Frozen fingers, slippery reins, metal buckles that bite—winter riding brings its own set of challenges. The right winter horse riding gloves keep your hands warm and dry without sacrificing feel on the reins, so you can stay safe, comfortable, and in control from barn chores to the last canter circle. Below is a practical guide to what matters in cold‑weather gloves, followed by Grewal Equestrian picks for every kind of winter day.
What Makes a Winter Riding Glove Different?
The best pairs of winter riding gloves use insulation that traps heat without turning your hands into mitts (think cozy linings like Thinsulate or fleece) that still flex when you gather your reins. A wind‑ or waterproof outer stops icy air and drizzle from cutting through, while a reinforced grip maintains your hold in wet weather.
Fit matters just as much: gloves should be snug enough for precise contact but not so tight that they cut off circulation, and a longer cuff that tucks under your jacket helps seal out drafts.
Finally, winter is messy; easy-to-clean material and quick-drying interior helps your gloves be ready for tomorrow's ride.
How to Choose Winter Riding Gloves: Warmth vs. Feel vs. Wet
Start by matching gloves to your weather. If most of your rides are freezing and dry, prioritize insulation that isn’t bulky so you can still close your fingers around the reins. If winter at your barn means sleet, rain, or damp footing, a waterproof shell moves to the top of the list. There’s nothing colder than soaked hands at the mounting block. On milder days, a lighter glove will protect your skin and keep your dexterity, especially for riders drilling transitions or making subtle adjustments in a lesson.
Then consider how you ride. For long hacks or schooling sessions, durability and warmth often matter most. For clinics or show prep, you may want a slimmer glove with a more polished look and maximum feel. And if you live at the barn on weekends, it’s smart to carry both a riding pair and a tougher, non‑riding pair for chores so your good gloves stay clean and dry for the saddle.
Materials That Work in Winter
Insulated synthetics tend to be warm for their weight and easy to look after, which is handy when you’re dealing with mud and slush. Leather, especially soft goat leather, delivers that close, classic feel on the reins and a refined look; it just appreciates occasional conditioning so it doesn’t stiffen in dry, cold air.
Many riders settle on hybrids: a weather‑resistant body for warmth and durability with leather or textured panels where you grip the reins.
Grewal Equestrian Picks (by winter scenario)
Here are some top riding gloves picks from our team at Grewal Equestrian.
Freezing mornings (maximum warmth + control)
Taj Riding Gloves with Thinsulate Lining is built for cold without bulk. As one rider put it: “perfect for cold winters… not too bulky but still warm.” Great for hacks, schooling, and early lessons.
Cold and wet (rain, sleet, slush)
Both Ingrid Waterproof Riding Gloves & Lady Jane Waterproof Riding Gloves provide waterproof protection that helps you keep rein feel when the weather turns. They’re ideal for damp arenas and rainy show days.
Mild winter or “clinic feel” (dexterity first)
Ansa, Elizabeth, and Marie Antoinette Riding Gloves are three options made with goat leather that’s supple and secured with a refined look. On truly cold days, pair with a thin liner.
Budget-friendly backups (great with a liner on colder days)
Anne, Diana, Matilda, Joanna, Maria, and Victoria riding gloves are reliable everyday picks. Keep a spare in your tote for wet weather or back‑to‑back lessons.
Make Them Last: Simple Winter Care
After your ride, open the cuffs and let your gloves air dry—no radiators, no dryers. Heat can harden leather and crush insulation, making the next ride colder than the last. Brush away arena dust, wipe off mud with a damp cloth, and, for leather styles, condition lightly when the air is especially dry. Rotating between two pairs is a small luxury that pays off in comfort: while one pair dries thoroughly, the other is ready to go. Store them flat and away from heaters so they keep their shape and softness.
When It’s Time to Replace Your Winter Riding Gloves
Gloves don’t last forever, especially in winter. If you notice cold spots where insulation used to be cozy, palms that feel slick on the reins, closures that won’t stay snug, or an odor that lingers despite airing out, your gloves have done their job. Upgrading before they fail means warmer fingers, steadier contact, and safer rides.
Ready for Winter?
Build your perfect winter set from Grewal Equestrian: start with Taj for the deep‑freeze, add Ingrid or Lady Jane for wet days, keep a leather pair like Ansa, Elizabeth, or Marie Antoinette for maximum feel, and throw Isabella in your tote for everyday versatility.
