Surviving Winter as an Equestrian

The temperature is dropping here in southwestern Pennsylvania. I’ve been horseback riding for over 10 years now and it’s about this time of year that I’m asked: how do you stay warm in the winter?

I’ll share my favorite winter gear for both humans and horses!

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Winter Wear

Winter gear depends a bit on what you’re doing. I continue to take riding lessons throughout the winter, but I don’t ride below 20 degrees F.

This means two things:

I’m active and keeping warm by moving.
I’m not out in the worst of the worst weather, so my gear isn’t suited for the absolute extremes in temperature.

Now that that’s out of the way, let’s jump in!

Breeches & Base Layers & More

Modeling my Kerrits Fleece Lined Riding Tight!

The core of my winter gear is a good pair of winter riding breeches and a lightweight base layer. I also like a good pair of winter socks and multiple layers - usually a long sleeve T over my base layer plus a zip-up sweatshirt plus a windproof coat. I can layer up or down if I’m too warm or cold!

Kerrits Fleece Lined Riding Tight - I’m obsessed with Kerrits because… they just work. They fit me well, they’re comfortable, and they come in varieties for every season. Plus, they often have pockets! The Fleece Lined Riding Tight is my go-to for fall and early winter. I’m grabbing this pair if it’s between maybe 35 and 50 degrees out. It’s warm but breathable. This pair is not particularly windproof and if it’s extra frosty (in the 20s), I recommend:
- Kerrits Wind Pro Riding Tight - Advertised as Kerrits’ warmest winter riding pant, these do not disappoint! They do a good job of locking out the wind on the coldest rides.
32 Degrees Lightweight Long Sleeve Base Layer - Since I’m riding and typically run warm, I like a lightweight base layer. Right now I’m wearing this one by “32 Degrees” but I’ve used other brands in the past - any store with outdoor gear has base layers. I wear a base layer under my shirt but there are legging base layers too if you need extra warmth. Also, if you run cold, look for a midweight or heavyweight base layer rather than the lightweight.
Columbia Fleece Lined Socks - There are lots of options for warm socks! Right now my favorite winter socks are Columbia’s fleece lined socks. If you run cold, look for something with wool - those will be even warmer.
Cable Knit Hat with Pony Tail - A warm hat compatible with a pony tail - perfect!
- Carharrt Headband - Sometimes a hat is just too much - I often wear a headband ear warmer instead!
Neck Warmer - I’ve found a traditional scarf is just too annoying when I’m active so I have several neck warmers that I like much better.

Extras!

Headlamp - It’s getting dark earlier now too. Navigating outdoors is easier with a headlamp. I originally bought a cheap one for a few dollars but it wasn’t very bright and died quickly. It’s worth the extra money for one with a few more lumens and longer life.
Flashlight - Several years ago I was out at the barn when the power went out. Ever since, I keep this flashlight in my car.

Rechargeable Hand Warmer - It’s so nice to tuck my hands in my pockets with these rechargeable hand warmers.
Contigo Thermal Mug - Because hot chocolate is an absolute must. And Swiss Miss is my favorite.

For the Horse

One of the most divisive questions among equestrians: When (and whether!) to blanket?

Many horses grow a fantastic winter coat. They’re built for the cold. That said, there are still times when they can use a little help from a blanket: if they are clipped, didn’t grow a thick winter coat, are underweight, live in an especially cold climate, moved recently from a warmer climate, or especially in wet weather since wet fur loses its insulating powers.

Whatever the reason - if a blanket is needed:

Tough 1 Turnout Blanket 1680D, 250g polyfill - I bought this for a mare I was riding a few years ago who was older, a tad thin, and used to being indoors but would now have access to pasture in the winter. To be comfortable outdoors, she needed a great blanket and this did the trick. She was around 15.2 hands and I bought the 75in blanket. The “1680D” refers to a durable, heavy duty fabric to withstand horsey antics and the 250g polyfill indicates a medium-weight blanket.
- I added on an engraved ID tag so that it was easy to tell which blanket was hers if they all got piled together!

Bonus Content: Other Horse Favorites

Here are some other horse products I love, regardless of the season!

My nylon bridle, full cheek snaffle bit, and reins from “Reins for Rescues”

Nylon Bridle - My exact bridle doesn’t exist anymore but this looks very similar - nylon, easy to swap bits and adjust.
Korsteel Full Cheek Snaffle Bit - A simple, basic bit.
Reins for Rescues - Handmade reins that benefit rescue horses! (not sponsored, just love it)
Lunging Strap - Clips on to the bit so I don’t need to switch to a halter when I lunge.
Saddle Pad - I always have trouble finding one long enough for my saddle. This one works!
Half Pad with Wither Relief - My saddle is a wide tree and I use this to add some padding for horses that would otherwise need a regular tree.
Lunge Line, 24 ft - I had a 30 ft previously; it was too long and hard to use. 24 ft works much better.
Weaver Nylon Halter - The basic, perfect halter. I have the large horse and average horse sizes.