With temperature changes from 55 degrees to 85 degrees dressing for riding can be a challenge. While chilly in the mornings the days are still warm in Central Texas. With that in mind lets talk about how to dress for riding this fall and winter.
1. Layers – I can’t stress layers enough. Wear light clothing under heavier clothing to allow for changes in temperature. Wearing a T-shirt under your sweatshirt with a jacket will provide you the option of staying warm, cooling off, and being comfortable at midday. The jacket will also come in handy if your out and about in the evenings when things start to cool off. Vests are a great way to keep the body warm and allow free arm movement when working with horses.
2. Leggings – if your riding English this is the time of year to invest in full seat breeches and other breeches designed for winter riding. If your riding Western I recommend long johns, or full chaps to help keep your legs warm.
3. Footwear – Depending on your location and rainfall/mud levels insulated work boots and muck boots are a great asset. Arait and several other brands also offer insulated riding boots to help keep you toes warm this winter. Look through your catalogs now for sales and discounts on these items before the cold sets in and demand increases prices.
4. Head Gear – you should always wear a helmet to ride. Under your helmet you can wear ear muffs, or other light weight wool caps that will help keep your head warm this winter. Ski caps generally fit under a helmet and provide protection to your ears against wind and cold.
5. Gloves – I love a good pair of insulated gloves. If you don’t want to spend the money on a pair of riding gloves, visit your nearest department store for a pair of driving gloves. They are insulated and if the outer layer is leather will hold up to riding.
Enjoy this beautiful weather and Happy Trails.
