Riding breeches

What are breeches for?

Leg and thigh protection: Breeches prevent abrasions and bruises when in contact with the horse and saddle.

Stability in the saddle: The material and cut improve the contact of the thighs and calves with the saddle, thus supporting the correct riding technique.

Comfort: Elastic or flexible materials ensure freedom of movement during long rides.

Discipline support: Special breeches are designed for specific disciplines, e.g. dressage breeches with a high waist and grip.

Aesthetics: Elegant appearance for competitions, part of the dressage and show jumping dressage dressage dressage dressage dressage riding breeches.

How to use breeches

Choosing the right size: Breeches must fit tightly, but must not restrict movement.

Pairing with footwear: They are used with long riding boots or chaps with half boots.

Maintenance: Most breeches are washable, but it is recommended to follow the manufacturer's instructions. Elastic breeches retain their shape after gentle washing.

Riding Use: Suitable for training, competition and recreational riding.

Pre-ride inspection: Check seams, grips and material elasticity.

Types of breeches

1. Dressage breeches

Designed for dressage, higher waist, often with grip on the seat and inner calves.
Advantages:3

High comfort and thigh protection

Better contact with the saddle

Elegant appearance suitable for competitions
Disadvantages:

Higher price

Some models are less suitable for show jumping or recreational riding

2. Show jumping breeches

Lower waist, flexible material, often with reinforcement on the knees for better support.
Advantages:

Greater mobility when jumping

Protects knees when riding steep saddles

Stylish appearance for competitions

Disadvantages:

Less elegant for dressage competitions

Higher price for professional models

3. Western breeches

Loose cut, often made of more durable materials, adapted for longer rides and terrain.
Advantages:

Resistant to wear

Comfortable for long rides

Traditional appearance for Western discipline
Disadvantages:

Less elegant for dressage competitions

Can be heavier and less elastic

4. Summer and breathable breeches

Made of lightweight materials, elastic and breathable.
Pros:

Comfortable and breathable

Good for hot weather and long rides

Quick drying

Cons:

Less protection against falls or impacts

Shorter lifespan

5. Thermal leggings

Insulated leggings suitable for riding in winter or cold weather.
Advantages:

Keeps the rider warm3

Comfortable in cold temperatures

Prevents cold thighs and knees
Disadvantages:

Less breathable

Can be bulkier and heavier

Advantages of leggings

Protects thighs, knees and calves from abrasions

Promotes stability and saddle contact

Comfort on longer rides

Proper leg and thigh holding technique

Professional appearance for competitions

Disadvantages

Higher price of quality leggings

Some models may be less comfortable when first worn

Require maintenance (especially insulated and leather models)

Synthetic leggings wear out faster

How to choose the right leggings

Size: Leggings must fit snugly and not restrict movement.

Purpose: Dressage, show jumping, western or recreational riding.

Material: Stretchy and breathable materials for comfort, durable for competition and terrain.

Type of grip or reinforcement: On the seat or inner calves depending on the discipline.

Length: Some breeches have a loose bottom for western boots, others are narrow for long boots.

Maintenance: Stretchy materials can be washed, leather and thermal models require special care.

Comfort: Try the breeches on while moving, sitting and getting out of the saddle to make sure they do not restrict your riding.

Tips for use

Wear appropriate footwear – long boots or half boots with chaps

Check seams, grips and elasticity of the material before riding

For longer rides, choose breathable material

Insulated breeches are suitable for cold weather, breathable for summer rides

Follow the rules of the discipline during competitions

Most common mistakes

Wearing the wrong size or material

Ignoring the discipline and purpose of the ride

Insufficient maintenance (especially leather and thermal breeches)

Using old or worn breeches during training or competition

Choosing the wrong grip or cut for a specific discipline

Breeches are the basic equipment of every rider, combining comfort, safety and support for riding technique. The right choice depends on the material, size, discipline and season, while regular inspection and maintenance prolong their lifespan. Quality breeches improve saddle contact, stability in the stirrup, protect your legs from abrasions, and ensure comfort during every ride - from training to competitions.