Finest tweed jackets and equestrian clothing

The tweed jacket has long been established as an essential item of equestrian clothing for any discerning rider. Regularly worn by Prince Charles and more recently by Ben from 'The Apprentice', tweed jackets are best known as a hunting garment but are not uncommon in the show ring due to their simple, understated pure equestrian elegance.

Originating from islands surrounding the Hebrides, tweed has been used by highlanders for centuries because of its warmth and natural moisture repellant properties. Although the exact date the tweed came into fruition is unknown, it is believed to date from around the 14th century when weavers would intertwine the wool from their black face sheep to create closely-woven, durable garments to combat the harsh Scottish climate.

Although there were numerous mills along the River Tweed on the Scottish border, the word "tweed" is believed to actually be an English corruption of the Scottish word "Tweel". One account suggests that "tweed" was a spelling mistake by a busy London clerk who no doubt knew of the mills along the river and wrongly assumed that "tweed" was the correct spelling. In spite of this, the term was in popular usage from the mid-19th century onwards. Gentlemen would don tweed garments for visits to their Scottish hunting estates, favouring them for their warmth and smart appearance.

Tweed sporting garments became the standard attire for Victorian and Edwardian gentlemen alike and they still maintain an important part of equestrian attire today. Available in either herringbone or checked patterns, they come in a variety of different colours with the most common being greens, browns, mustards and grays.

Traditional tweed jackets

Caldene's Men's Windsor Tweed Jacket is a prime example of tweed at its best. Made from only the finest pure new wool, this three buttoned green check tweed men's jacket is beautifully fitted and has side vents to allow it to sit without hindrance on top of your steed. With a jacket like this you can rest assured that you will always look your best.

As with the men's jacket, the Caldene Belvoirladies and juniors traditional tweed jacket has all the perks of modern craftsmanship and comfort whilst retaining the traditional style of the customary tweed riding jacket. Available in both the Derby Tweed and the Keepers tweed designs, this jacket will be sure to complement your equestrian attire wonderfully.