Staying warm while horseback riding in winter is challenging: Our clothes get damp when we sweat and, we have periods of reduced exertion when we walk around on horses, then we get cold. As a longtime horseback rider, I’ve learned a few tricks over four decades of riding outdoors in frigid temperatures.
Follow these tips and you and/or your child will be vastly more comfortable when enjoying the stables in winter.
Please tell me what you think of the tips, ask any questions, or share your own tricks in the
comments section at the bottom of this story. I try to respond to all comments. Thanks.
COZY BLANKETS
Parents may want to wait in their car with the heater during lessons or bring a cozy blanket just for the deck. Reminder: Only one parent per student on the viewing deck.
MOVE-IT!
Children have less body fat and mass and cool down more quickly than adults. Remember, clothes hold heat in but do not produce heat. The Instructors use walking or trotting while posting which is good for getting warmed up, but grooming and tacking (getting the gear on the horse) can get cold quickly. The ELS Staff is trained to watch for students’ unprotected skin and make recommendations.
WEAR & ADJUST LAYERS
During riding activities, students may only need a breathable insulation layer (like fleece) over a fast-drying, wicking base layer. If it’s windy, you may want a waterproof-breathable hardshell over a midweight insulation layer, like a fleece or a vest, to prevent the student from cooling down.
We do not get the wind or rain inside the arena which makes it easier for students to layer and stay warm. Find the right outer layer for your purposes and you may only have to adjust layers infrequently.
GET THE RIGHT GLOVES
Cloth or leather riding gloves are always recommended for riding. For winter, insulated, snug gloves that can hold reins is essential. The one-size-fits all are commonly good for year-round riding in the one-hour classes. Pre-warm your gloves and boots by a heater before going outside, so your fingers and toes feel toasty the instant you put them on. {Example: While driving to riding lessons}.
HAND & TOE WARMERS
Our staff uses the Grabber and Hot Hands products from Amazon or Ace Hardware. These are wonderful additions to gloves and shoes. Please consider buying a box for the winter.