elscott
Active Member
That's a great point, I will definitely not go too crazy to begin with but will invest in the protective gear. Thanks for sharing!
If you were to start again with all new equestrian gear, what would you choose?
- Thread starter elscott
- Start date
gallopingby
Well-Known Member
Equidry and Uhip are both excellent brands. Uhip have been around longer than Equidry and their clothing tends to be warm yet light weight, it used to be one of the higher rated waterproof brands but Equidry probably are winning that race atm with a waterproof rating of 20,000. Both brands have their merits, they just fit differently - l have both. Equidry now make coats with a thick fleece lining (which is very cosy on cold days) or just a mesh lining. It’s definitely worth investing in good quality waterproof clothing.
Jenko109
Well-Known Member
I would quite like a Kate Negus handbag.
Does that count?
Does that count?
Surbie
Well-Known Member
One of the HHO members recommended these for cheaper riding leggings https://jodhpurs.uk/
They have an option that doesn't have a sticky bum, only sticky knees. I have switched wholesale over to them, they are so comfy.
The dressing gown coats are a godsend in winter - I have a Reincoat (cheaper but essentially the same as Equidry) and it's been wonderful for the long, freezing trek to the field each morning.
They have an option that doesn't have a sticky bum, only sticky knees. I have switched wholesale over to them, they are so comfy.
The dressing gown coats are a godsend in winter - I have a Reincoat (cheaper but essentially the same as Equidry) and it's been wonderful for the long, freezing trek to the field each morning.
ecb89
Well-Known Member
I really like black heart for hybrids, they are a cross between breeches and leggings.
I’ve spent all winter in my equidry. Almost a bit sad it’s warming up and I won’t need to wear it anymore
I’ve spent all winter in my equidry. Almost a bit sad it’s warming up and I won’t need to wear it anymore
Peglo
Well-Known Member
I probably won’t buy any other boots than Ariat now.
I really rate my Corounne equestrian leggings. They are comfy for all day and for sports too.
I love a bodywarmer so I buy ones I really like.
Weethabeeta do a really good hi-vis vest with zip pockets and its extendable so you can change the fit for different jackets.
I really rate my Corounne equestrian leggings. They are comfy for all day and for sports too.
I love a bodywarmer so I buy ones I really like.
Weethabeeta do a really good hi-vis vest with zip pockets and its extendable so you can change the fit for different jackets.
Chippers1
Well-Known Member
I'm shorter than you and I got the shorter Equi-dry coat for Christmas and I love it, it's kept me very warm! It does look a little big but I can put lots of layers underneath.
I have been buying Blackfort riding tights recently and really rate them. Tops wise just whatever I grab, normally a random t-shirt and a range of hoodies that I've collected over the years. I don't tend to wear horsey brands for the top half!
periwinkle china
Member
When I got back to riding 10 years ago, I noticed that sizing was not the same as before in riding clothes. I would recommend to try on before you order online the first time..
Would get a good pair of riding pants, and a good helmet with mips. A fleece and a outer jacket.
Would get a good pair of riding pants, and a good helmet with mips. A fleece and a outer jacket.
khalswitz
Well-Known Member
I just got back into last year after a roughly ten year break. Luckily I had kept all my horse supplies so had plenty tack and rugs and everything else I needed for the horse, but had to replace most of my wardrobe bar my boots.
And honestly? I used to care so much about equestrian brands and matchy and all that. Now I am all about comfort and am a cheapskate. I got jodhpurs in the Decathlon sale (they’re not dear there to start with but two pairs for £20 was fab), and wear my dad’s old polo shirts with them. My hat was a cheap as chips basic skull cap from CO, my wellies are dunlops, and I just wear whatever old jumper or fleece on top. But I’m not competing, so I don’t need fancy, just warm, comfy and hard wearing.
I’ve still got my old boots - EquiTector ones from 2014 that I love to death. Company has gone bust now I think but replacing boots would be the killer. At the moment, I have short boots and gaiters, but if I was buying from scratch I’d do what my husband (who has recently started taking lessons as he wants to have a go on my mare!) has done and buy a cheap but robust set of jodhpur boots from Rydale and wear chaps with them. We kitted him out with boots, chaps and Jodhs for under £100 at Blair last year!
And honestly? I used to care so much about equestrian brands and matchy and all that. Now I am all about comfort and am a cheapskate. I got jodhpurs in the Decathlon sale (they’re not dear there to start with but two pairs for £20 was fab), and wear my dad’s old polo shirts with them. My hat was a cheap as chips basic skull cap from CO, my wellies are dunlops, and I just wear whatever old jumper or fleece on top. But I’m not competing, so I don’t need fancy, just warm, comfy and hard wearing.
I’ve still got my old boots - EquiTector ones from 2014 that I love to death. Company has gone bust now I think but replacing boots would be the killer. At the moment, I have short boots and gaiters, but if I was buying from scratch I’d do what my husband (who has recently started taking lessons as he wants to have a go on my mare!) has done and buy a cheap but robust set of jodhpur boots from Rydale and wear chaps with them. We kitted him out with boots, chaps and Jodhs for under £100 at Blair last year!
Fransurrey
Well-Known Member
Whatever you decide on, browse the FB marketplace first, or Ebay (except for hat). So much for sale at a fraction of the price from people who haven't even used the item! Beware of scammers, of course and ask for a picture with today's date and your name with theirs next to the item.
holeymoley
Well-Known Member
Riding tights are less bulky that traditional jodhpurs, I think once you've worn them you won't go back! More stretchy too.
Uhip are expensive but imo worth every penny, and wash and wear well. The one I have is specifically for cold weather, it wouldn't stand up to much in heavy rain. I have a long coat for the rain though and keep my uhip for cold/frosty/snowy weather. I have an equidry too which I don't really understand the hype with them, to me they are ideal for popping over your clothes as an overcoat, or if out showing and need a coat while going from a to b. I find them too cumbersome though for daily use. I prefer a much more fitted coat.
Sussexbythesea
Well-Known Member
Boots- Ariat Tellerides with their Concorde Chaps.
As you get older I find that you need more support and cushioning from your boots. Tried cheaper alternatives including walking boots but I’ve not found anything better. Unfortunately mine only last a year at most as I wear them to death in all conditions as wellies are not supportive enough. Your feet will thank you later if you keep them supported now.
Riding tights - sticky bum Dublin, not every one likes a sticky bum
but they’re pretty handy when sitting a spook. Saddles feel super slippery to me now without one.
Equidry - medium lining, just gone through 3rd winter. A lifesaver.
Stirrups I like Acavallo Arena and I’ve also got Sprenger flexi irons which are good for helping with some joint ailments especially ankles. Both are safety stirrups.
I recommend Henry James Biogrip reins. Soft with good grip.
If you need more cushioning on the saddle an Acavallo gel in/out seat saver may be worth looking at.
For every day especially in summer I prefer an adjustable, ventilated helmet like Uvex. Make sure you have the right and up to date standard hat for the job though. (Beware old stock being sold with out of date standards) For example if you were going XC schooling you are usually required to wear a jockey skull type hat without a fixed peak and a standard back protector. You may wear an air-jacket over the top in addition but not on its own. You do need to be able to attach it to the saddle via a strap attached to the stirrup bars. At any other time you can wear an air-jacket on its own.
All my turn-out rugs are Horseware.
Don’t bother so much with stable specific rugs as modern turnouts can be left on and dry better that way too. Where I do have them I have Shires mainly.
Roeckl Chester’s or Winter Chester’s are my go to glove.
Hi-viz clothing -minimum a tabard / gilet style. Horse brands are expensive and not particularly robust although I currently have an Equisafety waistcoat with a broken zip and holes in pockets.
As you get older I find that you need more support and cushioning from your boots. Tried cheaper alternatives including walking boots but I’ve not found anything better. Unfortunately mine only last a year at most as I wear them to death in all conditions as wellies are not supportive enough. Your feet will thank you later if you keep them supported now.
Riding tights - sticky bum Dublin, not every one likes a sticky bum
but they’re pretty handy when sitting a spook. Saddles feel super slippery to me now without one. Equidry - medium lining, just gone through 3rd winter. A lifesaver.
Stirrups I like Acavallo Arena and I’ve also got Sprenger flexi irons which are good for helping with some joint ailments especially ankles. Both are safety stirrups.
I recommend Henry James Biogrip reins. Soft with good grip.
If you need more cushioning on the saddle an Acavallo gel in/out seat saver may be worth looking at.
For every day especially in summer I prefer an adjustable, ventilated helmet like Uvex. Make sure you have the right and up to date standard hat for the job though. (Beware old stock being sold with out of date standards) For example if you were going XC schooling you are usually required to wear a jockey skull type hat without a fixed peak and a standard back protector. You may wear an air-jacket over the top in addition but not on its own. You do need to be able to attach it to the saddle via a strap attached to the stirrup bars. At any other time you can wear an air-jacket on its own.
All my turn-out rugs are Horseware.
Don’t bother so much with stable specific rugs as modern turnouts can be left on and dry better that way too. Where I do have them I have Shires mainly.
Roeckl Chester’s or Winter Chester’s are my go to glove.
Hi-viz clothing -minimum a tabard / gilet style. Horse brands are expensive and not particularly robust although I currently have an Equisafety waistcoat with a broken zip and holes in pockets.
elscott
Active Member
Hey,Boots- Ariat Tellerides with their Concorde Chaps.
As you get older I find that you need more support and cushioning from your boots. Tried cheaper alternatives including walking boots but I’ve not found anything better. Unfortunately mine only last a year at most as I wear them to death in all conditions as wellies are not supportive enough. Your feet will thank you later if you keep them supported now.
Riding tights - sticky bum Dublin, not every one likes a sticky bum
Equidry - medium lining, just gone through 3rd winter. A lifesaver.
Stirrups I like Acavallo Arena and I’ve also got Sprenger flexi irons which are good for helping with some joint ailments especially ankles. Both are safety stirrups.
I recommend Henry James Biogrip reins. Soft with good grip.
If you need more cushioning on the saddle an Acavallo gel in/out seat saver may be worth looking at.
For every day especially in summer I prefer an adjustable, ventilated helmet like Uvex. Make sure you have the right and up to date standard hat for the job though. (Beware old stock being sold with out of date standards) For example if you were going XC schooling you are usually required to wear a jockey skull type hat without a fixed peak and a standard back protector. You may wear an air-jacket over the top in addition but not on its own. You do need to be able to attach it to the saddle via a strap attached to the stirrup bars. At any other time you can wear an air-jacket on its own.
All my turn-out rugs are Horseware.
Don’t bother so much with stable specific rugs as modern turnouts can be left on and dry better that way too. Where I do have them I have Shires mainly.
Roeckl Chester’s or Winter Chester’s are my go to glove.
Hi-viz clothing -minimum a tabard / gilet style. Horse brands are expensive and not particularly robust although I currently have an Equisafety waistcoat with a broken zip and holes in pockets.
Thanks so much for all these recommendations—this is exactly the kind of insight I need!
The Ariat Tellurides with Concorde Chaps sound great, and I totally agree that support and cushioning become more important as we get older (and I have hEDS so my joints and muscles need extra support!). I’ll definitely prioritise comfort and support over trying to save in the wrong places!
Sticky bum Dublin riding tights—love this!
I can definitely see the benefit for sitting a spook, especially while getting my confidence back. Equidry sounds like an absolute game-changer for winter. I’ve heard great things—sounds like it is worth the investment if you’re onto your third winter with it!
I hadn’t looked into Henry James Biogrip reins, but they sound ideal—soft yet grippy is exactly what I need. The Acavallo gel seat saver is also a great shout if I need a bit more cushioning in the saddle.
Helmet-wise, I love the idea of an adjustable, ventilated Uvex for summer—ventilation makes such a difference! And thanks for the hat safety reminder—it’s easy to get caught out with outdated standards. I’ll make sure whatever I get is up to date and suited to the type of riding I’m doing.
The Roeckl Chester gloves seem a popular shout so I'll definitely look to get these.
Good tip on Hi-viz—I might look at different brands.
Honestly, this has been so helpful—thank you for taking the time to share all of this! My shopping list is growing fast, but at least now I have tried-and-tested recommendations rather than taking random guesses.
Best,
Emma
elscott
Active Member
Hello!
Thanks for the link! I hadn’t come across jodhpurs.uk before. I’ll definitely check them out!
And yes, the dressing gown coats sound like an absolute must-have for winter. Anything that makes those freezing winter field treks more bearable is a winner in my book!
Really appreciate the recommendations—thank you!
elscott
Active Member
Hi there! I really appreciate your reply,I really like black heart for hybrids, they are a cross between breeches and leggings.
I’ve spent all winter in my equidry. Almost a bit sad it’s warming up and I won’t need to wear it anymore
I totally get that—I’m a bit odd in that I’m actually more of a winter person, so I completely understand! There’s something nice about layering up and staying cosy rather than dealing with the heat.
Thank you for the recommmendation of Black Heart for hybrids.
Thanks again for the recommendations!
elscott
Active Member
Hello!
That makes total sense—once you find boots that work, it’s hard to go back! Ariat really does seem to be a winner for comfort and durability.
Corounne leggings, is another one for the list. Thank you! They sound great if they’re comfy enough for all-day wear.
The Weatherbeeta hi-vis vest sounds ideal, especially as it is adjustable for different jackets—that’s such a clever design. I’ll have a look for one.
Thank you for the recommendations—really appreciate it!
elscott
Active Member
Hello!
That’s great to hear they have a shorter version of the Equi-Dry. I don’t mind things looking a little big as long as they do the job of keeping me warm and dry!
I haven’t tried Blackfort riding tights, but i will definitely add them to my list.
Thanks for sharing your go-to kit—always great to hear what works for others!
elscott
Active Member
Hi!
That’s really good to know regarding sizing. I imagine it varies even more between brands. I’ll definitely try things on in-store where I can before ordering online. I appreciate that tip.
A helmet with MIPS sounds like a must.
Thanks for the advice, I really appreciate it!
elscott
Active Member
Hello! Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
That’s amazing that you kept all your horse supplies. I’m definitely in the same boat with needing to replace my wardrobe though.
I like your approach to riding gear now—it doesn’t all have to be equestrian brands! It’s all about keeping warm, comfy, and practical rather than spending for the sake of it.
That’s amazing that your EquiTector boots from 2014 are still going strong—it’s a shame the company’s gone, as good boots are so hard to replace!
I really appreciate these recommendations—it’s great to hear what actually lasts without breaking the bank. Thanks again!
elscott
Active Member
Hello!
That’s such a great tip! FB Marketplace and eBay are definitely worth checking out—great to know people sell things they’ve barely used at a fraction of the price!
Good call on avoiding second-hand hats—that’s one thing I’ll always buy new for safety. I’ll look to get this fitted.
Also, thanks for the scammer warning—asking for a photo with today’s date and names next to the item is a brilliant way to check legitimacy. I’ll keep that in mind!
Appreciate the advice—thank you!
elscott
Active Member
Hi again!
That makes so much sense—I’ve heard so many people say that once you switch to riding tights, you never go back to jodhpurs! I can definitely see how the extra stretch and less bulk would make them way more comfortable.
Good to know that Uhip is worth the investment—I like that they wash and wear well. Sounds like they’re perfect for cold, frosty, and snowy weather.
Interesting take on Equidry—I will see if they would feel cumbersome to ride in and if I’d prefer a more fitted coat.
Thanks for the insight—really helpful to hear real experiences with these brands before I buy!
Kirstineridesagain
Well-Known Member
My Shires Moretta Pamina boots were definitely leather! Worn almost every day in winter (not just for riding) they sadly wore out - probably thanks to me getting them muddy too often and then cleaning them a bit too harshly). I think I’ll get another pair soon…
Kirstineridesagain
Well-Known Member
My Harry Hall all weather/winter coat is great, and not too expensive.I wear it on or off the horse. I have a thick, heavy Reincoat but it’s quite unflattering. I only wear it for the yard on very cold and wet days, and for dog walking.
spotty_pony2
Well-Known Member
the le mieux long riding coat is a must for in winter - never had a coat that’s so warm!
elscott
Active Member
Thank you! Will check this out as well.
Kunoichi73
Beware... My Plants...
I've got some very comfortable Harry Hall softshell micro fleece breeches for winter.
I recommend eGloves for riding.
For tops, I wear wicking sports tops bought at least with a half price discount from various sports sites like Sports Pursuit and Sports Shoes.
I recommend eGloves for riding.
For tops, I wear wicking sports tops bought at least with a half price discount from various sports sites like Sports Pursuit and Sports Shoes.
elscott
Active Member
Hi!
The Harry Hall softshell micro fleece breeches sound great for winter!
I hadn’t heard of eGloves before, but I’ll check them out, thank you.
Great tip on wicking sports tops!
Really appreciate the recommendations—thank you!
Cloball
Well-Known Member
I started from scratch when I bought my pony 2 years ago after a bit of a break. I love riding tights the pockets on the sides are the best but they are not all created equal some are quite thick and other quite thin, my Dublin's I only wear in the summer but my funky fit ones I wear pretty much daily unless it's very cold.
I love seal skins for socks and gloves.
I've also converted half my yard and my instructor to wide tread plastic stirrups I have compositi reflexes. There are more expensive and fancier styles but I think these are great.
I splashed out on a high Viz Reincoat this year as my pony is now living out and it's been a life saver in the storms! I ride in it and it's definitely encouraged me to be less fair weather and I'm pretty sure you can see me from space in it.
My summer high Viz is mostly cycling stuff I've picked up cheap I like it as they are often long and covered your bum but also light weight with handy pockets.
Walking shops are also great for picking things up in the sales as people have mentioned although the coats I find are not quite hardy enough to cope with horses and all the scrapes. I have some warm Rab walking trousers that definitely won't survive a minute in a field with a horse
but my cheap softshell ones do the worst weather lugging hay and icey buckets so it's good to check the fabric.
Hats I stick with my C&O 4 star I'm on my third now. They are not the most modern looking or sleek but the shape has always fit my head and they have some of the most safety certs in one hat. I've struggled to find a MIPS I like as much as I rate the SNEL standard. Plus I left one on the roof of my car and it crashed off onto the road at about 50mph and was barely scratched
I have a race safe body protector which is much more comfortable than my bps 20 years ago I'm considered an air jacket as I don't feel it's helping my back pain but I'm also not sure I trust myself to unclip
Ooo and to add I get a lot of stuff from market place and my livery pal gets stuff on vinted too. Ebay hasn't been as useful of late. My stirrups, saddle and rugs, reins, bridle, leathers etc. got some gorgeous wide le meuix stirrup leathers that everyone compliments
I love seal skins for socks and gloves.
I've also converted half my yard and my instructor to wide tread plastic stirrups I have compositi reflexes. There are more expensive and fancier styles but I think these are great.
I splashed out on a high Viz Reincoat this year as my pony is now living out and it's been a life saver in the storms! I ride in it and it's definitely encouraged me to be less fair weather and I'm pretty sure you can see me from space in it.
My summer high Viz is mostly cycling stuff I've picked up cheap I like it as they are often long and covered your bum but also light weight with handy pockets.
Walking shops are also great for picking things up in the sales as people have mentioned although the coats I find are not quite hardy enough to cope with horses and all the scrapes. I have some warm Rab walking trousers that definitely won't survive a minute in a field with a horse
but my cheap softshell ones do the worst weather lugging hay and icey buckets so it's good to check the fabric.Hats I stick with my C&O 4 star I'm on my third now. They are not the most modern looking or sleek but the shape has always fit my head and they have some of the most safety certs in one hat. I've struggled to find a MIPS I like as much as I rate the SNEL standard. Plus I left one on the roof of my car and it crashed off onto the road at about 50mph and was barely scratched
I have a race safe body protector which is much more comfortable than my bps 20 years ago I'm considered an air jacket as I don't feel it's helping my back pain but I'm also not sure I trust myself to unclip
Ooo and to add I get a lot of stuff from market place and my livery pal gets stuff on vinted too. Ebay hasn't been as useful of late. My stirrups, saddle and rugs, reins, bridle, leathers etc. got some gorgeous wide le meuix stirrup leathers that everyone compliments
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elscott
Active Member
Hello! Thank you so very much for offering sic detailed advice. I really appreciate it.I started from scratch when I bought my pony 2 years ago after a bit of a break. I love riding tights the pockets on the sides are the best but they are not all created equal some are quite thick and other quite thin, my Dublin's I only wear in the summer but my funky fit ones I wear pretty much daily unless it's very cold.
I love seal skins for socks and gloves.
I've also converted half my yard and my instructor to wide tread plastic stirrups I have compositi reflexes. There are more expensive and fancier styles but I think these are great.
I splashed out on a high Viz Reincoat this year as my pony is now living out and it's been a life saver in the storms! I ride in it and it's definitely encouraged me to be less fair weather and I'm pretty sure you can see me from space in it.
My summer high Viz is mostly cycling stuff I've picked up cheap I like it as they are often long and covered your bum but also light weight with handy pockets.
Walking shops are also great for picking things up in the sales as people have mentioned although the coats I find are not quite hardy enough to cope with horses and all the scrapes. I have some warm Rab walking trousers that definitely won't survive a minute in a field with a horse
Hats I stick with my C&O 4 star I'm on my third now. They are not the most modern looking or sleek but the shape has always fit my head and they have some of the most safety certs in one hat. I've struggled to find a MIPS I like as much as I rate the SNEL standard. Plus I left one on the roof of my car and it crashed off onto the road at about 50mph and was barely scratched
I have a race safe body protector which is much more comfortable than my bps 20 years ago I'm considered an air jacket as I don't feel it's helping my back pain but I'm also not sure I trust myself to unclip
Ooo and to add I get a lot of stuff from market place and my livery pal gets stuff on vinted too. Ebay hasn't been as useful of late. My stirrups, saddle and rugs, reins, bridle, leathers etc. got some gorgeous wide le meuix stirrup leathers that everyone compliments
It sounds like you’ve built up a really solid collection. Riding tights are a popular choice now. I hadn’t heard of Funky Fit so I’ll definitely check these out.
SealSkinz are new to me. Definitely adding them to my must-try list!
Your wide-tread plastic stirrup recommendation is really helpful! If you’ve converted half your yard and your instructor, they must be good! I have a hypermobility condition so I wonder if these would be helpful for stability.
A high-vis Reincoat sounds excellent for stormy weather—I love that you say you could be seen from space in it!
I definitely want aids to help riding in all weather rather than just fair-weather hacking, so something like that would help. Also, great idea about using cycling high-vis for summer—I hadn’t thought of that.I’m impressed by any hat that survived a 50mph road tumble with barely a scratch. I’ll get a hat fitted as I have a big head! I’ll see what works best.
That’s really helpful to hear about body protectors and air jackets. Good point about needing to remember to unclip.
Marketplace & Vinted seem a popular option for some equestrian gear. The wide LeMieux stirrup leathers sound lovely.
Thanks again for sharing all this—it’s seriously helpful to hear what actually works. I feel like my shopping list just doubled, but at least now I know what’s worth investing in!
Cloball
Well-Known Member
I've had my Funky Fit for 2 years now and they look like new but definitely size up as the material is sturdy. I love anything bright and weird
I also have hypermobile ankles and wonky feet and lose metal stirrups all the time, not for want of trying. I find these much better, I haven't tried that many though there may be better.
I also have hypermobile ankles and wonky feet and lose metal stirrups all the time, not for want of trying. I find these much better, I haven't tried that many though there may be better.