Not sure what to buy your horsey friend or relative for Christmas? We’ve rounded up a selection of ideas, including gifts that make the cold winter months not just bearable, but enjoyable as well.
We all want to give thoughtful gifts to our loved ones at Christmas, especially items that will help make winter at the yard more bearable. Here are our ideas…
It’s like gifting a hug when you can’t be there – warm, cosy and exactly what’s needed. A heated jacket or gilet will make any rider the envy of everyone else on the yard. They’re particularly great when you’re not moving around, so are an ideal gift for someone who competes throughout the winter and spends a lot of time standing around.
A great pair of gloves makes all the difference when it comes to keeping hands warm – and it’s best to have separate riding and work gloves because they have different features. Riding gloves should offer plenty of insulation without being restrictive or limiting feel on the reins, while yard gloves should be hardwearing, have good grip and ideally be waterproof.
Instant hand warmers make for a great stocking filler or Secret Santa gift. You can choose between instant, reusable and even USB-rechargeable. They’re the kind of thing a horse owner might not think to buy themselves, but will definitely appreciate them when they find them in their pocket on a cold morning.
If your loved one’s yard doesn’t have kitchen facilities, a good flask will be a game changer. Plus, they can be used to keep water cool in the summer! You can find almost any colour or pattern you could think of, plus some companies offer personalisation options, too.
You can’t put a price on a handy head torch in the winter – especially if you have horses that live out. It means the wearer can see what they’re doing and have two hands free to get jobs done. Look for one that’s lightweight, rechargeable and has good brightness.
Horse riders and owners tend to be achier than the general population – and they’re known for not doing anything about it! Why not gift a massage to help iron out some of the aches and pains they’ve picked up while carrying buckets and pushing wheelbarrows this winter? It’s unlikely to be something they’ll think to treat themselves to, and it will be a relaxing experience as well. A voucher will allow your recipient to choose what type of massage they’ll benefit from most.
Riders are resilient and will always do the best for their horse, whatever the weather, and often this means exercising in the rain. However, no one likes being cold and wet, so waterproof riding trousers are a winner here. Unlike your average pair of waterproof trousers, these are specifically designed to be worn in the saddle. They won’t be restrictive, they’ll accommodate riding boots, and they will likely have some form of seat or grip to prevent the rider slipping in the saddle. If you don’t think waterproof riding trousers are the way to go, have a look at some waterproof winter breeches – they’re the sort of purchase that you can’t imagine life without once you’ve got a pair.
Everyone needs a break from the slog of winter yard life, so why not treat your loved one to a horsey day out? There are a wide range of options, from tickets to a demonstration or masterclass with a top rider, or the London International Horse Show (although you’ll have to gift this one early as it’s on the week before Christmas – perfect for getting the recipient into the Christmas spirit). If you want to plan further in advance, there are plenty of summer activities or horse experience days to choose from to give your loved one something to look forward to. Options vary from beach rides to jousting lessons.
Yes, socks for Christmas can be a bit of a cliché, but a good pair of long riding socks is not just any pair of socks. The technical materials help to keep feet warm and dry, while offering support with minimal bulk inside the boot. There are so many patterns to choose from, but the main things to look out for are wicking properties (to draw moisture away from the body) and reinforced areas at the toe and heel.
Whether it’s wellies or waterproof yard boots to make their time at the yard easier, insulated riding boots for keeping toes warm in the saddle, or new country boots for smarter wear, boots are something that all riders need. Find out how their current pair is holding up and if they’re much loved but have seen better days, you could get a direct replacement and be safe in the knowledge they’ll be well used.
Does your loved one want for nothing?
If none of these ideas quite hit the spot, you could consider buying a gift that the recipient can share with their horse. After all, there’s nothing a horse lover likes more than to treat their four-legged friend.
See something you’d like on this list? Share this page with a loved one or a friend as a hint!
