NEW YORK—In a March 5, 2025 press release, Hawke & Co., a New York City Garment Center-based (human) outerwear brand, announced that it is dressing the Central Park carriage horses in a custom version of the company’s signature packable puffer jacket.

The recent trend of cold weather and snow inspired brand owner Michael Rosenberg to have the jackets made to help keep the horses warm.

“I know that the Central Park carriage horses are a controversial subject, and this is not a statement on that, one way or the other. One of our brand mottos is ‘We Keep Things Warm,’ and as I drove past the horses last week during a cold spell, I thought, ‘Why not the horses, too?'” said Rosenberg.

‘Pushing the boundaries’

An event held at the Seventh Avenue entrance of Central Park featured a select group of horses outfitted in their custom Hawke & Co. packable puffer coats in the brand’s distinctive orange color. (A similar equine coat called the Equine Empire Quilted Horse Jacket is listed on the company’s website.)

The drivers were also gifted matching jackets, as well as a puffer blanket to keep the carriage riders warm for their trips. The event not only captivated park visitors but also garnered media attention, highlighting the company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional branding.

Hawke & Co. is cruelty-free and does not use leather or feathers in any of its outerwear. “Keeping animals who have to work outside warm carries that message in a creative but useful way,” said Rosenberg. “In our marketing and social media, we love to focus on the unsung heroes who keep NYC moving: the garbage collectors, food cart peddlers, taxi drivers. The carriage horses of Central Park fall within this group, as well.”

About Hawke & Co.

Hawke & Co. is a third-generation, family-owned business that has been making outerwear since 1958. More than six decades of expertise go into every garment the company makes. For more information, visit the company’s website.