Hunt coat - style, brand, what to look for?

[Hoofprintz]

Hi all, as the title really..

I'm an addicted newbie & now looking to invest in a warm, waterproof(?) nice fitting coat & wonder what people recommend or what to look for?

New modern one or vintage old one?

Not sure if I should go for the longer style coat or shorter jacket? Guess that's just personal preference for extra warmth?

Been looking at an Equitech longer one, has anyone got one?

Thanks

 

[spacefaer]

Go for the best you can afford! Vintage heavyweight wool takes a lot of beating but can be hard to find, and as they were bespoke, can be quite random sizes.

I have a Caldene which is now nearly 30 years old -not vintage per se -but I've never been cold and wet inside it. I've just bought a 2nd one and am hoping it'll last as well!

I would try as many types/styles on as you can, as it's important that they fit - one that is too tight or too baggy will look dreadful and won't keep you warm or dry.

Make sure the sleeves are long enough too -nothing worse than chilly wrists!

 

[tootsietoo]

I found all of the off the peg ones are a bit short, I really wanted one which came down past mid-thigh, so tried to get a vintage one. Went through 4 from ebay, none were right and all got sold on again. So I bought a new Caldene one which is actually pretty much perfect and does look good and fit well. I just wish it had better pockets. They're reasonably priced too.

 

[PFM22]

Hi Hoofprintz - I have the Equetech - I bought it last season to replace an old Caldene - i LOVE it - very comfy, very warm without being heavy, it has kept me warm and dry on every outing so far and I would highly recommend it. Zips on all pockets and inner cuff to keep draughts out - it is full of extras which I really like. It is a slightly longer style but i find it perfect on me.
I'd give it 5 stars!

 

[Isbister]

Mears make nice hunt coats, including one style that comes down to at least mid-thigh. If you can afford it, go for cavalry twill rather than melton, you won't regret the expense in the long run.

 

[Suziq77]

I've got the Equetech too, I love it - the inner cuffs are my favourite feature, closely followed by the zip up pockets and the waterproof lining AND it looks like a traditional hunt coat (I was worried it might not given it's a bit "technical"), totally worth the money IMO.

 

[Ditchjumper2]

Mears make nice hunt coats, including one style that comes down to at least mid-thigh. If you can afford it, go for cavalry twill rather than melton, you won't regret the expense in the long run.

Agree had my last one from Mears. Was measured at Peterborough. Had it fractionally longer and requested practical, larger pockets. Has storm cuffs and I chose a Rupert Bear lining. I love it......and being larger than my last one it actually fits!!

 

[stevieg]

For those who've got the Equetech is there only one style? Looking for a hunt coat for my daughter and I've already looked at these but it's difficult to judge the material from pictures. One other question. Black or Navy?

 

[Hoofprintz]

Thanks for the info guys, have gone with the Equetech. I too really like the zip up pockets & cuffs, added extras which I think make it a great coat. It was around the price I was happy to spend, fit is good & I also like the double vent. Can't fault it for the money really. Looking forward to trying it out now but dreading the first few mud splats!!
I've gone black only because I have a black hat & didn't want to replace it. Horse is piebald too so matches in!
Think these days either colour looks fine & is perfectly acceptable but seem to remember reading somewhere that navy used to be traditionally worn by ladies?