Best Waterproof Coats for Horse Riding – Expert Buyer's Guide

Why Quality Matters in Waterproof Riding Coats

Whether you're in the saddle or attending to all those yard duties in the pouring rain, your waterproof coat isn't just about staying dry; it's about comfort, freedom of movement, and lasting protection in all weather conditions. Your waterproof jacket should protect you from wind and rain. It should have excellent breathability and advanced fabric technology. Their design should allow moisture to escape, preventing you from feeling sticky and clammy during training sessions or long rides. All our waterproof riding jackets and coats are designed by Liz Hayman, a real rider, and feature waterproof seams and design details, such as saddle vents, to allow you to move without restriction, and zipped pockets to keep your belongings safe and dry.

Invest In Your Horse Riding Waterproof Outerwear

If you're considering investing in a premium waterproof riding coat, then think of it as more than just a luxury; it's an essential for horse riders who ride in all weathers, year-round. A well-fitted coat with a tailored cut lets you move freely in the saddle. Features such as taped seams, rear riding vent, storm flaps, and adjustable cuffs provide added weather protection. By prioritising quality, you not only stay drier and happier in bad weather, but you also have a reliable waterproof riding coat that you can depend on for many more winters to come!

Top Features to Look for in a Waterproof Riding Coat

A high-performance, waterproof coat for riding incorporates key design details that horse riders should look for in a waterproof riding coat. Equetech waterproof jackets often have a longer back hem. Longline coats include velcro leg straps to protect your legs and saddle from rain. They also have a two-way zip for comfort when seated.

Adjustable hoods that can be removed or tuck-away hoods in collars or worn over your riding helmet are a design feature that Equetech leads in. Equetech also feature reflective trims for improved visibility in some designs. For extra warmth in winter riding coats, we often include fleece-lined pockets. 
All these features, alongside a reliable waterproof rating, are essential factors to consider. When selecting waterproof outerwear, consider style, safety, and functionality. This helps you get a reliable waterproof horse riding jacket for the worst months of the year.

Consider What Waterproof Rating Works For You

Breathable and windproof performance are just as important as the waterproof ratings of a riding coat. Equetech offer transparency in waterproof ratings to help you make an educated decision on the best riding coat for you. At a glance, every waterproof jacket and riding coat made by Equetech has a waterproof rating of a minimum of 10,000mm to 16,000mm. Our coats benefit from this waterproofing, which means you can wear them during heavy rain and mud splatter without incurring any water ingress.
Whether you ride for pleasure or compete in competitions, you need to consider which waterproof rating suits your needs and requirements. A rider who only rides in good weather may want less protection. A rider who rides and competes in all weather needs more protection from the elements.

Look for Compatibility in Your Waterproof Coat

Don't overlook layering compatibility if you're looking for the perfect riding coat to see you throughout the seasons. The best waterproof coats for riding are roomy enough to fit over a mid-layer in winter, yet lightweight enough for spring showers. Always check the waterproof rating (measured in millimetres) and breathability (measured in g/m²) to ensure the coat matches your riding environment. A coat with at least 10,000mm waterproofing and 5,000g/m² breathability will perform well in light exercise.

Best Brands for Equestrian Waterproof Coats

When it comes to equestrian outerwear, there is so much choice. Brands like LeMieux and Ariat offer a range of winter horse riding coats. However, Equetech is perfect for riders looking for unique and innovative designs created by real riders (who ride in the great British weather!) and outerwear that embraces both performance and aesthetics.
By choosing a reputable equestrian brand, you ensure that you have a riding coat that combines lasting quality with technical fabrics and expert craftsmanship. Equetech prides itself on offering excellent customer support, backed by a small and dedicated support team, and provides a wide range of sizes and fits to suit everybody. The best winter riding coats? We've got you covered!

Equetech's premium coats are tested in real conditions. They use water-resistant materials that work well. This gives you peace of mind that your equestrian clothes will protect you in light rain and heavy rain.

Equetech Riding Jackets and Coats are made by riders for riders. Your waterproof coat choice should match your riding style, climate, and personal taste. This helps you feel confident and comfortable. Equetech waterproof riding clothes are worth buying.

Frequently Asked Questions About Waterproof Riding Coats for Equestrians

Our talented Equetech Designer and real rider, Liz Hayman, answers a few of the most common FAQs we receive about waterproof clothing and waterproofing technology...
Waterproof Riding Coat FAQs

1. What makes a riding coat truly waterproof?
"I would say that a riding coat can only be considered truly waterproof when it uses high-quality waterproof fabrics, seam taping, and water-repellent zippers. Equetech recommends looking for coats with a waterproof rating of at least 10,000mm to withstand light rain during extended rides. The higher the waterproof rating, the more protection you have in heavier downpours. Unlike water-resistant jackets, these coats can prevent water penetration even under heavy downpours."

2. What is the best material for a waterproof horse riding coat?
"The best waterproof riding coats are made from technical fabrics which can include Gore-Tex®, ripstop polyester fabric, or, like many of our waterproof coats and jackets, nylon with a durable water repellent hydrophobic coating (DWR) finish. These materials block water while allowing moisture from sweat to escape, keeping you dry and comfortable during yard activities or when riding."

3. How do I choose the right size waterproof riding coat?
"Choose a waterproof riding coat that fits comfortably over your base layers without restricting movement in the saddle. This way, you can adapt what you wear underneath. Opt for designs with a two-way front zip, articulated sleeves, and an adjustable waist, allowing you to adjust the fit for both comfort and style. Be cautious when choosing oversized coats for riding, as they can impede your ability to ride effectively and be noisy, or risk getting caught on branches while hacking and leisure riding. We offer sizing from a UK 8 to UK 24 in most of our designs, but sizing can vary by brand, so always check the manufacturer's guide before ordering."

4. Are all waterproof riding coats breathable?
"Not all waterproof coats are breathable. Equetech is very transparent about our breathability ratings so riders can make informed choices. How breathable your riding coat is depends on the fabric's moisture vapour transmission rate (MVTR). For horse riders, I would recommend looking for a coat with a breathability rating of 5,000g/m² or higher, to help prevent overheating during active rides while still keeping the rain out."

5. What features should I look for in a riding coat for wet weather?
"On my wishlist, I would look for wind proof with waterproof seam sealing and waterproofed zips if you're looking for extra protection in wet weather. Look for waterproof jackets with a longer back hem and zipped skirt details. These include saddle slits with protection to fit the saddle cantle. Also look for adjustable cuffs, a hood that fits a helmet, taped seams, and storm flaps. If you ride outside, choose coats with reflective details for visibility. Sustainable fabrics might be a must for eco-conscious equestrians, and fleece-lined pockets are also useful for comfort and cold hands in the winter months!"

6. How long should a waterproof riding coat last?
"With proper care, there's no reason why a high-quality waterproof riding coat can't give you protection for many more seasons to come, and Equetech loyal customers are living proof of how long their outerwear lasts! However, longevity also depends on frequency of use, correct care and regular reproofing with appropriate products to help maintain a waterproof exterior for your waterproof clothing."

7. Can I wear a waterproof riding coat for everyday use?
Equetech designs waterproof equestrian coats that are stylish enough for everyday wear. They are suitable for riding, working in the yard, walking the dog, countryside walks, and city outings. They combine practicality with style. Details such as our quality zipped pockets, environmentally friendly recycled fill and two-way zippers are all attractive features that equestrians love!"

8. What is the difference between water-resistant and waterproof?
"Put simply, water-resistant coats are fine for wearing in light rain but will eventually soak through, while waterproof coats are designed to keep water out completely, even in heavy downpours. Always check the waterproof rating before purchasing to understand what level of protection you need, or contact Equetech's customer service team for help and advice on choosing the best level of protection for your needs."

9. Do waterproof riding coats work in extreme rain and wind?
"Yes, but only if they have high waterproof ratings, windproof membranes, and storm-proof construction. Look for double storm flaps, sealed seams, and adjustable closures for maximum weather protection. It's important to note that even the most robust waterproof coat with breathable properties will, after a considerable soaking, allow some water penetration. The only caveat to this is choosing a riding coat made of plastic, rubber or waxed fabric, none of which are particularly comfortable for movement and not breathable."

10. How do I wash and care for a waterproof riding coat?
"Follow the equestrian manufacturer's care instructions. Wash using a gentle cycle with a specialist waterproof garment cleaner (not standard detergent) to preserve the DWR coating. Air dry and reproof the coat regularly with a wash-in waterproofing treatment to maintain your waterproof riding coat's performance."

11. Are there lightweight waterproof riding coats for summer?
"Yes, Equetech are the best brand for packable, lightweight waterproof riding jackets made from breathable fabrics for riding and training in wet, warm weather. These are ideal for summer showers and can be layered over a base layer without the risk of overheating. We've even included mesh linings to wick away moisture from the body!"

Don't forget we offer FREE delivery to UK mainland customers over £99. You can shop our collection for rainy bank holidays and beat those miserable weather forecasts with Equetech's range of fitted coats and jackets. 

Read: Do Waterproof Riding Coats Lose Their Waterproofness? And Other Questions