Updated November 2026
Rain gear for riding horses has to do more than keep the water off. Riders need coverage that stays out of the way in the saddle, lets sweat escape on warm rides, protects the legs and seat from soaking through, and holds up to repeated trips through mud and drizzle. The picks below were chosen by comparing manufacturer specifications, brand reputation for outdoor and equestrian apparel, and the patterns owners tend to report about fit, breathability and seam durability. We did not test these products ourselves. Use the notes as a starting point and check sizing charts before you order.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallTIDEWE Rain Suit for Men, Waterproof Lightweight 2-Piece Rain GearView on Amazon - 2
Best for high-visibility ridingRain Suit Waterproof Hi Vis Raincoat Reflective Rain Gear UnisexView on Amazon - 3
Best for women who ride in skirtsEquestrian Riding Skirt for Women Long Winter Waterproof Riding GearView on Amazon - 4
Best budget pickRain Suit Waterproof Breathable Lightweight 2-Piece Rain Gear UnisexView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| TIDEWE Rain Suit for Men, Waterproof Lightweight 2-Piece Rain Gear | Men who want a full jacket and pant set | Two-piece design for full leg and torso coverage |
| Rain Suit Waterproof Hi Vis Raincoat Reflective Rain Gear Unisex | Riders who ride near roads or in low light | Reflective high-visibility finish |
| Equestrian Riding Skirt for Women Long Winter Waterproof Riding Gear | Women who prefer a skirt-style riding layer | Long waterproof skirt cut for saddle coverage |
| Rain Suit Waterproof Breathable Lightweight 2-Piece Rain Gear Unisex | Riders on a tighter budget who want a simple set | Breathable lightweight two-piece construction |
TIDEWE Rain Suit for Men, Waterproof Lightweight 2-Piece Rain Gear
Best for: Men who want a full jacket and pant set for wet rides
This suit suits riders who want complete torso and leg protection without buying separate pieces. A two-piece layout lets you add or remove the jacket as temperatures change during a long trail day.
Key specs
- Two-piece jacket and pant set
- Lightweight, packable construction
- Waterproof outer shell marketed for rain use
Pros
- Full coverage from shoulders to ankles
- Light enough to carry in a saddle bag when dry
- Simple layering with other riding layers underneath
Cons
- Pant legs can bunch at the knee when riding, and owners often recommend sizing up for a loose fit
- Limited ventilation, so it can feel warm on humid rides
Bottom line: A solid choice for men who want a straightforward, full-coverage set for rain on the trail.
Rain Suit Waterproof Hi Vis Raincoat Reflective Rain Gear Unisex
Best for: Riders who ride near roads, in dusk conditions or in low-light weather
This set is aimed at riders who share roads or ride near traffic during overcast or wet conditions. The high-visibility finish is the main reason to consider it over plainer options.
Key specs
- Hi-vis color with reflective trim
- Unisex sizing
- Waterproof rain suit construction
Pros
- Strong visibility to drivers in rain and fog
- Unisex cut works for a range of body types
- Useful for road-adjacent rides and farm work too
Cons
- Hi-vis colors show dirt quickly on muddy trails
- Reflective trim is most effective at night with a light source, so it does not replace a riding vest
Bottom line: Best for riders whose route includes roads or low-light riding, where being seen matters as much as staying dry.
Equestrian Riding Skirt for Women Long Winter Waterproof Riding Gear
Best for: Women who prefer a skirt-style riding layer for rain and cold
This skirt-style layer is built for women who ride in a skirt or prefer a long, fitted covering over breeches. The long cut helps keep rain off the saddle and the rider’s legs.
Key specs
- Long, waterproof skirt cut
- Designed for winter and wet-weather riding
- Women’s sizing
Pros
- Covers the saddle and upper legs in wet conditions
- Can be worn over base layers for cold rides
- Easy to pull on over boots and chaps
Cons
- Skirt-style cut may catch on stirrups or tack if not fitted properly
- Less ventilation than riding breeches, so it can feel warm in mild rain
Bottom line: A good pick for women who want rain and cold protection in a skirt-style layer rather than a full suit.
Rain Suit Waterproof Breathable Lightweight 2-Piece Rain Gear Unisex
Best for: Riders on a tighter budget who want a simple, breathable two-piece set
This unisex set focuses on breathability and light weight, which suits riders who sweat during long rides or ride in warmer rain.
Key specs
- Two-piece jacket and pant set
- Breathable, lightweight construction
- Unisex sizing
Pros
- Breathable fabric reduces the clammy feeling on warm rides
- Lightweight and easy to pack
- Works for both men and women
Cons
- Lighter fabrics may not hold up as well to heavy downpours or brush
- Owners often recommend checking seam quality after repeated washing
Bottom line: A practical choice for riders who want breathable, lightweight coverage without a premium price tag.
Buying Guide
Waterproofing and seams
Look for a waterproof outer shell and taped or sealed seams. Seams are where most leaks start, especially at the shoulders, inseam and crotch. Heavier rain on a long ride will test these areas first.
Good picks for this: TIDEWE Rain Suit for Men, Rain Suit Waterproof Hi Vis Raincoat
Breathability
Rain gear traps heat. On warm rides, breathable fabric reduces sweat buildup inside the layer. If you ride in mild rain or humid weather, favor lighter, breathable fabrics over heavy coated ones.
Good picks for this: Rain Suit Waterproof Breathable Lightweight 2-Piece Rain Gear Unisex
Fit and movement in the saddle
Rain gear should move with you. Check that the jacket does not ride up when you reach forward and that the pants do not bind at the knee or hip. Many owners recommend sizing up for riding, since a slightly looser cut allows full leg movement.
Good picks for this: TIDEWE Rain Suit for Men, Equestrian Riding Skirt for Women
Visibility
If you ride on roads, near traffic or at dusk, high-visibility color and reflective trim matter. Reflective trim works best with a light source pointed at it, so pair it with lights or a reflective vest when riding in low light.
Good picks for this: Rain Suit Waterproof Hi Vis Raincoat Reflective Rain Gear Unisex
Coverage and style
Two-piece suits cover the full body, while skirt-style layers cover the saddle and upper legs. Choose coverage based on your riding style and how much leg protection you need.
Good picks for this: Equestrian Riding Skirt for Women Long Winter Waterproof Riding Gear, TIDEWE Rain Suit for Men
Durability and care
Mud, brush and tack wear down rain gear faster than road use. Check seams and fabric after each ride, rinse off mud, and follow the care label for washing. Avoid high-heat drying unless the label allows it, since heat can damage waterproof coatings.
Good picks for this: Rain Suit Waterproof Breathable Lightweight 2-Piece Rain Gear Unisex
Layering under rain gear
Rain gear works best as the outer layer over a moisture-wicking base layer and an insulating mid layer in cold weather. Leave room for these layers when sizing, or the rain gear will restrict movement.
Good picks for this: Equestrian Riding Skirt for Women Long Winter Waterproof Riding Gear, Rain Suit Waterproof Breathable Lightweight 2-Piece Rain Gear Unisex
FAQ
Is a two-piece rain suit better than a skirt for riding?
A two-piece suit covers the full torso and legs, which is useful for long rides in steady rain. A skirt-style layer is simpler to put on and covers the saddle and upper legs. Choose based on how much coverage you need and whether you ride in breeches or a skirt.
Should I size up for riding rain gear?
Many owners recommend sizing up, since a looser cut lets you move freely in the saddle and wear base layers underneath. Always check the manufacturer’s size chart and measurements before ordering.
Does rain gear keep my horse’s rider warm in cold rain?
Rain gear blocks wind and water, but warmth comes from layering. Wear a moisture-wicking base layer and an insulating mid layer under a waterproof shell. Adjust layers as your body temperature changes during the ride.
How do I keep rain gear breathable on warm rides?
Choose breathable fabrics, avoid overdressing, and open vents or unzip layers when you start to sweat. Breathable rain gear reduces buildup, but no fabric breathes as well as a lightweight shirt, so use rain gear only when rain is steady.
How do I care for rain gear after riding in mud?
Rinse off mud and brush debris as soon as possible. Wash according to the care label, avoid fabric softeners that can reduce waterproofing, and air dry. Inspect seams and reapply seam sealer if the manufacturer recommends it.
Is hi-vis rain gear necessary for trail riding?
Not always, but it helps on roads, near traffic or in low light. On private trails, bright colors may matter less, so choose based on where you ride and whether you share the route with vehicles.
Conclusion
For full-body coverage, the TIDEWE two-piece suit is a straightforward choice. Riders who share roads or ride at dusk should consider the hi-vis set for visibility. Women who prefer a skirt-style layer will find the equestrian skirt the most suitable option, while riders on a tighter budget may prefer the breathable two-piece set for lighter, warmer rides. Match the pick to your route, weather and riding style, and check sizing before you buy.
Sources
- Guidance on staying warm, dry and safe in cold and wet outdoor conditions (cdc.gov)
- Workplace guidance on protective clothing and weather exposure (osha.gov)
- Safety resources on outdoor work and recreation hazards in wet weather
