As the season changes and cooler days are here to stay, both riders and horses can start to feel the effects of long, chilly days in the barn and in the saddle. The key to staying comfortable and healthy this season is layering appropriately and drying effectively when you or your horse gets sweaty during work. The right layers help regulate body temperature, wick away sweat, and keep muscles warm to prevent stiffness and chill. Whether you’re mucking stalls, schooling, or cooling down your horse after a ride, smart layering makes all the difference.
Layering for Riders: Comfort, Warmth & Style
When it comes to winter barn days, riders need versatile, breathable, and stylish layers that move with them. There are three layers that should be staples in your equestrian collection: a base layer, middle layer, and outer layer. Check out these new arrivals that deliver both performance and protection from the elements.
1. HeatBlast™ Ladies’ Sidney Long-Sleeve Shirt
The HeatBlast™ Sidney Shirt is your first line of defense against the cold. This soft, breathable base layer features permanent heat-regulating technology to help maintain your core temperature while wicking away moisture — no damp chill after a long ride. Extreme stretch supports full freedom of motion, so you can tack up or school in total comfort.
Shop: HeatBlast™ Ladies’ Sidney Long-Sleeve Shirt – Dover Saddlery
2. Schockemöhle SpReny Full Zip
Look sporty and chic while staying cozy in the Schockemöhle SpReny Full Zip. Flattering seams and perforated inserts provide a sleek, breathable fit — perfect for a middle layer. The full zip allows you to put it on or take it off easily, even while wearing a helmet. The rhinestone and embroidered logos add a touch of sparkle to your cold-weather wardrobe.
Shop: Schockemöhle SpReny Full Zip – Dover Saddlery
3. TKEQ Puffy Vest
For transitional weather, the TKEQ Puffy Vest delivers warmth without bulk. Its 100% poly-fill insulation and windproof, water-resistant shell keep you comfortable and serve as an effective second middle layer on blustery barn days. Adjustable inner cords let you customize your fit, while the secure interior phone pocket keeps essentials safe.
Shop: TKEQ Puffy Vest – Dover Saddlery
4. Kerrits® Stablemate Quilted Jacket
Meet your new favorite outer layer, the Kerrits Stablemate Quilted Jacket. Designed for riders, it features 180-gram poly-loft fill for ultimate warmth and durable water repellency for weather resistance, all with equestrian-inspired style. Stretch panels, a two-way zipper, and a rider’s-cut hem ensure unrestricted movement in the saddle and full warmth in the barn.
Shop: Kerrits® Stablemate Quilted Jacket – Dover Saddlery
Layering for Horses: Warm, Dry, and Protected
Just like riders, horses need layers that help manage temperature and moisture. From turnout blankets to coolers and quarter sheets, the right layering system keeps your horse comfortable and healthy during the winter months.
1. Rider’s International™ Supreme 100 Gram Turnout Blanket
Built tough for turnout, this blanket features a 1200 denier Teflon®-coated ripstop nylon shell for durability and weather protection. With 100 grams of insulation, it’s a staple turnout weight that can be used on its own during milder days or easily layered under a heavier rug when the temperature drops.
Shop: Rider’s International™ Supreme 100 Gram Turnout Blanket – Dover Saddlery
2. Rider’s International™ Classic Plaid Fleece Quarter Sheet
Perfect for chilly warm-ups or cool-downs, this new quarter sheet is made of 350-gram anti-static fleece and helps maintain your horse’s muscle warmth without overheating. Contoured shaping ensures a secure fit, and the hook-and-loop wither closure makes it easy to use over or under the saddle.
Shop: Rider’s International™ Classic Plaid Fleece Quarter Sheet – Dover Saddlery
3. Rider’s International™ Classic Cooler
After a workout or bath, the new Classic Cooler from Rider’s International keeps your horse warm and dry while wicking moisture away from their coat. It’s crucial that your horse dries thoroughly before being turned out in the cooler months or put back in their stall. Catching a chill can lead to colic and other health issues, as a sudden temperature drop may trigger muscle stiffness, tension, and reduced circulation. These physical stressors can affect digestion and hydration, both of which play major roles in colic risk. The 350-gram mid-weight fleece is breathable, anti-static, and quick-drying – a barn essential for post-ride comfort.
Shop: Rider’s International™ Classic Cooler – Dover Saddlery
The Bottom Line: Layer Smart for Every Season
Whether you’re in the saddle or mucking out, layering is essential to comfort, performance, and health in cold weather. Start with moisture-wicking base layers, add insulating mid-layers, and finish with a protective outer shell. And don’t forget your horse—their turnout, quarter sheet, and coolers are just as important for maintaining warmth and recovery.
Stay cozy, stay stylish, and keep every ride comfortable this season with these rider-approved layers specially designed for you and your horse. Enjoy the Ride.
