How to Choose the Best Pair of
English Breeches

If you are reading this article, you are likely on a quest to find the perfect pair of riding breeches. Breeches are an integral piece in every English rider's outfit, as a well-fitting pair of breeches can make you confident enough to strut down the barn aisle or give you the security to conquer a tough course. Riding Warehouse is proud to offer a vast selection when it comes to English breeches. However, we understand that the options can seem daunting at first when you are unsure which breech will best meet your needs. Use this guide to understand which style, color, weight, and fit of breeches will be just right for you!

Our Favorite Breeches & Tights

Everybody is different, and likely, everybody has a different favorite pair of breeches or tights. In addition to explaining the various components that make or break a breech, we've compiled our favorite breeches and tights. Take it from us, we have tried on loads and loads of breeches and tights to give you the most accurate depiction possible. Everyone deserves to find their perfect pants!

Knee Patch vs. Full Seat Breeches

Let us start by deciding whether you are in need of a full seat or knee patch breech. Riders who jump often find knee patch styles work best for getting out of the saddle and into a two-point position. Dressage riders lean toward full seat styles to help keep their seat secure while sitting the trot. However, it really comes down to what you feel the most comfortable in.

You will notice the knee patch and full seat breech grips come in many different materials, including (but not limited to) leather, suede, and silicone. Which material is best for you is dependent upon the level of grip you are looking for in the saddle. Leather and suede are traditional options that provide slight traction. Silicone offers more sticky traction and comes in varying patterns and textures.

Although breeches are traditional for English riding, some riders may choose another stretchy alternative known as riding tights.

Riding tights are a hybrid of a breech crossed with an athletic tight. They do not have any front zip closures but still feature a knee patch or full seat grip. The majority of tights are made of thinner materials for lightweight comfort or for hot-weather riding. Meanwhile, other tights are thicker and slightly compressive for riders who desire more warmth or support. Horseback riding tights are offered in a larger variety of colors and designs in comparison to breeches, making them perfect for showing off your individuality.

Tights are a popular choice for schooling and for riders who spend hours in the saddle (or for those who just love the look and feel of yoga pants). Be sure to check out our list of the Best Riding Tights of 2023 for additional insight.

Now it's time to consider whether you will mainly use your breeches at home or in the show ring. If you are schooling, anything goes and you can base your breech color choice on what fits your personality and outfit.

If you are going to be showing, consider the rules for the riding discipline you will be participating in. What works in hunter/jumpers may not work in dressage, and vice versa. It's a good idea to review the rule book prior to showing to be sure you are riding in alignment.

Hunter/Equitation: Hunter or equitation riders traditionally stick to a classic beige or tan with a simple knee patch.

Jumpers: Jumper riders have the freedom to choose their breech color, as long as the prize list calls for "standard jumper attire." "Proper" or "formal" attire specifies white or tan/beige breeches.

Dressage: Dressage riders usually choose white breeches but have the option to use other light breech colors as well. For more information, read our USDF Attire Rule Guide.

Eventing: Event riders can change breeches for each phase, time permitting. White and light tan are most popular for dressage and show jumping, while eventers show off more unique colors during cross country.

Breeches come in three different weights: light, medium, and heavy. Before choosing a weight, it is important to consider what type of weather you will be riding in, as well as how much coverage you would like. Thin (light) tights are great for summer riding but do not leave much to the imagination when it comes to coverage. A lightweight breech on the other hand has a more substantial feel, while still being ideal for warmer temperatures.

Most breeches made for everyday riding are mid-weight, typically offering a good amount of stretch with moderate coverage. Heavyweight breeches are constructed from the thickest materials and specifically made for wintertime. They are usually lined with fleece to keep you snuggly warm when riding in cold weather. Other heavyweight breeches can even be fully waterproof to protect you from rain, mud, and snow.

Denim breeches are another great option for schooling. A hybrid blend of breeches and jeans, these pants offer the best of both worlds, with good stretch and coverage in a more durable design. Denim breeches are available in knee patch and full seat versions to suit any rider's needs. Best of all, they can easily transition from the barn to town; simply slip on a pair of sneakers after your ride for a stylish look!

With style, color, and weight narrowed down, let us determine what breech rise and length best fits your body. The rise refers to the distance between the crotch and waistband of the breeches.

Low-rise breeches offer the least amount of coverage but may be a better option for riders with a shorter waist or torso. Low-rise breeches are worn right at your hips, while mid-rise breeches should hit you right between your hips and belly button. High-rise breeches sit right below or at your belly button, offering the most coverage.

Some breeches are offered in short and long inseam lengths for a more customized fit. Riders with especially short or long limbs may require breeches with one of these options for the cleanest look and correct placement, so always check the inseam length. English riding breeches also come in plus-sized versions to help every rider feel comfortable in the saddle.

When shopping for English riding breeches, other factors to consider are the placement of zippers, seams, and pockets. Most breeches are front zip; however, side zippers can be less conspicuous. Seam placement differs based on breech brand and style. Euroseat breeches have increased in popularity, with a seam that runs across the backside and down the legs.

Pockets are another useful addition, allowing you to keep your phone, valuables, or horse treats close at hand. Breeches also offer varying materials and fits at the calf, such as a stretchy sock-like panel, mesh, or velcro. There are also bootcut breeches, a full-length option that flares out at the ankle, completely covering your riding boots.

Jodhpur breeches are popular children's riding pants that have a longer knee patch for more grip and are designed specifically for youths starting lessons, with an elastic strap that slips under the child's heels to help hold the breeches in place. They are built to be worn without tall boots or half chaps and instead use garters to protect the child's knee. Combine these full-length breeches with paddock boots, so your young rider can stay comfortable with the proper use of their jodhpurs.

Q: What is the difference between riding breeches and pants?

A: Before the introduction of breeches (when that wasn't a common term), equestrians rode in what were generally considered riding pants, or jodhpurs. Riding breeches are now essentially the same as riding pants, but more specialized; however, these terms are interchangeable. The more important question nowadays is the difference between horseback riding tights and breeches!

Q: What size breeches do I need?

A: If you are in between sizes, we encourage ordering both for comparison's sake, and then just returning the size that doesn't work as well. Refer to the chart below for a general international size conversion of women's pants. It's also a good idea to check the manufacturer's specific sizing guidelines prior to purchase.

Q: Are some brands of breeches better than others?

A: A good pair of breeches is determined by whichever pair makes you feel your best. They are supposed to be comfortable and fade from your mind while in the saddle. Different brands might have different sizing or seam placement that could be uncomfortable on your body so it's worth it to try different brands in order to discover your perfect match!

The best pair of English riding breeches should make you feel ready to take on anything, from your first lesson or dressage test to that tricky jump series. There is no need to fret about finding the perfect pair of riding pants because Riding Warehouse has many options to choose from, including brands like Romfh, Ariat, LeMieux, and more!

We all know it takes a lot of support to sustain our equestrian lifestyle, and Riding Warehouse is here to help! Call our friendly customer service department at 1-800-620-9145 or email us at info@ridingwarehouse.com if you need any further assistance, and remember that Riding Warehouse offers free shipping and returns on qualifying orders. Happy shopping and happy riding!