5 Reasons Why a Heated Bodywarmer is Essential for Winter Rides

If you’ve ever been on a winter ride, you know how quickly the cold can creep up on you. You start out full of good intentions, but before you know it, your fingers turn into icicles and your shoulders start to stiffen. And then there’s that moment when you try to unsaddle after your ride and your hands just won’t cooperate. Cold days in the saddle can be a wonderful thing, but only if you’re prepared. Since discovering my heated vest, I can’t live without it. Here are five reasons why every rider needs one of these lifesavers!

Always a Warm Core – Regardless of the Weather Conditions

Your core heat plays a crucial role in how your body functions. When your core gets cold, your body will automatically reduce blood flow to your extremities to keep your vital organs warm. That means cold hands, stiff fingers, and ultimately less control over the reins. I experienced this myself during a winter ride where the wind was biting. Halfway through the ride, I could feel the cold working its way through my layers of clothing. My horse was up for it, but I wasn’t. I was just trying to stay warm, instead of enjoying the ride. Since I started wearing a heated vest, my core and hands stay warm, allowing me to fully focus on my horse.

Improved Blood Circulation and Flexibility

As a rider, you know how important flexible muscles and joints are. Cold often makes you stiffer, which not only reduces your riding pleasure, but also increases the risk of injuries. A heated body warmer stimulates blood circulation and helps keep your muscles warm and flexible, which is essential during long winter rides.

I once had a lesson in the arena in the middle of January. It was freezing cold and despite my thick sweater and jacket I felt my shoulders getting stiffer and stiffer. My instructor noticed it right away: “You’re completely stuck, relax!” But how do you relax when you’re freezing? Since I started wearing my heated bodywarmer, I notice that I keep riding more smoothly, even on the coldest days. No more stiff shoulders and much less chance of a stiff lower back after the lesson.

Fewer Layers, More Freedom of Movement

Many riders pile on layers to stay warm, but this can be at the expense of your freedom of movement. A thick winter coat can restrict your posture and make it harder to give subtle aids. I remember wearing a thick down jacket on a trail ride once. I could barely move my arms properly, let alone do a proper half-halt. My horse didn’t seem to like it either; he was slow to respond to my aids and I felt like a puffed-up snowman. When I switched to my heated bodywarmer with a light jacket over it, I immediately felt the difference: much more freedom of movement, without sacrificing warmth.

Adjustable Heat Levels for Optimal Comfort

Not every winter ride is the same – sometimes it’s icy cold, and other days a mild warmth is enough. Most heated vests have adjustable heat levels, so you can control how much warmth you need. This means you won’t get too hot during intense riding, but you won’t get too cold during a relaxed ride outside either.

I once had a long outdoor ride planned with friends, riding through open fields and along the water. It was freezing cold in the morning, so I put my body warmer on the highest setting. But after an hour of hard riding, the sun started to break through and I suddenly felt too warm. One push of a button and I turned the heating down. So simple, and it really made a huge difference to my comfort during the ride.

Versatility – Both in and out of the saddle

A heated body warmer is not only useful when riding, but also during all other winter activities around the stable. Whether you are grooming your horse, mucking out the stables or doing a lunge session, the warmth ensures that you stay comfortable. Moreover, such a body warmer is also ideal for other outdoor activities such as walking, cycling or even skiing.

I wear my bodywarmer not only when I ride, but also when I go into the stable early in the morning. Before, I would be shivering while distributing hay, but now I stay nice and warm. And honestly… I even use it when I sit behind my laptop on cold days. Who says this technology is only for riders?

Why Every Winter Rider Needs a Heated Bodywarmer

In short, a heated body warmer is the solution for winter rides. It keeps your core warm, improves your circulation and flexibility, provides more freedom of movement, offers adjustable warmth and is versatile in use. If you, like me, have ever sat on your horse with chattering teeth, you know how important warmth is. So, treat yourself to that extra luxury and enjoy every winter ride without the cold spoiling the fun!