How to Layer up for the Barn this Spring

Spring is on the way! As warmer weather slowly creeps out, your barn wardrobe will need some adjustments to keep you comfortable. Shedding those extra, heavy layers can feel wonderful, but you still need to stay warm. One of the trickiest parts of spring riding attire is the weather is up and down—you’re freezing, you go riding and you get way too hot, then you are freezing again. The key to spring is layering! 

When you are shopping for spring barn gear there are a few key elements to watch for. Most riders need waterproof, breathable, and durable items for spring barn chores and horseback riding. Search for several light, comfortable layers rather than one heavy jacket. This will make moving around much easier and helps when the temperature gets warmer.

Here are some of the best pieces of clothing to help you navigate the ever changing spring weather while you’re at the barn.

First things, first, select a breathable long sleeve shirt for your first layer. When you are riding, you will get warmer and you want the material closest to your skin to wick away that moisture and keep you dry. The Ovation Cool Rider Tech Shirt is a great option for cold and warm weather because of it’s cutting-edge Evercool™ moisture wicking material. The shirt is also antistatic and won’t stick to your other layers. No one likes static cling while you are trying to remove outer layers in the barn aisle!

Vests are the perfect layering item—they easily fit under a jacket but provide a bit more warmth than your shirt alone can give. The Mountain Horse Minoue Hybrid Vest is our favorite versatile vest for springtime. This quilted windproof vest is insulated as tech fleece side panels for extra mobility and comfort. It also comes in bright pink if you need a splash of color in your life after a grey winter! Combining this shirt and vest will make the perfect temperature for riders who tend to run a bit cool during the spring months. 

If you need just a bit more protection, consider adding a light, waterproof jacket before you head to the barn. A waterproof coat is invaluable for riders living in wet areas (most of us). The Ovation Ayleen Waterproof jacket is your classic rain jacket, but upgraded! They really thought of everything with this jacket; it fits well, is waterproof, and is very comfortable. It even has covered zippers to prevent saddle scratches! The stretch shoulder inserts allow you to move your shoulders freely while in the barn or the saddle.

Though not a technical layer, selecting the proper footwear can help save your riding boots and keep your feet dry when the snow is melting, and your pastures are a muddy mess. The Ovation Mudster Tall Barn Boots are a lifesaver in the mud! In our opinion, these are essential during mud season. They are comfortable, flexible, and waterproof.