A reliable, warm, waterproof coat can be the final decision between heading out for a ride or deciding to let your horse have another duvet day in his stable. Country jackets are an essential piece of clothing for every equestrian, as they will keep you cosy, dry and comfortable during the colder months. However, there are so many to choose from that it can be difficult to decide which to add to your wardrobe.

Our country jacket guide outlines important features such as waterproofness and insulation and shares some popular brands to help you find the right jacket for your next ride. So whether you are looking for something that fits the country fashion trend or are seeking something functional and practical, read on to find out more.


What Makes Good Country Jackets for Horse Riding?

For equestrians who have their own horse or work in a stable yard during the winter, it is a priority that their jacket is hard-wearing and durable. It also needs to keep them dry in wet weather and keep them comfortable and warm, especially in frostier climates.

Waterproofness

The perfect equestrian coat and country-style jacket focuses on providing the wearer with high levels of protection against the elements. If you are spending a lot of time outdoors during the winter months, then you are likely to be out in the rain on many of those days, so it is essential to choose a jacket with a high waterproof rating. The higher a jacket’s waterproof rating, the more protection you will have. Any garment with a waterproof rating between 1,500mm and 2,000mm is classed as waterproof, however, it will only be suitable for everyday use in light to moderate rain. For days spent outside in persistent moderate to heavy rain, consider a rating of up to 5,000mm or above.

Some horse riding coats are also engineered with taped seams which prevent the ingress of water through the stitching, to ensure the garment is 100% waterproof. It is vital to choose a jacket with taped seams if you are regularly out in prolonged, heavy rain.

Insulation

For those spending time outdoors where the temperatures are close to freezing, a warm jacket with insulation is essential. Most modern coats and jackets feature synthetic padded fills that provide high levels of warmth with lightweight, minimal bulk. Down is a popular insulation too, as it has unique properties that make it highly effective with an impressive warmth-to-weight ratio.

If you are someone who feels the cold, a heated jacket is the answer! Powered by rechargeable power banks, heated jackets from brands including Equetech and HKM will keep you toasty all day long.

Extra Features

When choosing a jacket to wear around the horses or when in the saddle, look out for the right fit and for those little features that will enhance your comfort, safety and enjoyment. An effective layering system is crucial to staying warm during the winter, so make sure you have room under your coat to add and remove layers as needed. Also consider whether you will be wearing a body protector underneath, as you won’t want your jacket to sit too tightly over the top and restrict movement.

It is also important to consider whether or not you need a hood. Adjustable hoods will allow you to ensure your hood fits perfectly, while a detachable hood is great as it can be removed from your jacket when you head out for a ride.

Wrist gaiters or touch-close fastenings on the ends of the sleeves are also important, as they stop moisture and chills from creeping in and prevent your body heat from escaping. A storm flap over the main zip at the front of the jacket will also keep the elements at bay.

The length of the jacket you need is down to personal preference. You always want a jacket to cover your lower back even when you lift your arms up. Many equestrian jackets are designed with a slightly longer back to prevent there being a gap between your trousers and the jacket should it ride up. This is especially important for horse riders when they bend forward over a jump.

Long parkas and oversized-style jackets are perfect for exceptionally bad winter weather, or for trainers who spend a lot of time teaching out in the cold. These coats cover your thighs for extra warmth and comfort. If you are looking for a longer-length jacket to wear out horse riding, ensure you choose one with a rear riding vent. These back gussets open out to allow you the flexibility to sit in the saddle comfortably and provide extra coverage and protection from the rain.

Despite being functional and high-performing, a country jacket can also be super trendy too! With style features such as faux fur hood trims and patterned quilting, these thoughtful details will make you look as good as you feel. They also make the jacket great for both casual and equestrian outdoor wear.


Country Jackets – Brands to Consider

At Redpost Equestrian, we have a wide range of equestrian jackets from brands to suit all budgets.

Ariat Country Jackets

A brand synonymous with functional equestrian wear, Ariat have a wide and varied range of country jackets to suit every lifestyle. Choose from one of their popular insulated Stable Jackets for a classic look, or pick the Rhodium Parka for a jacket that oozes a true country look.

Ariat Country Jackets
Equidry Country Jackets

EQUIDRY Country Jackets

Specialising in waterproof, oversized coats for horse riders and all that love the outdoors. With both thick and thin fleece linings and a huge rainbow of colours, an EQUIDRY Jacket is the ultimate companion to see you through the winter.

Ridgeline Country Jackets

The Ridgeline collection offers reliable, hard-wearing options designed for wear in the toughest outdoor conditions. Their Monsoon II Jacket boasts a 3-layer construction with a waterproof rating of 10,000mm, making it a must-have for those who refuse to be stopped by the rain.

Ridgeline Country Jackets
Holland Cooper Country Jackets

Holland Cooper Country Jackets

For those wanting a country-style jacket, or something that blends fashion with functionality, Holland Cooper is the perfect choice. Made with premium materials and a meticulous attention to detail, they offer an array of jackets for both casual and equestrian winter wear.


A country jacket is one of the most important pieces of your outfit when heading outdoors during the winter, so you must get it right. Remember, choosing the best country coat or jacket for you will involve taking into consideration how much time each day you will be spending outdoors, whether you will be wearing it in the rain or not, and what the temperature will be.

Author