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Equine extra's Big Test - Winter Warmers

Winter is coming….or might even be here!! So this Big Test features items designed to keep you and your equine friend warm and dry through the coming weeks. Find out what our experienced panel of testers found...

Winter Warmers

Noble Outfitters - Ladies Aspire JacketVERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Noble Outfitters – Ladies Aspire Jacket

The company says: Inspire with the Aspire as you head into winter. Our new vest and jacket will provide you with that insulated layer you need in the autumn but also keep you warm as the temperature drops, making the perfect transition piece. Olive, Blueprint & Merlot. Sizes: XS-XXL. www.nobleoutfitters.co.uk

Our tester, Barbara Clarkson, says: A quality well-fitting jacket which is lightweight, warm, and extremely versatile. I love the fact that the sleeves are long for riding in! They even have thumb holes in the inner elastic cuff for extra draught proofing. The contoured cut is flattering and measurements true to size. The colour, on the bright side of navy blue, is just enough to make the soft feel showerproof outer fabric look cosy to wear, which it is. I’ve worn this jacket working on the yard, for riding, while teaching, nipping to the shops, and out on the quad bike. It has been washed many times already and comes out good as new every time. I will be using it all winter as it’s such a great fit, I’d be lost without it! Maybe Santa will bring me one each of the other colours too…..I can hope!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Teva - Men's Arrowood 2 Mid BootsVERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Teva – Men’s Arrowood 2 Mid Boots

The company says: This iconic modern outdoor sneaker is updated to deliver more versatility and improved performance. Waterproof-leather upper seals out the elements to keep your feet dry. Built with a waterproof membrane that seals out rain, puddles, and other things that splash to keep your feet dry. Lined with lightweight, breathable mesh that keeps your feet cool and comfortable. An EVA foam foot bed cushions your and softly supports it for all-day comfort. Our Float-Lite midsole is super durable and feather light. Individual rubber outsole pods are strategically placed for superior traction where you need it. Midnight Navy/Tan. Sizes 6-13. RRP: £130.00 www.teva.co.uk

Our tester, John Collier, says: These shoes really appeal to me. They are bright, colourful in a very pleasing way, and are extremely comfortable to wear. They looked good in the box, looked even better when on, and are just perfect for knocking about in. Waterproof so they can stand a walk through the field but are smart enough to do shopping in. However, not really ideal to wear if appearing on the TV programme Hunted as you will get noticed and certainly not ones to wear for Church! I really like them and they have suddenly become my all-time favourite footwear. They are certainly bold and brash but treat yourself to a pair, they will do wonders for your self-confidence and will brighten up these winter months and the forthcoming ones too. A definite must by – add a pair to your Christmas list!

 

 

Zamberlan - Men's 5030 Sequoia GTXVERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Zamberlan – Men’s 5030 Sequoia GTX®

The company says: Made from a single piece of soft tumbled leather with the higher cut ankle offering a great support and a chunky self-cleaning Vibram® Schwarzwald® sole unit, making the boot ideal for muddy conditions. The soft nubuck collar provides excellent comfort around the ankle and the boot features a GORE-TEX® Performance Comfort lining, which provides 100% waterproof protection as well as excellent humidity and breathability control. Brown. Sizes 40 (6.5) – 50 (14.5). RRP £185.00. www.zamberlan.com

Our tester, Ben Hobday, says: These boots are an outdoor/hiking style boot that are made from great quality Italian leather, which is soft and durable as well as smart in appearance. I first wore them for a full days teaching during typical cold, wet British weather – perfect to trial them properly! When I first put them on I found them comfortable and easy enough to fit. I think the Gore-Tex® membrane is what gives you the internal comfort. They have the conventional lace-up system with a padded Nubuck cuffing around the ankle providing extra support. They were very supportive and were totally waterproof during the outbursts of rain experienced, so they definitely ticked all those boxes.
I was teaching for eight hours solid so was on my feet for a very long time. Earlier in the day they were great, but however as the day went on, they became slightly uncomfortable. I realised that I should have worn them for a few hours to wear them in before having a long day in them! So that is what I’ve done since and they are now totally comfortable all the time. They are a well-manufactured boot and do exactly what they were designed for. Superb quality for a great outdoor boot!

 

 

Muck Boots - Unisex Wear Ankle BootsVERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Muck Boots – Unisex Wear Ankle Boots

The company says: A sturdy 100% waterproof rubber boot that will keep you comfortable and dry whilst you’re working on the yard or in the fields. Seamless, easy-clean rubber overlays with articulated heels make this a suitable boot for time in the saddle too. With a wide-cut heel base, additional Achilles reinforcement and steel shank, these boots offer supreme stability and arch support for all your day-to-day equestrian tasks. Fully lined with 5mm neoprene for flexibility. Ankle height with pull-tabs for easy on and off. Black. Sizes: 6-12. RRP: £70.00. www.muckbootcompany.co.uk

Our tester, Pam Harrison, says: These were so comfortable from the moment I first put them on and they proved to be warm and very practical too. At this time of  year, I usually live in wellies, but these have taken the place of wellies on all but the wettest of days simply because they are nicer to wear - less 'clumpy' than the average welly boot! Very easy to put on and take off, they have a very warm insole and my feet stayed warm even on frosty mornings when turning out and emptying the muck barrow. They are indeed simple to clean and they are now my go-to winter yard boot.
I have ridden in them too, just quietly though, as my usual half chaps won't fit because these are a bit more bulky than my jodhpur boots, however I'd be happy to hack in them with waterproof chaps or overtrousers as they are so warm. If you aren't a fan of 'wellies-all-day' then you need a pair of these - they are great value yard boots.

 

 

 

Mark Todd - Heavyweight Combo Turnout RugVERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Mark Todd - Heavyweight Combo Turnout Rug

The company says: Offering top to tail protection, this practical turnout rug is manufactured in a 1200 denier, waterproof ripstop outer fabric with taped seams plus a cosy 350g fill and generous and pleated tail flap. The quick-release front fastenings, reflective strips, cross surcingles, adjustable leg straps and nylon, anti-rub lining complete this must-have winter rug. Navy/Jade. Sizes: 5’6” to 7’)”. RRP: £123.99. www.marktoddcollection.co.uk

Our tester, Val Williams, says: This heavyweight combo has some top attributes and I have to say our stallion Hollybrae looks extremely snug in it. There are rather a lot of good things to say about this rug ~ he outer is 1200 denier rip stop polyester coated and breathable, the inside is 350 gram with nylon filling and has an anti-rub shoulder and also anti-rub lining on the neck which is fantastic – so no rubbing out of manes. The poll has a fleece protection strip and the tail flap is large and again with anti-rub lining. Also at the bottom of the tail flap is reflective stitching and binding and the same on the chest so the horse is so easy to see in the dusk of winter nights. This rug has a lot of depth to it too so keeps Hollybrae very warm indeed. It has cross over surcingles and adjustable buckle fastenings at the chest with a quick release clip plus the leg straps are also adjustable and removable. It is a perfect fit to size as well so all in all a great winter rug.

 

 

 SSG Gloves - 10 Below Ultimate Winter Riding GloveHIGHLY RECOMMENDED
SSG Gloves – 10 Below Ultimate Winter Riding Glove

The company says: Engineered using the digital fabric on the palm, combining feel and grip with breathability and durability. The gloves have a new synthetic leather backing which improves the waterproofing and flexibility, in addition there is a Thinsulate lining and inside that, the SSG exclusive polar fleece, which in this updated glove is treated with ‘Thermal feelings’ material, ‘Wintersun’ which increases the glove warmth. As good as gets in a winter riding glove offering four layers of warmth enough to combat the coldest weather whilst retaining the feel and control that every rider needs. Now with new touch screen friendly fingers. Black. Sizes: 5-13. RRP: £39.99. Stockists: www.mackey.ie

Our tester, Sue Lacey, says: These looked sooo snuggly when I unwrapped them and as I examined them I was pleased to note that they had elastic around the wrist which means you don’t put your gloves down and lose them. The first time I wore them I was delighted to note that my hands were nice and toasty as I’m naturally a very cold person, suffering as I do from Raynaud’s disease. However, when I wore them on a really cold, frosty morning they didn’t seem to keep my hands as warm as I would have liked. But the gloves did seem justa little short on the fingers, so I suspect that caused the issue, so if these are something you’d like to try it would be best to ensure that you definitely get the correct size. Overall though these are a very nice general glove.

 

 

Wigwam Unisex All American Boot SocksHIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Wigwam – Unisex All American Boot Socks

The company says: Moisture wicking mid-weight socks, made with premium American Wool that are fully cushioned throughout to protect you from hot spots and blisters. Midweight boot socks. Suitable for all seasons. 3 pair pack, assorted colours. RRP: £35.00. www.muckbootcompany.com

Our tester, Paul Malone, says: Now that the colder weather has finally arrived and the thermals are on, I was over the moon when I was asked to test some socks. I was even more delighted when arrived to hear that they are from “The Original Muck Boot Company” – a brand I know very well! I was testing these just as the temperatures dropped and they really did make a difference. They are nice and thick whilst still being breathable thanks to the blend of wool and modern fabrics. I have found that they wash very well and dry quickly enough to have them back on the following day. A particular point to note is that the foot is really well cushioned – much more so than most of my riding socks, making these socks ideal for wearing on the yard or whenever I’m covering a bit of distance. I must admit however, that these socks do fit under my riding boots, so my long riding socks may be cast to the back of the drawer this year. It’s probably a sign of getting old, but I was wearing 2 or 3 pairs of socks each day last winter (much to the amusement of my other half). So far, however, these socks are lovely and toasty by themselves!

 

 

 

Alan Paine - Ledies Felwell JacketVERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Alan Paine – Ladies Felwell Jacket

The company says: Lightweight and easy to wear everyday classic fit quilted jacket. Water repellent outer with a pretty scarlet paisley lining and featuring a two-way front zip with studded placket. Finished with mock suede trims throughout. Choose next size up if wearing a sweater underneath. Navy. Sizes: 8-20. RRP: £144.95. www.alanpaine.co.uk

Our tester, Gillian McMurray, says: When this lovely jacket arrived I was delighted to find that the quality far surpassed the usual standard of "quilted jacket". It is attractively designed in navy with a contrasting tan coloured trim and quality fittings including a two way zip. It is made from a soft, suede effect material with a colourful cotton lining. This is a very well cut jacket, true to sizing and an excellent fit. It has two concealed zip pockets which have been designed carefully to merge in with the close fitting style of the jacket. It is well padded without being bulky and is warm and comfortable to wear. This is a very stylish jacket which will look stunning for every occasion and I am thoroughly enjoying wearing it and showing it off to friends and family. (photo – alanpaine)

 

 

 

HKM Sport Equipment - Stable Rug with Fleece CollarVERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
HKM Sports Equipment – Stable Rug with Fleece Collar

The company says: Durable and hard wearing as well as easy care as it is washable at 30° and suitable for the tumble dryer. Flexible gussets allowing freedom of movement, leg straps and adjustable front closures for a comfortable fit plus tail guard and cross surcingles for a secure fit. 350g filling and 210D polyester fabric for warmth. Deep Blue. Sizes: 5’3”; 5’6”; 6’0”; 6’4”; 6’9” & 7’0”. RRP: £63.95. www.hkm-sports.com

Our tester, Caroline Mosley, says: I love this rug, it’s so warm I would have it on my own bed! My favourite thing is the neck, it has a large fleece section which means my super sensitive mare doesn't get any rub marks from the edge of the rug. The liner is smooth and it has cross surcingle and leg straps. However, I don't use leg straps so I converted to tail strap which has worked fine and the rug hasn't moved at all. It also has the speedy chest clips and buckles for fit. I cannot fault it, I love it. I would happily have one of everything this company has and their quality is fab at excellent prices.

 

 

Equisafety - Aspey Jacket in OrangeVERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Equisafety – Aspey Jacket in Orange

The company says: Manufactured using advanced technical features and high quality textile intelligent fabrics. An exclusive pull down warning triangle, which fastens at the sides of the jacket, can be rolled back into the collar when not needed. Features include: inside zipped pocket, mobile phone pocket, 360° of reflection and fluorescent properties, strong two-way front zip and two large, hidden pockets. Fully washable at 30° wash, using non-biological liquid/powder, and hang to dry. We also recommend that the jacket is washed in NikWax Tech Wash after every five washes to keep the stains away and keep the jacket looking newer for longer. This Equisafety design is fully Copyrighted. Also available in Yellow, Pink & Polite. Sizes: XS – XXXL. RRP: £99.90. www.equisafety.com

Our tester, Josella Scott, says: What a splendid hi-vis jacket this is. It is so bright I am sure I can be seen from space, never mind on a dull winter's day hack out or from down the field on a foggy day. There is no excuse now to those drivers who still insist “they didn't see the horse and rider”. You can see me from a mile off. I found that quite reassuring when going anywhere near roads. In short this jacket is stylish, the fit is perfect and I love the horse print lining. It is warmer than most of my very hi-tog winter jackets, so not much need for layering. The pockets are all strategically placed, phone and keys catered for. It comes with a detachable Pass Wide and Slow Bib for the back and to say it is robustly and well made with quality materials is an understatement. I cannot recommend this jacket highly enough. A must for those amongst us who need to be seen to be safe plus keep warm and dry.

 

 

Mark Todd - Winter Performance BreechesHIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Mark Todd - Winter Performance Breeches

The company says: Offering additional protection from the elements, these extremely practical breeches are manufactured in water resistant and breathable Tactel fabric, with a brushed backing and four-way stretch for warmth and comfort. The breeches have a Euroseat design, ultra grip knee patches and slimline sock ankle. Beige or Navy. Available in Ladies & Men’s sizes. RRP: from £79.99. www.marktoddcollection.co.uk

Our tester, Rachel Thomas, says: Well what can I say about these breeches apart from ~ I love them! They are so warm- noticeably warmer than regular ones. They fit will, wash well and look smart, and so are an absolute must for anyone’s winter wardrobe! I am a big fan of the elastic lower leg and would highly recommend them to anyone. If I had to be picky there is only one thing, and this probably comes down to personal preference, but do they come with a full/half seat?