Just like the best ladies’ everyday breeches, the best men’s breeches should be lightweight and breathable, enabling you to stay cool while working hard, yet comfortable and durable, too. Technical fabrics also offer wicking properties and the best breeches will allow you a good freedom of movement in the saddle, combined with good support and grip.
Choosing between full-seat and knee-grip styles is down to personal preference, but you want look and feel your best when you’re in the saddle – particularly if you’re looking for the best men’s competition breeches, so style and fit are also key to finding the best pair of breeches for you. You can choose between pleated and plain fronts, and more fitted and relaxed looks – we’ve rounded up a selection of them all.
Best men’s breeches for everyday wear
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Mark Todd Auckland Breeches
Colours: White, beige, charcoal, coffee, navy or olive
Sizes: 28–38in
RRP: £79.98
These traditionally styled breeches are made from a lightweight material with four-way stretch. They have no seam on the inner leg, slimline sock ankle, grip knee patches and pockets on the front and rear. They’re very comfortable to ride in and can be comfortably used for several hours at a time.
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Ariat Tri Factor Grip Knee Patch Breeches
Colours: White, tan, navy or black
Sizes: 28–40in, in regular or long
RRP: £125
These breeches benefit from cooling and compression technology as well as silicone grip on the inner leg. The waistband has a V-shaped panel that is designed to aid fit, while the calf is designed to provide custom support at the calf and ankle, alleviating pressure points and friction.
Made from Montar’s own synthetic blend, these breeches are breathable, have a four-way stretch and are water resistant. They are pleated and slightly looser fitting than other options which makes them comfortable to wear for extended periods. They have two large button-fastened pockets on the front with two pockets on the seat as well. The ankle also has a lycra leg closure.
Are you looking for something a bit different? These denim breeches are designed to feel like jeans but with all the features of breeches. They have silicone knee grips, front pleats, Lycra leg panels, jean-style pockets, belt loops and a comfortable waistband.
These traditional breeches feature pleated sides to reduce restriction, side and back pockets both with stud closures, a sturdy zip, belt loops and bulk-free stretch hem ankles. The silicone knee patches add extra grip.
These breeches are described as having a firm yet comfortable fit and are made of a highly breathable four-way stretch performance fabric. They feature stretchy Lycra ankles, two rear pockets and a full silicone-printed seat.
These breeches from LeMieux are also made with a four-way stretch material and seamless design. They have four pockets, a silicone knee grip and a tapered lower leg design with a seamless Lycra sleeve that makes them tight-fitting and comfortable to wear in the saddle.
The Kingham breeches are similar in fit to the denim breeches but are more classically styled. They’re hard-wearing and made from a polyester blend, they have front press button pockets, suede knee padding, a comfortable waistband with big belt loops and lycra cuffs on the lower leg.
These popular but premium breeches are made from a cotton blend and are comfortable and not skin-tight to wear. They have two large slanting pockets as well as two seat pockets. They also have a comfortable waist, wide belt loops, silicone knee patches and an elasticated leg closure at the ankle.
These breeches from Shires provide great value for money. They are 95% cotton and soft to the touch and generously cut in front so they’re not too tight. They have four-way stretch, fabric knee strappings and velcro fastenings above the ankle.
These breeches are a classic everyday option and are made from a viscose-based material designed for comfort. The material is also breathable and water-resistant, the ankle panels are made from stretch lycra and they have suede knee patches.
What is the difference between riding breeches and jodhpurs?
Breeches and jodhpurs both have very similar functions and what you decide to wear will be based mostly on personal preference. However, there are slight differences between the two.
Jodhpurs are longer than breeches and extend down to the ankle. They also have a cuff or elastic strap at the bottom that goes under the rider’s foot to prevent them rising up. In contrast, breeches finish above the ankle and have velcro or elasticated fastenings.
Breeches are also more commonly used in competition whereas jodhpurs are popular among younger riders, beginners or those wearing short, jodhpur boots.
Why are riding breeches so tight?
Breeches are designed to fit close to the body while also allowing for freedom of movement. A snug fit minimises excess fabric which helps to prevent chaffing between the rider’s legs and the saddle.
The bunching up of material can also interfere with the effectiveness of the leg aids. A closer fit allows for better communication between the rider’s leg and the horse’s sides. Loose clothing also presents a risk when riding as it can caught on pieces of tack or other equipment.
Full-seat breeches have a reinforced seat area that extends from the waistband to the knee. While not essential some riders choose to wear full-seat breeches because they provide additional grip in the saddle.
The added grip helps riders maintain their balance and contributes to a more secure seat. For some riders, this can also help to reduce fatigue as they don’t have to be constantly readjusting their position to stay in balance with the horse.
However, it is a matter of personal preference and there is no right or wrong style to wear.
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Oscar joined Horse & Hound in October 2023 and is the magazine’s dressage editor and sports manager, overseeing coverage of equestrian sport. After studying equine science at Myerscough College, he spent four years working for leading dressage rider Emile Faurie, competing at the 2015 National Dressage Championships and travelling with the yard to CDIs including Aachen and Saumur. He holds a master’s degree in Literature from York St John University (2021).
