Jodhpurs and Breeches are two types of equestrian legwear that are designed specifically for riders to enhance their riding experience. There are a number of both practical and style features that can improve your ride, from silicone printed patches to high-wicking fabrics.
The difference between jodhpurs and breeches
Jodhpurs and Breeches are very similar looking. They only really differ on the point at which they finish on the rider’s leg. Both are tight fitting riding pants, however, breeches tend to finish around the mid calf and feature close contact cuffs or touch and close fastenings to offer a snug, streamline fit. Jodhpurs on the other hand, finish around the rider’s ankle, with less emphasis on the closeness of the cuff.
This design aspect of breeches allows them to be worn comfortably with long boots. Jodhpurs can also be worn with long boots, however they are most commonly worn with short jodhpur boots or paddock boots, along with chaps or gaiters for extra protection.
You could wear jeans, leggings or any other everyday legwear for riding, however, jodhpurs and breeches are designed specifically for horse riding to provide extra comfort. They are shaped to fit and have a number of extra features in order to make sure you’re as comfortable as possible while in the saddle.
If you are struggling to get comfortable in your jodhpurs or breeches, then you are most likely wearing the wrong size, or perhaps the design you own isn’t cut to suit your body type. When it comes to shopping for riding gear, don’t be afraid to shop around and try on a number of makes and designs. Here is some advice that will help you when it comes to choosing a new pair of breeches or jodhpurs.
The benefits of jodhpurs and breeches
Most jodhpurs and breeches are designed with a stretch element, meaning Lycra, Spandex, or some other elasticated fibre has been incorporated into construction of the fabric. This ensures that your jodhpurs or breeches will cling to your body and move with you as you ride, adding extra comfort and increasing your range of movement.
The addition of knee patches can be useful for those whose current jodhpurs get worn around the knees, or require extra stability in the saddle. The knee must be flexible and non-restrictive, so buying a pair of jodhpurs or breeches with knee pads sewn in is a good idea. Some knee pads will be made with the same fabric, while others will be made from a contrasting material such as suede, or even printed with silicone to enhance your grip while you ride.
As well as adding extra comfort, jodhpurs and breeches can add some style to your riding attire. There’s no end to the number of style features that can make you stand out from the crowd, from two-tone designs to embroidered detailing. In fact, it’s a popular misconception that jodhpurs and breeches are unflattering, as now there’s such a huge range on offer that anyone can find a style to suit and flatter their figure.
It is true that dark jodhpurs and breeches are particularly good at hiding any stains that come along with owning horses, however, if you are competing then you will want to make sure that you wear the correct colour for your discipline. If you don’t want to your beige or white jodhpurs to get dirty in the build up to a competition then you might want invest in some over trousers to help keep them clean.
Buying jodhpurs and breeches
You can find jodhpurs and breeches in a number of places. These could be tack stores, specialty equestrian shops, online, in second hand shops and in a number of other places. Take your own waist and inseam measurements before you set off to buy a pair of these trousers. You should also decide on which type of jodhpurs or breeches you are after before you go shopping.
It makes sense to have an idea of your budget before you hit the shops. It is also wise to speak to an expert, perhaps a friend in-the-know, your favourite equine superstore or maybe browse an online forum, to help with any uncertainties you may have.
Buying a decent pair of jodhpurs or breeches is important. If you are serious about your riding, or you simply like to hack around your local area, these pieces of clothing will be of great use to you. So make sure you take your time, have a look at what is available and make the proper purchase.