Riding in the rain requires the right clothing to keep you comfortable, safe, and dry. Let’s learn what to wear so you can enjoy your ride even when it’s drizzling!
The most important rule: stay visible
When it’s raining, visibility is reduced. Car drivers can’t see as well, and neither can your instructor or other riders. Wearing bright, reflective clothing helps everyone see you clearly.
Choose fluorescent colours like:
- Bright yellow
- Orange
- Pink
- Lime green
Look for clothing with reflective strips that catch the light. This is especially important if you’re riding near roads or in the late afternoon when it’s getting dark.
Your rain jacket
A good rain jacket is your most important piece of wet-weather riding gear. Here’s what to look for:
Waterproof, not just water-resistant: Water-resistant clothing will keep light drizzle out for a while, but truly waterproof clothing keeps you dry in proper rain.
Riding-specific design: Riding rain jackets are cut longer in the back to cover you when you’re in the saddle. They also have features like:
- Longer back hem to cover your bottom
- Stretchy fabric that moves with you
- Raglan sleeves for better shoulder movement
- High collar to keep rain off your neck
Bright colours: Choose fluorescent yellow, orange, or pink for visibility.
Good hood: A hood that stays on in the wind is helpful, but make sure it doesn’t block your peripheral vision or hearing.
What to wear under your jacket
Layers are key: Wear layers you can adjust. Start with:
- A breathable base layer (not cotton – it stays wet)
- A warm middle layer if it’s cold
- Your waterproof jacket on top
Avoid cotton: Cotton clothing absorbs water and stays wet, making you cold and uncomfortable. Choose synthetic or wool materials that wick moisture away.
Fitted but not tight: Your clothes should fit well enough that they don’t flap in the wind or get caught on tack, but loose enough that you can move freely.
Your riding helmet
Your regular riding helmet is fine for rain, but just make sure it fits properly and is securely fastened. Some riders use helmet covers for extra rain protection, but these aren’t essential.
Never compromise helmet safety for waterproofing. Your properly fitted, safety-approved helmet is more important than staying completely dry.
Keeping your hands dry
Wet, cold hands make it hard to hold the reins properly. Options include:
Riding gloves: Waterproof riding gloves are ideal. They give you a good grip on wet reins whilst keeping your hands dry.
Regular gloves: If you don’t have waterproof riding gloves, any gloves with a good grip are better than nothing. Wool or synthetic gloves work better than cotton.
Your riding boots and jodhpurs
Boots: Your regular riding boots are fine for light rain. For heavier rain, consider:
- Waterproof riding boots
- Tall rubber boots
- Putting plastic bags over your socks before putting boots on (it looks silly but works!)
Jodhpurs: Your regular jodhpurs will get wet in rain. Some options:
- Waterproof over-trousers (chaps-style)
- Quick-dry jodhpurs
- Have a spare pair to change into after riding
Tuck in your jacket: Always tuck your jacket into your jodhpurs or wear it over the top. This prevents rain running down inside your trousers when you’re in the saddle.
What NOT to wear
Long, loose raincoats: These can get caught on the saddle or flap and spook your pony.
Crinkly, noisy fabrics: Some waterproof materials make lots of noise when you move, which can startle ponies.
Dark colours: Black or navy rain gear makes you hard to see in rainy conditions.
Scarves or loose items: Anything that can fly around or get caught is dangerous when riding.
After-ride clothing
Bring dry clothes to change into after your ride:
- Warm jumper or jacket
- Dry socks
- Towel for your hair
- Dry shoes
Getting out of wet clothes quickly after riding helps you warm up and prevents you from getting chilled.
Budget-friendly options
Good riding-specific rain gear can be expensive. If you’re on a budget:
- Start with a bright, waterproof jacket (even a hiking jacket works)
- Waterproof gloves from any outdoor shop
- Use what you have and upgrade gradually
- Check for second-hand riding rain gear
Taking care of your rain gear
After each use:
- Hang up your jacket to dry (don’t stuff it in your bag wet)
- Wipe down wet gloves and boots
- Air out everything before storing
Regular maintenance:
- Follow washing instructions on your waterproof clothing
- Re-waterproof when needed using special sprays
- Check for damage and repair small rips before they get bigger
Making a rain-riding kit
Prepare a bag with your rain-riding essentials:
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof gloves
- Spare socks
- Dry change of clothes
- Towel
- Plastic bag for wet clothes
Keep this at the yard so you’re always prepared!
The comfort factor
Being comfortable in the rain makes riding much more enjoyable. When you’re warm, dry, and visible, you can focus on your riding instead of how miserable you feel. Good rain gear is an investment in your riding enjoyment!
Next: Preparing your pony for riding in the rain!
