8 Essential Wet-Weather Gear for Iceland Riding Tours

Stretching out across a volcanic plain on the back of an Icelandic horse is an unforgettable adventure, but the weather in this North Atlantic island nation is notoriously volatile. Within a single hour, a sunny trail ride can easily transform into a battle against horizontal rain and biting winds. Having the right wet-weather gear is not about luxury; it is the difference between a lifetime highlight and a cold, miserable ordeal.

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Understanding Wet-Weather Challenges on Iceland Trails

The Icelandic elements are uniquely demanding. Because the country lacks dense forest cover, storms sweep across the open landscape with immense force, driving rain sideways and instantly searching out any weakness in your clothing. Glacial river crossings and muddy volcanic tracks add a constant spray of water from below, meaning dampness attacks from all directions.

Unlike active hiking where the body constantly generates high levels of metabolic heat, riding a horse involves long periods of sitting relatively still. When wet clothes meet cold winds, hypothermia can set in surprisingly quickly. Your gear must work twice as hard to retain body warmth while remaining completely impervious to water.

Furthermore, riding gear must endure the constant friction of the saddle without tearing or leaking. Standard rain gear often fails at the seams under this physical stress, or it makes a loud, crinkling noise that can startle a sensitive horse. Choosing specialized, durable gear ensures safety for both horse and rider.

Waterproof Shell – Patagonia Triolet Jacket

A heavy-duty waterproof shell is the first line of defense against driving Icelandic rain. This layer must keep wind and water out while offering enough room through the shoulders to allow for natural rein handling and balance adjustments.

The Patagonia Triolet Jacket stands out because of its rugged three-layer Gore-Tex construction, which shrugs off heavy downpours and abrasive volcanic dust. The heavy-duty 75-denier face fabric is tough enough to withstand friction against saddle cantles and branches. It also features a fully adjustable, helmet-compatible hood that stays secure even in high winds.

• Fabric: 3-layer, 5-ounce 75-denier 100% recycled polyester plain weave Gore-Tex shell.
• Features: Pit zips for temperature regulation, helmet-compatible hood, and watertight zippers.
• Fit: Regular fit, engineered to layer comfortably over thick fleece or light insulation.

Before purchasing, note that the robust fabric can feel slightly stiff at first. It breaks in quickly with use, but sizing up is recommended if thick winter-weight mid-layers are expected underneath. This jacket is perfect for riders facing sustained, heavy storms, though it may be overkill for those expecting only light, occasional drizzle.

Rain Pants – Helly Hansen Moss Rain Pants

When sitting in a wet saddle, water naturally pools in the seat and runs down the thighs. Standard breathable rain pants can fail under this constant pressure, pressing moisture through the membrane and directly onto your legs.

The Helly Hansen Moss Rain Pants solve this problem by utilizing classic polyurethane (PU) Helox+ technology. This thick, rubberized material is completely waterproof and physically blocks water from passing through, even when sitting under pressure in a soaked saddle. The seams are welded to ensure no moisture can seep in over hours of exposure.

• Material: Helox+ polyurethane outer with a soft polyester knit backing.
• Waterproofness: 100% wind and waterproof with welded seams.
• Fit: Relaxed pull-on style with an elastic waistband to slide easily over riding breeches.

Keep in mind that PU fabric does not breathe. If forced to hike up steep terrain on foot, these pants will trap body heat and sweat. However, for long hours sitting in the saddle during relentless rain, this is the most reliable barrier available.

Riding Boots – Ariat Terrain Waterproof Boots

Keeping feet dry and warm on an Icelandic trail is critical, but safety in the stirrup must never be compromised. Standard hiking boots are often too wide for safety stirrups, while traditional tall leather riding boots lack the insulation and grip needed for walking on slippery volcanic rock.

The Ariat Terrain Waterproof Boots bridge this gap perfectly. They feature an athletic sole with a distinct heel for stirrup safety, paired with a fully waterproof leather membrane that keeps out puddle splashes and rain. The moisture-wicking lining ensures sweat does not pool inside the boot.

• Upper: Waterproof full-grain leather with a Waterproof Pro membrane.
• Outsole: Duratread rubber outsole for exceptional grip on wet rocks and stirrup treads.
• Footbed: ATS technology for all-day arch support and pressure relief.

Leather boots require a brief break-in period before a multi-day trip. Apply a high-quality leather conditioner after the tour to maintain the waterproof seal and prevent volcanic dust from drying out the leather. These are ideal for riders who need to transition seamlessly from riding to walking on rough trails.

Waterproof Gloves – Sealskinz All Weather Gloves

Holding wet leather or synthetic reins with bare, cold hands leads to loss of dexterity and poor horse control. Traditional riding gloves absorb water quickly, while thick ski gloves are too bulky to feel the horse’s mouth.

The Sealskinz All Weather Gloves feature a unique three-layer design that incorporates a completely waterproof membrane alongside a highly durable exterior. The palm is reinforced with PU suede, providing an excellent, non-slip grip on wet reins. A soft merino wool inner lining keeps fingers warm even when temperatures hover near freezing.

• Construction: Three-layer fusion technology for wind and water protection.
• Grip: Polyurethane suede palm for maximum rein control in wet conditions.
• Lining: Natural merino wool for moisture management and warmth.

Because these gloves have a snug, performance fit, sizing runs slightly small. When washing them, dry them slowly at room temperature; never place them directly on a radiator, as excessive heat can damage the waterproof membrane. These gloves are essential for anyone riding in windy, damp conditions below 10°C (50°F).

Merino Base Layer – Icebreaker 200 Oasis Crewe

Cotton absorbs moisture like a sponge and holds it against the skin, draining body heat rapidly. A high-quality wool base layer is the foundation of comfort, absorbing sweat and keeping the body warm even if some rain manages to seep through the outer layers.

The Icebreaker 200 Oasis Crewe is made from 100% merino wool, which naturally regulates body temperature and resists odors over multi-day trips. The fibers are incredibly fine, meaning it will not scratch or irritate sensitive skin. The flatlock seams and offset shoulder stitching prevent friction under the straps of a riding vest or heavy jacket.

• Material: 100% Merino Wool, 200 g/m² midweight fabric.
• Seams: Flatlock and offset shoulder construction to prevent chafing.
• Fit: Slim, next-to-skin fit that layers easily without bunching.

To maintain the shape and longevity of merino wool, wash it on a cold, gentle cycle and lay it flat to dry. Do not tumble dry. This base layer is a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast, though those with extreme wool sensitivities may need to look for high-performance synthetic alternatives.

Waterproof Socks – Showers Pass Crosspoint Socks

Even the best waterproof boots can occasionally get swamped during a deep river crossing or a sudden deluge. Waterproof socks are the ultimate backup plan, acting as a secondary wetness barrier directly on the feet.

The Showers Pass Crosspoint Socks feature a three-layer construction, placing a waterproof, breathable Artex membrane between a wear-resistant knit exterior and a warm merino wool lining. They look and feel like a thick athletic sock but keep water completely away from the skin.

• Layers: 3-layer construction (Nylon outer, Artex membrane, Merino wool blend inner).
• Waterproof Rating: Fully waterproof and windproof.
• Height: Crew length to sit comfortably above riding boot collars.

These socks are thicker than standard trail socks. Ensure the riding boots have enough volume to accommodate them without pinching the toes, which can restrict blood flow and cause cold feet. They are a lifesaver for riders expecting deep water crossings or boggy trail conditions.

Mid Layer – Patagonia R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody

A reliable mid-layer traps warm air close to the body while allowing perspiration to escape outward toward the shell. It must provide warmth without adding unnecessary bulk that limits upper-body movement.

The Patagonia R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody utilizes unique hollow-core fibers woven in a zig-zag pattern. This design traps warm air remarkably well while allowing high breathability during active trail segments. The slim fit sits comfortably under a waterproof shell without bunching up under the arms.

• Fabric: 100% recycled polyester hollow-core fleece.
• Weight: Lightweight, low-bulk profile with a full-length zipper.
• Features: Fitted hood that fits under a riding helmet, zipped chest pocket.

Because this fleece is highly breathable, wind will blow straight through it if it is worn as an outer layer. Keep it zipped inside a waterproof windshell when the weather turns rough. This is the perfect active layer for riders who run cold but hate feeling weighed down by heavy sweaters.

Dry Sack – Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Dry Sack

Riding tours often involve carrying gear in saddlebags or leaving dry clothes in a support vehicle. If those bags sit in the rain all day, moisture will eventually seep through the zippers and soak everything inside.

The Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Dry Sack is a lightweight, packable solution for protecting spare clothes, electronics, and lunch. Constructed from siliconized Cordura nylon, it features a roll-top closure that creates a reliable, watertight seal.

• Material: 30D Ultra-Sil high-tenacity Cordura nylon fabric.
• Seal: Hypalon roll-top closure with reinforced, tape-sealed seams.
• Sizes: 8L and 13L sizes fit perfectly inside standard trail saddlebags.

These bags are highly water-resistant but are not rated for full, prolonged submersion. Avoid packing sharp metal items like spurs or keys directly against the thin fabric to prevent punctures. It is an inexpensive, crucial insurance policy for keeping spare layers dry until they are needed.

How to Layer Gear to Avoid Saddle Chafing and Dampness

Chafing is a common complaint on multi-day riding tours, and wet gear accelerates the problem. To prevent this, layer smart. Always wear seamless, synthetic, or merino underwear as a base layer, as cotton seams will quickly rub skin raw under the pressure of a moving saddle.

Layering for riding also requires managing friction between different garments. If riding breeches are tight, wearing a slick synthetic liner underneath can prevent the breeches from gripping the skin and causing hot spots. Ensure rain pants fit loosely enough to slide easily over riding pants without binding at the knees.

Temperature management is key to staying dry from the inside out. When transitioning from a slow walk to a faster gait like the tölt, unzip the armpit vents of the outer shell before starting. This allows excess body heat to escape immediately, preventing sweat from soaking the merino base layer.

Essential Tips for Drying Your Gear Overnight in Cabins

Icelandic mountain cabins are cozy, but they can quickly become humid environments when filled with wet riding gear. Hang wet outer shells and rain pants immediately upon arrival, using hangers to keep the fabric spread out so air can circulate. Avoid placing synthetic shells directly on radiators, as extreme heat can delaminate waterproof backings and melt seam tape.

Use the classic newspaper trick for wet boots. Remove the insoles, place them on a shelf to dry, and stuff the boot interiors tightly with crumpled newspaper. The dry paper draws moisture out of the leather overnight; replace the damp paper with fresh sheets after a few hours for the best results.

Keep wet gear separate from clean, dry clothes inside your pack or cabin bunk. Hanging damp items in a well-ventilated area of the cabin—away from sleeping quarters when possible—ensures they have the best chance of drying before the next morning’s early start.

Choosing Safety and Comfort Over Fashion on the Trail

While traditional English riding attire looks elegant in a dry arena, it is rarely suited for the harsh realities of the Icelandic wilderness. Prioritizing sleek, traditional fashion over practical, heavy-duty weatherproofing on a wilderness trail is a recipe for physical misery.

Choose quiet fabrics where possible, but never trade waterproofing performance for quietness. Icelandic horses are generally well-trained and accustomed to the sound of rustling windbreakers, so staying dry should always take priority over silent fabrics. Brightly colored jackets also add a layer of safety, making riders easily visible to the guide in low-visibility fog or heavy rain.

Ultimately, a dry rider is a safe, relaxed rider. When the body is warm and comfortable, hand movements remain gentle on the reins, balance stays centered, and the mind is free to appreciate the dramatic, untamed beauty of the Icelandic landscape.

With the right preparation and gear, the unpredictable Icelandic weather becomes just another part of the grand adventure. Investing in high-quality, durable layers ensures that cold winds and sudden downpours remain outside, leaving you warm, safe, and free to enjoy the trail.