Choosing the Right Pair of Equestrian Pants

Suitable attire is an important part of every rider’s wardrobe, as it offers a perfect fit and plays a key role in the comfort of both rider and horse. From jeans to jodhpurs, today’s riding pants offer many different options to meet the needs of each discipline and body type. The right pair will also ensure optimal performance, whether you’re competing or simply practicing and riding for fun.

Riding trousers with grips are a practical and comfortable option for riders. They can protect against rain and humidity, while offering a good amount of support and stability while riding. This type of trousers also provides a layer of protection against UV rays, which helps to keep the skin healthy in the long term.

These pants are often made from cotton or a blend, allowing them to wick away moisture and provide breathability that traditional denim can’t. This makes them ideal for warm days and intense physical activity, making them a popular choice for everyday wear. They’re also available in a variety of colors, so you can find the perfect pair for your outfit.

For riders seeking a more tailored look, there are also jodhpurs with belt loops and a front zip, as well as jodphurs that are suitable for competition. The latter are designed to be worn with tall riding boots and have close contact stretch calfs to accommodate most shaped legs, meaning that they can be worn by both children and adults. In addition to being stylish, these jodhpurs are also a great choice for beginners, as the grip they provide helps with the correct position in the saddle and will allow young riders to concentrate on their aids rather than on their leg position.

There are also jodphurs with knee patches, a more classic style that’s ideal for English disciplines. They’re designed to help with the rider’s grip in the saddle, ensuring that they stay firmly seated, even when jumping or cross country riding. The knee patches may be a grippy silicone material or a leather insert, depending on the discipline.

A variation on the jodphur is the demi-saumur breeches, which offer a wider leg at the bottom of the thigh, and are generally more fitted. This offers more freedom of movement, and they’re an excellent choice for heavier riders as they can adapt to the shape of the lower legs.

For dressage, a full seat jodphur is essential to maintain control of the rider’s posture in the saddle and achieve the elegant movements that define this discipline. These jodhpurs are usually plain white, but you can also choose a brightly colored option to match your saddle or show attire. Measuring yourself accurately is essential when choosing jodphurs or breeches, as loose or too tight a fit can cause snags on the saddle and hinder your riding performance. To avoid this, look for a jodhpur or breeches with an elastic waistband to guarantee a secure and comfortable fit.