Making Sizing Make Sense: How to Fit Breeches & Show Coats Like a Pro

Finding the perfect fit in breeches or a show coat shouldn’t feel harder than memorizing a dressage test. But with U.S. vs. European sizing, varied fabric technologies, and brand-specific quirks, most riders end up guessing—and that leads to slipping waistbands, pulling buttons, gaping shoulders, or coats that feel stiff the moment you pick up the reins.

At Farm House Tack, we fit riders of every discipline, body type, and experience level every single day. This guide breaks down breeches and show coat sizing in a way that actually makes sense—so you can ride, train, and compete in gear that feels like it was made for you.

The Basics of Breech Sizing

Riding breeches should feel tight but not restrictive, with enough stretch to allow for a full range of motion. Modern breeches come in athletic knit, softshell, structured woven, or compression blends—all of which affect how “tight” or “true to size” they feel.

Even experienced riders get tripped up on breech fit—not because they don’t know their size, but because the details of how breeches are constructed matter more than the number on the tag. Here’s what most size charts don’t tell you.

Rise and hip shape

The rise determines where the waistband sits on your body, and getting it right can make the difference between breeches that stay put and breeches that constantly need adjusting.

• Low rise
  • Sits 2–3 inches below the belly button, across the upper hips.
  • Works best for riders with straighter figures.
  • Can slide down or dig in on curvier hips, especially in two-point.
• Mid rise
  • Sits at or just below the belly button, aligning with the natural waist.
  • The most universally secure and flattering option.
  • Helps prevent rolling, slipping, and gapping—ideal for most body types.
• High rise
  • Sits 1–2 inches above the belly button, offering fuller midsection coverage.
  • Great for long torsos and riders who prefer extra core support.
  • Can feel snug on short torsos or riders sensitive to pressure at the waist.

Waistband structure

Silicone-grip waistbands help keep shirts tucked and breeches in place, but they can feel firm—especially if you’re between sizes. Wider waistbands offer more comfort during long rides and are more flattering for curvier riders.

Fabric density and stretch

• Athletic knit fabrics: Extremely forgiving and ideal for riders who want maximum comfort.
• Compression blends: Secure and sculpting, but can feel tight initially; they’ll warm and soften after a few minutes in the saddle.
• Traditional woven fabrics: Beautiful in the show ring, but often the least stretchy—plan to size up in most Euro brands.

Calf and ankle fit

Euro breeches typically have a narrower lower leg. Riders with muscular calves should consider brands known for stretchier ankle panels or size up in structured Euro styles.

Length matters

Most modern breeches use a sock-bottom (boot sock) ankle, which means many brands no longer offer traditional short/regular/long inseam options. Because the lower leg is designed to stretch and contour under your boots, length variations are less common than they used to be.

What many riders don’t realize is that when a brand does offer different lengths, the extra length usually comes from the torso rise, not the leg.

• A “long” typically adds height through the hip and waistband area, not the inseam.
• In practical terms:
  • A long in a low-rise breech often fits similarly to a regular in a mid-rise breech.
  • The added vertical space helps riders with longer torsos get a more secure, comfortable fit without pulling at the waist or crotch.
    

Because of this, riders with a longer rise or higher waistline may prefer “longs” even if their legs aren’t especially long—and riders with shorter torsos may find longs feel too tall through the front.

Seat seam placement

The seam in the seat changes how breeches feel during different disciplines.

• Dressage riders usually prefer smooth-seat or minimal-seam breeches.
• Jumpers often like compression or athletic-seamed designs for support through two-point.

When in doubt: size for the waist

If you’re between sizes, always fit the waistband first. A tailor can easily take in the seat or thigh—but cannot add room to a too-small waist.

Learn more: What Are Breeches: Types, Sizing, and How to Choose the Right Pair for Your Riding Discipline

How to Measure Yourself for Breeches

Getting the right breech size starts with accurate measurements. Even the most advanced technical fabrics can’t compensate for incorrect sizing, especially when you’re comparing U.S. and European brands. Here’s how to measure yourself correctly before choosing a pair.

1. Waist measurement

This is your primary breeches measurement.

How to measure:

• Stand relaxed.
• Wrap a soft measuring tape around your natural waist, usually an inch above your belly button.
• Keep the tape snug but not tight.
  

Fit note:
If you’re between sizes, choose the size that fits your waist. Hips and thighs can be tailored, but waistbands cannot be made larger.

2. Hip measurement

Important for curvier riders and European brands.

How to measure:

• Measure the widest part of your hips.
• Keep the tape parallel to the ground.
  

Fit note:
If your hip measurement is one size larger than your waist, choose the hip-friendly size. A tailor can nip the waist in later if needed.

3. Inseam

Helps determine how long the breeches will fall along the leg.

How to measure:

• Stand barefoot.
• Measure from the top of the inner thigh down to the ankle bone.

4. Calf and ankle opening

Critical if you have muscular calves or prefer Euro cuts.

How to measure:

• Wrap the tape around the widest point of your calf.
• Compare with brand-specific size charts when available.
  

Fit note:
Euro brands have narrower lower legs; riders with strong calves may need to size up or choose athletic fabrics with more stretch.

Breeches Size Conversion Chart

Before you compare brand-specific size charts, it helps to understand how breech sizing translates across different countries. This chart shows the most common conversions between U.S., U.K., EU, French, and Italian measurements so you can start from the right baseline.

US	UK	EU (DE)	France (FR)	Italy (IT)
22	6	34	32	38
24	8	36	34	40
26	10	38	36	42
28	12	40	38	44
30	14	42	40	46
32	16	44	42	48
34	18	46	44	50
36	20	48	46	52

Notes:

• European breeches are often labeled in German (DE) sizes, which are numerically similar to EU sizes. 
• French and Italian sizing is typically +2–4 compared to DE (e.g., DE 40 ≈ FR 42 ≈ IT 44). 
• Always consult the brand’s specific chart when available.

Brand-by-Brand Breeches Fit Cheat Sheet

Every breech brand has its own personality when it comes to fit. Some are athletic and forgiving; others are traditionally tailored with a distinctly European silhouette. Use the following brand-specific sizing tips to quickly identify which brands match your body type, riding style, and fabric preference.

Samshield Breeches: Modern, sculpted, high-performance fit

Samshield breeches are some of the most popular breeches available. They’ve got a sleek European silhouette and are crafted from technical fabrics designed for high-performance. Most of their designs also include pleats in the seat for extra give.

Best for: Athletic riders, jumpers, riders who prefer a polished performance fit

Fit notes:

• Euro sizing; runs slim
• Moderate compression with excellent stretch
• Narrower through the knee and calf compared to U.S. brands
• Many riders size up one for comfort

Our recommendation:

Samshield Women’s Clotilde Knee Patch Breeches

Learn more: Samshield Breeches Size, Fit, Style Guide

KL Select: Structured but comfortable

KL Select breeches offer a refined, supportive fit with a wide waistband that sits comfortably without digging or rolling. The fabric has a balanced amount of stretch—enough to move with you in the saddle, but still structured enough to create a smooth, polished silhouette. Riders who want security without compression-heavy tightness love KL Select breeches.

Best for: Riders wanting structure + comfort, dressage riders

Fit notes:

• Supportive and polished
• More room through the hip and thigh
• Still flexible enough for long riding days
• Not overly compressive

Our recommendation:

KL Select Gabrielle Full Seat Breeches

Tailored Sportsman: Classic, structured hunter/jumper fit

Tailored Sportsman breeches are iconic for a reason. They have a traditional, structured feel with minimal stretch, delivering a crisp hunter-ring look. Because the fabric has less give, many riders find TS breeches fit best on straighter figures or those who prefer a firmer, classic silhouette.

Best for: Hunter/jumper riders, straight builds, traditionalists

Fit notes:

• True to size in U.S. sizing
• Slimmer calf and knee
• Firm woven fabrics with limited stretch

Our recommendation:

Tailored Sportsman Mid Rise Front Zip TechLight Knee Patch Breech

Learn more: Tailored Sportsman Size, Fit, & Style Guide

R.J. Classics: Reliable fit with excellent range

R.J. Classics breeches offer a balanced fit that works for a wide variety of riders. Their fabrics tend to be softer and more forgiving than many Euro brands, with mid-rise cuts that stay secure through the waist and hip. They’re especially good for juniors, amateurs, and riders who want comfort with polish.

Best for: Most riders, juniors, riders wanting comfort and structure

Fit notes:

• True to size
• Soft, stretchy fabrics, depending on model
• Waist fits comfortably without digging in

Our recommendation:

RJ Classics Women’s Gracie Knee Patch Breeches

Learn more: R.J. Classics Breeches: Size, Fit, and Style Guide

EGO7 Breeches: Euro athletic compression fit

EGO7 breeches are known for their high-performance, technical fabrics that offer strong compression. They have a sleek, athletic feel and a slim, modern silhouette that many riders love for competition. Expect a supportive, held-in feel that softens as they warm up.

Best for: Slim or athletic riders, jumpers, compression lovers

Fit notes:

• Euro sizing, runs small
• Strong compression with minimal give
• Size up in most models

Our recommendation:

EGO 7 Women’s Jumping EJ Knee Patch Breech 

Equiline Breeches: Premium Euro tailored fit

Equiline breeches deliver a luxury European fit: clean, structured, and elegant. They run slim through the waist, hip, and calf, which creates a refined silhouette but can feel snug if you’re between sizes or prefer more stretch. Their higher-end fabrics elevate them in the show ring.

Best for: Tall/slim riders, dressage, riders who love a tailored fit

Fit notes:

• Euro sizing; typically size up
• Narrower calf and thigh
• Fabric stretch varies by model (knits = more forgiving)

Our recommendation:

Equiline Women’s Ernaek B-Move High-Waist Knee Grip Breeches

Learn more: Equiline Breeches: Size, Fit, and Style Guide

The Basics of Show Coat Sizing

A well-fitting show coat should give you freedom of movement while still maintaining an elegant, tailored appearance. When you have a show coat that fits perfectly, you’ll have the confidence to walk into the ring knowing you look polished and professional. But with different fabrics, measurement systems, and brand-specific fits, choosing the right size can sometimes feel like guesswork.

Choosing the right show jacket fit isn’t just about finding the “right” number on a chart. Here are a few things you should keep in mind when finding the right show coat.

Shoulders that sit perfectly

The shoulder seam should sit exactly at the edge of your shoulder.

• Too tight → pulls your upper body forward
• Too loose → looks sloppy and disrupts your outline
  

The shoulder fit is the single biggest giveaway of a well-tailored coat.

Buttons that lie smoothly

Buttons should close easily without straining across the bust or pulling at the waist. If the fabric wrinkles or gapes, the coat is too small in the torso.

A defined, but not restrictive, waist

Your coat should contour your shape without limiting movement. Judges appreciate a fitted look, but never at the expense of comfort or correct riding position.

Sleeves that break at the right point

Sleeves should hit at the wrist bone when your arm is relaxed and end just above the glove when your hands are in riding position. Too long looks messy; too short exposes shirt cuffs.

A hemline that complements the saddle

The rear edge of the jacket should just brush the seat while in the saddle. If the hem catches on the saddle or flares excessively, the coat is either too long or too tight around your hips.

Back vents that stay flat

Back vents should lie neatly, whether you’re sitting tall, posting, or in two-point.

• If they spread apart → coat is too tight in the seat
• If they collapse inward → coat is too big
  

Flat vents = polished turnout.

Fabric that moves with you

Especially with jumpers and hunters, judges expect coats that allow free shoulder and arm motion. Stretch softshell fabrics perform best for riders who need mobility, while woven coats create a traditional, structured profile popular in certain rings.

Learn more: How to Find Your Perfect Equestrian Show Coat (Style + Fit Guide)

How to Measure Yourself for a Show Coat

Because coats differ widely in fabric, stretch, and tailoring, get your measurements before you start comparing brands. Be sure to wear any undergarments or show shirts that you would normally wear during competition for the most accurate measurements.

1. Shoulder width

Determines whether the coat sits properly and allows freedom of movement. 

How to measure:

• Measure from the edge of one shoulder straight across to the edge of the other.
• Keep the tape running in a straight line across your back.

Pro tip: 

A tailor can easily adjust the waist, bust, or sleeve length, but altering shoulders is difficult and often expensive. Always make sure the shoulder fit is right before anything else!

2. Bust/chest measurement

How to measure:

• Wear a show shirt or sun shirt (with sports bra)
• Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust/chest.
• Keep the tape level and snug, not tight.
  

Fit note:
If buttons pull or there’s any diagonal wrinkling, you need the next size up.

3. Waist measurement

Helps gauge how fitted the coat will be. Note that most coats can be safely taken in at the waist.

How to measure:

• Wrap the measuring tape around the natural waist, just above the belly button.
• Keep it comfortably snug.

4. Sleeve length

An important detail, especially for hunters.

How to measure:

• Bend your elbow slightly.
• Measure from the top of your shoulder down to the wrist bone.
• Repeat on both arms and use the longer measurement.
  

Fit note:
Sleeves should end at the wrist bone when standing, and sit just above the glove line when holding the reins.

5. Coat length (torso)

Ensures the hem sits correctly over the saddle.

How to measure:

• Measure from the base of your neck to a point just below your seat.
• Compare with size charts to ensure the coat won’t drape over the cantle.

Show Coat Size Conversion Chart

European coats often use centimeter-based sizing and run narrower through the shoulders and torso. This conversion chart shows how those numbers align with U.S. and U.K. sizes, plus French and Italian equivalents, so you can choose the correct starting size.

US	UK	EU (DE)	France (FR)	Italy (IT)
2	4	30	32	34
4	6	32	34	36
6	8	34	36	38
8	10	36	38	40
10	12	38	40	42
12	14	40	42	44
14	16	42	44	46
16	18	44	46	48

Notes:

• European coats, especially tailored brands, are often on the slimmer side compared to U.S. sizes. Many riders size up one size for comfort.
• French and Italian coat sizes typically trend slightly larger numerically than DE/EU sizes, similar to breeches conversions.
• Always review each brand’s official guide before purchasing.

Show Coat Sizing Guide by Brand

Every show coat brand fits differently, depending on fabric, tailoring style, and design philosophy. Use this quick reference to choose the coat that matches your discipline, body type, and comfort preferences.

R.J. Classics Show Coats: Best all-around fit & size range

R.J. Classics show coats are incredibly versatile and inclusive with their sizing. Their softshell and traditional coats offer reliable sizing that flatters a wide range of body types, and they carry one of the most extensive size ranges—including plus sizes, longs, and shorts.

Best for: Most riders, curvy builds, juniors, riders needing more size/length options

Fit notes:

• True to size in U.S. sizing
• Comfortable through shoulders and bust
• Stretch fabrics allow excellent mobility
• Easy for tailors to adjust

Our recommendation:

RJ Classics Women’s Harmony Mesh Show Coat

Samshield Show Coats: Technical, modern, and highly tailored

Samshield coats combine cutting-edge technical fabric with a high-fashion European silhouette. They’re designed to be sleek and close-fitting, offering subtle compression through the torso and arms. The result is an elegant, modern coat popular among both hunter and jumper riders.

Best for: Riders wanting a tailored, athletic silhouette; jumpers; slim or athletic builds

Fit notes:

• Euro-inspired, runs slim in shoulders and upper arms
• Strong stretch allows movement without losing structure
• Many riders size up for a more relaxed feel

Our recommendation:

Samshield Women’s Alix Show Jacket

Equiline Show Coats: Premium European tailoring (narrowest fit)

Equiline is the pinnacle of European tailoring, offering luxury fabrics and a sharply contoured silhouette. Equiline show coats are designed for riders who prefer a fitted, elegant profile and a high-end feel in the ring. They run the narrowest across the bust and shoulders of any major brand.

Best for: Tall/slim riders, dressage riders, professionals wanting a refined profile

Fit notes:

• Euro sizing; typically size up
• Slim through arms, shoulders, and torso
• Fabric stretch varies by model (softshell models are more forgiving)
• Ideal for riders who like a close, tailored shape

Our recommendation:

Equiline Women’s Hayley Hunter Show Coat in X-Cool Evo

EGO7 Show Coats: Sleek, compression-style Euro fit

EGO7 coats deliver a refined, performance-driven fit with noticeable compression through the shoulders, waist, and arms. They offer excellent stretch and breathability, but the silhouette is distinctly European—structured, narrow, and extremely polished.

Best for: Athletic riders, jumpers/eventers, those who prefer a sculpted look

Fit notes:

• Euro sizing; runs small
• Slim arms and shoulders
• Strong stretch softshell materials
• Many riders size up one for comfort 

Our recommendation:

EGO 7 Women’s Be Air Jacket

What Plus-Size Riders Should Know

While equestrian sizing has historically skewed toward slimmer, straighter silhouettes, more brands are stepping up with fabrics and cuts that support a wider range of bodies. Whether you’re shopping for breeches or a show coat, here’s what plus-size riders should know before purchasing.

Can plus-size riders wear European brands?

Short answer: Yes, with the right approach.

European brands are known for their slim, tailored silhouettes. While they’re not built on a plus-size foundation, many riders successfully wear them when choosing:

• Softshell or knit fabrics (more stretch, more comfort)
• Higher-rise cuts (better waist stability)
• Designs with added Lycra or athletic panels

What to expect

• EGO7 & Equiline breeches/coats run the narrowest through the shoulders, waist, and calves.
• A Euro 46–50 may still feel slimmer than a U.S. 16–18 in the same chest/waist measurement.
• Compression and structured woven fabrics offer less forgiveness.
  

Pro tip: If you’re between sizes in a Euro brand, always size for the shoulders (show coats) or the waistband (breeches). Tailors can adjust the rest.

Plus-size equestrian apparel favorites

We find that R.J. Classics has some of the most inclusive sizing—regular, short, and long options, plus sizes, and structured cuts that tailor well. A polished show-ring look that doesn’t sacrifice comfort or mobility.

Best breeches for plus-sized riders

RJ Classics Women’s Gracie Plus Mid Rise Knee Patch Breeches

Best show coat for plus riders

RJ Classics Women’s Harmony Plus Mesh Show Coat

FAQs about Breech and Show Coat Sizing

Some fit questions don’t show up on size charts—but they matter just as much in the saddle. Here are the most common rider questions we hear every day at Farm House Tack.

Why do my breeches wrinkle at the knee?

Wrinkles at the knee usually mean the breeches are too long in the inseam or too loose in the lower leg. Euro brands often run narrower and longer, which can exaggerate knee wrinkling on shorter riders. Switching to a brand with a shorter inseam or a more tapered lower leg often solves the issue.

Are Euro breeches supposed to feel tight?

Euro breeches are designed to have a tailored, close-contact fit—but they shouldn’t feel restrictive or uncomfortable. A mild “held-in” compression is normal; digging at the waistband, pinching at the hips, or strain across the thigh is not. If the fabric is woven (less stretch), most riders size up 1–2 sizes.

How long should a show coat be?

A show coat should lightly cover your seat when standing and sit above the cantle when you’re in the saddle. If the hem catches on the saddle or flares outward, it’s too long or too tight across the hips. Jumping and softshell coats often run slightly shorter for better mobility.

Why do my breeches sag after riding?

Sagging usually comes from overstretching or choosing a size that is too big in fabrics with high elastane content. As the material warms up during your ride, it relaxes and loses shape. Opt for compression fabrics (EGO7, Samshield, Equiline knit models) or size down in ultra-stretchy schooling tights if sagging is consistent.

What breeches are best for muscular thighs?

Riders with strong thighs typically prefer athletic, stretchy fabrics that move with the leg instead of compressing it. Brands like Ariat, Romfh, Kerrits, and B Vertigo offer supportive stretch without tightness in the upper leg. Avoid ultra-tailored woven Euro breeches unless you size up or choose softshell versions.

What’s the difference between compression breeches and schooling breeches?

Compression breeches use technical fabrics that support and contour the leg, offering stability in the saddle and a sleek silhouette. Schooling breeches prioritize comfort and flexibility, with softer, stretchier fabrics ideal for everyday riding. Compression = performance; schooling = comfort.

Do show coats come in short lengths?

Yes—brands like R.J. Classics and Ariat offer short, regular, and long lengths in many styles. European brands typically run slim and long, but lengths may vary by model. If you struggle with sleeves or hems running long, U.S. brands are usually the most accommodating.

What brand fits broad shoulders best?

Riders with broad or athletic shoulders almost always prefer softshell coats from Ariat or R.J. Classics, which offer more stretch and mobility. Samshield and EGO7 can work if sized up, but their silhouettes are more fitted. Equiline is the narrowest across the shoulders.

Why does my breech zipper pop open when I ride?

This usually means the breeches are too tight in the waist or the rise is too low for your hip shape, causing stress on the zipper. Some fabrics also soften during the ride, increasing pressure on the closure. Choosing a higher rise, switching to a pull-on style, or sizing up typically resolves the issue.

Find Your Perfect Fit and Ride with Confidence

At the end of the day, you should have gear that moves with you, supports your position, and helps you feel confident every time you step into the ring. With so many sizing systems, fabrics, and brand-specific fits, it’s normal to have questions. But once you understand how to measure yourself and what each brand offers, finding the right fit becomes much simpler.

At Farm House Tack, we fit riders of every discipline, body type, and experience level every day. Whether you’re looking for plus-friendly breeches, a tailored Euro show coat, or something comfortable enough for hours at the barn, our team is here to help you choose pieces that truly feel like they were made for you.

Ready to ride in gear that fits the way it should?

Shop Breeches →

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