Hey Raynham Riders
It's been pretty mild so far this year, but it looks like the cold weather is arriving tomorrow! Chances are lessons will be canceled (we cancel if the temp is below -12c before the windchill, we will post by 7am tomorrow!), but here are some winter riding tips for future chilly, but not so ridiculously cold, days!
WINTER RIDING TIPS
- Dress in layers and make sure your base layers are moisture-wicking. Thermal long underwear designed for skiing is ideal! Once you are riding you will warm up quickly, so be sure your top layers have zippers so they can easily be removed when mounted.
- Staying warm while tacking up is key! Head, hands, and feet lose body heat quickly. Wear winter boots with ski socks, warm gloves or mittens, and a hat when tacking up. Snow pants or sweatpants over your breeches are also a good idea for chilly days. You can remove the extra layers and switch to riding boots and gloves right before you get on.
- When riding, a headband can fit under a helmet or a cozy helmet cover is also a great option.
- Winter-specific riding boots make a huge difference and there are some great options under $100 this year at Greenhawk or Pleasant Ridge. Your regular winter boots may be fine if you can’t purchase riding-specific gear. They need to have a ½” – 1 ½“ heel, not too chunky sole, and a narrow enough foot to fit into the stirrup. Ask your instructor to check if you are unsure.
- Winter riding gloves or mittens really help too but even non-riding specific gloves are fine, as long as they have some grip.
- Winter riding breeches are great, but if you don't want to purchase more breeches, then long johns under your breeches are a great option. You can also layer sweatpants or snow pants on top of your breeches too it's really chilly.
- For those really cold days, hot packs (www.littlehottieswarmers.com), are sold at Costco and many other places!) in gloves and boots are a great way to stay warm
- This is a luxury item, but I've added a heated vest to my winter apparel arsenal in the past couple of years and it's been a game-changer! I seldom need it while riding, but it's great while tacking up and untacking. Mine is by Orono and I purchased it on Amazon.
