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Top 8 Rider Apparel and Protective Gear in Canada 2025: Breathable Performance, Certified Safety & Adaptive Fit

Published on Monday, August 25, 2025

Clothing and safety equipment for riders, from breeches and show jackets to helmets, body protectors and airbag vests, have evolved for 2025 to emphasize breathable performance fabrics, certified impact protection and adaptive sizing for comfort and safety. In Canada, buyers prefer gear that balances certified protection with climate-smart design: waterproof or insulating layers for cold and wet seasons, highly ventilated pieces for warm months, and stretch fabrics that maintain a close, secure fit without restricting movement. Competitive riders look for show-ready finishes and competition-approved certifications, while trail and recreational riders prioritize durability, easy-care fabrics and innovative features like integrated airbag systems and modular body protectors. Sustainability, inclusive sizing and tech-forward materials such as moisture-wicking membranes, antimicrobial linings and reinforced abrasion zones are trending features that help consumers choose products that perform reliably across Canada’s varied regions and riding disciplines.

Top Picks Summary

1. Equestrian Helmets

2. Protective Vests Including Airbag Vests

3. Show Jackets and Competition Coats

4. Breeches and Jodhpurs

5. Riding Boots and Half Chaps

6. Riding Gloves

7. Show Shirts and Stock Ties

8. Weatherproof Riding Outerwear

Top Picks Summary

  1. Charles Owen Halo MIPS
  2. Fox Racing Youth Titan Sport Jacket
  3. Samshield Victorine Crystal Show Jacket
  4. Pikeur Candela Grip Full Seat Breeches
  5. Horze Active Synthetic Half Chaps
  6. Mechanix Wear M-Pact Gloves
  7. Ariat Sunstopper 2.0 Show Shirt
  8. Kerrits Precip Waterproof Riding Jacket
1
BEST EQUESTRIAN HELMETS

Charles Owen Halo MIPS

Charles Owen Halo MIPS

The Charles Owen Halo MIPS is a market-leading competition helmet known for its longstanding British craftsmanship, consistent fit, and integrated MIPS rotational protection, which makes it a top technical choice for performance riders. Against fashion-forward and pricier options like Samshield, the Halo emphasizes proven engineering, durability and a referee-friendly silhouette while offering competitive pricing for the level of certification and build quality. Its reputation among professionals and riding schools underscores a balance of safety, longevity and predictable sizing that many riders prefer over trendier models.

4.7
★★★★☆
Show More Equestrian Helmets
  • MIPS brain-shield

  • Classic polished style

  • MIPS brain-shield

  • Classic polished style

Review Summary

93%

"Owners praise the Charles Owen Halo MIPS for its excellent build quality, secure fit and strong ventilation, and many consider it a top-tier safety choice despite the premium cost. Reviewers frequently highlight its durability and consistent sizing."

  • Featherweight fit

  • Integrated MIPS liner to reduce rotational forces in angled impacts

  • Featherweight fit

  • Integrated MIPS liner to reduce rotational forces in angled impacts

Enhanced Physical Well-Being

Skill Development & Mastery

Recreational Enjoyment

The Charles Owen Halo MIPS is a market-leading competition helmet known for its longstanding British craftsmanship, consistent fit, and integrated MIPS rotational protection, which makes it a top technical choice for performance riders. Against fashion-forward and pricier options like Samshield, the Halo emphasizes proven engineering, durability and a referee-friendly silhouette while offering competitive pricing for the level of certification and build quality. Its reputation among professionals and riding schools underscores a balance of safety, longevity and predictable sizing that many riders prefer over trendier models.

  • MIPS brain-shield

  • Classic polished style

  • Featherweight fit

  • Integrated MIPS liner to reduce rotational forces in angled impacts

  • Premium construction with precision fit and high-quality finishes

  • MIPS brain-shield

  • Classic polished style

  • Featherweight fit

  • Integrated MIPS liner to reduce rotational forces in angled impacts

  • Premium construction with precision fit and high-quality finishes

Order Now

$750-950 CAD

2
BEST PROTECTIVE VESTS INCLUDING AIRBAG VESTS

Fox Racing Youth Titan Sport Jacket

Fox Racing

The Fox Racing Youth Titan Sport Jacket is a value-oriented choice that blends full-coverage protection with Fox’s proven MX design, delivering dependable chest, back and shoulder protection in a package priced attractively for families. Compared to Alpinestars and Leatt it typically costs less while still providing broad coverage and robust construction, making it an excellent option for growing riders who need cost-effective, all-around protection. Its practical balance of features and affordability makes it a go-to for youth riders who want comprehensive protection without the top-tier price.

4.3
★★★★☆
Show More Protective Vests Including Airbag Vests
  • Full torso coverage

  • Adjustable sizing

  • Full torso coverage

  • Adjustable sizing

Review Summary

85%

"The Fox Racing Youth Titan Sport Jacket is frequently described as comfortable, well-ventilated and protective for youth riders, though a number of users mention the sizing and strap adjustments can be a bit fiddly as kids grow."

  • Titan-style swagger

  • Full-coverage jacket design with removable chest and back protectors

  • Titan-style swagger

  • Full-coverage jacket design with removable chest and back protectors

Enhanced Physical Well-Being

Recreational Enjoyment

Skill Development & Mastery

The Fox Racing Youth Titan Sport Jacket is a value-oriented choice that blends full-coverage protection with Fox’s proven MX design, delivering dependable chest, back and shoulder protection in a package priced attractively for families. Compared to Alpinestars and Leatt it typically costs less while still providing broad coverage and robust construction, making it an excellent option for growing riders who need cost-effective, all-around protection. Its practical balance of features and affordability makes it a go-to for youth riders who want comprehensive protection without the top-tier price.

  • Full torso coverage

  • Adjustable sizing

  • Titan-style swagger

  • Full-coverage jacket design with removable chest and back protectors

  • Moisture-wicking mesh and stretch panels to improve airflow and mobility

  • Full torso coverage

  • Adjustable sizing

  • Titan-style swagger

  • Full-coverage jacket design with removable chest and back protectors

  • Moisture-wicking mesh and stretch panels to improve airflow and mobility

Order Now
From 196.03$
3
BEST SHOW JACKETS AND COMPETITION COATS

Samshield Victorine Crystal Show Jacket

Samshield Victorine Crystal Show Jacket

The Samshield Victorine Crystal show jacket is a market-leading luxury option that stands out for couture tailoring and decorative crystal detailing tailored to presentation-focused riders in Show Jackets and Competition Coats. Financially it sits at the top of the range—more expensive than Horze or Pikeur—but offers unparalleled aesthetics and brand coordination (helmets and outerwear) that appeal to riders seeking a polished, high-visibility ring look rather than maximum technical stretch or the value pricing of entry-level alternatives.

4.7
★★★★☆
Show More Show Jackets and Competition Coats
  • Crystal sparkle (bling)

  • Form-fitting tailoring

  • Crystal sparkle (bling)

  • Form-fitting tailoring

Review Summary

93%

"Riders like its polished show-ring look, precise fit, and comfortable stretch fabric with tasteful crystal detailing. Main downsides are the premium price and limited color/size availability."

  • Featherlight stretch

  • Premium tailored fit finished with Swarovski crystal detailing for a luxe show look.

  • Featherlight stretch

  • Premium tailored fit finished with Swarovski crystal detailing for a luxe show look.

Recreational Enjoyment

Skill Development & Mastery

The Samshield Victorine Crystal show jacket is a market-leading luxury option that stands out for couture tailoring and decorative crystal detailing tailored to presentation-focused riders in Show Jackets and Competition Coats. Financially it sits at the top of the range—more expensive than Horze or Pikeur—but offers unparalleled aesthetics and brand coordination (helmets and outerwear) that appeal to riders seeking a polished, high-visibility ring look rather than maximum technical stretch or the value pricing of entry-level alternatives.

  • Crystal sparkle (bling)

  • Form-fitting tailoring

  • Featherlight stretch

  • Premium tailored fit finished with Swarovski crystal detailing for a luxe show look.

  • Engineered stretch fabric and ergonomic construction for rider mobility.

  • Crystal sparkle (bling)

  • Form-fitting tailoring

  • Featherlight stretch

  • Premium tailored fit finished with Swarovski crystal detailing for a luxe show look.

  • Engineered stretch fabric and ergonomic construction for rider mobility.

Order Now

$1,400-2,400 CAD

4
BEST BREECHES AND JODHPURS

Pikeur Candela Grip Full Seat Breeches

Pikeur

The Pikeur Candela Grip full seat breeches represent a best-in-class option for riders seeking premium tailoring and long-lasting performance; German-made fabric and a reliable silicone full seat deliver exceptional grip and a flattering show-ready silhouette. Compared with the other models on this list, the Candela leans premium in price but repays the investment with superior fit, refined finishes and a reputation for durability that makes it a top choice for competition riders focused on classic breeches and jodhpurs styles.

4.6
★★★★☆
Show More Breeches and Jodhpurs
  • Silky premium fabric

  • Full-seat grip — velcro-hold

  • Silky premium fabric

  • Full-seat grip — velcro-hold

Review Summary

90%

"Consistently praised for premium fabrics, a flattering tailored fit, and a long-lasting full-seat grip; reviewers note the high price and occasional sizing inconsistencies."

  • Tailored elegant cut

  • Silicone full-seat grip tailored for secure contact in the saddle.

  • Tailored elegant cut

  • Silicone full-seat grip tailored for secure contact in the saddle.

Enhanced Physical Well-Being

Skill Development & Mastery

Recreational Enjoyment

The Pikeur Candela Grip full seat breeches represent a best-in-class option for riders seeking premium tailoring and long-lasting performance; German-made fabric and a reliable silicone full seat deliver exceptional grip and a flattering show-ready silhouette. Compared with the other models on this list, the Candela leans premium in price but repays the investment with superior fit, refined finishes and a reputation for durability that makes it a top choice for competition riders focused on classic breeches and jodhpurs styles.

  • Silky premium fabric

  • Full-seat grip — velcro-hold

  • Tailored elegant cut

  • Silicone full-seat grip tailored for secure contact in the saddle.

  • High-performance, breathable stretch fabric with a flattering fit.

  • Silky premium fabric

  • Full-seat grip — velcro-hold

  • Tailored elegant cut

  • Silicone full-seat grip tailored for secure contact in the saddle.

  • High-performance, breathable stretch fabric with a flattering fit.

Order Now
From 322.83$
5
BEST RIDING BOOTS AND HALF CHAPS

Horze Active Synthetic Half Chaps

HORZE

Horze Active half chaps emphasize performance and modern materials, often featuring breathable, stretchy panels and grippy knee patches that cater to active riders and frequent training. They sit in the mid-to-upper price band for synthetics, offering a technical edge over basic budget chaps like TuffRider and a more performance-driven feel than purely aesthetic options such as Saxon. For riders seeking a balance of sport-focused functionality and cost, Horze delivers advanced comfort and traction without reaching the premium price of market leaders.

4.2
★★★★☆
Show More Riding Boots and Half Chaps
  • Sporty stretch — move-free

  • Lightweight ride — feather-ish

  • Sporty stretch — move-free

  • Lightweight ride — feather-ish

Review Summary

82%

"Horze Active Synthetic Half Chaps earn praise for their sporty fit, grip, and attractive price; reviewers note solid everyday performance but some report faster wear on high-use areas."

  • Quick-on convenience — snap-on!

  • Sporty, athletic cut with breathable stretch panels for freedom of movement.

  • Quick-on convenience — snap-on!

  • Sporty, athletic cut with breathable stretch panels for freedom of movement.

Enhanced Physical Well-Being

Recreational Enjoyment

Time-Saving Convenience

Horze Active half chaps emphasize performance and modern materials, often featuring breathable, stretchy panels and grippy knee patches that cater to active riders and frequent training. They sit in the mid-to-upper price band for synthetics, offering a technical edge over basic budget chaps like TuffRider and a more performance-driven feel than purely aesthetic options such as Saxon. For riders seeking a balance of sport-focused functionality and cost, Horze delivers advanced comfort and traction without reaching the premium price of market leaders.

  • Sporty stretch — move-free

  • Lightweight ride — feather-ish

  • Quick-on convenience — snap-on!

  • Sporty, athletic cut with breathable stretch panels for freedom of movement.

  • Durable synthetic face with flexible inner panels for rider comfort.

  • Sporty stretch — move-free

  • Lightweight ride — feather-ish

  • Quick-on convenience — snap-on!

  • Sporty, athletic cut with breathable stretch panels for freedom of movement.

  • Durable synthetic face with flexible inner panels for rider comfort.

Order Now
From 69.69$
6
BEST RIDING GLOVES

Mechanix Wear M-Pact Gloves

Mechanix Wear M-Pact

Mechanix Wear M-Pact stands out as a best-in-class reinforced palm work glove for users who need impact protection and fingertip dexterity—its TPR knuckle guards and dual-layer reinforced palm deliver high-level abrasion and impact resistance while preserving tactile control. Compared with the other gloves listed, M-Pact commands a premium price but offers superior engineered protection for mechanics and heavy technicians, making the higher upfront cost defensible by longer life and fewer replacements on high-impact jobs.

4.6
★★★★☆
Show More Riding Gloves
  • Knuckle armor — tiny helmets

  • Tactical fit — second skin

  • Knuckle armor — tiny helmets

  • Tactical fit — second skin

Review Summary

92%

"Users consistently praise the M-Pact for excellent impact protection, snug fit, and long-lasting palm reinforcement for mechanic and industrial work; a small portion report seam or fingertip wear after very heavy, prolonged use. Overall they find them comfortable, protective, and good value for repeated use."

  • Impact cushioning — foam fists

  • TPR knuckle guards and finger protection for high-impact tasks

  • Impact cushioning — foam fists

  • TPR knuckle guards and finger protection for high-impact tasks

Enhanced Physical Well-Being

Skill Development & Mastery

Mechanix Wear M-Pact stands out as a best-in-class reinforced palm work glove for users who need impact protection and fingertip dexterity—its TPR knuckle guards and dual-layer reinforced palm deliver high-level abrasion and impact resistance while preserving tactile control. Compared with the other gloves listed, M-Pact commands a premium price but offers superior engineered protection for mechanics and heavy technicians, making the higher upfront cost defensible by longer life and fewer replacements on high-impact jobs.

  • Knuckle armor — tiny helmets

  • Tactical fit — second skin

  • Impact cushioning — foam fists

  • TPR knuckle guards and finger protection for high-impact tasks

  • Reinforced padded palm that reduces vibration and abrasion

  • Knuckle armor — tiny helmets

  • Tactical fit — second skin

  • Impact cushioning — foam fists

  • TPR knuckle guards and finger protection for high-impact tasks

  • Reinforced padded palm that reduces vibration and abrasion

Order Now
-23%30.85$
Suggested Price 39.99$
7
BEST SHOW SHIRTS AND STOCK TIES

Ariat Sunstopper 2.0 Show Shirt

ARIAT

The Sunstopper 2.0 Show Shirt is a technical, value-oriented choice built around UPF sun protection and high-wicking stretch panels that keep riders cool during long outdoor show days. It earns best-in-class status for weather protection and affordability compared with the more fashion-forward, pricier European competition shirts on this list, and its collar and lightweight construction pair well with stock ties without the premium cost of Pikeur or Cavalleria Toscana.

4.4
★★★★☆
Show More Show Shirts and Stock Ties
  • Sunstopper swagger

  • Moisture-wicking cool

  • Sunstopper swagger

  • Moisture-wicking cool

Review Summary

90%

"Users praise the Ariat Sunstopper 2.0 for its excellent sun protection, breathability and moisture-wicking performance during long rides; common criticisms are occasional sizing inconsistencies and a premium price. Overall it's seen as a durable, functional show shirt for warm weather competition."

  • Featherlight protection

  • UPF 50+ SunStopper fabric shields skin during outdoor show classes

  • Featherlight protection

  • UPF 50+ SunStopper fabric shields skin during outdoor show classes

Enhanced Physical Well-Being

Recreational Enjoyment

Time-Saving Convenience

The Sunstopper 2.0 Show Shirt is a technical, value-oriented choice built around UPF sun protection and high-wicking stretch panels that keep riders cool during long outdoor show days. It earns best-in-class status for weather protection and affordability compared with the more fashion-forward, pricier European competition shirts on this list, and its collar and lightweight construction pair well with stock ties without the premium cost of Pikeur or Cavalleria Toscana.

  • Sunstopper swagger

  • Moisture-wicking cool

  • Featherlight protection

  • UPF 50+ SunStopper fabric shields skin during outdoor show classes

  • Moisture-wicking, quick-dry construction with ventilated mesh panels

  • Sunstopper swagger

  • Moisture-wicking cool

  • Featherlight protection

  • UPF 50+ SunStopper fabric shields skin during outdoor show classes

  • Moisture-wicking, quick-dry construction with ventilated mesh panels

Order Now
From 88.75$
8
BEST WEATHERPROOF RIDING OUTERWEAR

Kerrits Precip Waterproof Riding Jacket

Kerrits

Kerrits’ Precip Waterproof Riding Jacket is the lightweight, activity‑focused option built for riders who need packability and unrestricted movement while staying dry during training rides or layered trail use. Compared with heavier parkas like the Ariat and more workwear‑oriented coats like the Horze, it favors breathability, stretch and a lower price, making it ideal for active riders who prioritize range of motion and easy storage. Its technical advantage is a riding‑friendly fit and low bulk, delivering cost‑effective performance for spring through fall wet weather.

4.3
★★★★☆
Show More Weatherproof Riding Outerwear
  • Ultra-light packable

  • Pocket-pack magic!

  • Ultra-light packable

  • Pocket-pack magic!

Review Summary

86%

"Kerrits' Precip Waterproof Riding Jacket is popular as a lightweight, breathable rain shell with a comfortable riding fit and reliable waterproofing; users like it for layering but note it provides little insulation and some hardware can feel less robust."

  • Quick-dry fabric

  • Lightweight, breathable waterproof fabric with fully taped seams

  • Quick-dry fabric

  • Lightweight, breathable waterproof fabric with fully taped seams

Time-Saving Convenience

Enhanced Physical Well-Being

Kerrits’ Precip Waterproof Riding Jacket is the lightweight, activity‑focused option built for riders who need packability and unrestricted movement while staying dry during training rides or layered trail use. Compared with heavier parkas like the Ariat and more workwear‑oriented coats like the Horze, it favors breathability, stretch and a lower price, making it ideal for active riders who prioritize range of motion and easy storage. Its technical advantage is a riding‑friendly fit and low bulk, delivering cost‑effective performance for spring through fall wet weather.

  • Ultra-light packable

  • Pocket-pack magic!

  • Quick-dry fabric

  • Lightweight, breathable waterproof fabric with fully taped seams

  • Contoured riding cut with longer back and articulated sleeves for mobility

  • Ultra-light packable

  • Pocket-pack magic!

  • Quick-dry fabric

  • Lightweight, breathable waterproof fabric with fully taped seams

  • Contoured riding cut with longer back and articulated sleeves for mobility

Order Now
From 184.34$

Explore More
  • Equestrian Helmets
  • Protective Vests Including Airbag Vests
  • Show Jackets and Competition Coats
  • Breeches and Jodhpurs
  • Riding Boots and Half Chaps
  • Riding Gloves
  • Show Shirts and Stock Ties
  • Weatherproof Riding Outerwear

Why Certified Protective Gear and Performance Fabrics Matter

Scientific testing, industry standards and peer-reviewed research consistently show that properly designed and certified protective gear and technical fabrics improve rider safety and comfort. Helmet and body protector standards are based on controlled impact and penetration tests that measure energy attenuation and coverage, and independent lab results show certified products reduce the forces transmitted to the body in falls. Airbag vests and electronic systems are validated through both laboratory fall simulations and real-world incident reports that demonstrate reduced load to the spine and thorax in many cases. From a comfort and performance perspective, materials science research supports the use of moisture-wicking, breathable fabrics to enhance evaporative cooling and reduce skin irritation, while stretch and adaptive sizing improve protective coverage by maintaining correct positioning during movement.

Helmet and body protector certifications (for example ASTM, SEI, PAS, EN/VG1 standards) are based on repeatable lab tests that measure impact energy management and coverage.

Airbag systems have been evaluated in fall simulations and case studies showing reduced peak forces to the torso and spine when deployed correctly.

Moisture-wicking and breathable fabrics improve evaporative cooling and help regulate skin temperature during exertion, reducing heat stress and discomfort.

Proper fit and adaptive sizing are critical: poorly fitted equipment reduces protective effectiveness and can shift during a fall.

Durable outer fabrics and reinforcements lower the risk of abrasion injuries and extend useful product life, supporting both safety and sustainability goals.

This roundup of rider apparel and protective gear reflects Canadian needs for 2025: breathable, certified and adaptable products that perform across seasons and disciplines. We hope you found the information and options you were looking for. If you want to narrow results by discipline, certification, price or size range, use the site search to refine or expand your search.

Discover More
  • Equestrian Helmets
  • Protective Vests Including Airbag Vests
  • Show Jackets and Competition Coats
  • Breeches and Jodhpurs
  • Riding Boots and Half Chaps
  • Riding Gloves
  • Show Shirts and Stock Ties
  • Weatherproof Riding Outerwear

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