10 Best Horse-Riding Breeches
Michelle DrumChoosing the right breeches is foundational to a good riding experience. Riding breeches are athletic pants designed for horse-riding and have features specifically designed to enhance communication between rider and horse. They’re also designed for comfort while riding in a saddle. Here’s what to look for in your next pair and our recommendations for the best riding breeches to choose from.
What to Look for in a Pair of Breeches
A quality pair of breeches is designed to fit snugly throughout the leg, thigh, and seat. This allows the horse to feel the rider’s leg movements while also enabling the rider to feel the horse. Communication between rider and horse is essential for safety and to reduce distraction.
English-riding pants are made of a unique fabric with a gripping ability to help with placement in the seat while riding. They have no inseam to help prevent chafing. Look for a pair of breeches that fit well and allow enough stretch to provide freedom of movement without pinching, chafing, or rubbing.
Types of Breeches
There are three types of breeches designed for different purposes: knee-patch breeches, full-seat breeches, and riding tights. Here’s what you need to know about each.
- Knee-patch breeches — These breeches have a gripping fabric in the knee area only. Riders who jump often tend to wear these.
- Full-seat breeches — The gripping fabric on these breeches runs from the inner knee all the way up over the rider’s butt. It provides a stickier seat that holds the rider more firmly in the saddle. Full-seat breeches are often worn with event and dressage riders.
- Riding tights — Riding tights are a cross between athletic tights and breeches. Though they have no front or zip closure as traditional breeches do, they have a knee-patch or a full-seat grip specifically designed for riding.
The gripping fabric for all types of breeches is traditionally leather or suede, but silicone is added for a stickier seat. You have many style options to choose from, particularly when competition rules do not limit you. You’ll find styles like high-waisted breeches, boot-cut breeches, and even denim breeches.
10 Best Riding Breeches
We’re excited to share some of our favorite riding breeches that our customers rave about. We know you’ll love them, too.
1. Samshield Women’s Clotilde Knee Patch Breeches
If you’re after breeches that check every box, elegant, comfortable, and high-performance, the Samshield Clotilde Knee Patch Breeches are the perfect fit. Designed with riders in mind, they combine modern styling with technical fabric that adapts beautifully to every ride. The four-way stretch material moves effortlessly with you, giving total freedom while maintaining that chic, tailored silhouette Samshield is known for.
The knee patch grip provides the perfect amount of stability in the saddle without feeling bulky, while the high waistband and sleek lines flatter in and out of the ring. Subtle details, like Samshield’s signature branding and refined finishes, elevate the overall look so you feel show-ring ready every time you pull them on.
2. Equiline Women’s Ash Riding Breeches
Running a close second in popularity is the Equiline womens Ash riding breeches with X-Grip. We love the high-performance Schoeller 4-way stretch fabric and the fact that it is stain-resistant is a big plus. The Equiline Ash fabric drapes has a flattering fit with superior freedom of movement while competing. Many riders love the bulk-reducing sock bottom design, we’ve found this allows riders to find closer contact with the horse. One of the most striking features of the Equiline Ash breeches is the innovative X-Grip Silicone knee patches. Made from a special technical fabric are strategically placed, X-Grip allows for riders to experience less muscle fatigue and aids stability, giving greater confidence over bigger fences
3. Ariat Women’s Tri-Factor Grip Full-Seat Breeches
These breeches are another favorite here at Farmhouse Tack! We especially love the core control technology with compression fabric and the calf-fit system. They are mid-weight and great for the spring and fall for casual riding and competition. Using Freeze Point cooling technology, they’re designed to keep you cool and dry while still offering an optimal grip in the saddle.
4. RJ Classics Women’s Aria Full Seat White Breeches
When it comes to show-day essentials, the RJ Classics Aria Full Seat Breeches are the definition of classic meets modern performance. Crisp, clean, and built to impress, these white breeches deliver that polished, professional look every rider wants in the show ring, without sacrificing comfort.
Crafted from lightweight, stretchy fabric, the Aria breeches move with you while offering a supportive, flattering fit that feels as good as it looks. The full seat design provides secure grip in the saddle, giving you the confidence to focus on your ride, not your breeches. Breathable materials and moisture-wicking technology ensure you stay cool and composed, even under the pressure of competition.
5. Ariat Women’s Tri Factor Grip Full Seat Breeches
Say hello to breeches that are as hardworking as you are, the Ariat Women’s Tri Factor Grip Full Seat Breeches. Designed with Ariat’s innovative technology, these breeches bring together comfort, performance, and sleek style in one rider-approved package.
The cooling fabric keeps you comfortable in the heat of long rides, while the compressive stretch material offers a secure, supportive fit that flatters every figure. The full seat grip gives you maximum stability in the saddle, perfect for everything from focused training sessions to high-pressure show days.
6. EGO 7 Men’s Jumping EJ Knee Patch Breeches
For riders who demand both performance and style, the EGO7 Jumping EJ Knee Patch Breeches are a true game-changer. Designed in Italy with EGO7’s signature tailoring, these breeches bring a sharp, athletic look to the arena while delivering technical features that keep you comfortable ride after ride.
Crafted from four-way stretch, breathable fabric, the EJ breeches move seamlessly with your body, offering maximum flexibility and support. The knee grip system provides just the right amount of stability without restricting movement, making them ideal for both training and competition.
7. Ariat Men’s Tri Factor Grip Knee Patch Breech
The Ariat Men’s Tri Factor Grip Knee Patch Breech is where performance technology meets classic equestrian style. Engineered for riders who spend long hours in the saddle, these breeches deliver comfort, durability, and a polished look that works as hard as you do.
8. RJ Classics Girls’ Avery Knee Patch Breeches
Perfect for young riders who want comfort, style, and performance in the saddle, the RJ Classics Girls’ Avery Knee Patch Breeches are a standout choice. Designed with growing equestrians in mind, these breeches combine a flattering fit with durable, stretchy fabric that moves with every ride.
9. Kerrits Kids Ice Fil Full Seat Tech Tight
Keeping young riders cool, comfortable, and confident in the saddle just got easier with the Kerrits Kids Ice Fil Full Seat Tech Tight. Made with high-performance, breathable fabric, these tights are perfect for hot days at the barn or long lessons, thanks to Kerrits’ signature Ice Fil® technology that wicks moisture and helps regulate body temperature.
10. Tailored Sportsman Child’s Front Zip Trophy Hunter Jodhpurs
For young riders who want a show-ready look with all-day comfort, the Tailored Sportsman Child’s Front Zip Trophy Hunter Jodhpurs are a must-have. Expertly crafted with quality fabric and thoughtful tailoring, these jodhpurs provide a flattering fit while allowing full freedom of movement in the saddle.
Riding Breeches With Style, Comfort, and Safety
Breeches are a vital part of a rider’s ensemble, so you want to make sure you choose a quality pair. All of the options in our list balance comfort, safety features, and styling, so you can be confident in your choice.
Explore our collection of breeches and jodhpurs that have been tested by our staff and customers. If you have questions about any of our products, give us a call at 864-457-3557. We’re happy to help!
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1 comment
I would like to wear and to get these pants but i feel like these pants are english riders because right now i am riding western