Practical, but Oh So Wearable

Well that's another year done and dusted and winter wardrobes are in daily use. Equine's panel of testers have been busy trying out a range of practical and functional winter wear and the full report of 27 items appears in the December issue of the magazine. Here are just two of them to give you as taster!

VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Equisafety – Unisex Aspey^™© Jacket

The company says: 100% waterproof, lightweight and breathable. Innovative pull down warning triangle fastens at the sides of the jacket, and can be rolled back into the collar when not needed; an inside zipped pocket; mobile phone pocket; funky soft lining and cuffs that curve over hand for extra protection against the elements 360° of reflection and fluorescent properties; strong two-way front zip and two large, hidden pockets. Machine washable. Orange, Pink or Yellow. Sizes: XS-XXXL. RRP: £89.99.  www.equisafety.com

Our tester, Chris Grant, says: My first impression of this coat was its great quality and style. Its outer material is very robust and both windproof and waterproof. The jacket is a great bright colour (I tested the Orange) which can be seen for miles and has excellent wide reflective strips, which are strategically placed across the jacket to give maximum effect when picked up in car lights. The jacket’s black vents at the side are a great contrast to the bright colour at the front and are cleverly back located to give the jacket a fitted look without being restrictive. It has a lovely silky lining which makes it extra comfortable and I especially like the deep and easy zipped pockets, of which it has a good number, for carrying those essentials such as the mobile phone. Although its sizing came up small, it's a comfy jacket to wear and certainly a safe and practical coat.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Toggi – Caledon Country Boots.

The company says: Waterproof and breathable, this shorter boot features an Acquastop® membrane, for day-long dryness. The all-terrain thermo rubber sole unit will keep you safe with its fantastic grip in all weather conditions, whilst the removable foot bed allows for easy cleaning or replacement. Bitter Chocolate. Sizes: 4(36)- 8.5(43). RRP: £160.00. www.toggi.com

Our tester, Denise Richardson, says: What a very stylish and practical pair of boots that come in a dark chocolate colour. They have an excellent grip sole, are waterproof, fleece lining means they are warm and comfortable, and have elasticated bit at the top back of the boots, for an easy pull on. They look a bit like rigger boots and are as practical too. I’ve worn them on the farm yard and around the stables, and they can stand a lot of muck and mud!! However, they are easily cleaned with warm water and leather conditioner. I’ve worn them with my jeans to nip to the local shop and to a recent fireworks display! I wouldn’t ride in them as I think the grips are more suited to outdoor yard work or gardening.

The Big Test of of Practical Winter Wear was published in full in the December issue of Equine. You can read the digital edition from this link - http://content.yudu.com/Library/A41nvn/EquineDecemberissue2/