Outfit of the day: Swedish winter edition!

I’m lucky to live in a place that’s truly beautiful, but that beauty does go hand-in-hand with some challenging weather. Last winter brought us an incredible seven months of snow here in Sweden, with the first fall taking us by surprise in mid-October – SO early! By November 2023 we saw temperatures dipping as low as -20°C by November and the hard, cold really set in. While this year has been much kinder, delivering our first snowfall just recently, I’ve already started quoting the Scandinavian mantra: ‘there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing choices!” That means I’m regularly reaching for my trusted UHIP gear. It’s a lifesaver for surviving the season in style and comfort.

For me, November and February are the toughest months of the year. With only five hours of daylight in December, the darkness can feel overwhelming. When snow does fall it transforms the landscape and brightens even the gloomiest days, but without it, those months can be wet, dark and downright dreary. That’s where layering up with the right gear really does make all the difference, keeping me warm, dry and in a much better mood.

Recently, I had two days that reminded me why UHIP is a bestseller at Outdoor Functional Wear. I pulled together two winter “outfits of the day,” featuring some top UHIP pieces that showcase this brand’s versatility, practicality and sleek Scandinavian design – and in this blog, I’m sharing them with you!

Outfit One: Built for the Elements

The first look kept me cosy and dry on a cold, crisp day filled with horsey errands and a long dog walk. I layered up with the UHIP Ice Jacket, my go-to for battling freezing wind and snow, paired with the Windstopper Tights layered under warm Zip Stable Pants. I hate having cold legs and they take an age to warm up, but this combination keeps me snug. The merino half zip top layered under UHIP’s stretchy full zip midlayer was just right, while the Nice Ride Boots are so comfy in and out of the saddle!

After finishing up outside, I found myself retreating to the stable with Takida, to warm up after facing the bitter wind. You all know the relief of huddling in the stable after a wet or windy winter ride or walk, right?

Outfit Two: Snow Day Chic

My second outfit was all about layering up to stay warm during a day outdoors, where temperatures hovered well below freezing. Takida and I took advantage of a gorgeous winter day for a ride by the beach, a truly perfect horsey winter adventure. The scenery was just breathtaking, with the snow sparkling under the pale winter sun before it sank below the horizon.

This outfit features several pieces I’ve come to rely on when I’m riding in the winter months. I started with the Covalliero Skirt, which offers exceptional warmth and freedom of movement in the saddle, paired with UHIP’s Windstopper Tights for an extra layer of protection against the cold. On top, I wore the UHIP Frost Jacket, which is lightweight yet incredibly warm, layered over the UHIP Hybrid Jacket—a versatile, insulated liner that’s perfect for those crisp winter days. This jacket uses wool as the padding which I love – natural and sustainable.

For my footwear, I once again chose the Nice Ride Boots, which are sturdy, warm and ideal for all-day wear. Takida was smartly turned out in a Hi Viz Winter Wrap Around Quilted Rug, so I knew he was both warm and easily visible. Safety is always a priority, so I used my Royal Rider Safety Stirrups and my Uvex Exxential II LED Helmet, featured in last month’s blog, which has built-in lights – a must-have for our short Swedish winter days when visibility can be an issue.

One of the reasons UHIP is such a hit with me and my customers is the thoughtful design and excellent performance. These pieces are made for real life in wet and cold climates, from the clever layering options to the sleek silhouettes that stop you looking too much like a snow man (or snow woman!). I’ve recently posted that they wash well too, which is downright essential for life with our beloved horses. So, whether you’re heading to the stables, running errands in town or going for a snowy dog walk, I can tell you – UHIP gear keeps you warm, dry and looking great.

And if you’re looking for pieces to make your winter wardrobe work as hard as you do, these outfits are a great place to start. After those seven long months of snow last year, I’ve learned to embrace the season but make sure I’m dressed for the occasion!

Anyway, hope you’ve enjoyed reading my latest blog and browsing the UHIP recommendations on the OFW website.

I’m looking forward to bringing you next month’s blog, so keep your eyes peeled for that.

Take care, stay warm!