Summer and between-season riding jackets

In the transitional seasons such as spring or autumn, it is often difficult to choose the right riding clothes due to the changing weather conditions. While the temperatures are often still too high for a winter riding jacket, they are nevertheless too low for a summer riding jacket. For transitional riding jackets, special attention should be paid to high breathability as well as light and quick-drying material.

Two women are walking through a forest wearing light summer jackets

When buying a transitional riding jacket, make sure that it is not too thickly lined and can still withstand rain showers. Even in summer, temperatures can cool down in the early or late hours of the day as well as due to the weather, which is why breathable riding jackets made of fleece are recommended as reliable companions. This creates a practical combination of warmth and function. High stand-up collars or hoods are an additional feature, especially for days with unsettled weather.

Two women in riding waistcoats stroke a horse

1. Combination riding jacket, riding blouson and riding parka

Combined riding jackets are equipped with quilted padding in the front and partly also in the back area. The side inserts made of stretch material form the ideal combination of warmth and breathability for the transitional season. The riding blouson is cut short and has a generally sporty cut. The blouson style is based on the cut of aviator or bomber jackets. Cuffs at the sleeves and at the waist of the jacket prevent wind from entering the jacket and protect the rider from cold draughts. The riding parka, on the other hand, is cut longer and reaches down to the thigh. If a riding parka model is equipped with a drawstring waist, it can be adjusted as desired. Riding slits and a two-way zip make it comfortable to wear on the horse as well.

2. Riding jackets made of softshell

Among the functional riding jackets, the soft shell jacket is the perfect companion for on the go. Due to the low weight and the many functions that this material brings with it, soft shell jackets have become popular. When making a purchase decision, please bear in mind that although soft shell jackets are absolutely windproof, they are only water-repellent and not waterproof. This is especially due to critical processing zones, such as the shoulder area, which cannot be taped. Find out more about our soft shell jackets and coats in our guide on soft shell riding jackets.

3. Riding jackets made of jeans

Denim jackets are characterised by their high durability. A denim jacket is a hard-wearing and robust as well as comfortable companion at the stable. Nevertheless, denim jackets are more fashionable and traditional than functional jackets.

Summer riding jacket with hood or collar?

It depends on the purpose of the jacket. A hood protects the rider from unpleasant rain showers, a high collar can protect the neck and throat from wind and cold. The combination of hood and collar is your ideal companion for the transitional season. Depending on your needs, the hood can be stowed away in the collar or easily attached to the collar again.


Practical details make the transitional jackets your everyday companion in the stable: To be able to wear longer cut jackets on the horse as well, make sure that riding slits are incorporated. For even more comfort, a two-way zip allows the jacket to be opened both from above and below. Large pockets allow for the practical stowage of valuables such as keys or a smartphone and also provide space for treats to reward the four-legged friends.

A woman opens a yard gate and has a halter in her hand
How is breathability measured?

The breathability of the jacket is determined by the water vapour permeability of the material. This is stated in MVP. This describes the amount of water vapour that can be released over an area of 1 square metre within 24 hours. Jackets for sports use should have a breathability of at least 3000 g/m²/24h. This principle is maintained as long as the water vapour content inside is higher than outside. At high humidity and temperatures above 15°C, breathable clothing reaches its limits.

One woman is sitting, a second one is standing next to her. Both are wearing a fleece jacket

4. Fleece riding jackets

Fleece jackets or coats usually have a tailored cut that is close to the body and also impress with their heat-insulating material properties. Both a high collar and two-way zips are practical. Fleece is made from polyester fibres. Due to their durable and easy-care material properties, fleece jackets convince with a wide range of uses – worn as a heat-insulating layer under a waterproof riding jacket or solo, in the stable, while riding or in everyday life. You can’t go wrong with a high-quality fleece jacket.

The functional fleece material absorbs little moisture, which allows it to retain its quick-drying and breathable properties.


Teddy fleece jackets are high-pile fleece with longer fibres, which increases the heat-insulating effect.

The use of fleece jackets in the rain is only recommended in a two-piece look. Fleece has no waterproof properties. All-round weather protection can therefore only be achieved in combination with a waterproof and windproof weatherproof jacket. In winter, for example, a fleece jacket can be worn as a second warming layer under a waterproof jacket.

Care instructions for washing fleece jackets

  • The easy-care fleece jackets can be washed at up to 30°C.
  • The care instructions on the product must always be followed.
  • To protect the brushed outside, the jacket can be washed inside out.
  • The use of fabric softener is not recommended.
  • Due to the quick-drying properties of fleece, the jacket is ready for use again just a few hours after washing.
  • A few minutes in the dryer is sufficient to preserve the fluffy properties of the jacket.