Last Updated on October 19, 2022 by Allison Price
Horse riding breeches are there to stretch and to allow for more freedom of movement when riding a horse. This allows riders to sit and ride more at ease. Instead of chafing and slipping in the saddle, they will now concentrate on training.
Breeches are in a variety of fabrics. Cotton or blends of cotton are the most common because they are comfortable to wear. Yet, cotton doesn’t absorb moisture so these breeches become wet and damp as you sweat. Advanced microfibers are gaining popularity among the equine community. These fabrics provide excellent breathability. It will wick away moisture from your body, always a plus on hot summer days. Some fabrics keep the riders warm in winter by providing excellent thermal protection.
Riding Styles
- Eventing – Riders wear white or light-colored breeches.
- Hunter Classes – Beige, khaki, grey, and other earthy tones
- Jumper Classes – White is the most popular color during jumper classes.
- Dressage – There is no specified color. Only white and light-colored riding breeches are common.
- Clinics – It is advisable to wear light-colored breeches.
Top 8 Best Horse Riding Breeches for Men
TuffRider Men’s Ribb Patrol Breech
These breeches can withstand the challenge of riding without losing their color. They are comfortable to wear like any other pair of pants. The pockets are huge and the buttons are out of the way so it will not poke you in the saddle. TuffRider Men’s Ribb Patrol Breech is tight but will still give you room to sweat.
Product Details:
- 92% Polyester/8% Spandex
- Imported
- 1.25″ high
- 13″ wide
- Four-pocket Men’s breeches
Pros
- It has durable breeches and ready for any wear and tear; does not pill or lose color
Cons
- Tend to run short. So if you’re a long-legged rider, it may disappoint.
Ariat Men’s Heritage Elite Breeches
These breeches provide great performance for schooling or daily riding. Ariat elastic “V” panel mounted in the back waistband for superior stretching. Calf Fit System provides personalized support for the calf and ankle. Ariat Men’s Heritage Elite Breeches reduce the pressure and friction caused by riding.
Product Details:
- Nylon and cotton fabric
- Synthetic suede knee patch
- Front slant pockets
- Premium logo trim
Pros
- This provides custom support at the calf and ankle
Cons
- They got super wrinkly in the wash.
EuroWeave DX Men’s Full Seat Breech 4-Pocket Front Zip
For when you’re out in the stables or in the show spotlight, these breeches by Ovation are the perfect look. It consists of 63% polyester, 32% viscose, and 5% Lycra fabric. This provides comfort and freedom of movement, while moisture-wicking microfibers keep you cool. Ovation Men’s Straight pants have a front zipper, double folds, and four pockets in style.
Product Details:
- 100% Leather
- 1″ high / 6″ wide
- 63% Polyester/32% Viscose/5% Lycra Fabric
- Four-way stretch Euroweave microfiber fabric features Dri-Tex Technology.
Pros
- Compressed fit supports muscles to reduce fatigue
Cons
- Could be a little higher in the waist and deeper front pockets
HORZE Men’s Grand Prix Knee Patch Breeches
The Horze Men’s breech features a smooth front style without pleats. These breeches have a contoured waistband for an improved fit. A high-quality silicone print on the knee area provides a solid grip. It has a reptile-like pebble pattern for added fashion and style. Horze Men’s Grand Prix was also made from a new functional, breathable fabric. This has a water and dirt repellent surface. Eros fabric: 93% Polyamide, 7% Elastane.
Product Details:
New silicone knee patch breeches
- No pleats
- High-quality silicone grip
- Medium waist
- 2 back flap press button pockets
Pros
- The elastic leg bottoms allow for a smooth and comfortable fit on the lower leg. This is best in particular when wearing tight-fitting tall boots.
Cons
- Tend to run short, so if you’re a long-legged rider, it may disappoint.
TuffRider Men’s Cotton Full Seat Breeches
This breech is perfect to wear for schooling. These breeches are with full synthetic micro-suede UltraGripp seat. UltraGripp helps to prevent slipping in the saddle. These breeches are super comfortable and breathable since they are cotton. It has an added spandex to make these breeches even more comfortable for ease of movement. It also added contoured sock bottoms to hold the breeches secure in your boots. TuffRider Men’s Cotton is excellent quality for the price. The stretch in fabric and fit pleases anyone who’ll give this a try.
Product Details:
- 1.5″ high
- 11.5″ wide
- Front Zip, Belt Loops
- Front Zip Pockets
- UltraGripp Full Seat
- Contoured Sock Bottoms
- 92% Cotton, 8% Spandex
Pros
- Quality of the fabric is very good and durable.
Cons
- Sizes are sometimes not accurate.
Ariat Heritage Knee Patch Breech
This is a versatile breech for schooling or everyday riding. Its comfortable cotton has a four-way stretch. The perfect fit in the saddle comes from Ariat’s patented V3 technology. Ariat Heritage Knee Patch Breech’s Calf Fit System removes bulky closures for a smooth, comfortable fit under tall boots.
Product Details:
- 100% Leather
- Four-Way Stretch Nylon/Cotton Twill Blend
- Synthetic suede knee-patches
Pros
- It eliminates bulky closures for a smooth, comfortable fit under tall boots.
Cons
- Length a little short
Ariat Men’s Olympia Knee Patch Breeches
These Breeches are the perfect men’s breech for schooling or everyday riding. The comfortable cotton has a four-way stretch. Perfect fit in the saddle comes from Ariat’s patented V3 technology. The Calf Fit System eliminates bulky closures for a comfortable fit under footwear. ARIAT Men’s Olympia Breeches can keep up with performance. Also, its Bluesign technology ensures these breeches are environment-friendly.
Product Details:
- 4-way stretch cotton fabric
- Soft & Comfortable fit
- Front Zipper
Pros
- The Calf Fit System eliminates bulky closures. This is for a smooth, comfortable fit under footwear.
Cons
- Can run a little small, so you may need to order a few sizes to find the perfect fit
Perris Velcro Half Chaps
Constructed Of Suede Cowhide. Perris velcro Half Chaps feature Velcro Closures Along Calf And At Top.
Product Details:
- Suede Cowhide
- Velcro Closures
- Easy for kids to put on
- Great Price
Pros
- It has good quality leather, good Velcro, fits well, and won’t slip.
Cons
- The thin suede tab which holds the top ring is too thin to fasten the top strap.
Top 8 Best Horse Riding Breeches for Women
Kerrits Ice Fil Full Seat Tech Tight
The Kerrits Ice Fil Tech Tights are for warm weather. This turns sweat into cooler air while reducing skin temperature by up to 5 degrees. The Kerrits Ice Fil Tech Tights are flexible as they are lightweight. This also features UPF 50 + sun protection to keep you healthy while you’re riding on hot, sunny days. Kerrits Ice Fil is awesome for a full-figured rider. This fits well and is very comfortable to use. This is not super tacky and not slippery as well.
Product Details:
- Ice Fil pant fabric for cooling
- Stretch comfort waistband
- Two low-profile side pockets
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Belt loops
- Rapid wicking fabric
Pros
- A quick-access cell phone pocket on the side makes for easy selfies.
- Knee patch grip pattern helps keep you in the saddle
Cons
- Some riders think the fabric is too light, especially for larger body types.
- After a few years, the waistband starts to shrink a little bit but not muc
TuffRider Ladies Ventilated Tight
Lightweight poly/spandex school tights made to be comfortable and breathable. This also has the luxury of a waistband pull-on low-rise stretch. Contrast striping designs have a ventilated moisture wicking fabric. It continues across the back to enhance flexibility but breathability of the tights. TuffRider Ventilated Tights keeps you nice and cool, and the grip keeps you secure in the saddle.
Product Details:
- 92% Polyester, 8% Spandex
- Breathable
- Contrast striping down the leg
- Grippy silicone knee patch
- Moisture-wicking fabric
Pros
- Wide, low-rise waistband for comfort
- Grippy knee patches help keep you in the saddle
Cons
- No cell phone pocket
- Runs a tad large so you may want to size down
Dove Saddlery Wellesley Silicone Full Seat Breech
This breech also boasts our mid-rise EquiTrue Rise. Dove Saddlery Full Seat Breech has a unique cut that allows maintaining a flattering, secure fit, as you ride or bend to the groom. No matter how you move in the saddle or out, the soft, covered waistband and seat won’t slide, slip, pinch or bind.
Product Details:
- 62% polyester / 33% viscose / 5% spandex.
- Contrast piping around the waistband.
- High-quality zipper
- Two 7″H x 7″W front pockets with contrast piping can hold a cell phone
Pros
- It has a covered waistband for softness against your skin. This is to ensure no skin contact with the hardware
Cons
- Sizes are sometimes inaccurate.
R.J Classic Gulf Low-Rise Knee-Patch Breech
This Breech features premium quality quick-dry stretch fabric. The lightweight stretch fabric of R.J Classic Gulf Knee-Patch Breech feels amazing while offering flattering coverage. Supple Clarino knee patches present the look of suede. This, yet, can withstand the intense abrasion expected from an equestrian sport. The Gulf’s Euro seat design includes meshing lower leg panels that are soft and sleek inside boots. R.J. details on front closures and pockets complete this design. Front zipper.
Product Details:
- 92% nylon / 8% elastane.
- The easy-care stretch fabric feels great which will help every rider achieve the professional image that they strive towards.
- Knee patches add the perfect finishing touches.
Pros
- It offers the ultimate fit and comfort.
Cons
- For the first few wear, the waistband can feel snug
TS Trophy Hunter Mid-Rise Side-Zip Breech
This breech offers a happy medium for comfort and fit. Made of lightweight TS fabric with four-way stretch and Clarino knee patches. The mid-rise sits 1″ higher than a low rise. It has a style with a 2″ wide waistband and Velcro ankle closures. TS Trophy Hunter Breech offers high-quality horse riding pants. This helps you to have complete confidence in your every horse ride.
Product Details:
73% cotton/20% microfiber/7% Lycra
Pros
- It offers a happy medium for comfort and fit.
Cons
- Can run a little small, so you may need to order a few sizes to find the perfect fit
Ovation Euro Melange Knee Patch Breech
It is a great fit, comfy, mid-weight cotton-spandex denim-knit. Front jean styling makes this cute Euro Seat breech perfect for casual riding wear. Features contrast stitching, suede logo patch, and knee patches plus stretch ankle opening. Whether you’re at the top of your game or about to start your first riding lesson, Ovation Knee Patch Breech offers amazing equestrian experience on your every ride.
Product Details:
- Mid-weight cotton spandex denim knit
- Front jean styling
- Euro seat
- Contrast stitching
- Suede logo patch
- Suede Knee Patches
- Stretch ankle opening
Pros
- Spandex denim has the look of fashion jeans and the function of riding tights
- It is a great alternative to riding skinny.
Cons
- Only a handful of basic color choices
- Euro contrast stitching on the seat has the appearance of full seat breeches only
Goode Rider Jean Rider Full Seat Breech
A beautiful update to the popular jean breech! This breech will fit like your favorite jeans, only better. The full-seat breech is a piece of denim fabric. It has a four-way stretch for the ultimate in-saddle comfort. A Stretch Ultra full seat delivers grip and flexibility. Pockets are in jean-style front. Goode Rider Jeans modified mid-rise waistband with a Custom Fit ensures both comfort and coverage. Hook-and-loop leg closures at the hems keep this breach secure inside boots or half chaps.
Product Details:
- Midrise custom fit
- Stretch Ultra Seat
Pros
- Suede full-seat provides the highest level of grip
- Seat and knee patches have stretch and give so there’s no restricted movement
Cons
- Tend to run short so if you’re a long-legged rider it may disappoint
- Can run a little small, so you may need to order a few sizes to find the perfect fit
Kerrits Ice Fil Full Seat Tech Tight
Such tights strengthen the ride with a compression boost that keeps on and flatters. The mid-weight fabric provides a touch more coverage. The slimming high waistband of Kerrits Ice Fil Full Seat Tech Tight creates an athletic look perfect for multi-sport days. Wear them on their own on warmer days or as an empowering base layer in chillier times.
Product Details:
- Ice Fil fabric converts sweat to cooling energy
- Anti-slip Kerrits Sticks pattern distributes an equal ratio of stretch, stick and breathability
- Convenient side pocket
- UPF 50+ Sun protection
Pros
- Kerrits Sticks technology provides anti-slip in the inner leg and seat, providing an equal ratio of stretch, grip and breathability.
- Conveniently Store Your Essentials
Cons
- If you like a looser fitting pant, you won’t love the compression fabric
- The black stripping on the thighs looks odd on the lighter color breeche
What Are Breeches, Tights, & Jodhpurs?
Here’s a quick-hit reminder of the differences between riding pant types:
Tights: Think of riding tights as the yoga pants of the equestrian world. These are too casual for competition and usually for English riders only. Tights are lighter weight, super comfy, and great for everyday use. They usually have wider waistbands for comfort.
Breeches: These pants are the most classic and suitable for all English riders. Breeches usually have a zip and button/snap closure and a shorter waistband. Denim varieties can also be suitable for western riders.
Jodhpurs: Most often worn by kids or saddle seat riders. Jodhpurs go over the top of paddock boots with a strap under the foot to keep them in place.
What Should A Beginner Horse Rider Wear?
The basic clothing you need has to be comfortable tops and bottoms. You should aim to wear thin layers when riding, as if too hot you will be able to take the layers off. If learning in the winter you need to be able to put extra layers on. You should aim to wear bottoms that are not baggy and no rough materials. This is to ensure the comfort of both you and the horse. As your riding progresses you may want to buy a pair of a paddock or riding boots. Only if you think you want to continue up the levels.
Gloves may also be a good idea to wear. It prevents rubs on your fingers and provides a sturdier grip for the reins. Your riding school will give the best advice on this. They may allow you to take some non-riding specific gloves you already have.
For Safety Purposes:
When learning to ride, your school may be able to provide a lot of the equipment by lending them to you, such as:
- Riding hat. This is essential, whether you buy or borrow one to protect your head from injury.
- Body protector. Essential if having a cross country or jumping lesson. This can provide a feeling of security in your first lesson if you are nervous
- Whip. Helps to back up your leg aid as your riding progresses, or will help to encourage a lazy horse to be more forward
How To Properly Fit Your Horse Attire: Breeches ?
Breeches are athletic apparel ought to be comfortable to wear and enable you to move freely. For your horse show fit, pay attention to the way your breeches fit.
Breeches should be snug enough that you do not have wrinkles, gathers, or folds of baggy fabric on the legs. These wrinkles would cause friction that rubs on your skin. But, the breeches’ leg should not be so tight, that they will pinch or restrict you.
The pants’ legs should end at least above your ankles. Breeches are available in regular and long lengths, the standard varies between manufacturers. A snug fit at the base of the leg helps keep the pants from rising up out of your boot. Some breech styles have hook and loop closures. This enables you to control how snug the pant legs fit around your calf. Others have stretchable panels to secure the fit. Wearing socks pulled up over your breeches will ensure that the pants will not rise up during riding. If you’re fitting knee patch breeches, be sure that the patch is sitting in a comfortable spot over the knee. As long as the patches are in the correct spot, the breech is appropriate.
Children under the age of 13 should wear jodhpurs unless they’re directed to do otherwise. This breech style has a cuffed hem with two sewn-in buttons that keep the pant around an elastic band. This elastic band should slip over the boot of the paddock and should come to rest at least before the heel. This band allows the pants to remain upright during the ride. Matching Jodhpur knee straps worn below the knee, paddock boots should be partners. Usually, it’s brown paddock boots and garters.
The rise of the waistband is also a matter of personal preference. The rise refers to the distance from the crotch of the breeches to the waistband. Low rise breeches are popular for schooling. It should be selected to wear in competition with extreme care. A regular rise breech creates a more defined and neater-looking waist under the show coat. This can help to support the tummy area. Low-rise waistbands sometimes create a gap at the back of the waistband. Under show coats, yet, low-rise styles may fit well with short-waisted riders. Choose a style that you’re not only comfortable in, but one that will give you a polished appearance in the ring.
