Not all that long ago, equestrian legwear was divided into the two categories- jodhpurs and breeches. But over recent years, in line with how and when people wear their ‘horsey’ clothes, the products have evolved to fit in with our lives. In this jargon buster, we’re going to guide you around the world of riding legwear, so you know what to ask for and shop for next time you’re looking to buy something new.
Breeches– a close relative of jodhpurs, breeches are shorter in length, finishing above the ankle. The bottom of the legs of breeches are usually close fitting and can sometimes be made of a thinner, stretch material so there’s less fabric under long boots, which is how breeches are usually worn. Although breeches can have a close fit from the waist down, some designs are made with fabric that isn’t as snug around the stomach.
Breggings– who doesn’t love a breeches and leggings hybrid?! Breggings combine the stretch, flex and ease of wear of leggings, but with lots of the features of breeches including a shorter length, to provide additional options for people who prefer the fit of breeches.
Compression fabric – some more technical items of equestrian legwear are made with compression fabric to help provide support, improve performance, and promote faster recovery. Compression fabric is often seen in other items of sportswear too.
Cross over waistband – this design provides a v-shaped waistband where the material crosses over at the front. This can be more comfortable for some riders.
Full seat – this can be found on a variety of equestrian legwear and is where there’s additional or different material around the rider’s seat (where they’re in contact with the saddle) and down the inside of the leg too.
High waist or high waisted– this is a style that sees the waistband situated above the hips to create high waisted breeches or jodhpurs. This design can create a more flattering overall look which works for riding at home as well as shows with high waisted breeches being very popular for those who compete.
Jodhpurs – these are long length, tight fitting trousers designed for riding. There are lots of different design variations available, but in general, you’ll find a knee pad on the inside, and the jodhpurs will finish around the ankle. They’re designed to be worn with short boots (like jodhpur boots or paddock boots) and perhaps jodhpur clips for showing, or chaps and gaiters.
Knee pads or patches– these can be found on breeches, jodhpurs and many other types of equestrian legwear too. They provide an additional layer of material between the rider’s knee and the saddle.
Reinforced stitching – some equestrian legwear benefits from reinforced stitching in areas likely to come under increased pressure when in the saddle. This can help to ensure longevity.
Riding tights – also sometimes known as riding leggings, horse riding tights have a similar fit in length to jodhpurs, but are usually more stretchy, lighter in wear, and pull on in style, without any fastenings. They can be a great option for day-to-day riding, but also cross over well into leisure with quite a lot of people wearing their riding tights or leggings to walk, run and exercise too, thanks to the stretch and flexibility they provide. You might think that riding tights are just for riding at home, but there are a growing number of competition riding tights coming onto the market too! Riding tights can also be a great option for younger riders, with children’s riding tights being much easier to put on and take off without any adult assistance.
Silicon/silicone grip
Silicon(e) grip is a type of grip that involves a small, almost sticky, design being applied to the fabric that is used to make the breeches or jodhpurs. Some companies have monogrammed grips, some have dots, stripes… if you can imagine it, you might see it! Silicon/silicone can help enhance the rider’s grip in the saddle.
Suede/faux suede grip– as with silicon/silicone, suede or faux suede is sometimes used to help enhance the rider’s grip in the saddle. It can be used for the full seat or just on the knee pads.
Thermal fabric – perfect for winter riding and cooler days, some jodhpurs, breeches, breggings and leggings are made using thermal fabric to help keep the rider warm, regardless of the weather. This can also help to support the rider’s performance by ensuring their muscles stay warm.
Hopefully you’re feeling more confident when it comes to equestrian legwear after reading this jargon buster. Don’t forget, we’re on hand online and in store to help you get what you need, whatever you do with your horse.
Discover our range of riding legwear for women, men and children.
Why not read explore our blog and read our guide to the top 10 ladies’ legwear for Summer 2024?
Three great reasons to shop with RB Equestrian:
- Free UK delivery on orders over £30.00
- Earn Customer Rewards with every purchase* (one of the best and most generous reward schemes around)
- 60 day no quibble returns policy
