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Finally, summer is here, and you wonder what to wear horseback riding in the summer. We survived winter. Shedding season? Over it. Fly season? …okay, let’s not talk about that. But now we’re here.
Heat. Real heat.
The kind where you stand still for 5 seconds and already question all your life choices. And of course… we do everything for our horses. Cool them down. Wash them. Shade. Water. Fans.
But you?
Sweating. Struggling. Existing in a helmet like it’s a personal sauna.Because figuring out what to wear for horseback riding in the summer is not just about looking cute.
It’s about surviving the ride. And actually enjoying it.
So let’s get into it. Here’s exactly what to wear horseback riding in the summer and what you should avoid.
1. The Colors Matter More Than You Think
I know, babe. I know. You love black. We all love black. Unless you’re blessed with a grey horse… But here’s the thing. In summer? Black is not your best friend.
Dark colors absorb more sunlight and hold onto heat. The order from hottest to coolest? Black, green, red, purple, yellow, pink, blue, white.
Light colors reflect light, so they stay cooler. Think: white, beige, light blue, soft green. Not magically cold. But better. But let’s be real for a second. Lighter colors can be messier and look dustier in a short time, especially white breeches.
So, unless you compete, you don’t have to stick with white. You can choose a nice bright blue or beige. It will be cooler and less messy.
2. Which fabrics work and which ones betray you mid-ride
Your body cools down through sweat. And if your outfit traps that sweat? You’re done. Research confirms that athletes wearing moisture-wicking fabrics showed better endurance and felt less fatigued during high-intensity activities. Cotton feels nice at first. Soft. Natural. Comfortable.
Until you sweat. Then it absorbs everything, stays wet, and sticks to your body. Suddenly, you’re riding in a wet towel. Polyester, on the other hand, dries fast, breathes well, and keeps its shape through countless washes.
Shocking, right? I always wondered why all sports tops are made from weird fabrics I can’t even touch. But you can go with a nice blend between cotton and polyester or choose bamboo.
3. What Not to Wear
Don’t choose baggy clothes. It is fine if your shirt is a bit loose. But you need tight riding pants for your safety. Loose clothes can irritate your legs between the saddle. Or trap you in the saddle when you’re about to let go. That’s dangerous. And please let’s forget about those slippers, I know, it is hot in summer. But slippers around a horse is a worse idea, trust me.
I had two summers with purple toenails, and it was not fun.
4. Why You Shouldn’t Ride in Shorts
I know. It’s hot. But please, hear me out. Shorts leave your legs fully exposed to the saddle. The constant movement of the horse creates friction against bare skin. This leads to: chafing, pinching, painful friction burns, especially on longer rides. Most riding instructors won’t even allow it in lessons.
But there’s more. Loose shorts can also get caught on the saddle if you fall. Which means instead of falling off clean, you could get dragged. That’s not a beginner mistake. That’s a hospital visit.
And open-toed shoes? Same energy. A horse stepping on your foot in flip flops is… not pretty. I’ve been there, done that.
Breathable long pants protect you from saddle friction, sun, and unexpected “meetings” with hay.
You’ll regret shorts fast. Trust me.
Go for a beach without a saddle, that’s a whole different story. There’s a place to wear shorts on a horse.
5. Horse Riding Helmets
The last thing you wanna wear in the summer heat is a helmet, I know. But here’s the bonus you might not have thought about:
Your helmet isn’t just protecting your head from a fall. In summer, it’s also important to shield your head from direct sunlight. And block the sunrays shining directly into your eyes.
Look for helmets with:
- Ventilation channels
- Lightweight design
- Wide-brim options for extra sun protection on face and neck
- Some brands now design wide-peak helmets specifically for sun coverage that dips down at the sides.
Here are some horse riding helmet ideas for summer that you can choose from:
6. Tops: Long Sleeve vs Short Sleeve
This is where you can really win.
Go for: lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking.
Now here’s the great debate: short sleeve vs long sleeve.
Short sleeve:
Feels lighter
More immediate airflow
Great for shaded or indoor arenas
Long sleeve:
- Protects from sun and sunburn
- Can actually feel cooler if the fabric is right
- UPF-rated sun shirts reduce UV exposure significantly
Yes, really.
However, I’ll be honest with you.
I personally never managed to survive a ride in anything more than a t-shirt.
The heat just got to me every time.
So if you’re the same? Go for a short sleeve with UPF protection.
But some say a linen-weight long sleeve is the best option. The truth is: the best summer horse riding outfit is the one that is best for YOU.
Let me know what you think in the comments. Have you ever tried a linen-weight long sleeve in summer?
Here are some horse riding shirt ideas for summer that you can choose from:
Casual Moisture-Wicking Sport Shirt
7. Horse Riding Pants
Let’s talk about breeches or leggings. Because this is where most riders struggle.
You want: lightweight fabric, stretch, breathability.
Avoid: thick winter breeches, anything fleece-lined.
Grip vs no grip? Personal preference.
But in heat, the silicone grip can feel sticky.
Color vs practicality: white looks amazing for 5 minutes. Then life happens.
A good equestrian outfit for summer means choosing breeches that keep you cool without sacrificing safety.
Here are some horse riding pants ideas for summer that you can choose from:
8. Socks
Underrated. But important.
Because sweaty feet? No, thank you.
Go for: thin, breathable, moisture-wicking.
Avoid thick socks unless you enjoy suffering.
Also… bring an extra pair. You’ll thank yourself later.
Here are some horse riding socks ideas for summer that you can choose from:
Boots
This is where heat hits hard.
Tall boots in summer? Brave. Very brave.
Options:
Breathable leather tall boots
Synthetic boots with airflow panels
Paddock boots + half chaps (often cooler and more practical)
Your legs will sweat. A lot.
The paddock boots + half chaps combo gives your ankle more movement and usually breathes better than a full tall boot. And you can put them down right away after the ride.
Here are some horse riding boots ideas for summer that you can choose from:
Ladies Summer Canvas Field English Horse Riding Boots
Gloves
Do you need them? Yes.
Do you want them in the summer? Not always.
But reins + sweat = slippery mess.
So go for: lightweight gloves, breathable material, mesh panels.
Something that feels like you’re barely wearing anything.
Do you ride with gloves on in the summer?
Here are some horse riding glove ideas for summer that you can choose from:
At the Barn but Not Riding? Here’s What to Know
Sometimes you’re at the stable but not actually in the saddle.
Grooming. Mucking out. Camp. Watching a lesson.
The rules shift, but not completely.
Short pants? Fine. Totally understandable in the heat.
Just know: at a stable, your legs will take a beating.
From hay, from fencing, from gate latches, from just … existing near horses.
When I worked at a yard in the summer, my legs were full of scratches.
So go in with eyes open.
But the one thing that doesn’t change?
Closed shoes. Always.
Closed-toe shoes with some structure are a must any time you’re near horses.
This applies whether you’re riding or not.
Keeping Light Outfits Clean (Without Losing Your Mind)
Light colors look amazing.
Until they don’t.
So here’s how you survive it:
Rinse stains early (don’t wait)
Use mild detergent
Avoid overloading your washing machine
Air dry when possible
And honestly? Accept a little chaos.
You’re not here to look perfect. You’re here to ride. Enjoy life.
So, What To Wear For Horseback Riding In The Summer?
Be mindful of the colors of your summer horse riding outfit. Go for lighter colors. Choose fabrics that are moisture-wicking, breathable, and comfortable. You can wear short pants in the barn, but for riding, always wear long ones. Wear a helmet always, even in the summer heat; it will protect you from sun rays and falls. Gloves are optional, and you can find breathable pairs for summer. Choose Horse riding clothes that feel comfortable and safe, and let’s enjoy summer!
FAQ
What to wear for horseback riding in the summer?
Lightweight moisture-wicking breeches or leggings, a breathable top, a ventilated helmet, closed boots, and thin gloves. Light colors help, but fabric is more important.
What is the best color for a summer horse riding outfit?
Light colors like white, beige, or light blue stay cooler. But practical is better than perfect.
Can I wear shorts while riding?
No. Safety and comfort both say no friction burns, saddle pinching, and fall hazards make it a real risk.
Are long sleeves too hot?
Not if they’re lightweight and breathable. A UPF sun shirt can actually feel cooler than bare skin in direct sun.
What about barn work or camp, not riding?
Short pants are fine. But always wear closed-toe shoes.
Can I wear slippers for the barn or horse riding?
Never. It is dangerous for horse riding, and even in the barn. If you can get stepped on by a horse, it can break your toes.
How do I stay cool while riding?
Right equestrian outfit, hydration, breaks, and riding in the cooler parts of the day.
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