Choosing Jodhpurs Wisely Will Increase Riding Pleasure

By Cornelia White


Wearing proper fitting clothes for riding is a key requisite of good deportment. Approved riding association rules set guidelines. But, mistakes can still be made in purchasing appropriate attire. Choosing your jodhpurs wisely will increase your riding pleasure.

There is a reason why special attire was designed for riding. As critical points of contact between the horse and its rider are made with riding pants, properly clothing makes a significant impact. Ordinary trousers caused discomfort. The form fitting design prevents twisting, chafing, and other problems causing discomfort.

Riders wear these specially designed trousers for cross country training, show jumping, dressage and every day activities alike. Whatever the activity, this attire has a design which favors the well being and protection of riders. The seat layout is intended for a surer grip of the saddle. Knee padding guards the knees and seams are positioned so that rubbing is inhibited during the activity.

First time riders are frequently puzzled by the distinction between jodhpurs and breeches. The former are tight fitting trousers that cover the entire length of the leg. They are made out of flexible and breathable material to be comfortable during the exercise. Typically made from stretch materials, they are designed to be comfortable and to fit closely. Different fabrics can be used in their manufacture. They can be worn with chaps and jodhpur boots or with long riding boots.

Judges prefer jodhpur use as they clearly demonstrate leg positioning during competition. Teachers also favor them for the same reason. This is why instructors advise their pupils to wear them during training and observation. Equestrian trainers are better able to observe the leg posture of their students when they wear this attire.

Riders wear breeches with knee length boots. This is because they are shorter and extend only to the mid calf. But, their shorter length enables more control at the ankle. Riders in dressage favor their seat patches for the leg control and security they provide. Show jumping riders favor breeches with padding and grips at the knees.

Casual observers may not realize how confusing fabric choices can be. There is a trade off, depending on what is selected. For instance, for reasonable pricing and durability, polyester has an advantage. But it can be slippery, does not stretch or is absorbent. A polyester blend may cost more, but it improves absorbency. But, a blend will still not improve the ability to be flexible. Denim which is stretch blend is a cheap alternative that possesses the beneficial features of cotton. But it can only be used for informal riding. It is unacceptable for competitions. For cool areas, flexible corduroy can also be worn for casual activities.

Optimal wear is provided by Cotton lycra. It is durable, absorbs and has a flexible stretch component. After deciding on the material, knee patch and underpass options need to be considered. For tighter grips, suede or ultra suede patches are suitable. Ultra suede is easier to manage and is cheaper than the real alternative. The underpass is a strap that ties down pants to fit them more closely with boots. Inadequate underpasses makes riders appear to be wearing short pants. Whether those with buttonholes are more suitable is up to individual wearers to determine. As this brief discussion reveals, choosing jodhpurs wisely is more complicated than it seems.




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