Best breeches for everyday wear

An example of the best breeches — (Image credit: credit unknown)

The best riding breeches will keep you comfortable in the saddle, help you perform at your best day after day and keep their shape despite prolonged wear. Technical fabrics feature in everyday breeches as well as the best competition breeches, which are also often available in more everyday colours, too. These features are definitely something to take advantage of, so keep an eye out for technical features, such as breathable, wicking and compressing fabrics.

Everyday or leisure breeches can be any colour and there is plenty of choice to be had. There’s also a variety of cuts and designs, from mid-rise to high-waisted and full-seat or knee patch grips. It’s all down to personal preference, but a flattering fit and attractive appearance are definitely high on the priority list for most riders. Some are particularly smart, while others – such as denim breeches – offer a more casual look. If you want something lighter and even more casual, check out the best riding tights and leggings.

Jodhpurs or ‘jods’ are designed to be worn with short riding boots, so are longer to ensure the leg is covered. They are often too bulky around the ankle to be worn with long leather boots. Breeches, however, are much closer fitting – especially lower down the leg – and finish above the ankle. Traditionally they would have Velcro fastenings, but an elasticated cuff is now much more common, which makes them ideal for wearing with long boots.

These mid-waist breeches are made of a mid-weight stretch knit fabric and feature targeted core support that also slims the silhouette. They have a handy mobile phone pocket on the thigh. They are designed to alleviate pressure points and friction on the calf and ankle under long boots, and the fabric benefits from cooling technology that reduces skin temperature by up to 2.8°C, making them ideal for summer wear.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

TOPICS

Georgia is Horse & Hound’s deputy website editor and equestrian products expert. She curates content across the website with a particular focus on upcoming equestrian events horse care and buying advice. She also manages all the ecommerce opportunities that allow us to give you easy access to the best products at the lowest prices via our buying guides. Georgia has first-hand knowledge of all the equestrian brands and their ever-evolving product lines, having been working with them closely since she started in equestrian media in 2015.

10 pairs of breeches that are worth adding to your summer wardrobe

What’s the difference between jodhpurs and breeches?