Transition to Autumn Riding: Layer Smarter, Stay Comfortable and Ride with Confidence

As the seasons change, so does your riding wardrobe. Crisp mornings combined with milder afternoons and unpredictable downpours can make autumn one of the most rewarding times to be in the saddle, but only if you’re dressed for it.

Unlike summer, when staying cool is the priority, autumn riding is all about balance. You need clothing that adapts to changing temperatures, protects you from the elements and stands up to muddy yards, wet hacks and everyday wear. The right riding wardrobe doesn’t just keep you comfortable; it helps you stay focused on your horse rather than the weather.

Whether you’re schooling, competing or simply enjoying countryside hacks, here’s how to transition your riding wardrobe for autumn.

Autumn weather rarely stays the same for long. You might leave the yard wrapped up against the morning chill only to find yourself removing layers by lunchtime. Sudden showers can arrive without warning, while cooler winds make damp clothing feel even colder.

The key to autumn riding wear is versatility.

Instead of relying on one waterproof jacket, build your outfit around breathable layers that work together. This gives you greater temperature control throughout the day while maintaining freedom of movement in the saddle.

Comfort = Autumnal Layering

As any fashion stylist will tell you, layering is the secret to comfortable autumn dressing, and for equestrians, it’s the foundation of comfortable autumn riding. Each layer has a specific purpose, allowing you to add or remove clothing as conditions change.

Your base layer sits closest to your skin, making it one of the most important pieces of clothing.

Choose technical fabrics designed to:

* Wick sweat away from the body
* Dry quickly
* Regulate body temperature
* Reduce the feeling of dampness after riding

Avoid cotton where possible. While comfortable initially, it absorbs moisture and stays wet, making you colder once you’ve finished exercising.

Long-sleeved technical tops are ideal during autumn as they provide lightweight warmth without bulk.

The second layer traps warmth while remaining breathable.

Popular options include:

* Lightweight fleece hoodies
* Breathable lightweight riding jackets
* Technical gilets with fill

A sleeveless gilet is particularly useful because it keeps your core warm while allowing unrestricted movement through your shoulders and arms.

British autumn weather has a habit of changing quickly.

A quality waterproof riding jacket should offer:

* Waterproof protection
* Wind resistance
* Breathability
* Adjustable cuffs and hood
* Two-way zip for comfort in the saddle
* Rear coverage for riding

Breathable waterproof fabrics prevent overheating while keeping rain out, making them a worthwhile investment for regular riders. Be careful of claims of 100% waterproof riding coats because if it's 100% waterproof, you’re compromising on the breathability, and that means you’ll feel wet with sweat once you start moving in it.

Autumn is tough on riding clothing.

Muddy conditions, wet gates, hay, stable work and repeated washing all take their toll.

When choosing new riding wear, look for features such as:

* Strengthened stitching
* Careful seam placement, especially on garments next to your skin
* Abrasion-resistant fabrics
* Quality zips
* 4 -way stretch materials that retain their shape
* Durable water-repellent finishes
* Machine washable care labels

Investing in well-made clothing often proves more economical than replacing cheaper items every season.

Wind chill can make temperatures feel significantly colder, particularly after exercise.

Small additions to your riding wardrobe can make a noticeable difference.

Consider including:

* Waterproof gloves, designed to give you excellent grip and feel on the reins, even in wet weather.
* Neck warmers to keep those wind chills at bay.
* Technical riding socks with antibacterial properties to keep your feet healthy and happy.
* Waterproof riding boots or boot covers to protect your leather boots.
* Thermal headbands for yard duties and cosy ear covers and snoods designed to be worn beneath helmets where appropriate

Keeping your extremities warm helps maintain comfort during longer rides.

Many riders continue wearing lightweight summer breeches well into autumn before realising they’re no longer keeping them comfortable.

As temperatures fall, consider investing in the following:

* Thermal fleece-lined riding tights
* Durable hard-wearing breeches
* Water-resistant riding leggings
* Waterproof over trousers and chaps that can be worn in the saddle
* Full-seat silicone grip for wet conditions

These provide extra warmth while maintaining flexibility and comfort.

Wet feet can quickly spoil even the best ride.

Choose riding boots made from water-resistant materials and pair them with moisture-wicking socks rather than thick cotton alternatives.

Quality riding socks help regulate temperature, reduce rubbing and keep feet comfortable throughout the day.

If your boots regularly become soaked, allow them to dry naturally and treat the leather or waterproof membrane according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

One of the biggest changes during autumn is shorter daylight hours.

If you’re riding early mornings or evenings or on dull overcast days, visibility becomes increasingly important.

High-visibility clothing and accessories should become part of your everyday riding kit, especially when hacking on roads.

Consider:

* Reflective riding jackets
* Hi-vis accessories, such as hi-vis hat silks, martingales, ear bonnets, tail guards and exercise sheets
* Reflective hat bands
* Fluorescent gloves
* LED safety lights where appropriate

Being seen earlier gives drivers more time to react and improves safety for both horse and rider.

Quality clothing performs at its best when properly maintained.

Simple care habits can extend the life of your riding kit. Here are some expert tips to follow for longevity:

Always follow the manufacturer’s care and washing instructions and avoid fabric conditioners on technical garments, as they can reduce moisture-wicking performance. Use specialist cleaning products for your waterproof clothing.

Waterproof jackets gradually lose their water-repellent finish after repeated use.

Using specialist reproofing products helps restore their performance and keeps rain beading on the surface. Watch our guide on caring for your waterproof clothing.

Avoid excessive heat where possible, particularly with waterproof membranes and stretch fabrics, as high temperatures can shorten their lifespan. Laying your coat out over the radiator may seem like a good idea, but it can compromise the fabric. Wash your garments and leave them to air-dry in a warm room.

Before heading to the yard, make sure you have:

* Technical base layer
* Lightweight insulating mid layer
* Waterproof riding jacket
* Waterproof gloves
* Neck & ear warmers
* Thermal riding tights or breeches
* Moisture-wicking riding socks
* Waterproof riding boots
* High-visibility clothing
* Spare dry gloves and socks in the car

A small amount of preparation can make even unpredictable weather far more enjoyable.

Alongside wearing the right clothing, a few practical habits will help you stay comfortable throughout the season.

* Check the weather before leaving home/the yard, but prepare for changing conditions.
* Dress in layers rather than one thick garment.
* Remove a layer before you become too warm to avoid sweating excessively.
* Keep spare waterproofs in your vehicle/ at the yard.
* Store clean, dry clothing separately from muddy yard wear.
* Replace worn waterproofs before winter arrives.
* Allow boots to dry fully between rides.

Our MD and equestrian designer, Liz Hayman, answers:

What should I wear for horse riding in autumn?

Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a breathable insulating mid layer and finish with a waterproof outer jacket. Complete your outfit with fleece-lined riding tights or breeches, waterproof chaps or over trousers, boots and suitable gloves.

Is layering better than wearing one thick riding jacket?

Yes. Layering allows you to regulate your temperature throughout the day while maintaining comfort, breathability and freedom of movement. However, all our riding jackets and coats, even our Arctic winter coats, are designed to be lightweight, so they don’t restrict you despite their unwavering performance in minus temperatures.

How do I stay warm without overheating while riding?

Wear technical fabrics that wick moisture away from the body and choose lightweight insulating layers that can easily be removed if temperatures rise.

Are waterproof riding jackets worth buying?

For regular riders, a quality waterproof riding jacket offers year-round value. It keeps you dry, blocks wind and remains breathable, helping you stay comfortable during changing weather conditions.

Autumn offers some of the best riding conditions of the year, from colourful woodland hacks to crisp morning rides in the arena. With the right combination of breathable layers, durable clothing and weather protection, you’ll be ready for whatever the forecast brings.

Rather than chasing the latest trends, focus on versatile, high-quality riding wear that performs in changing conditions. Thoughtful layering, practical fabrics and reliable waterproof protection will help you stay comfortable from the first cool mornings of autumn through to the arrival of winter.

When your clothing works as hard as you do, you can spend less time thinking about the weather and more time enjoying every ride.

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