5 best gilets every horse rider needs

Despite the best efforts of September, autumn is officially here. Plus, a note on my calendar on 22^nd September said so!

If you live in the UK, you’re well aware of the changing seasons that often all occur in the space of day. You blast yourself with heat when you get in the car in the morning to go the yard but by lunch time you’re sweltering as +20C. A gilet’s an essential item of clothing in your equestrian wardrobe. It gets lots of use throughout the year, e.g. when it’s on the cool side in the changeable seasons of autumn or spring or as an extra layer of defence in winter.

Equestrian gilets used to be a breed apart from their more fashionable counterparts. However, the line between them is blurring increasingly which means that you can combine equestrian functionality with fashionable style more easily than ever J.

Having said all of the above, there’s a vast selection on the market, with most brands offering at least one. To help you make the right choice, we’ve rounded up five of the best for all budgets from £34.95 to a top of the range one at £214.95.

HKM Extra Light Riding Waistcoat

An impossibly light gilet that’s useful as an extra layer. Close, comfortable fit and at a price that won’t break the bank.  We love the cheerful colour options. Our pick is this stand-out-from-the-pack colour bright green which teams well with all basic coloured legwear of black, navy or grey. Take a look at HKM's Extra Light Riding Waistcoat.

Equetech Alpha Softshell Gilet

If you’re in the market for something a bit technical, this is the gilet for you. Breathable and water resistant, this softshell filet doesn’t add too much bulk or too much weight making it an ideal piece for piece to wear for schooling. Perfect for layering, team it with a base layer or a fleece when temperatures drop. Take a look at the Equetech Alpha Softshell Gilet.

Harcour Alpes Gilet

Classically styled gilet that includes practical features such as a two way riding zip, detachable hood and inside pocket to keep your phone in. A nice feminine touch is the pearl in all the zippers which just sets it apart. Ideal for riders who prefer slimmer body warmers as it only has a little bit of padding in their gilet. Look well turned out in an understated way. Here's the Harcour Alpes Gilet.

Montar Sophie Light Down Gilet

Fashion meets function in this on-trend gilet. Down filled for extra warmth and yet very lightweight. It’s high ribbed collar does the job of a scarf keeping out the cold. Uber smart for wearing during lessons and clinics, you’ll be able to regulate your body temperature with the obvious thermostat known as the “2-way zip”! Take a look at Montar's Light Down Gilet.

Mountain Horse Empress Down Vest

A lot of well-padded gilets can leave you feeling like the Michelin Man! This gilet doesn’t. Incredibly light and packed with a whopping 80% of ethically sourced down, this gilet is super-comfy and has a flattering cut and fit. Here's the Mountain Horse Empress Gilet.