What are the best breeches for winter riding?
Jan 10,2023 | Kim Horton
When the weather starts to get cold, the prospect of riding, particularly riding out, can be very unappealing…unless you’re in the right gear. Having the right gear will make you more inclined to ride when it’s cold and it doesn’t have to cost you a fortune either.
Be prepared for the unpredictable weather that inevitably occurs from autumn through to spring and read our buying guide to find out all you need to know about the best horse riding breeches for the cold weather.
What features do good winter breeches have?
Look for the following features as these are specifically included in horse riding apparel that is designed for riding outdoors or in cooler temperatures:
Water repellent.
Windproof.
Breathable.
Fleece lined for added warmth.
Why do the breeches need to be breathable?
This is a really good question and the importance of this feature is often over-looked. Breeches ideally need to be breathable so that any moisture that accumulates on the inside can escape through the fabric. If the moisture, or rather perspiration, cannot escape, when it cools, it’ll leave you damp and you’ll get cold which is not ideal when the weather’s cold!
What are the best winter breeches made of?
The best breeches are made of a high performance material designed to cope with the rigours of the great British weather! Such as softshell breeches, made from a fabric with tight layered weaves that’s durable and water repellent. It is this that shields you from the wind, rain and snow. Take a look at our range of Winter Breeches designed with the cold, wet and windy weather in mind.
What breeches should I look for?
What to look for is a combination of what brand you tend to favour and price. As always buy the best that you can afford as buying cheaply can be a false economy which you'll only find out when it's too late!
Made from stretchy, anti-chafe, moisture-wicking fabric, these riding leggings are comfortable and flattering, with a high waist to support your core. Silicone knee patches printed in a polka dot design provide subtle grip as you ride, and deep phone pockets on the thighs allow for safe storage of your mobile that won't interfere with your riding.
HKM Rose Gold Glamour Winter Silicone Full Seat Breeches
The HKM Rose Gold Glamour Winter Silicone Full Seat Breeches will keep you warm and comfortable this winter. They feature rose gold detail with synthetic diamantes for a glamorous look, part of the HKM Rose Gold Collection.
Dublin Warm It Thermodynamic Silicone Full Seat Riding Tights
Breathable, thermal and moisture-wicking. The material is also water resistant in case of rain, and dirt repellent so hay and mud can simply be brushed off. The mid-rise, no-gap waistband fits snugly to your waist and features handy belt loops in case you need them.
What can I do if I’m not warm enough even in winter legwear?
If you suffer from chilblains on your thighs or want something made of a natural product, you need the Equetech Thermal Stirrup Underbreeches. These are less bulky than the ones above. Plus they're a seam free design, so they won't chafe your skin.
Can I make the breeches I’ve got waterproof and add more warmth?
Over trousers are a great item of equestrian clothing to add warmth and make your outfit waterproof, simply put them on over the top of your breeches! The LeMieux Drytex Stormwear Waterproof Over Trousers are fully waterproof with taped seams, they feature a full seat of silicone print to aid grip in the saddle, and fit easily over your riding breeches or jeans thanks to the elasticated waist and Velcro adjustments at the bottom of the legs.