As you shop the end of winter sales, be on the lookout for deals on the following products:

• Winter equestrian riding apparel. From turtleneck tops and fleece-lined breeches to insulated boots and weatherproof gloves, you can score fantastic deals on all the gear you need to stay warm and toasty on winter rides.
• Turnout blankets and stable sheets. Medium- and heavyweight turnout blankets and stable sheets usually go on sale at this time of year, so if your current ones are worn out, this is your chance to replace them.
• General horse equipment. Although not specifically related to winter riding, you might find saddles, bridles, halters, leads, grooming supplies, and similar products included in storewide sales. If you need any of these items and come across an irresistible bargain, be sure to snap it up.

Winter sales are your reward for having to suffer through months of bleak days and subzero temperatures. Whether you want to purchase new equestrian riding apparel for the last few outings of the season or if you simply want to stock up for next year, now is the time to do so. Visit TheEquestrianCorner.com today to view our selection and save big on winter horse equipment, gear, and accessories.

To make winter riding more bearable, you need special equestrian apparel that is designed to protect you from harsh elements. When you’re warm and comfortable, you’ll be better able to focus on more important things, such as your form, technique, and ability to handle equestrian equipment properly.

When building your wardrobe of winter equestrian apparel, we suggest picking out your favorite products from these categories:

Inners

Inners are meant to be worn under your regular breeches and riding shirt. They are typically made from lightweight materials with moisture-wicking properties to keep your skin dry even as you sweat. Our TuffRider CoolMax inner shirt and matching breeches deliver this kind of performance, and are therefore an excellent choice for winter.

Riding shirts

Riding shirts can be worn with or without an inner, depending on how much protection you need your equestrian apparel to provide. If you use an inner, then you can get away with a relatively lightweight riding shirt; if not, then you’ll probably want to choose a shirt that’s a bit more substantial. Turtlenecks are particularly well-suited to winter riding because of the way they block the wind and provide extra warmth around your neck. We have several TuffRider winter turtlenecks that would be perfect for the colder months.

Winter breeches

The key to good winter breeches is a fleece lining that is capable of trapping body heat without being so bulky as to inhibit motion or prevent you from feeling your equestrian equipment when mounted. The Sit Tight N Warm product line from Kerrits is popular with many of our customers not only because of the soft and comfortable lining, but also because each pair features an exterior made of Polartec Wind  Pro to keep you toasty even on the most blustery days.

Another terrific option is the TuffRider Active Soft Shell Full Seat Breeches. These four-way stretch breeches maintain breathability even as they protect you from wind, water, and cold.

Outerwear

Additional equestrian apparel such as a jacket, gloves, and lined boots will complete your winter riding habit and prepare you to face the cold. Our TuffRider Unifleece vest is a great way to top off a turtleneck and inner, while our thermally insulated TuffRider winter riding gloves will keep your fingers warm without sacrificing your ability to handle horse equipment.

We also sell several models of fully lined and insulated tall riding boots, as well as many different waterproof winter paddock boots to ensure that your feet receive proper protection too. Our TuffRider Snow Rider Lace Up Paddock Boot is a top seller because of its DuPont insulation, PU waterproof membrane, and boa fleece, all of which combine to keep you warm and dry even in the worst weather conditions.

Instead of letting your equestrian equipment collect dust this winter, commit to getting as much saddle time as possible. As long as you gear up with the right collection of cold-weather equestrian apparel, you should be able to continue riding as usual.

First, there is the anti-slip factor. A good boot should have a noticeably raised heel to help prevent your foot from slipping all the way through the stirrup even while jumping or galloping over rough terrain.

Second, there is the grip factor. Your boot should be form-fitting and hug your calves to allow you to comfortably feel and grip your horse so you can execute commands with your legs.

And third, there is the safety factor. As with all other equestrian riding apparel, your boot is not merely a fashion statement; it also serves to protect your feet from possible injury.

When choosing English equestrian boots, be sure to select a pair that can be used in your discipline or particular events. To guide you in this decision, here are a few product suggestions to consider.

Dress Boots

For participation in upper level dressage events, you’ll need all the right equestrian riding apparel in order to be in compliance with the very strict regulations. This includes a pair of tall dress boots, which should be black and have zippers rather than laces.

• TuffRider Ladies Baroque. Classic and elegant, this boot features a contoured ankle, Spanish cut, and round toe, along with elastic panels for a better fit and greater comfort.
• Ovation Ladies GC PRO Dressage. This side-zip boot is fully lined to yield the stiffer upper leg required for dressage events. You’ll love the finely detailed spur rest and toe caps, as well as the beautiful natural leather finish.
• Ovation Ladies Finalist PRO Dress. The V-style gusset in this boot provides the close fit you need without sacrificing comfort. The lined cuff, trim ankle and leg, and ridged grip soles all contribute to the Finalist PRO’s great looks and performance.

Field Boots

Field boots are tall and typically have laces at the ankle to allow for the greater flexibility required for jumping and fox hunting. These equestrian boots may be black or brown, with most riders opting to stick with classic black.

• Tredstep Ireland da Vinci. This boot features the Tredstep Pro-Flex Design, which means it is fully flexible at the ankle right out of the box and doesn’t require a break-in period. It also has a Vibram outsole for enhanced performance, as well as a flexible spine, spur rest, and zip guard.
• Ovation Ladies Tall Gold Pro. With its Bamboo Dri-Lex footbed and inner sole made from recycled PU foam, this boot will appeal to the environmentalist in you. Dri-Lex has thermo-regulating, dry-wicking, and anti-microbial properties for unbeatable moisture control, while the Elasic laces and V-notch front improve flexibility.
• TuffRider Ladies Baroque. This is the same as the TuffRider Ladies Baroque Dress Boot, with the addition of fixed elastic laces at the ankle.

Paddock Boots and Jodhpurs

If you don’t compete in shows and events, then you don’t have to be as picky about the equestrian riding apparel you wear. This means you can opt for low paddock boots or Jodhpurs for pleasure riding instead of more formal equestrian boots.

• Ovation Final Ladies Elastic Side Patent Jodhpur. These jodhpurs are crafted from fine patent leather for a traditional look that never goes out of style. The elastic sides and rubber gripper soles add an element of comfort and performance that you’re sure to appreciate.
• Ovation Aeros Zip Paddock Boot. Made from vapor permeable-leather with a unique Carbosan® innersock, this boot will not only keep your feet dry but also prevent fungus, odors, and bacteria from developing. The forged steel shanks offer superior support, while the lightweight rubber outsoles promise all-day comfort.
• TuffRider Outback Fleece Lined Paddock Boot. If you’re shopping for winter equestrian riding apparel, then be sure to put the TuffRider Outback on your list. This paddock boot is fleece lined for warmth and has a heavy rubber sole for secure footing even on snow or ice.

Whether you need equestrian boots for eventing, pleasure riding, or even everyday use, TheEquestrianCorner.com has the styles you want at prices you can afford. Browse our entire collection of equestrian riding apparel today and treat yourself to something new!

While you and your horse are undoubtedly ready to make the shift from summer to fall, can the same be said about your wardrobe? If it’s been a while since you’ve purchased any new equestrian riding apparel, this might be a good time to take a look at some of the fantastic fall jackets we have in stock at TheEquestrianCorner.com. Here are a few of our favorites to whet your appetite.

• Ladies Goode Rider Bomber Vest. This vest is made of washed down cotton and poly oilskin, and features a soft suede lining for extra comfort. The slim fit allows for full mobility, making this piece a great addition to your collection of equestrian apparel.
• Ladies Kerrits Pocket Cardigan. The best equestrian riding apparel often serves multiple functions, which is precisely what the Kerrits Pocket Cardigan does. This semi-fitted piece with its breathable fleece lining and sweater knit exterior makes a terrific outer layer for cool fall days. Or, turn it into a toasty middle layer for the winter by pairing it with a second jacket when temperatures drop even further.
• Men’s Jaipur Polo Ace Suede Jacket. We carry a nice selection of equestrian apparel for men, too, including this Polo Ace Suede Jacket from Jaipur. Suitable for both riding and casual purposes, the Polo Ace Suede Jacket features a full-zip front, contrast stitching, and piping at the hem and cuffs.
• Ladies Goode Rider Storm Jacket. Do you have equestrian riding apparel that allows you to go out in inclement weather? If not, check out this Goode Rider Storm Jacket. The 100% waterproof nylon shell is resistant to rain, oil, and most other liquid substances so you never have to worry about staying clean and dry. Other features include Princess Panels to facilitate maneuverability; a removable hood for added protection against the elements; and a built-in cell phone pocket for convenience.

Make sure you’re prepared to take advantage of these beautiful fall days by upgrading your wardrobe at TheEquestrianCorner.com. We have a full selection of riding jackets and other equestrian apparel for this season and beyond, so treat yourself to something nice today!

Riding Breeches Basics

Breeches have been around for hundreds of years, but the current style is an exercise in elegance, functionality, and comfort with its form-fitting shape, strong, comfortable fabrics, and knee patches that provide an improved grip and contact with the horse. Riding breeches come in a variety of styles that include full-seat, low-rise, high-rise, lined and unlined, and pull-on, front-zip, and side-zip varieties. The snug-fitting lower leg allows the greatest contact with your mount while preventing snags and pinching, whereas the fuller seat provides the needed flexibility and freedom of movement.

The bottom line in women’s riding breeches, regardless of the season, is that they must fit snugly to allow for close contact with your mount, look attractive enough for the show ring, and allow for the freedom of movement that is crucial in an outstanding performance. Obviously, winter riding requires thicker, warmer horse riding breeches than what would be comfortable in the heat of summer. Fabrics that wick away moisture help the rider maintain a comfortable temperature, year round, and they also prevent chafing.

A Cut Above

At The Equestrian Corner, several different cuts, or styles, of breeches are available to choose from. Selection depends largely upon the rider’s body type and the intended use. Breeches and jodhpurs come in short, regular, long, and extra long lengths, so it is important to measure yourself accurately to ensure a snug, comfortable fit that will allow for the best possible performance.

Frequently, riders have a preference over low-rise or high-rise cuts, depending upon which cut fits best and flatters their particular body shape. Of course, what can be worn in the lesson arena is an entirely different thing from what gets worn in the show ring when riders must look their very best.

Long and Lanky, Or Sturdy And Strong

In keeping with properly fitting women’s riding breeches and jodhpurs, The Equestrian Corner offers a variety of seats and waistbands on their high quality women’s riding breeches and jodhpurs. Wider waistbands provide a comfortable fit while keeping your ratcatcher where it belongs. By selecting a style of horse riding breeches that best suit your body type, riders can be assured of functional elegance, wherever they ride.

Petite riders will be delighted with the shorter cuts of equestrian riding apparel now available, providing them with women’s riding breeches that have the appropriate length and width to assure a safe and productive ride. Whatever your body type, The Equestrian Corner is sure to have exactly what you are looking for.

Schooling Ring Casual

Most riders have a favorite pair of breeches for the schooling ring. Comfort and fit are more important than tradition when working on skills in the schooling ring. Training sessions can be made extra comfy with schooling tights from The Equestrian Corner. These low-rise, pull-on women’s riding breeches have a stretch waistband and are made from a ventilated, moisture wicking poly/spandex fabric that can stand up to the roughest treatment and still provide the fit and comfort you want and need.

The latest trend in schooling attire is the wide range of colors now available. Whereas white, black, and beige were all that shoppers could find in the past, colors of horse riding breeches today include deep purple, sage, chocolate, smoke, navy, taupe, and espresso. Horse motif detailing is another fun way to tell the world about your love of horses both in and out of the ring!

Before getting to that point, however, you have to make sure you have appropriate equestrian riding apparel. Different events have different requirements, with some being more restrictive than others. This is particularly true as you move up the ranks to higher-level shows, so it’s critical to review the rules before loading your trailer and heading to the venue.

Since Western shows typically allow riders far more leeway in terms of equestrian riding apparel, the following checklists will focus on eventing at English horse shows. Remember, these lists are meant to serve as basic guidelines to help you while shopping for breeches, helmets, crops, and other accessories here at TheEquestrianCorner.com; they are not meant to be the final word on what’s required for your particular show.

Dressage
You’ll likely be expected to wear formal equestrian riding apparel for this event. Here are some of the most common requirements:

• Black or navy blue coat
• Light-colored show shirt
• Rat-catcher or stock tie
• ASTM/SEI approved helmet in black or with a black satin or velvet cover
• Light-colored riding breeches, typically in white or tan
• Tall dress boots (never full chaps, half-chaps, or paddock boots)
• Gloves (often optional, but a good idea for protecting your hands and completing the outfit)
• Dressage whip or crop (also optional)

Show Jumping
Although the equestrian riding apparel required for Show Jumping events is still on the conservative side of the scale, it is not quite as formal as Dressage. You will need many of the same items, with the only differences being more flexibility in terms of colors.

• Show coat (usually a dark color)
• Show shirt
• Rat-catcher or stock tie
• ASTM/SEI approved helmet (usually a dark color)
• Riding breeches
• Tall dress boots or field boots
• Gloves (optional)

Cross-country
The equestrian riding apparel required for this event is much less restrictive than either Dressage or Show Jumping. As such, you’ll often see riders in colorful clothing and accessories instead of the black and white ensembles associated with Dressage. Here are the items you’ll need on the day of the show:

• Shirt with sleeves (long or short in any color)
• ASTM/SEI approved helmet (any color)
• Protective vest
• Breeches (any color)
• Tall boots
• Gloves (optional)

We carry all the equestrian riding apparel and accessories listed above, so if you would like to purchase something for your next event, please feel free to browse through our selection. Then once you have your habit picked out, you can focus on having fun at the show!

If you are still looking for some nice warm riding gloves, or even some cool looking equestrian accessories or  themed socks, hop on over to www.theequestriancorner.com.

Compare prices -  you’ll like our competitive pricing – as usual for The Equestrian Corner.  Watch for this product line to come on board.  Shown is  The Ovation Protege Helmet XSmall/Small Graphite.  Sleek and cool looking.