Top 5 Ariat Picks for Breezy Summer Riding
Michelle DrumThe days are getting longer and the sunshine’s here to stay, which means it’s finally time to pack away the sweaters and pull out the short sleeves. Whether you’re riding hard or moving through your daily routine at the paddock, staying comfortable in the summer heat is a must. But not just any gear can handle the hotter afternoons and sticky evenings—you need riding clothes that work as hard as you do.
That’s why, when the sun’s out and it’s time to saddle up, we grab our tried-and-true Ariat essentials. They’re our summer staples for a reason: lightweight, breathable, and built to keep up all season long.
What makes Ariat gear a top choice for warm weather?
One of the many reasons we’re Ariat fans is their commitment to serve equestrians the top innovative apparel technology on the market. Ariat developed their line of AriatTEK® gear so they could tailor each garment to be the best performing gear outside in the hot sun or inside a stuffy barn. These four AriatTEK® technologies work together to keep you on either your feet or your horse in rising temperatures.
Moisture Movement Technology™ keeps you dry
Few things are more uncomfortable when you’re training on a hot day than feeling damp for hours on end. Not only does it feel nasty to have your clothes stick to you when you’re working hard, but you can also develop painful, irritated skin rashes from the prolonged moisture and friction. Unlike other clothing that traps moisture and leaves it clinging to your skin, Ariat’s Moisture Movement Technology™ pulls sweat away from your body and pushes it to the outer layer, where it evaporates fast. The result? You stay dry and comfortable, whether you’re training in muggy conditions or getting splashed crossing a stream.
ClimateTEK™ keeps you cool
Serious equestrians are no strangers to heat. Even a cooler day can find you and your horse working up a sweat—but your horse isn’t sweating inside a blanket, and you shouldn’t be either. Ariat’s ClimateTEK™ ensures the fabric you’re wearing adjusts to your body temperature by using durable stretch fabric and ventilation in all the right spots, keeping you cool and breezy all day.
Sun Protection Fabric™ keeps you protected
We love the sun, but sometimes the sun loves us a little too much. Before long summer days with your horse, reach for a reliable sun shirt that makes you feel protected without locking heat into your skin. Ariat’s Sun Protection Fabric™ (SPF™) features a UPF 50+ rating to block the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays so you can enjoy the longer daylight and come home without a sunburn. Made from resilient materials, SPF™ is also designed to last through washes all year long without losing its protective qualities.
FreshTEK™ keeps you fresh
It’s not everyone’s favorite subject, but it’s on every hardworking equestrian’s mind. Beat the heat and avoid a side eye from your horses with Ariat’s FreshTEK™ apparel. FreshTEK™ inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria, meaning you can come back from long rides with fresh-smelling clothes that don’t offend your equine friend.
Top 5 Ariat summer riding must-haves
Featuring a mix of new releases and faithful favorites, these five Ariat pieces are our top picks for schooling this summer.
1. Ariat Women’s Breathe Eos Half Grip Tight ($119.95)
The smart design of Ariat’s Breathe series is a total win in our books for summer. These half-grip tights feature a non-slip silicone grip print along the inner thigh area, giving you a more stable and secure seat in the saddle.
The wide waistband provides just enough support and compression to be flattering without being restrictive. And let’s not forget the perfectly-sized pockets on both thighs—small, perforated holes on the lower back extend in smooth panels from the outer thighs and wrap around the calves. The pockets provide a flattering pattern and a soft, breathable layer that keeps you cool and comfortable as you train.
The details:
- Available in sizes XS to XL
- Comes in two beautiful muted colors: Plum Grey and Tulipwood
- Made of 72% recycled polyester and 28% spandex
- Made with Ariat’s Moisture Movement Technology™
Learn more: 6 Best Ariat Breeches and Tights for Women
2. Ariat Women’s Breathe 1/4 Zip Cap Sleeve Baselayer ($89.95)
This cap sleeve baselayer is a must-have staple in any closet, whether worn solo or paired with the matching Breathe Eos Half Grip Tight. If you’re after comfort and relief from the heat without giving up style, a cap sleeve is a smart and polished choice.
We love the smooth, flattering lines and back stripe that strike the perfect balance between sporty and stylish. The lightweight fabric and breezy side panels make this your perfect daily sidekick, whether you’re out for a walk or grooming your horse.
The details:
- Available in sizes XS to XL
- Comes in two beautiful muted colors: Plum Grey and Tulipwood
- Made of 91% nylon and 9% elastane
- Made with Ariat’s Sun Protection Fabric™, ClimateTEK™, and FreshTEK™
Learn more: Ariat Women’s Shirt Guide: Sizing, Fit, & Styles
3. Ariat Women’s Soquel 1/4 Zip Short Sleeve Baselayer ($59.95)
The Soquel riding shirt is our go-to when we want that polished show-ring look with the comfort of our favorite training top. It delivers a sleek, flattering fit that moves with you and keeps you feeling cool, even during long, hot days at the barn. If you’re after performance and polish in one top, this one’s a no-brainer.
Designed with breathable mesh panels and a smooth blend of jersey and mesh fabrics, it provides the look you want and the feel you need in the heat of summer. The modern collar adds a refined touch, making it perfect for warm-weather clinics or casual show days.
The details:
- Available in sizes XS to XL
- Comes in two sharp, clean colors: Black and Coral Paradise
- Made of 95% recycled polyester and 5% elastane
- Made with Ariat’s ClimateTEK™
4. Ariat Women’s Cheviot 1/4 Zip Baselayer ($99.95)
Training in direct sun means your arms are taking a hit, and one of the smartest ways to protect them is with a reliable sun shirt. We stay cool all day in Ariat’s Cheviot 1/4 Zip Baselayer, especially in the light and airy Summer Sand color.
The fabric is soft, breathable, and easy to throw on or take off after a long ride. But what really wins us over? The thumbholes. They keep your sleeves from bunching when you’re slipping riding gloves on and off all day.
The details:
- Available in sizes XS to XL
- Comes in three sophisticated colors: Black, Summer Sand, and Twilight Mauve
- Made of 100% ethical wool jersey
- Made with Ariat’s Sun Protection Fabric™ and Moisture Movement Technology™
5. Ariat Women’s Heritage Breeze Zip Paddock Boot ($159.95)
These boots are a summer essential for three solid reasons: washable material, breathable lining, and soft, durable leather that molds comfortably to your feet. When you’re putting in serious time training or hitting clinics during the hotter months, you need paddock boots that offer more flexibility and airflow than traditional tall boots.
Ariat nails it with the Heritage Breeze paddock boots. Designed with riders in mind, they feature a full-grain leather upper and a lightweight shank that gives extra stability to your ankles as you train. They’re tough, practical, and made to keep up with your summer schedule.
The details:
- Available in sizes 5.5 to 11
- Comes in two classic, rich colors: Black and Chocolate
- Made of full-grain leather upper
- Made with 4LR™ technology for support and cushioning and Duratread™ outsole with self-cleaning tread
Stay cool and breezy with AriatTEK®
Ariat wouldn’t be among our favorite brands if we weren’t constantly using it ourselves. If you’re looking for the perfect blend of classic style and innovative design, Ariat is sure to become one of your favorites. Shop our curated collection of Ariat riding gear to refresh your closet and prep for the season.
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