Beginner’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Horse Riding Pants

Key Highlights

• Horse riding pants, often called breeches or riding tights, are essential for comfort and performance.
• Different riding disciplines often call for specific styles of riding pants.
• Consider the material, fit, and features like knee patches or full seat grips when choosing riding pants.
• Proper measurements are crucial for a comfortable and functional fit.
• Always try on breeches before purchasing to ensure the best fit for your body type and riding style.

Introduction

Horse riding is a thrilling sport. It needs special clothing to help you perform well and feel comfortable. One key item of clothing is a good pair of breeches. Picking the right pair of breeches depends on a few things. These include the type of riding you do, your personal preference, and your body type. This guide will help you find the perfect pair of breeches for your first horse-riding experience.

Also read – Follow Cams for Riding

Understanding Horse Riding Pants

Riding breeches are different from regular pants. They are made just for riding horses. These pants focus on being flexible, strong, and giving a good grip. This helps make sure you have a safe and comfortable ride. Here are some features that set riding breeches apart from regular trousers.

One important feature is the knee patches or full seat grips. Dressage riders usually like full seat breeches. These have a material like silicone or suede that goes from the seat to the inner thigh for better stability. On the other hand, knee patches are placed on the inner knee. They allow freedom of movement while still providing grip, which is why jumper riders often choose them.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Type

Choosing the right riding pants greatly affects your comfort and how well you perform in the saddle. If you get the wrong type, it can limit your freedom of movement, making it harder to communicate with your horse.

First, think about your riding discipline. Each type of riding has its own traditions and dress code. For example, dressage competitions usually require white or light-colored breeches. On the other hand, eventers and jumper riders can choose from a wider range of colors.

Next, focus on your comfort and what you need. If you ride mainly for fun or like a more modern style, riding tights that look like yoga pants could be the best fit for you. They offer a slim look, and you can find them with different levels of compression and grip.

Also Read – How to Pick a Saddle Pad

Different Styles and Their Purposes

Horse riding pants come in many styles to fit different needs and preferences. Here are some popular types:

• Jodhpurs are full-length riding pants that kids often wear. They have a longer knee patch and an elastic strap under the heel. Jodhpurs are great for beginners and usually go well with paddock boots.
• Unlike the tight fit of English riding breeches, Western riding pants are looser. They are often made from denim or strong cotton blends. This provides comfort for long rides in the saddle.
• Riding tights are very popular for those who want comfort and style. They mix the usefulness of breeches and the look of yoga pants. These tights offer flexibility and breathability.

Essential Features to Look For

When picking riding pants, focus on comfort and practicality while still looking good. Some features can really change how you enjoy your ride.

Think about the fabric, how they fit, and any extra details like pockets and zippers. It’s a good idea to spend a bit more on quality materials and good build. This helps to make sure they last a long time.

Material and Fabric Choices

Riding breeches and tights are made from different materials, each with its own benefits. Cotton is a popular choice because it breathes well. However, blends that include spandex or technical fabrics are becoming more common. These blends are flexible, wick away moisture, and are very durable.

Synthetic blends remove sweat, keeping you dry and comfortable during long rides. Some of these fabrics even offer UV protection to shield your skin from sun damage.

Another key factor is the grip. Silicone grip is known for being very sticky, which helps you stay secure in the saddle. Traditional riders may still prefer suede for its classic look and feel.

Fit and Comfort Considerations

Breeches for riding should fit well but never be tight. Comfort and freedom of movement should be your top priorities. A good pair of breeches moves with you. This way, you can focus on your riding.

When choosing breeches, think about your body shape and what you like. High-rise breeches give good coverage and look nice. Some riders find mid-rise options more comfortable.

Make sure the waistband sits nicely on your hips. It should not gap or pinch. Also, check the leg length to see if it fits well with your riding boots. The right fit gives you maximum comfort and a better riding experience.

Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing Your First Pair of Horse Riding Pants

Ready to start the search for your ideal riding pants? Just follow these steps to help you choose wisely. The most important thing is to find a pair that is both comfy and useful, fits your riding style, and meets your preferences.

From figuring out what you need for your rides to looking at sizing charts, every step is important for finding the right pair for you.

Step 1: Identifying Your Riding Style

Before getting into the details about breeches, think about your main riding discipline. The kind of riding you do will greatly affect the best pant style for you.

For example, if you love dressage, you will probably prefer traditional white breeches with a full seat grip. Paddock boots usually go well with this classic look in dressage.

On the other hand, if you enjoy jumping or eventing, knee patch breeches are a better option. They give you more freedom of movement while still providing grip, which is important for jumping over obstacles.

Step 2: Measuring for the Perfect Fit

Once you know the style, finding the right fit is important. Always check the manufacturer’s sizing chart because sizes can be very different from one brand to another.

To measure your waist, find the narrowest point, which is usually around your belly button. Then, measure your hips at the widest point. Finally, find your inseam length by measuring from your crotch to where you want it to end at your ankle.

Take your time with measuring. Make sure the tape is flat against your body and not pulled tight or hanging down. Getting accurate measurements is very important for finding breeches that feel like a second skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I wear leggings for horse riding?

Leggings are comfortable and versatile, but they don’t have the key features needed for riding. Equestrians need breeches or riding tights made for horseback riding. These riding pants give the right grip, durability, and other features that normal leggings do not provide.

Q: How do I know if my horse riding pants fit correctly?

A good fit means the pants should feel snug, but not too tight. You should move freely without the fabric bunching or pulling. Make sure the seams are flat against your skin, especially in the saddle area and the lower leg.

Q: Are there specific pants for different riding disciplines?

Yes, some types of riding have special clothing rules. Dressage riders usually like to wear light-colored full seat breeches. Jumper riders tend to choose knee patch styles. Western riding has its own unique style of pants that match the traditions and needs of that discipline.

Q: How often should I replace my riding pants?

The life of your breeches depends on how often you ride and how well you take care of them. Make sure to check them often for any damage, especially in the seat and knee parts. If the fabric gets thin, seams start to unravel, or the grip wears out, it’s time to replace them.

Q: What is the best way to care for horse riding pants?

Always look at the care label for special instructions. Most riding pants, even those made with technical fabrics, can be washed in a machine. Make sure to use a gentle cycle, cold water, and not to use strong detergents. Also, close all velcro fasteners and turn the breeches inside out. This will help protect the fabric and grip.