My first impression was that these Toggi Winter Flexi breeches look smart and have some useful features such as the belt loops and zip pocket on the side. I like the purple contrast piping across the back and on the stitching of the belt loops. In some lights the breeches look deep navy rather than black, but they are flattering either way, although as you can see in the photos, there is some VPL shown when not in the saddle.
On first wear I found these winter breeches to be a good fit around the hips, bottom and thighs for my body shape, although slightly generous around the calves and ankles. The material is a fairly lightweight cloth that has a cosy and comfortable brushed inner and is nicely supportive, particularly around my thighs. The material around the ankles is very soft and stretchy.
The zip pocket on the side is big enough for my phone, and thanks to the zip there were no concerns about it falling out. However, when I was crouching down to fit my horse’s brushing boots, the phone did dig in prompting me to put it in my coat pocket instead. I have found the waist slightly restrictive when sat in my car driving to and from the yard.
Personally I’m not a massive fan of silicon grip full seats as I prefer to have a little more freedom in the saddle. I find the seat pattern of this pair less grippy than the Equetech H2O Winter Grip breeches, but initially I still felt slightly restricted in rising trot. This has improved over time, so either the grip is becoming less sticky, or I’m just getting use to it. Either way, I’m happy to ride in them.
These breeches are comfortable to wear in milder UK winter and typical spring temperatures (up to 10°C), as well as on cooler days. If I was hacking out on sub-zero days, I would choose to wear the LeMieux DryTex breeches instead as they are warmer, or add a pair of thermal under breeches or over trousers, but on most UK winter/spring days these breeches have kept me at a comfortable temperature. They are water resistant and I’ve remained dry when riding in drizzle/light rein, but in heavier rain the damp does penetrate the material over time – however I did not feel cold when this happened.
These breeches have washed well in my machine at 30°C as per the washing instructions and are showing no significant signs of wear after a couple of months of frequent wear for testing purposes.
Verdict
H&H Approved – A smart and comfortable pair of breeches that are suitable for most winter leisure riding and schooling – good value for money.
Horse & Hound Newsletter
Never miss out on the latest happenings in the equestrian world
Who tested these breeches?
Carol Phillips is Horse & Hound’s website editor, who has ridden since childhood. She exercises her six-year-old Irish Sport Horse every morning before work, come rain or shine throughout the winter. They are currently following a careful rehab plan, which involves ridden schooling, work in-hand and hacking to help build strength so the clothes Carol tests will have been put through a thorough workout both in the saddle and around the yard.
Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.
Carol is an experienced journalist and editor, who is also a passionate amateur rider and dedicated horse owner, having ridden since childhood. She has a particular interest in the emotional well-being and ethical training of horses, alongside veterinary matters, having garnered extensive first-hand experience of numerous equine health conditions through more than 30 years of horse ownership.
