So, you need a pair of breeches?
As a budget conscious equestrian and former working student, I think I've tried every breech out there. Well, that's not quite true, but it feels like it... and the ones I haven't tried on, I've heard about and seen. In this post, I'm only covering knee-patch breeches (no riding tights and no full seats).
Broadly, there are two options for buying breeches: new and used. Obviously, the big upside to new breeches is the well... newness. They shouldn't have any wear on them and you'll know what you're getting. However, new breeches can be significantly more pricey than a used breech, so you can often get a *higher quality* breech for the same money used that will last longer and be more comfortable. Of course, the sensibility of buying used breeches depends on the condition and price of the garment.
Features to watch for include a comfortable, technical fabric that doesn't hold sweat against the skin, a flatting Euro-seat, wide waistband for bigger belts and a smoother shirt tuck, and sock bottoms that rest smoothly inside your boots. I haven't included any breeches without a Euro seat in this review as most current knee patch breeches sport them and they are very flattering on just about anyone! Front zip is currently more trendy but you'll see plenty of side zip as well - many people find them more comfortable (no slides to dig into your tummy) and some also like the smoother look. Tan/safari colored breeches are appropriate for hunters, equitation, and jumpers, but avoid greenish beiges. White breeches are appropriate in the hunter/jumper ring only when formal attire is requested and the rider is showing in a jumper classic that day.
To divide things up, I will review breeches by new price. I'm only including reasonably durable and flattering picks which I see commonly worn for schooling or showing or which are notable for quality and price; there are lots of breeches out there, so let's look at the best!
There are plenty of very expensive and trendy breeches (Struck, Animo, ForHorses, Equiline) that retail for well over $300; these are nice, but I think that you can do better on a budget and still have very comfortable and trendy options. I'll include more about these high-end breeches in a later post!
$100 and Below
Smartpak Piper - Original, Classic, Show, and Knit
Piper Breeches (Original)
Options and features: low/original rise and mid rise, front zip, with synthetic suede or silicone knee patches, contrast stitching, back pockets
$79.95
Piper Show Breeches
Options and features: low rise, front and side zip, with synthetic suede knee patches
$79.95
Piper Classic Breeches
Options and features: Front and side zip, low/original and medium rises, tan and self knee patches (both synthetic)
$79.95
Piper Knit Breeches
Options and features: Low and Midrise, front zip, silicone knee patches
$69.95
Smartpak Pipers are a very nice breech for the price, with the sock bottom and Euro seat with a plethora of styling options and colors to choose from! There are the originals (pictured above), to more conservative versions without the contrast piping, and even ones in a stretch knit fabric that feel like yoga pants. They also come in low and mid-rise cuts. I find that the low rise tends to migrate downwards even with a tight belt, so I prefer the mid rise, but your mileage may vary (I have long legs and a short torso with a significant booty). The originals also tend to be of a heavier fabric than many other breeches, as are the knits. The different cuts fit differently - at 5'7, I wear a long in the originals but the Knit Pipers are *too* long for me.
I find that Pipers show wear faster than high-end brands, but they're good quality for the price and reasonably comfortable. The wide waistband is stretchy and conforms well without digging in, and the sock bottoms are lovely (no more Velcro bites). All of the varieties come in regular and long, which is great for those of you out there with mile-long legs! The "low" rise is *low*, whereas the midrise Pipers fit more like a lot of other so-called "low" rise breeches.
One great thing about the Pipers is that they also come in plus sizes, and they're the best option I've seen for cuter schooling breeches for those on the curvy side!
pick these for: fun schooling looks, local shows, cooler weather, curvier gals, lovely colors and details
Devon-Aire Signature Classic Knee-Patch Breech
Options and features: Midrise, front zip, synthetic knee patches, sock bottom, contrast stitching
99.95
The Devon-Aire Signature Classic Breech is a newer offering that I have yet to see in person. However, this breech uniformly gets rave reviews for its' flattering and comfortable fit (said to be like the Tailored Sportsman Trophy Hunters), technical fabric, and trendy details. Certainly an option worth checking out, and I will note that there is a non-contrast tan version available for the show ring.
pick these for: schooling and showing, most body types, trendy colors and classic tan, Trophy Hunter alternative, people who like a lower rise breech
Equine Couture Breeches - Natasha Sportif, Beatta, and Others
Options and features: low rise, front zip, synthetic knee patches, sock bottoms, contrast stitching
$89.95
Equine Couture Beatta CoolMax® Knee Patch Breech
Options and Features: low rise, front zip, synthetic knee patches, sock bottom, contrast stitching
$80.95
Equine Couture breeches can be great if they fit you. They come in a variety of fabrics and in styles ranging from trendy schooling breeches to quite conservative looks for the show ring. In terms of cut, they tend to be low rise and front zip but there are side zip and mid-rise options to be had; most models have the modern euro seat and wide waistband, but not all, so watch out if you are concerned about staying on trend.
Equine Couture tends to run small and you also need a relatively small hip and tush area for them to be comfortable. They only come in one length which seems to run moderately long so they might not be a great fit if you have a shorter inseam.
I personally wouldn't wear their breeches (even in show styles) in the show ring at a rated level as they often aren't terribly well finished and the synthetic fabric can look cheap at times; the cotton-y fabrics, like that of the Sportif Natasha above, look lovely but tend to retain sweat and dirt and lose their shape. None of their fabrics stretch as well as the Pipers or higher end brands, in my experience. However, a well-selected pair of these can be a good choice for someone who has the right body type and has tried them on and looked at the fabric in person; in particular, the CoolMax breeches are well worth a look for a hot climate and appear to have a nice finish.
Personally, I find that Equine Couture falls apart very quickly, but this could be because they simply don't fit me very well. Overall, I have seen far less of these being worn as the Pipers and other inexpensive schooling breeches are beating them for comfort, appearance and price for many people; that being said, for those who have the right body type, they're a favorite - simply a love/hate kind of breech.
pick these for: schooling, trendy colors and details, long/thin body types, riders on a budget, local shows, riding in hot weather (Coolmax fabric models), people who like a lower rise breech
$100-200
Tailored Sportsman Trophy Hunters
Options and features: Modified low and mid-rises, front and side zip, synthetic knee patches, velcro bottom, self and tan patch colors
$189.95
The perennial favorite of A-circuit riders, these breeches come with a significant price tag. However, these are hands-down my favorite breeches. Flattering and comfortable for all body types, short, regular and long lengths ensure everyone can get a good fit. A plethora of colors and the trendy contrast patch ensures that you can express your own style! The Tan color is a show ring classic for hunter and equitation riders of all levels. The technical fabric hides lumps-and-bumps but is also cool and smooth against the skin and doesn't pill nor hang on to dirt. I should note that the low rise, like the others in this price category, is actually more of a modified low-rise (mine hit me right at my belly button and have plenty of coverage in the back as well) ; the mid-rise is borderline too high if you have a short waist but is a great option if you have a longer torso. Overall, if you aren't sure what to buy, but want a comfortable, relatively durable pair of breeches under $200 that will fit in anywhere you show, Trophy Hunters are the way to go.
Best for: classic polished look for showing from locals to the National and everything in between, great fit (seems to fit everyone from 5'0 and plump to 5'10 and slender), fun colors for schooling, comfortable fabric
Ariat Heritage Elite
Features and options: front zip, low-mid rise, sock bottom, stain repellent, tummy panel
$129.95
This is Ariat's introductory breech offering. I have never been the biggest fan of the cotton blend fabric that these breeches sport, as like most cotton breeches, they retain water and dirt and don't retain their shape terribly well. Additionally, I'm a curvy girl and these tend to fit slender or rectangle-shaped riders with narrower hips better than girls like myself. The tummy control panel is a lovely touch and these are certainly appropriate for showing at the local level - the stain repellent really helps with the "staying clean" issue on these compared to other cotton breeches. I haven't had a pair of these in several years, so they've made the list because some people *adore* them in their current iteration; I will write back soon when I try them on again. The long length in this breech is *long*, so if you're a string bean who struggles to get something that fits - this might be your ticket!
Pick these for: an introductory show breech, tall/slender riders, tummy control, people who need long lengths
Ovation AquaX Silicone Grip Knee Patch Breech
Options and features: front zip, mid rise (true - like mid-rise Trophy Hunters), sock bottom, cooling fabric, silicone knee patches, oil resistant
$129.95
I hear rave reviews about the breathability and coolness of these breeches! That's worth a lot for those of us in humid, sticky climates (hello, Floridians!). I wouldn't hesitate to wear them on a hot day at an smaller A-rated show. Overall, they have a polished, traditional look and the cooling factor is a huge selling point; they're also supposed to be excellent at hiding sweat, which is fantastic during long show days. I haven't had a chance to see the durability of these first hand, but it's advertised as excellent, and the review
pick these for: schooling, riding in hot weather, showing from local to smaller A-rated shows
RJ Classics Gulf Knee Patch Breech
Options and features: low rise, front zip, sock bottom, synthetic knee patches, self and tan patch colors
$150.00
This is another breech that I have yet to try on! However, I've seen them in the store and they are *lovely*. They have a fabric like that on the Trophy Hunters and are also said to fit very similarly. The low-rise is nearly a mid-rise from what I have seen, so don't let that you turn you off. Overall, they look lovely and I wouldn't hesitate to buy a pair if I came across them in a cute color! These are available in regular and long lengths, so they're also a good pick if you're on the taller side. Another perfect option for an A-show breech.
pick these for: schooling, showing locally through the A-circuit, fun colors, Trophy Hunter alternative
Hadley Knee Patch Breeches by SmartPak
Options and features: front zip, "mid" rise (but I'd call it more of a modified low rise), synthetic knee patches, sock bottoms, back slash pockets
$119.95
I recently saw these in store at Smartpak and immediately fell in love! They fit quite differently from the Pipers (they are another Trophy Hunter fit-alike that seems to work for just about everyone) and come in cute colors at a great price. They also have long lengths in case you happen to have legs for days! The workmanship on these seems much better than that on the Pipers, and the fabric is technical and treated with a stain-repellent. We will see how these hold up over time, but they get rave reviews from everyone that tries them! Overall, I really like these and wouldn't hesitate to buy a pair in tan to show in. The "mid" rise is comparable to the low-rise Trophy Hunters. SmartPak regularly has these on sale for 20% off, which gets these lovely and show ring appropriate breeches down to $95.96, which is quite a steal.
pick these for: conservative schooling breeches, showing locally through A-circuit, Trophy Hunter alternative, classy show ring look on a budget, those that need a long length
Romfh Sarafina Knee Patch Breech
Features and Options: mid-low rise, front zip, sock bottoms, synthetic knee patches, contrast and self color knee patches
169.95
These are another nice mid-range breech. These come in lots of cute colors and I know people who swear by them! The great thing about these is that while their retail price is high, they go on sale quite frequently, making them a good choice if you're looking for a higher-end schooling breech on a budget. They seem to fit a good number of people but I have yet to try them; the older Romfh breeches tended to run small and tighter through the tush, requiring you to size up, but I hear that these are extremely stretchy and you can go with your usual size or even down a size. I hope to try these soon, as everyone tells me they're great for the price. The tan color would be perfectly appropriate in the show ring at all levels. These come in regular and long lengths which is another fantastic feature!
pick these for: schooling, showing locally through A-circuit, Trophy Hunter alternative, classy show ring look on a budget, fun colors, people who need long lengths
FITS - Pippa and Kimberly Breeches
FITS Pippa Knee Patch Breech
Features and Options: front zip, mid-rise, synthetic knee patches, sock bottoms
$179.00
FITS PerforMax Kimberley Knee Patch Breech
Features and options: front zip, mid rise, deerskin knee patches, sock bottoms, tummy panel
$189.00
The FITS breeches are popular with adult amateurs for their comfort and "lump" camouflaging properties. The Kimberly comes with a tummy panel to help in this area and is so stretchy that it comes in athletic pants sizing (XS-XL). The Pippa is a newer breech without the tummy control panel that comes in standard sizes and appears to be a "younger" breech (I have not yet seen it in person). FITS breeches, in general, get rave reviews for comfort and are very flattering, so I expect nothing less from the Pippa; I would recommend the Kimberley as an A circuit show breech for someone looking for a bit more coverage and smoothing power.
pick these for: showing locally to A-circuit, forgiving fit, tummy control
Tredstep - Symphony Rosa II, Solo Hunter Pro, Solo Xtreme
Tredstep Symphony Rosa II Breech
Features and options: mid rise (similar to Trophy Hunter low rise), front and side zip, sock bottoms, synthetic knee patches, stain resistant
$129.95
Tredstep Solo Hunter Pro Knee Patch Breech
Features and options: front zip, moderate rise (similar to Rosas - not marked on the product) stain resistant, sock bottoms, contrast patches, synthetic knee patches
$169.95
Tredstep Solo Xtreme Knee Patch Breech
Features and options: front zip, mid rise (similar to Rosas or Trophy Hunters), stain resistant, sock bottoms, synthetic knee patches, anti-pill treatment, cooling fabric
$169.95
The higher-end Tredsteps are really lovely traditional but trendy breeches that come in both schooling colors and show ring tans and whites. They tend to be a bit more hit-or-miss in terms of fit than some other brands; some people have issues with gapping on the back of the waistband despite the special anti-gap design. The fabric on all of these models is substantial enough to hide lumps and problem areas but thin enough to be comfortable, and the Xtreme model offers a special cooling fabric more often seen in pricier breeches. The Rosa side zip and front zips fit rather differently so if one doesn't feel correct for you it's well worth trying the other. Generally, Tredstep breeches can run a bit small so if in doubt, size up. Overall, these are a great option for many, but they are a brand of breech that I would try on in person to make sure that the cut is comfortable for you. I'm hoping to try on the Hunter Pro and Solo Xtreme soon, as they get lovely reviews!
pick these for: conservative schooling breeches, showing locally through A-circuit, when you need stain resistance, Trophy Hunter alternative, riding in hot weather (Tredstep Solo Xtreme)
Ariat Trifactor Grip
features and options: front zip, modified low rise, Ice-fil compression, cooling fabric, silicone knee patch, sock bottom, tummy panel
$149.95
This is Ariat's midrange breech offering. The back pockets are a bit flashy, making these a better choice for schooling or the jumpers than equitation or upper level hunters. The white color is a nice feature for those who spend time in the jumper ring and the cooling fabric is a huge plus for those hot summer show days! The somewhat substantial stretch knit fabric is extremely elastic and provides compression and support without impeding movement and should help, along with the tummy panel, to hide any jiggles or bumps you might want to conceal. The regular and long lengths help to ensure a good fit
pick these for: trendy but conservative schooling breeches, riding in hot weather, showing (jumpers - they come in white!), tummy control, those that need a long length
$200-$300
Pikeur Ciara (and Ciara Grip)
Features and options: front zip, low-mid rise (similar to the Rosa or Trophy Hunter), synthetic and silicone knee patches, sock bottom
$299.95
The Pikeur Ciara is another A-circuit favorite. Pikeur breeches come in a variety of fabrics, with the Schoeller Prestige being a popular choice that many other very high-end breeches also use (such as some Ariats, Tredstep, and all Struck). This particular fabric is similar in weight and feel to that of the Trophy Hunters but is more durable and breathes very well. These breeches have excellent stretch, shape retention, and they tend to fit true to size; regular and long lengths ensures that most will be able to find an appropriate length. The tan is a classic choice for showing at the upper levels; it would be appropriate at schooling and local shows as well, but the price point is a bit high for it to be practical. The only downside to the Ciaras besides price is that the Ciara don't come in tons of fun colors, but there are many other Pikeur models that fit similarly that can fulfill that requirement.
Pick these for: A-circuit showing, durability, conservative schooling breeches, riders with long legs, riding many horses a day
Other Pikeur Knee-Patch Breeches
Pikeur Landy Knee Patch Breeches
Features and options: front zip, modified low rise, sock bottoms, synthetic knee patch, narrow waistband
Pikeur Lefinia Grip Knee Patch Breech
Features and options: front zip, modified low rise, sock bottoms, extra wide waistband, silicone knee patches, modified euroseat seam (continues straight into waistband rather than curving across the tush)
$259.95
Pikeur Prisca II Knee Patch Breech
Features and options: front zip, modified low rise, sock bottoms, narrow waistband, synthetic knee patches, single front zip pocket
$199.94
Ok, there are a bunch of these. I've listed a few above, but not all of them. Most of them come in Schoeller Prestige fabric. They can be lovely and appropriate for the show ring or a bit too trendy, but they are all very high quality and great choices for schooling! To play it safe, go with the Ciaras, or select a White or Safari breech with a traditional euroseat and subtle or no back pockets and no ostentatious features (like the emblazoned "Pikeur on the side of the Prisca model).
Pick these for: trendy schooling breeches, durability, riding horses many a day, show breeches (jumpers)
Ariat Olympia
Features and options: front zip, low-rise, sock bottom, synthetic knee patches, stain repellent, tummy panel
$209.95
Like the Pikeur Ciara, these breeches come in Scholler Prestige fabric (win!) and are pretty conservative and thus appropriate for all levels of showing (although the lack of a white option is a bummer for some jumper riders). They don't come in a higher rise and for some people I suspect their rise may run on the low side (as I mentioned earlier, I have a very short torso). As these come with a tummy control panel, they are a great option to cover up any issues you might have with the area.
Pick these for: A-circuit showing, durability, conservative schooling breeches, when you need stain resistance, tummy control
The Ones that Flunked
Dover Saddlery/Riding Sport:
Why they flunked: these breeches can be lovely to look at, but the sizing can be hugely variable and the finish not always worthwhile for the price. Overall, they just don't fit consistently and there are better, more comfortable options available. That being said, if you see a cute pair at a good price (and can try them on), they're worth giving a shot.
Tuff Rider:
Why they flunked: most Tuff Rider breeches lack the modern features that make breeches flattering such as a euro seat and wide waistband. They aren't appropriate for the show ring at anything more than the most basic local level, and frankly aren't terribly flattering nor comfortable for schooling. They also aren't super durable. In short, your money is usually best spent elsewhere, but they do make excellent jods for growing kiddos that are worth a look for a kid who will outgrow a garment long before they wear it out.
Tredstep Symphony Nero:
Why they flunked: The Neros fits great, but the cotton-y fabric retains sweat and dirt and rapidly loses its' shape during wearing. A lovely design but not comfortable when saturated with sweat and sagging from a lack of shape retention.
Kerrits:
Simply put, Kerrits are riding tights. Even their "breeches" are best described as riding tights with breech-like features. I wouldn't consider them appropriate for anything but a very low key schooling show or a relaxed trainer on a hot day. Please, don't get me wrong - Kerrits are wonderful for heat and incredibly comfortable. Just not covered under this post!
