What to wear horse riding — Horse Riders Union

What to Wear Horse Riding (And What You’ll Probably End Up Covered In)

If you’re new to riding, or just wondering whether that jumper you love will survive a day at the yard, welcome. You’re in the right place.

There’s this idea floating around that equestrian life is all glossy manes, cream breeches, and perfect posture. And yes, now and then it can look like that. But more often than not, it’s you, a wheelbarrow, and a haynet that’s exploded across your body like confetti.

I’ve ridden in all weathers, in a lot of different countries (currently based in Dubai, but many years spent riding in the UK), and I can tell you this: what you wear for riding matters, but not in the way you might think.

This isn’t a stables catwalk. It’s about comfort, safety, and yes, the occasional moment of looking like you’ve got your life together, even if your left glove is full of horse slobber.

So here’s my take on what to wear, what not to stress about, and what’ll definitely get covered in hay, dust, or something unidentifiable by the end of the day.

Start With the Basics: Hats and Gloves

Let’s begin with safety. I know, not the most glamorous starting point, but absolutely the most important.

A properly fitted riding hat is non-negotiable. Whether you’re hacking out, schooling, or just popping on for five minutes. I ride in Uvex because they’ve mastered the balance of comfort, ventilation (very useful in the Dubai heat), and serious protection. They’re also gorgeous, which, let’s be honest, is always good.

But staying safe doesn’t mean spending a fortune. There are plenty of certified hats at lower price points that offer similar levels of protection. Look for helmets with MIPs protection and the most important thing is that it fits properly. That’s what matters. Any decent tack shop will check the fit for you.

Same goes for gloves. Uvex make the ones I use, they’re flexible, breathable and stop your reins slipping if it’s wet or your horse gets lively. But any gloves that protect your hands and help you hold on comfortably are doing the job. It’s not about the label. It’s about what works for you.

Breeches, Leggings, and What You Can Actually Move In

The golden rule? If you can’t squat in it, don’t ride in it.

You want something that stretches, supports, and survives regular encounters with hay, muck, and possibly your horse sneezing grass all over you. (It happens.)

Cavallo and Catago both do beautifully made breeches and riding tights that tick every box, comfortable, flattering, and hard-wearing.

And no, you don’t need to turn up in a matching set. You just need to be able to move. But if you happen to want to match your top to your breeches, well, Catago has some really lovely pieces that do the job and look the part.

Tops, Layers, and the Truth About British Weather

In the UK, you can start the day in sunshine and be soaked through by lunchtime. I spent enough winters rugging up horses with numb fingers and three layers of mud on my coat to know that layering is your best friend.

Start with a good base layer. Something breathable that doesn’t chafe under a body protector or jacket. Then a fleece or softshell, and a waterproof that actually is waterproof. Bonus points if it has pockets big enough for horse treats, phone, hoof pick, and gloves.

In Dubai, it’s the opposite. Keeping cool is the challenge. I ride early mornings or late evenings, and stick to lightweight, UV-protective fabrics. Still love my Catago gear for that, especially the tech tops that stop you boiling in the saddle.

Footwear: The Non-Negotiables

Please, for the love of ponies, do not ride in trainers. Not even just to hop on for five minutes.

You need a boot with a small heel and a sole that won’t slip through the stirrup. For yard work, go waterproof and comfortable. For riding, go for proper boots. Long boots look smart. Short boots with half chaps do the job just as well and are usually easier to live in.

I ride in Cavallo. They fit properly, they’re solid without being stiff, and they can handle everything from lessons to muddy gateways without giving up. They’re the kind of boots you forget you’re wearing, which is exactly what you want.

The Glam vs The Reality

I work with premium brands. And yes, I wear them. Not to play dress-up, but because they’re well made, they last, and they make a real difference when you’re riding in 30-degree heat or sideways rain.

But riding isn’t about showing off what you’re wearing. It’s about being comfortable, safe, and able to actually do the job, whether that’s riding or hauling soaked rugs across the yard.

You don’t need the full matching outfit. But you do need clothes that move with you, don’t rub, and can survive mud, muck, and a horse who thinks wiping their nose on your shoulder is funny.

Most days I’m in whatever’s practical, not whatever’s pretty. And yes, I’ve definitely looked like I’ve been dragged through a hedge on many occasions. That’s just horses.

It’s not about staying clean. It’s about getting stuck in, knowing your kit can keep up, not caring if you’re picking hay out of your hair at the end of the day and enjoying every scruffy second of it.

What If You’re Just Starting Out?

Don’t go and spend a fortune. Borrow if you can, buy second-hand, and figure out what you like wearing. There are brilliant budget options out there. Save the investment pieces for when you know what works for you.

The stables aren’t a fashion show. They’re for learning, riding and bonding with horses.

Before You Head to the Yard

Wear what makes you feel good and lets you ride well. Prioritise safety, comfort, and clothes that can handle the mess horses come with.

Yes, I’m lucky to work with brands like Cavallo, Catago, and Uvex, and I choose them because they’ve earned their place in my kit. But the most important thing is that you’re out there, riding, learning, and loving it. Whatever you’re wearing.

And if your top matches your saddle pad? Great. If it doesn’t? Who cares, you’re still a rider.