Pants for horseback riding are specifically designed with comfort and convenience in mind. They have several features that are suited to horse riding to enhance your time in the saddle. While most comfortable pants and jeans can double up as horse riding pants, especially for casual riders, breeches and jodhpurs are the preferred choices. The reason being the special features such as knee patches, full seats, and stretch material.
Many western riders also like riding in jeans because of their versatility and durability. Riding tights are also growing in popularity because of the versatility and ease of wearing them. However, those who spend a lot of time in the saddle are quite particular about the right gear. Whether it’s a good pair of horseback riding shoes or horseback riding socks, having the right pants will go a long way in making your time in the saddle that much more enjoyable.
How To Choose The Best Pants For Horseback Riding
Every sport has its own specific attire and equipment with special features suited to that particular sport. So whether it’s the best tennis shoes for women or shoes for kayaking, you’ll find certain features that give you an edge. It’s the same with pants for horseback riding. If you’re a beginner, knowing what to look out for will add to your riding experience.
Style
As mentioned above, pants for horseback riding come in two main styles, jodhpurs and breeches. Breeches are the preferred choice of many riders because of the support they provide. They’re generally made from a thin fabric that allows for closer contact with your horse. Also, they’re designed to fit comfortably into your boots. You’ll also find breeches with full seat styles that keep you firmly in the saddle. Many competitors wear breeches as their riding pants of choice.
Another popular choice of pants for horseback riding is jodhpurs. These are very similar to breeches and can sometimes be confused with them. However, the difference between the two is in the length. Jodhpurs are longer than breeches and extend all the way to the ankles, unlike breeches that are generally cut off at mid-calf. They’re quite popular with children and younger riders.
Jeans are also extremely popular for horseback riding and have been the preferred choice of many riders. If you choose to wear jeans make sure that they’re comfortable and high. Jeans that sit lower on the hips can be uncomfortable. They’re also not suitable for those that ride English unless they’re paired with taller horseback riding boots.
Material
All riding breeches or jodhpurs are made from breathable materials that have a good stretch. Material that has a four-way stretch, good ventilation, and shape retention technology should be your preferred choice. In addition to this, materials that are stain-resistant with moisture-wicking or thermoregulation will go a long way in enhancing your experience. Those looking out for riding pants that will last for several seasons should consider materials such as leather, denim, or nylon. Also, if you’re self-conscious about your body then heavier material will help cover up any less flattering attributes.
Are Riding Tights Or Yoga Pants Suitable For Horseback Riding?
While riding tights and yoga pants are great for the summer months and provide incredible stretch, they have their drawbacks. For one, they hardly provide much grip when you’re in the saddle. They’re also not as durable as regular pants for horseback riding and can get chaffed easily. Tights that are heavier in weight are more durable and will work well for casual riders and schooling.
What About Shorts? Are They Suitable For Horseback Riding?
You can get away with riding in shorts if it’s a short gallop to the beach or a short tour. However, if you’re going to be spending a long time in the saddle, especially in an English saddle then they’re a definite no. The reason being the leather stirrups could rub against your legs and hurt them.
Kids Knee Patch Performance Tight
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Girls love the Kids Knee Patch Performance Tights as pants for horseback riding because of the super soft fabric. The Fabrisuede Tactel is not only soft and stretchable to provide more comfort, but it also wicks moisture. Your kid won’t have to endure the discomfort of sweaty skin with these on. Also, you won’t have to worry about these tights losing their shape after a wash.
These durable tights have an elastic waistband that stretches to provide the perfect fit. They also have a gripper elastic at the ankle so that these can be slipped into horseback riding boots. You’re spoiled for choice with the number of colors and patterns that are available. As for washing, that’s easy too as these can be popped into the washing machine with no fear.
Pros:
- Material made from a blend of Micropoly and Spandex
- Super soft and stretchy
- Moisture-wicking
- Elastic waistband
- Gripper elastic at the ankle
Cons:
- We would be nitpicking if we had to find fault with these
Ovation Women Euro Melange Full Seat Cotton Breeches
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With its front jean styling and comfy fit, the Ovation Women’s Straight Breeches hits all the right notes. These pants for horseback riding feature mid-weight cotton-spandex denim. They also have a contrast stitching suede logo patch and a suede full seat stretch ankle opening.
These breeches are perfect for casual riding wear. The advanced shape retention tech and patented high-quality fabric ensure that they’ll look as good as new even after a few washes. Another great thing about these riding pants is that they’re microbial and odor resistant. They also protect from UVA rays.
Pros:
- Super stretchy and comfortable
- Doesn’t shrink in the dryer
- Shape retention tech
- Front jean styling
- Mid-weight cotton-spandex denim
- Good value for money
Cons:
- The length could be a little longer for the perfect fit
ELATION Euro Seat Platinum Brooklyn Breeches
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Another great pair of women’s pants for horseback riding is the ELATION EuroSeat Platinum Brooklyn Breeches. These full-seat riding breeches are made from premium cotton with just the right amount of spandex for a great 4-way stretch. The comfort that these breeches provide is quite exceptional. They’re stylish too with bold contrast lines and a European cut, giving them a timeless equestrian look.
Women also love the front and back pockets on these pants as well as the double belt loops, shiny double buttons, and zipper. The slightly high-waisted fit keeps them secure while riding and also provides structure and stability. Also, you won’t have trouble getting these to fit snugly into your boots as they’re designed for a snug fit.
Pros:
- Slightly wider waistband
- Front and back pockets
- Double belt loops
- Premium Alos leather knee patches
- Lightweight, technical fabric
Cons:
- These breeches are so great that we couldn’t fault them
Derby House Elite Mens Riding Breeches
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Featuring a performance stretch fabric that has been curated from only the finest materials, the Derby House Elite Men’s Breeches scores big on comfort. These breathable and flexible pants for horseback riding are made from a blend of polyester, nylon, and elastane. They’re great for everyday riding and competitions.
The breeches feature a flattering pleat front design with practical popper fasten pockets. A Clarino knee patch not only adds to the look of the pants but is also a practical addition. Additionally, a hook and clasp fastening, belt loops and YKK zip add to the comfort of wearing these. They also come with shaped lycra calf panels to avoid bulking in tall riding boots.
Pros:
- Breathable and flexible
- Comfortable for everyday riding and competitions
- Clarino knee patch
- Lycra calf panels to avoid bulking
- Hook and clasp fastening and YKK zipper
Cons:
- Like most riding breeches, sizing could be an issue
TuffRider Children’s Starter Lowrise Pull-on Jods
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TuffRider is renowned for its affordable horseriding gear and the TuffRider Children’s Starter Lowrise Pull-on Jodhpurs doesn’t disappoint. These pants for horseback riding are one of the most popular children’s jodhpurs. The trendy lowrise fit, belt loops, and faux fly front add to the comfort of wearing these. Made from 80% cotton and 20% spandex these breeches are durable and comfortable.
You’ll also find UltraGrip knee patches and sewn-in elastic jodhpur straps with velcro closures. Getting these on is easy as they have a pull-on style. You can choose from 8 different colors to suit your child’s style. When it comes to washing these breeches they can be put in the machine. However, they need to be turned inside out and washed with warm water and mild detergent.
Pros:
- Easy to pull on or take off
- Belt loops
- Trendy low rise
- UltraGrip knee patches
- Sewn-in elastic jodhpur straps
Cons:
- Sizing seems to be the main issue with these jeans as they’re either too loose or too tight
OKAY Sports Kids Performance Riding Tights
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The Okay Sports Kids Performance Riding Tights stands out for their flexibility and softness. Made from a blend of nylon and spandex these are great for riding in summer. The super soft and cool fabric is lightweight with a 4-way stretch. An excellent feature of these tights is the covered pocket. The pocket can hold the kids’ phone or smaller items like keys when riding.
A comfortable elastic waistband will not cause any discomfort but keep the tights securely in place. Additionally, you’ll find eco suede knee patches that enhance durability. These tights can also be washed in the machine but turned inside out and on a cold wash.
Pros:
- Blend of nylon and spandex
- Super soft and cool fabric
- Lightweight with 4-way stretch
- Eco suede knee patches
- Machine washable
- Good value for money
Cons:
- So far we haven’t found anything to complain about these tights
Fits T4 Women’s Riding Tight Knee Patch
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An excellent pair of pants for horseback riding is the Fits T4 Women’s Riding Tights. Fashioned from a blend of Polyester and Elastane these tights wick moisture to keep your skin dry. The 4-way stretch fabric is comfortable and breathable to ensure a good day in the saddle. It’s also lightweight and smooth, perfect for those
You’ll also find UltraGripp knee patches on the leg that enhance the durability and your connection in the saddle. Other features of these tights include a low-mid-rise waist, an inner pocket to hold keys, and cool side mesh panels for ventilation. These pants also have a great fit to provide a modern look while you’re in the saddle.
Pros:
- Smooth, comfortable fabric
- UltraGrip knee patches on the leg for durability
- Low-mid rise waist
- Inner pocket for keys
- Cool side meshes
- Breathable
- Available in several colors
Cons:
- The knee patches are quite small and feel a little too stiff
- A pocket for a cellphone would be a good addition instead of a tiny key pocket
Wrangler Women’s Western Stretch Boot Cut Jean
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If all you want is classic-style pants for horseback riding, the Wrangler Women’s Western Stretch Boot Cut Jeans are an excellent option. You can slip on your favorite riding boots with these jeans with no issues as the bootcut is designed for that. This classic comes complete with signature western embroidery.
The mid-rise jeans are constructed from a durable cotton stretch blend, that will go the distance. It has five pockets and iconic embellishments that make it stand out. A contour waistband provides a curve-hugging silhouette for a flattering fit. These functional and fashionable jeans are great in and out of the saddle.
Pros:
- Machine wash
- Boot-cut
- Contour waistband
- Signature western embroidery
- Durable cotton stretch blend
- Five pockets
Cons:
- Wrangler is renowned for their quality products and these jeans showed just why as we couldn’t fault them
Ovation Men’s Straight Breeches
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Men looking for a good pair of pants for horseback riding will love the Ovation Men’s Straight Breeches. These breeches deliver top-notch comfort without feeling clingy or tight. Similar to the women’s breeches by the same brand, the mid-weight material is woven from technologically advanced fabric. It not only feels comfortable but also delivers complete support.
Besides being microbial and odor resistant the fabric is also abrasion resistant and repels hair and dirt. The breeches also protect the legs from UV-rays when out in the sun. Hook and loop ankle closures and pockets add to the comfort of these pants. If you thought that was all, it also has synthetic suede knee patches that provide a firm grip.
Pros:
- Technologically advanced fabric for a comfortable fit
- Microbial and odor resistant
- Abrasion-resistant
- Synthetic suede knee patches
- Front and back pockets
- Hook and loop ankle closures
Cons:
- If we were nit picking we’d say the front pockets could be a little deeper as they feel a bit small
TuffRider Women’s Ventilated Schooling Tights
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Made from a comfortable stretch fabric, the TuffRider Ladies Ventilated Schooling Tights are ideal for the summer. Extremely, lightweight and stretchy, these durable tights will make both riding and barn chores fun. The moisture-wicking feature combined with the additional ventilation ensures you stay cool in the saddle even in the toughest of conditions. Apart from this, the silicone knee patches ensure a non-slip ride.
You can be sure of a secure fit with the pull-on style wide waistband. The tights are also available in a good range of conservative or fun colors to suit your personal style. As with most pants for horseback riding, these tights should also be turned inside out and washed with warm water and a mild detergent.
Pros:
- Shrink resistant
- Comfortable stretch
- Moisture-wicking material
- Silicone knee patches
- Good range of colors to choose from
Cons:
- Don’t grip as well as cotton schoolers
HR Farm Ladies Full Seat Silicone Knit Breeches
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One of the most comfortable pants for horseback riding every day is the HR Farm Ladies Full Seat Silicone Knit Breeches. Comfortable and stretchy, the fabric is also ideal for the summer. The stitching on these breeches is also pretty solid and the contrasting piping ups the ante in style.
The mid-rise design also features two front pockets and two back pockets with a zipper. Women love that the pockets are deep enough to fit their hands. The waistband also fits comfortably and the silicone full seat works incredibly well.
Pros:
- Comfortable and stretchy
- Cool enough for summer
- Solid stitching
- Silicone full seat works well
- Deep pocket in the front
Cons:
- Fabric is not as stain resistant as other pants
The Mane Range Horse Riding Pants
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Pants for horseback riding should be as comfortable and durable as the Mane Range Horse Riding Pants For Women. Offering a great fit, these quality equestrian breeches have been refined to perfection. They’re made from 300mg thread made from a blend of nylon and spandex that makes the fabric tight and durable. You’ll enjoy wearing these around the house too as they feel firm to the skin.
Two pockets on either side are spacious enough to hold a large phone. The pockets also have a reflective design that is visible at night. Since these pants fit securely around the waist, you won’t need a belt. Another great feature of these pants is the full silicone seat that ensures you’ll stay firmly in your saddle.
Pros:
- Comfortable and durable
- 300mg thread made from a blend of nylon and spandex
- Two spacious pockets on either side
- Silicone seat provides a firm grip
Cons:
- Sizing could be an issue
Wrangler Men’s 13MWZ Cowboy Cut Original Fit Jeans
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With over 17,000 ratings on Amazon, the Wrangler Men’s 13MWZ Cowboy Cut Original Fit Jean stands out on many counts. Designed with a functional fit in mind, the Official ProRodeo Competition jean is one of the best pants for horseback riding out there. The comfortable fit of the waist, seat, and thighs ensures that you’ll stay in the saddle for as long as you need to without any discomfort.
These jeans have been specifically designed for authentic cowboys and worn by world champions so you know what you’re getting into when you buy a pair of these. Not surprisingly, the durability is top-notch as the heavyweight cotton and felled seams will not wear out in a while. For those who like pockets, there are five, two front scoop pockets, back patch pockets, and a watch pocket. There’s also a neo lite patch and signature ‘W’ stitching.
Pros:
- Durable and comfortable
- Official ProRodeo Competition Jean
- Five pockets
- Heavyweight cotton and double felled outseams
- Smooth rivet caps
Cons:
- Not very stylish to look at
