It's raining, it's raining, you and your horse are getting wet... Whether you only have an outdoor arena or you are going to a competition, sometimes it is difficult to avoid riding in a downpour. Fortunately, there are plenty of items that make riding in the rain much more pleasant. Discover everything in our blog.
Protect your horse from the rain
Do you put your horse in the pasture in the rain? Then you can choose to put on a rain sheet. If your horse stands in wet weather or rain showers for a long time, it increases the chance of rain scald. This bacterial infection is very painful and can be prevented by putting on a rain sheet.
Rain sheet
Rain sheets are impregnated with a water-repellent layer, keeping your horse comfortably dry under the sheet. In summer, it is best to choose a rain sheet without filling because it is not very cold. Rain sheets also have a breathable coating so your horse won't sweat under the sheet. Over time, your rain sheet might not be 100% waterproof anymore. This can be caused by wear and frequent use. Your horse plays, walks, and rolls with the sheet on, putting it through a lot of strain. So always make sure to repair any damage as soon as possible and brush off daily dirt to avoid the water-repellent layer being compromised. However, frequently washing a rain sheet can also make it less waterproof. Bucas has released some handy products for this. For instance, Bucas Rug Wash, a detergent suitable for washing waterproof and breathable sheets. You can also use Bucas New Conditioner to restore the water-repellent layer of the sheet.
Waterproof exercise sheet
You can also protect your horse from the rain while riding. There are numerous exercise sheets with a water-repellent layer that you can use perfectly for riding in the rain. Kentucky Horsewear has even designed a complete rain coat for horses. It is a compact and very light sheet that you can easily lay over another sheet or over the saddle. The sheet is 100% waterproof. Rambo by Horseware has also designed a rain sheet that protects both your horse and your saddle from the rain. There is even space provided to thread your stirrups through so you can sit comfortably and safely on your horse.
Extra care
Has your pasture and/or arena turned into a mud pool? Then it's important to give your horse's legs extra care. Standing in water or mud for long periods increases the chance of annoying conditions like mud fever and thrush. Therefore, always make sure your horse's legs are dry and clean when they go back into the stable. Moisture and mud are the perfect combination for bacteria.
Choose decent rain clothing
Do you not have an indoor arena or do you have to go to a competition while it's raining? Then quality rain clothing is an absolute must.
Rain jacket
A rain jacket can save you from a lot of wetness and cold when riding in the rain. A short rain jacket is the most practical during riding so that you are not constantly sitting on the back flap of the jacket. Many brands have also designed transparent rain jackets that you can wear over your competition clothing. This way, you can still see your competition jacket and remain in uniform!
But long rain jackets are also nowadays designed so that you can wear them while riding. They have zippers so that the 'skirt part' of the jacket can be unzipped for maximum freedom of movement. Zip them back up before and after riding to stay dry and warm all over your body. These long jackets are also the ideal solution for instructors who give lessons in all kinds of weather!
Rain pants
During riding in the rain, your legs naturally get wet as well. If you prefer not to wear a long rain jacket, rain pants might be the ideal solution for you. Most rain pants can simply be worn over your riding pants and only cover the upper legs and knees. This way, you maintain good contact between your boots and the saddle. Moreover, these pants are super light, so you absolutely won't be bothered by them while riding. Do you want to buy rain pants for competitions? Then choose a white color, as only these are allowed.
Waterproof shoes
Walking around all day at a competition or in the stable with wet feet is, of course, absolutely no fun. Therefore, waterproof shoes are always a good investment. Several brands have designed shoes and boots specifically to keep life in the stable a bit drier. For example, Ariat has H2O models that are completely waterproof. They also provide optimal support both in the saddle and in the stable. Painful, tired, and/or wet feet are a thing of the past! Dubarry also has a wide range of waterproof boots. On top of the comfort, they are also very beautiful!
Other waterproof accessories
Besides a rain jacket and pants, there are a few more accessories that can make life a bit drier during a downpour. Do you have a long competition day ahead and it's raining cats and dogs? Then a simple umbrella is always a handy must-have. It's also a good way to make your horse bombproof. There are also overshoes that you can wear to protect your shoes or riding boots from rain and mud. This way, your feet stay nice and warm and dry too.
Do you have any questions? Please do not hesitate to contact us.
