Winter Essentials to Help Horse Riders and Owners Beat the Chill

Ah, winter. That magical time of year that most British equestrians could happily skip. It’s the season of endless rugging, slipping in mud, rain-dodging, hay net-filling, and pretending we enjoy clipping. But fear not! We’ve compiled a list of must-have items to make winter a little more manageable, and dare we say enjoyable, for horse riders and owners alike.

Armed with these essentials, a good sense of humour, and plenty of hot tea, you'll be ready to survive the winter.

1. Warm, Waterproof Wellington Boots

If your trusty wellies are looking more “vintage” than practical, it’s time to upgrade. Equestrians spend countless hours outdoors, and a pair of warm, waterproof wellies is a non-negotiable investment. Here are our top picks:

Best Budget Wellies: The Muck Boot Company Chore Classic Tall Wellington Boots

These neoprene wellies are lightweight, fully waterproof, and built to last. With reinforced toes and heels for extra support, they’re perfect for long days in the yard or muddy field adventures. They might not win a fashion contest, but their comfort and functionality will win your heart.

Premium Wellies That Last: Aigle Parcour ISO Boots

If you’re after luxury for your feet, the Aigle Parcour ISO boots win hands down. Neoprene lining provides insulation, while their shock-absorbing soles reduce fatigue. Ideal for icy, slippery conditions, these boots will make yard chores feel like a breeze (yes, even poo-picking).

Read our detailed review of these top-notch wellies here!

2. Winter Riding & Yard Gloves

To the glove-haters out there: let’s face it - no one’s impressed by your frostbitten fingers. Modern winter gloves have come a long way, offering warmth, dexterity, and are even touch screen compatible so that you can grab those all-important pictures of your beloved horse (not that you don’t have enough on your phone already)!

Best Gloves for Yard Work: Aubrion All-Purpose Winter Yard Gloves

Say goodbye to cold, stiff fingers! These gloves are fleece-lined, waterproof, and have seamless elasticated wrists for ultimate comfort and flexibility. Whether you’re mucking out or filling hay nets, they’re your perfect winter yard companion.

Best Winter Riding Gloves: Roeckl Roeck Grip Winter Gloves

Our all-time favourite for in-saddle warmth and grip are the . Designed to feel like a second skin, these gloves are perfect for riders who typically avoid wearing gloves because they find them bulky or restrictive. The sleek fit ensures you maintain excellent control of your reins without sacrificing comfort.

Available in a wide range of sizes, these gloves guarantee the perfect fit for every rider. With their superior insulation and outstanding grip, they’re an absolute must-have for anyone tackling chilly winter rides. Don’t let the cold keep you from enjoying the saddle!

3. Waterproof Riding Coat

There’s no excuse for being fair-weather rider if you have the correct riding apparel. Invest in a quality waterproof riding coat to keep you dry and warm, both on the yard and in the saddle. Looking for a new riding coat and not sure where to start? Check out our detailed guide and ride through winter in comfort and warmth.

The Reincoat Pro is 100% waterproof with 15,000mm hydrostatic head waterproof rating and flaps on all zips no water will leak in. It also has a super cosy fleece lining to keep you warm on those really crisp winter days. If you still need convincing, read the full review here!

4. Brighten Your Day with Equi-Light Accessories

Dark mornings and evenings are inevitable in winter, but they don’t have to be dangerous or miserable. Enter Equi-Light - a range of light-up accessories designed to improve visibility and safety for horse riders and owners.

Must-Have Equi-Light Items

• Hi-Viz LED Gilet: Stay visible and stylish both in and out of the saddle. Perfect for hacking, this gilet ensures you’re safe and seen on the roads, even during those dim winter mornings and evenings.
• Torch Beanie & Headbands: Hands-free light while keeping your head warm.
• Light Up Dog Collar, Lead, and Coat: Keep your four-legged yard helper safe and seen too.

Say goodbye to fumbling in the dark or that heart-pounding dash back to the car once the lights go out. We’re not the only ones who fear the “stable bogeyman...” Right?

5. Warm and Waterproof Horse Rugs for Winter

When you’re not at the yard, you want peace of mind knowing your horse is warm and dry. A high-quality winter rug will alleviate your worries during frosty nights or rainy days. Need help deciding which rug your horse needs? Download our handy Rug Temperature Chart and keep it in your tack room for easy reference.

For ultimate convenience, consider a rug bundle that covers all weather scenarios, or invest in a rug liner system to easily layer up or down as temperatures and conditions change.

The Horseware Rambo Duo Force 2.0 Turnout Rug Bundle comes with a 100g and 300g liner so that you can protect you horse in any weather. 

Final Thoughts

Winter may be tough, but with these essentials, you can tackle the season like a pro. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in surviving the muddy, chilly months. Discover all of your horse and rider winter essentials here at Country & Stable and make this winter stress-free.