Keep Warm! 21. November 2013 Jillian.Deane@robinsonsequestrian.com Help & Advice (0) Most of us are responsible horse people who put our horse’s health in front of our own. But remember, if we’re not healthy, we won’t be able to care for our horse. Choose the Right Winter Clothing For You! What a difference the right clothing can make. Before winter well and truly hits, you need to check your wardrobe to check it contains clothing which will help ease you through whatever winter has to dish out. Consider your ‘horse-life’ clothing requirements. What activities do you need to prepare for? Riding in an indoor arena, hacking out, night riding, stable chores? If you’re going to be working with horses in inclement weather for an undetermined amount of time, you really do need suitable gear. Do you own a good, wind resistant and waterproof jacket? Knee-high boots that don’t leak and flexible but insulated waterproof gloves? A hat is also a must, especially when you consider that 30% of your body’s heat is lost through the head. Hints & Tips Many equestrians believe that layering is the best option for outdoor winter wear. This gives you flexibility to add or remove layers, depending on the weather and your activity. You’ll find it’s much easier to shed clothing as you warm up but incredibly difficult to warm up once you’re chilled! Resist the temptation of putting on too many pairs of socks. You'll restrict circulation and actually cause your feet to get colder! For instant warming, hand or toe warmers, such as Little Hotties Foot Warmers, can’t be beaten! Mittens are warmer than gloves because fingers retain more heat when they touch each other, rather than when they're separated by tunnels of fabric. Drink plenty of liquids. When it’s below freezing the air will draw moisture out of you. If you’re dehydrated it's harder for your body to keep warm. Use a sheepskin saddle seat saver. The fibres of the sheepskin and the air trapped between them warms up much more quickly than cold stiff saddle leather! Tweet