gloves are a deal-breaker. What you need is soft feel and close connection through your reins, so you keep that line of communication open between you and your horse. Select a pair made from a lightweight material that feels like a second skin. Try some on and pick-up some reins: you’re looking for a pair that offers excellent feel and grip. With so many brands on the market, there’ll be just the pair to suit your needs, from stylish and tailored, to simple but functional. And remember to check that they’re touch screen compatible too, so there’s no fumbling to get gloves off to use your phone!

There’s really no excuse not to look great and stay snug from top to toe this winter. With options like these you’ll want to pack in as many riding days as possible, no matter what the weather, just so you can enjoy your fashion winning winter wardrobe. LEFT: Just Country Francis Softshell Vest. MIDDLE: Just Country Puffer Jacket. RIGHT: Roeckl Roeck-Grip Gloves. BELOW: Ariat Volt Jacket.