Horse&Rider Magazine – January 2026

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It’s pretty hard to see the up side of the long, dark nights and the short, gloomy days at this time of year, isn’t it? We try to lean into it as much as possible, looking for as much joy as we can find, and remembering that we are very close to the days beginning to lengthen again. Editor Louise says, “I learned a while ago that trying to keep all the plates spinning all of the time is often a recipe for disappointment, so I set my expectations a lot lower in winter, and it’s just part of the rhythm of the seasons for me now. Managed a good hack or schooling session? Great. Absolutely poured with rain so I didn’t even make it to the tack room? Also fine. A groom and a cuddle will do.” We couldn’t agree more, so let’s find out what’s inside January Horse&Rider…

This issue we have put together a range of themes to inspire you, no matter whether your riding plans stay the same year-round, or you’re taking things a bit easier at the close of the year. There are plenty of short, sweet exercises to try when you do manage to ride, groundwork exercises that really work and winter-focused fitness, as well as some cosy reads for when you’re stuck in the car waiting for the rain to stop, or at home on the sofa. You can even learn about the genetics of your horse’s coat colour with the science decoded, and meet readers who’ve transitioned to bitless riding and are loving it.

If you’re looking to give your horse a good workout in a short space of time, while sharpening one of the most essential skills for course-riding success, Olympic eventer and Burghley winner Caroline Powell has just the exercise for you.

You’ve probably heard trainers talking about using positive reinforcement, but what does it actually mean? And how can it benefit you and your horse? Clinical animal behaviourist Anna Haines explains how positive reinforcement can transform simple but tasks into easy, confidence-building moments for your horse.

In recent years, high-fibre, low-starch diets have become the new normal, bringing numerous health benefits but also leaving many owners navigating the different products on the market. Equine nutritionist Sami Hodgson breaks down the role of starch, its impact on your horse’s digestive system, and how to make informed choices that support wellbeing and performance.

Another important way to support your horse is by helping him maintain a supple, comfortable body, and routine bodywork appointments can play a key part in this, helping horses feel their best, reducing the risk of problems developing and spotting issues early. But with so many types of therapists to choose from, how do you know which is right for your horse? We’ve rounded up the main forms of bodywork so you can make an informed choice.

Plus, this issue we tested waterproof high vis coats. All of them performed well, but find out which suits you best with our guide! With the cold weather well and truly here, keeping warm is the top of everyone’s list – our buyer’s guide rounds up the best winter riding tights and breeches on the market to take the effort out of researching. Plus, if you’re hunting for the perfect Christmas gifts (for a friend, your horse, or even yourself – you deserve it!), don’t miss our festive picks, too. There’s an amazing range of products in every budget!

All this and so much more in the January issue of Horse&Rider – on sale now!