The best winter base layers keep you just at the right temperature, without adding any excess bulk. A good technical fabric will keep you warm when you’re cold but cool you down when you’re warm. Breathable properties are also really important, especially as you’re likely to be layering up. They should have a fairly slim fit, good length in the arm, allow for unrestricted movement but should not ride up. You can find a range of colours, styles and fits on offer — things to consider include whether you would prefer a style with a zip and the importance of being able to incorporate your base layer into a successful “matchy-matchy” look.
Horse & Hound has been working with a number of professional riders, trainers and yards to put a range of products to the test in a busy yard environment. And here are the results…
Horse & Hound’s pick of the best winter base layers 2019
*H&H APPROVED*
Ariat Cadence wool ¼ zip base layer
RRP £85
“The base layer fitted well, kept me warm and was comfortable to wear. It was really breathable and was great when the temperature changed, such as going from riding to teaching.”
9/10
*H&H APPROVED*
Cavallo Lynette
RRP £59
“This base layer was flattering and fitted really well. It was warm and comfortable without making me too hot, so it was ideal for wearing on cooler days at the yard.”
9/10
*H&H APPROVED*
Helly Hansen Lifa Merino crew
RRP £65
“I wore this base layer for riding, general yard work and to the gym. It washed well and stood up to regular wear.”
9/10
Noble Outfitters Athena ¼ zip base layer
RRP £39.95
“I liked the sleeve length and it was also long in the body. It was breathable but not very warm — I would wear it as an extra winter layer or a light summer top.”
8/10
Zerofit Heatrub Ultimate base layer
RRP £50
“The best thing about it was that it was so incredibly warm — it’s great for anyone who’s outside a lot in the cold.”
8/10
My LeMieux base layer
RRP £39.95
“The sleeves were a really good length, but I found the body not to be as close-fitting as I’d like for a base layer. It was warm and breathable — I wore it for cross-country schooling and I was a good temperature.”
6/10
Meet the product tester
Jo Rimmer has evented up to five-star level. She now combines competing with producing young horses and training riders of all ages. She is based at Fontmell Parva, Dorset, alongside her daughter Jess. The yard has a reputation for high standards (horses) and high spirits (staff).
You might also like:
Best softshell jackets for riders 2018: Horse & Hound’s testers rank their favourites
Find out which softshell equestrian jackets were chosen as the best in test and best value in our independent group
Horse & Hound is in the process of testing a wide range of equestrian kit, clothing and equipment, the results of which will be published on HorseandHound.co.uk
For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday
