By Melissa Chapman, Dressage Rider & Trainer
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As a rider, I've spent years searching for equestrian outerwear that does what it promises. Warm enough for a freezing February morning. Waterproof enough for a sustained downpour. Designed for real equestrian life, not just the photoshoot. It sounds simple. It really isn't. The problem with so much equestrian outerwear is that it promises everything and deliver almost enough. Almost warm enough. Almost waterproof enough. Almost free enough in the shoulders to ride in. That's exactly why every piece in the Coldstream weatherproof outerwear range is designed with the rider in mind first — and the weather second. |
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What Actually Makes Equestrian Outerwear Work?
Before we get into the products, it's worth knowing that our weatherproof outerwear includes both fully waterproof styles and water repellent quilted pieces — understanding the difference will help you choose the right level of protection for your equestrian life.
Waterproof rating
A waterproof rating tells you how much water pressure a fabric can withstand before it lets moisture through. At 10,000mm, Coldstream waterproof styles are rated for high-level rain protection, meaning they're developed to handle sustained, heavy rainfall without letting a drop through. For riders who can't choose their weather, that matters.
Our water repellent styles offer reliable protection against light showers and everyday moisture. A great option for milder conditions or as a layering piece when the forecast isn't too threatening.
A waterproof fabric is only as good as its seams. Water can sneak in at the joins if seams aren't properly finished, which is why on our waterproof styles every seam is taped.
Breathability
This is the one most people forget about. A jacket that keeps rain out but traps heat in is miserable — whether you're riding in the rain, emptying the wheelbarrow, or mucking out. Coldstream waterproof styles feature a breathable waterproof outer, meaning moisture from your body can escape even while rain stays out. You stay dry from both sides.
The 2-way zip
Every Coldstream outerwear jacket features a 2-way zip, and if you've ever ridden in a jacket that didn't have one, you'll know exactly why it matters.
When you're in the saddle, a jacket zipped from the top down can pull and restrict your movement, bunching around your hips and stopping you sitting correctly. A 2-way zip solves that instantly. Open it from the bottom and the jacket sits freely around you, moving with you rather than against you. No pulling. No restricting. Just freedom of movement when you need it most.
It's a small detail that makes a big difference, at Coldstream, it's non-negotiable.
Freedom of movement
Coldstream weatherproof outerwear is designed to move with you, not against you. Stretch fabrics, integrated ventilation panels and thumbhole cuffs, details that might sound small but make a very real difference when you're in the saddle or working hard on the yard.
So, which one is right for you?
As someone who has tried and tested more riding jackets than I care to admit, I know that reading about features only gets you so far. Sometimes you just need someone to cut through it and tell you what's worth your money. So here are my picks from the Coldstream range, chosen for whatever the weather decides to throw at you.
Maxton Long Waterproof Coat
Our flagship waterproof coat and the one to reach for when the weather means business. With a 10,000mm waterproof rating, a large rear riding vent for freedom of movement in the saddle, and a hidden front zip that sits smoothly whatever you're doing, the Maxton is made for riders who need serious protection without sacrificing fit or function. Storm cuffs with thumbholes seal out the wind, while the extended length keeps you covered from yard to arena. Even in the worst conditions, the signature Coldstream sparkle badge reminds you that style and performance always go hand in hand.
Nenthorn Waterproof Jacket
The Nenthorn takes weatherproof performance one step further with waterproof zips for complete element defence alongside the 10,000mm waterproof rating. Its standout feature is an innovative magnetic hood that stays securely in place whilst riding, no more hoods blowing around. Thinsulate lining delivers exceptional warmth without bulk, and technical storm cuffs with thumbholes keep the cold where it belongs. This is serious equestrian outerwear for serious riders.
Huntsford Waterproof Jacket
When the summer forecast refuses to behave, the Huntsford is the answer. Built with the same 10,000mm waterproof rating and waterproof zips as the Nenthorn, but with a lightweight 0g fill that makes it the jacket to reach for when temperatures climb. The innovative magnetic hood stays exactly where you need it whilst riding, without the faff of readjusting every five minutes. A summer training staple you'll keep reaching for long past the season.
Southdean Quilted Gilet
There's a reason the Southdean Quilted Gilet has become one of Coldstream's most loved pieces. Breathable, water repellent and beautifully warm through the core, it layers perfectly over base layers and show shirts alike — equally at home in the school, on the yard, or thrown over competition wear between classes. Once you have one, you'll wonder how you managed without it.
Stamford Softshell Performance Jacket
For those days when you need a lightweight layer that still works hard, the Stamford Softshell is the answer. Crafted from a stretchy, breathable fabric with moisture wicking fibres and 50+ UV protection, it moves with you whether you're schooling, hacking, or heading to the gym. The high-rise collar adds warmth and a sleek, sporty finish — all at a price point that makes it an easy addition to any equestrian wardrobe.
Looking for something different? Explore the full Coldstream weatherproof outerwear range to find your perfect fit.
One Last Thing
I spent years searching for equestrian weatherproof outerwear that ticked every box. Warm. Waterproof. Breathable. Made for the rider. I'm not going to pretend I found it everywhere I looked.
But I did find it here.
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