It’s tricky to stay clean and tidy when horses are involved. Add winter into the mix when it’s wet and muddy and it becomes nigh on impossible to avoid getting dirty. With hibernation not a possibility, having the right clothing can make being out in all weathers a bit more bearable.
One piece of essential winter clothing is a pair of waterproof overtrousers. They are an additional layer for warmth and they will keep you dry and clean. To discover which are the most practical to use, our team has put a selection of overtrousers to the test.
Each pair has been worn for yard and ridden work and is marked out of five for fit, performance and value for money. Read on to find out which ones came out on top.
1. Weatherbeeta Rayne Waterproof Trousers
Weatherbeeta Rayne Waterproof Trousers
RRP £89.99
Colour: Black
Sizes: 8/ 26in – 18/ 36in
Fit: These are a comfortable fit and a good length in the leg. Easy to slip on and fasten at the waist, they are nicely cut too and the waist is elasticated at the back which allows for freedom of movement while doing yard work and riding. 5 stars
Performance: I’ve worn these in some really heavy rain and they’ve kept me dry and warm. They are comfortable to ride in thanks to the gel print that offers grip. The material has proved to be durable and has stood up to prolonged use. 5 stars
Value for money: Good value for money – these do the job really well. 4.5 stars
Total score: 14.5
2. Le Mieux Drytex Stormwear Waterproof Trousers
Le Mieux Drytex Stormwear Waterproof Trousers
£89.95
Colour: Black
Sizes: XS – XXL
Fit: These are a good fit – a little snug over my hips, but fine in the waist. They are easy to put on and the length of leg is good too. The waist is elasticated at the back, which aids the fit and comfort of these trousers. They are well-shaped over the knee too so you don’t feel restricted when riding. 4.5 stars
Performance: I can’t fault these at all – they have kept me clean, warm and dry in some nasty weather. They have proved great for yard work and the silicone seat helps you to feel secure in the saddle. Other little touches include the slightly raised waistband at the back and the Velcro adjustments at the bottom of the leg. 5 stars
Value for money: Good value for a great pair of overtrousers. 4.5 stars
Total score: 14
3. Stierna Storm Rain Riding Pants
Stierna Storm Rain Riding Pants
RRP £195
Colours: Black, midnight navy
Sizes: XS – XXL
Fit: These are a great fit — the waist can be adjusted to tailor it to an individual’s contours. The pre-shaped knees and the overall cut of these pants give the wearer great freedom of movement in and out of the saddle. 5 stars
Performance: These are so comfortable to wear and have kept me completely dry in some very heavy rain. They are lightweight, but surprisingly warm too. The full length zips down the outside of each leg make it very easy to put them on and take off. The silicone seat gives a good amount of grip in the saddle. They are made from a recycled polyester fabric. 4.5 stars
Value for money: These are a bit of an investment, but you won’t be disappointed. 4.5 stars
Total score: 14
4. Aubrion Core Waterproof Trousers
Aubrion Core Waterproof Trousers
RRP £59.99
Colour: Navy
Sizes: XS – XXL
Fit: These are a unisex fit and so are a little more generous in size than some others. Easy to pull on and the zip fly and waist fastening secure the trousers in place. The elasticated waist is comfortable and the cut of these trousers means that they fit well over breeches or jeans. 4.5 stars
Performance: I can’t really fault these at all for yard wear. They are waterproof and keep out the wind too. They aren’t really designed for riding in, but great for yard work or keeping clean before a competition. 4.5 stars
Value for money: Good value. You will stay clean and dry in these. 4.5 stars
Total score: 13.5
5. Harry Hall All-Weather Riding Trousers
Harry Hall All-Weather Riding Trousers
RRP £95
Colours: Navy, black
Sizes: XS – XXL
Fit: These are true to size and the zip on the lower leg makes them easy to put on over boots. The elastic waistband is shaped so that it is higher at the back for a more comfortable fit in the saddle. 4.5 stars
Performance: Comfortable to wear all day long, these have kept me dry and warm during some nasty weather. The suede fabric seat offers a good amount of security in the saddle without giving a restricted feeling. 5 stars
Value for money: Not cheap, but they do a great job. 4 stars
Total score: 13.5
6. Mark Todd Reinga Waterproof Trousers
Mark Todd Reinga Waterproof Trousers
RRP £100
Colour: Navy
Sizes: XS – XL
Fit: These trousers are true to size and they fit comfortably at the waist. The stretchy material allows the wearer to move without restriction, while the leg zips make putting them on quick and easy. 5 stars
Performance: The filling in these trousers makes them a great choice for colder days, but they aren’t too bulky. The fabric has a little stretch, ensuring that they are comfortable for riding and yard work. However, they don’t have a grippy seat, which made them a little slippery to ride in. 4 stars
Value for money: A fair price for a practical pair of warm overtrousers. 4 stars
Total score: 13
7. Ri-Dry Clothing Waterproof Overtrouser
Ri-Dry Clothing Waterproof Overtrouser
RRP £67
Colour: Beige
Sizes: XS – XXL
Fit: Pull-on unisex overtrousers that fit well. The elasticated waist is comfortable and there’s adjustable Velcro straps at the bottom of the leg to stop the trousers rising up when you’re riding. 4.5 stars
Performance: These have proved to be waterproof and windproof – and a great addition to yard wear on wet days. These overtrousers have been washed a few times – the beige colour means that they don’t stay clean for long – but they have come up like new. Not really designed to ride in, but they are great for keeping clean and dry on the yard or before competitions. 4 stars
Value for money: Fair value for a practical pair of overtrousers. 4 stars
Total score: 12.5
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