As temperatures begin to rise, the need for lightweight clothing becomes more and more important. Let me start by saying, I hate the heat. My body is horrible at regulating temperature and get hot very quickly. Where I live in Southern CA, the temps are usually in the 90’s-100’s during the summer which is the biggest downside to living here – I guess it’s the trade-off for not having true winters (I’m glad I’ve never had to scrape ice off my windshield or shovel snow). I’ve put together a list of my favorite summer riding clothes and accessories to help you beat the heat in style, no matter where you live!
BREECHES
There’s nothing worse than swamp-ass. These breeches are moisture-wicking, breathable, and are made of special fabrics to help keep you fresh & cool.
Ariat Tri-Factor Ice Fil Knee Patch Breech, $149.95:
These new breeches from Ariat are perfect for summer. They are super stretchy and lightweight, are infused with IceFil cooling technology, and have a grippy hex-pattern knee patch. The faux back pockets are flattering and add an extra dose of style.
Ovation Aqua-X Silicone Knee Patch Breech, $129.95 (affiliate link):
I LOVE these breeches. They’re priced well, have super grippy knee silicone patches, and utilize IceSilk fabric that reduces body temperature up to 5 degrees. They are some of the most comfortable breeches I own, and look great. The tan ones are a staple in my show wardrobe, and people are usually shocked when I tell them they’re Ovation breeches and not something more high-end.
TOPS
Sun protection and anti-stink cooling fabrics are at the top of my list when it comes to shirts for summer riding.
The Tailored Sportsman IceFil Sun Shirts, $65-69 (affiliate link):
The sun shirt is a staple in an equestrian’s wardrobe, and this one is my favorite. The fabric is super soft and cooling, they wash well, and the fit is great. They also come in a ton of colors and aren’t too expensive. Yay!
Sport Horse Lifestyle Sun Shirts, $79:
SHL sun shirts are made of a moisure-wicking, anti-bacterial fabric that also has UV protection. They come in super cute colors that are perfect for the summer season and the stripe accent on the sleeve gives it an elevated look.
ACCESSORIES
Riata Designs Hats, Prices Vary:
Even with sun screen, hats are a must for summer (they provide extra sun protection and prevent wrinkle-causing squinting!) Luckily there are a ton of super cute options, with these oversized and uniquely decorated hats from Riata Designs coming in as my top pick. These hats are hand-decorated with custom and/or vintage fabrics and look great post-ride at the horse show.
Mission Enduracool Microfiber Cooling Towel, $6.59 and up:
These cooling towels are life savers in hot weather! You just wet the towel, wring it out, then “snap” it, and it stays cold for a good amount of time. Cooling towels are great at bringing your body temperature down when you put them on the back of your neck or forehead.
Callidae “The Hannah” Neck Kerchief, $25:
This neck cover from Callidae is genius. It’s made from the same moisture-wicking, lightweight jersey as their Practice Shirts. This multitasking accessory is not only cute, but also shades your neck from the sun and keeps show shirt collars clean.
What are your favorite summer riding essentials? Comment below!