Comments (take into account design, performance & value)

Living on the coast of West Wales where rain is a common occurrence, the concept of water resistant breeches is very appealing. I did feel somewhat sceptical about their ability to block out the rain but I can happily say I was proved wrong.

The breeches I tried were in a gorgeous taupe colour very practical as they don't show up the dirt, but also traditional and they match with pretty much everything. Being a small person (UK size 6/8), I normally struggle with finding breeches that actually fit and have often had to dip into the children's sizes. This can be incredibly frustrating as you tend to loose the style element. I was delighted to find that the 24 waist breeches from the Cavalry Collection fitted me perfectly a real rarity for me! They also had a luxurious full suede seat which certainly provides extra grip in the saddle, and a handy external zipped pocket, ideal for a mobile phone.

I wore the breeches for two weeks and hacked out in them, did flat work and worked around the yard. Normally a fair weather rider, I felt it my responsibility to brave the elements and ride out on a rainy day, therefore providing a rigorous test. Not only was it a rainy day, but I missioned down to the beach with the wind blowing the rain directly at us in a horizontal manner. Much of the ride was conducted in a half-pass manner (surprising what horses can do when they want to!) and so my thighs were completely exposed to the rain.

I did not feel wet on the ride and on returning to the yard felt no need to dash into the house to change. On removing the breeches my legs were remarkably dry, proving that the Teflon coated material really does help to block out the rain. The rain simply sits on the surface of the breeches and rolls off, almost like magic!

These breeches will no doubt form an integral part of my riding wardrobe and although riding in the rain doesn't really appeal to me there are times when you can't avoid it. These breeches are functional, stylish and fantastic value for money. I would highly recommend them as an essential item for the winter wardrobe.

For more information about the Cavalry Collection, log onto www.equiplus.co.uk