Friday, May 20, 2016

How To Choose The Right Cold Weather Riding Gear For Your Needs

By Rebecca Miller


If you love to ride you likely want to do so every chance you get. Unless you are fortunate to live where the climate is very warm all year long, you know that there are times where you will be out on your horse when the temperature drops. In this case, the right cold weather riding gear is essential to making sure you are safe and comfortable no matter what kind of weather you will be working in.

Buying gear for yourself is easy but choosing gear for others may not be so straightforward. If you are getting gear together for riders who are very young you need to make sure that they are properly protected. Older riders or those dealing with medical conditions may also have impaired circulation that can lead to them becoming uncomfortable much more quickly.

Keep in mind that lower air temperature may not be the only issue you have to contend with. You may also have to deal with precipitation as well. Using gear that repels water is a good idea. If you get wet, it becomes very easy for you to develop hypothermia and this can be potentially life threatening.

You need to think as much about your extremities as you do your upper and lower body. Some riding boots are not insulated and may not keep your feet warm. Your hands may also quickly get stiff and lose feeling when they get cold as well. As this can make it difficult for you to hold on to reins, it can also mean that you are unsafe if riding conditions become tricky.

Riding is much like other sports and dressing in layers is always a good idea. Riders often sweat quite a bit especially if their horse is moving quickly or they are navigating different obstacles while they are on the trail. If you dress in synthetic layers that pull sweat and moisture away from your skin you will stay warm and comfortable even if the temperature is chilly.

Helmets can be fantastic for safety purposes but some are very bad at keeping your head warm. This is especially true of models that are designed to have increased air flow. Putting a toque or hat under your helmet may help you avoid heat loss through your head. Just make sure that your helmet still fits properly if put on over other head coverings.

Boots are important for a rider's comfort and safety. Some are meant only for warm weather and may be too cold in the fall and winter. You may need to look at models that have built in insulation or which are big enough to accommodate a liner or extra pair of socks. Remember to make sure that your toes and feet are not tightly confined in your boots since this can make them feel cold much more quickly. Loss of circulation can be dangerous in cold weather.

Speaking with staff at an experienced riding supply store can be very helpful. They may be able to direct you to different products that will meet your needs and keep you nice and toasty warm while you are outside and astride your favorite horse.




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