Jodhpurs vs Breeches vs Legwear, Which Women's Legwear Should I Wear?

Quick Comparison:

Choosing the right riding legwear can make or break your comfort in the saddle. Whether you're upgrading from your first pair of jodhpurs or wondering if riding breeches might better suit your needs, understanding the differences between jodhpurs, breeches, and modern riding tights is essential for every equestrian.

The choice between these three main types of women's riding tights isn't just about personal preference, it affects your comfort, performance, and even which boots you can wear. From the traditional appeal of riding jodhpurs to the technical performance of riding breeches, each style serves specific purposes in the equestrian world.

This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the differences between jodhpurs and breeches, understand when riding tights might be your best option, and ultimately choose the perfect riding legwear for your individual needs and riding goals.

Riding breeches represent the more formal end of equestrian legwear. Cut to finish just above the ankle or mid-calf, breeches are designed specifically to be worn under tall riding boots, creating the classic competition look that's essential in many disciplines.

Modern breeches offer sophisticated design elements:

• Cropped length ending above the ankle
• Grip options including knee patches or full-seat silicone
• Technical fabrics for moisture management, support, and stretch
• Competition-ready styling with minimal bulk
• Variety of rises from low to high-waisted options

Competition Riding: Most formal competitions require breeches worn with tall boots. The streamlined appearance meets dress codes whilst the technical features help keep you comfortable.

Dressage and Show Jumping: These disciplines particularly benefit from the close contact that grip-enhanced breeches provide, helping maintain position and balance.

Modern riding tights have revolutionised equestrian legwear by combining the comfort of athletic wear with riding-specific features. These pull-on style garments offer maximum stretch and comfort whilst incorporating technical elements.

Contemporary riding tights include:

• Four-way stretch fabrics for unrestricted movement
• Pull-on waistband eliminating bulk from zips and buttons
• Moisture-wicking properties for temperature regulation
• Practical pockets for phone, treats, or small essentials
• Versatile length options suitable for both boot types

Riding tights work particularly well for:

Everyday Hacking and Training: The comfort-focused design prevents chafing and restriction during extended periods in the saddle.
Seasonal Riding: Lightweight, breathable fabrics keep you cool during summer sessions while thermal and brushed back designs can keep you warm in winter.
Competitions: Some competitions allow riding tights is specific colours particular white and beige, although it is best to check specific rules.

.Jodhpurs are the traditional choice for many riders, characterised by their full-length design that extends to the ankle. Riding jodhpurs are generally worn with jodhpur boots, and are a popular choice for children.

• Full ankle length in some cases with an elastic ankle strap that fits under the jodhpur boots
• Close-fitting design through the leg
• Traditional styling that's remained largely unchanged for decades
• Reinforced inner leg for durability against stirrup leathers
• High waistband for security and comfort

Jodhpurs excel in several riding situations:
Riding with Jodhpur Boots: Jodhpurs are specifically designed to be worn with jodhpur boots (also called paddock boots).
Younger Riders: The secure fit and classic styling make jodhpurs an excellent choice for children and teenagers.

Understanding when each type excels helps you build a versatile riding wardrobe:

With Jodhpur Boots: Jodhpurs are the traditional choice, though riding tights also work well. Avoid breeches as they're designed for tucking into tall boots.
With Tall Boots: Breeches are specifically designed for this combination. Riding tights can work, but jodhpurs may create uncomfortable bunching inside the boot.

Dressage: Breeches with full-seat grip provide maximum stability and meet competition requirements.
Show Jumping: Both breeches and riding tights work well, depending on the level of competition and personal preference.
Casual Hacking: Jodhpurs or riding tights offer comfort and freedom of movement for relaxed rides.
Schooling: Any type works, making this an opportunity to try different styles and find your preference.

Summer Riding: Lightweight riding tights or technical breeches with moisture-wicking properties keep you comfortable.
Winter Sessions: Various options are available with thermal or water repellent properties to keep you warm and dry.
Year-Round Versatility: Quality breeches in mid-weight technical fabrics adapt to various conditions.

The fabric and fit of your riding legwear significantly impact your comfort and performance. Understanding these elements helps you make informed choices for your specific needs.

Traditional Cotton Blends: Found in classic jodhpurs, these offer durability and breathability but limited stretch.
Technical Fabrics: Modern breeches and riding tights tend to use advanced fabrics combining stretch, moisture management, and durability.
Grip Technologies: Silicone patterns, self-fabric knee patches, and textured fabrics can help enhance your seat.
Seasonal Adaptations: Lightweight summer fabrics, insulated winter options, and water-resistant treatments cater to various conditions.

Compression vs Comfort: Riding tights often offer more compression for muscle support, while jodhpurs tend to be made from knitted fabrics which offer more stretch.
Movement Support: Four-way stretch fabrics accommodate the specific movements of riding without restriction.
Rise Options: High-waisted styles provide core support, while mid and low-rise options suit different body types and preferences.
Size Considerations: Different brands and styles vary in sizing, consider the fabric and how much stretch it offers.

Harry Hall's extensive collection showcases the best of each riding legwear type, with options suited to every rider's needs and budget.

"Our products are designed by riders for riders. When developing our riding tights for example, we drew inspiration from athletic leggings technology and the athleisure movement, recognising an opportunity to bring that innovation to equestrian sport."

"Fabric composition is absolutely critical. We specify high elastane content for exceptional recovery properties - preventing shape loss around high-stress areas like knees and seat. The compression qualities provide muscle support without restriction. Every design feature serves a specific purpose. Our design philosophy centres on the principle that comfort, and performance are key. When a rider finds their perfect fit, it can transform their confidence in the saddle - and that's the ultimate measure of successful design." 
Alice Ross-Parry, Head of Design.

No, jodhpurs and breeches serve different purposes. Jodhpurs extend to the ankle and are worn with jodhpur boots, whilst breeches are cropped above the ankle and designed to tuck into tall riding boots.

Modern technical fabrics combining cotton with elastane or polyester offer the best balance of comfort, durability, and performance. Look for four-way stretch, moisture-wicking properties. Traditional cotton blends work well for jodhpurs and casual riding, whilst technical synthetics are great for those longer training sessions.

While possible, it's not ideal. Jodhpurs are designed for jodhpur boots and wearing them with tall boots can create uncomfortable bunching under the boots. If you prefer tall boots, breeches or riding tights are better choices.

This depends on your discipline and competition level. Some competitions accept riding tights in white or beige. However, some affiliated competitions often require breeches. Check your specific discipline and associations rules on dress code before competing.

The best choice really depends on your personal and riding boot preference. Riding tights can offer superior comfort for extended periods due to their athletic-inspired design. However, well-fitted breeches in quality fabrics can be equally comfortable.

The choice between riding jodhpurs, breeches, and riding tights ultimately comes down to your individual needs, riding goals, and personal preferences. Jodhpurs offer timeless appeal and comfort for everyday riding with jodhpur boots, whilst breeches provide the technical performance and formal appearance required for various training scenarios and competitions. Modern riding tights bring athletic comfort and versatility to the stable yard.
Consider your primary riding activities, preferred footwear, and comfort requirements when making your decision. Many riders find that having options from each category allows them to adapt to different situations, from casual hacks to formal competitions.
The best jodhpurs and best breeches are those that fit your body, suit your riding style, and enhance your confidence in the saddle. Whether you choose the classic appeal of jodhpurs, the technical performance of breeches, or the modern comfort of riding tights, quality construction and proper fit are essential.

Explore Harry Hall's complete collection of legwear to discover options suited to every rider's budget and needs. From traditional styling to technical features, find the riding legwear that will support you both in and out of the saddle.