Equestrian Riding Apparel Guide by Season: What to Wear Throughout the Year

Equestrian clothing should adapt to the climate and time of year. Riding in the middle of summer or in cold winter requires very different gear. This guide helps you dress correctly for each season.

Equestrian Clothing for Summer (June - August)

Extreme temperatures in Spain make summer the most demanding time for riders. The key is breathability and sun protection.

Breathable technical shirt — Quick-drying fabric; avoid cotton, which retains moisture
Lightweight technical breeches — Stretch fabrics with improved ventilation. Knee-patch instead of full-seat (less heat)
Summer socks — Thin and breathable. Avoid thick synthetics
Sunscreen — SPF 50+ on face, décolletage, and arms. Essential for long sessions
Light boots or jodhpur boots — Leather breathes better than synthetic
Ventilated helmet — Modern helmets have ventilation systems that reduce heat by up to 40%

Tip: Ride preferably early in the morning or at sunset. Hydrate your horse and yourself well.

Equestrian Clothing for Autumn (September - November)

Variable temperatures, possibility of rain. The key is a layering system.

Technical base layer — Quick-drying shirt or long-sleeve top
Mid-layer: Lightweight fleece or softshell — For cool October-November days
Standard breeches — Your usual ones will work perfectly
Lightweight waterproof jacket — For riding in the rain. Specific design for equestrian use (does not interfere with movement)

Equestrian Clothing for Winter (December - February)

Extreme cold doesn't have to prevent riding. The key is the correct layering system.

Thermal first layer — Thermal underwear in merino wool or technical synthetic
Thermal riding breeches — With fleece lining. HKM has excellent options
Padded jacket or fleece — Thick softshell or padded with light down filling
Thermal gloves — With sensitive fingertips to feel the reins
Leg warmers — For groundwork in the stable
Neck gaiter or hat under the helmet — Fleece ear warmers keep you warm

Equestrian Clothing for Spring (March - May)

Changing weather: it can be cold in the morning and warm in the afternoon.

Light layering system — Technical shirt + sleeveless gilet
Lightweight waterproof jacket — For rainy days in March and April
Standard or spring breeches — Not excessively thick fabric

Specific Clothing for Competition

In official competitions, regardless of the season, a dress code is required. Always consult the rules of your discipline and federation.

Dressage: white breeches, dark jacket, helmet or top hat
Show jumping: beige/cream breeches, show jacket, certified helmet
Eventing: dressage + cross (helmet with airbag mandatory) + show jumping

Explore our collection of equestrian clothing by season and discipline. We offer the best brands: HKM, Equestrian Stockholm, QHP and more.