Which riding jacket?

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With an array of riding jackets available for the equestrian community it is often hard to decide which one to choose. Whether it is a tweed/hacking jacket, a show jacket, a hunt coat or a waterproof riding coat, the options in style, colour, fabric and purpose can overwhelm the individual with too much choice.

The following article will give note to individual jackets, their unique styles and what purpose they are used for.

Riding coats

For riding in the school, out hacking or any general horse riding purpose, a riding coat is an ideal choice for the equestrian enthusiast. Unlike normal coats, a riding coat is cut specifically for use in the saddle. Usually it will either be three quarter length or have a single/double vent flap so the rider will not have to sit on the coat when in the saddle. As well as the flap style, the shoulders will normally be cut wider to allow more freedom of movement.

Another feature of riding coats is the material which they are made from, because when riding, you have to be prepared for any and every weather eventuality. Most riding coats are made from a waterproof and breathable fabric which means if you are hard at work schooling or out hacking in the rain, you will neither get soaked nor overheat.

It is also advisable to wear layers of clothing under your coat so when you start to heat up, you can remove one without losing the benefit of having a top coat layer.

Riding Jackets

Show Jacket

A staple for most competitions, a showing jacket is a smart jacket that is usually accompanied by a shirt/blouse and a stock/tie. Colours vary; however show jackets more often than not fall into two colour categories - black or blue.

Crafted from a cotton or a poly/blend mix, show jackets are cut to allow freedom of movement so you are not restricted when riding. The show jackets in particular can also have elaborate details such as ornate buttons and velvet collars that give a more individualistic impression if your discipline or personality requires it.

Fine examples of show jackets are the Caldene Kempton and the Caldene Belvoir which both epitomise the elegant styling and refined looks of a top quality show jacket.

Tweed/Hacking Jackets

The tweed/hacking jackets are, as the name suggests, more often than not made from traditional tweed fabric. The traditional woollen material means that these equestrian jackets are often heavy and warm to wear.

The style and cut is not dissimilar to the show jackets, in the way they have side or centre vents to allow for a comfortable seat as well as options for differing tweed types and colours. If you are competing in a discipline that requires a tweed jacket to be worn it is usually advisable to purchase a winter and summer version, as the summer one will be made of a lighter, less dense woollen material to allow more breathability.

Hunt Coats

The epitome of formal riding style is the hunt coat. Crafted from the finest fabrics and elegantly cut, the Hunt coat is an outward sign of ones style and position in the hunting field. Hunt coats follow a strict clothing etiquette that all followers should obey.

Much like the hacking jackets, a Hunt coat is more often than not crafted out of the finest wool and as such can be heavy and unwieldy when the weather turns. However, above all else on the Hunt field, one must be British, have a stiff upper lip and endure the elements around them while keeping their composure, class and style.

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