Riding Tights

Riding Tights

Riding tights are a modern, versatile alternative to traditional riding breeches and jodhpurs. Designed for comfort and functionality, they are particularly popular among riders for casual, everyday riding, schooling, and even competition in some cases. Similar to leggings, riding tights are made from lightweight, stretchy fabrics that offer a streamlined fit and maximum flexibility in the saddle.

Key Features of Riding Tights

1. Stretchy and Lightweight Fabric: Riding tights are typically made from high-performance, stretchy materials like polyester, spandex, or nylon blends. These fabrics offer excellent flexibility, allowing the rider to move freely while riding, grooming, or working around the stables.

2. Pull-On Design: Unlike traditional breeches or jodhpurs, riding tights often have a simple pull-on design with no zippers or buttons. This makes them easy to wear, offering a smooth, sleek look and reducing bulk at the waist.

3. Moisture-Wicking and Breathable: Most riding tights are designed with moisture-wicking technology, keeping riders cool and dry during hot weather or intense riding sessions. The fabrics are also breathable, which adds to the overall comfort.

4. Grip Options:

   • Knee Patches: Some riding tights have grip material (usually silicone) on the knee area to provide additional stability while riding.
   • Full Seat Grip: Many riding tights feature full-seat silicone grips, which offer extra traction in the saddle. This is especially helpful for disciplines like dressage or for riders who prefer more security in their seat.
   • Silicone Grips: Silicone grip designs are popular in riding tights, often featuring fun patterns like dots, horseshoes, or geometric shapes. These grips provide just enough hold without being too bulky or restricting movement.

5. Wide Waistbands: Many riding tights come with wide, elasticated waistbands for a secure and comfortable fit. These waistbands provide support and can help create a flattering silhouette, often sitting at a mid-rise or high-rise level.

6. Pockets: A popular feature in riding tights is the inclusion of pockets. Many styles have phone-sized side pockets or zippered pockets on the back or waistband, offering convenient storage for essentials like phones, keys, or treats while riding or working around the stable.

7. Durability: Despite their lightweight feel, riding tights are designed to be durable enough for regular use. They often feature reinforced seams in high-stress areas to withstand wear and tear from riding, grooming, and stable work.

8. Compression: Some riding tights are made with compression fabrics that offer muscle support and reduce fatigue during long rides. This can improve circulation and provide a snug, secure fit, making them ideal for riders who spend extended time in the saddle.

Types of Riding Tights

1. Everyday Riding Tights:

   • Comfort and Functionality: These tights are designed for daily riding activities, schooling, and general stable work. They are lightweight, flexible, and perfect for warmer weather.
   • Casual Style: Available in a wide range of colors and patterns, everyday riding tights often include fun, casual designs that reflect a rider's personality.

2. Winter Riding Tights:

   • Fleece-Lined: Winter riding tights often feature a fleece lining or thermal fabric to keep riders warm during cold weather. Despite the added warmth, these tights remain stretchy and comfortable.
   • Waterproof or Water-Resistant Options: Some winter riding tights are designed with water-resistant or windproof materials, making them suitable for outdoor riding in harsh winter conditions.

3. Competition Riding Tights:

   • Polished Look: Some brands offer competition-ready riding tights that have a more formal appearance while still providing the comfort and flexibility of tights.
   • Grip and Support: These tights usually feature full-seat silicone grips for added security in the saddle and may come in more traditional colors like white, beige, or black for competition purposes.

4. Summer Riding Tights:

   • Breathable and Moisture-Wicking: Summer riding tights are designed for hot weather, made from lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics that keep the rider cool and dry. They often feature mesh panels for additional ventilation.
   • UV Protection: Some summer tights are made with UV-blocking materials to protect the rider’s skin from harmful sun exposure during long rides.

Advantages of Riding Tights

1. Comfort: Riding tights are incredibly comfortable, providing a snug but flexible fit that moves with the rider. Their lightweight and soft fabrics make them ideal for long days in the saddle or at the barn.

2. Flexibility: The stretchy nature of riding tights allows for maximum mobility, which is beneficial for riders engaging in various activities like schooling, hacking, or groundwork.

3. Breathability: Riding tights often outperform traditional breeches and jodhpurs in terms of breathability, especially during warmer weather. They allow better airflow and moisture control, keeping the rider cool and comfortable.

4. Convenience: With their pull-on design, riding tights are easy to wear and provide a seamless look without bulky buttons, zippers, or belt loops.

5. Modern and Stylish: Riding tights are available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and styles, making them a fun and fashionable option for riders who want to express their personality. Many designs feature trendy details like mesh panels, colored accents, and reflective strips.

6. Affordable: Generally, riding tights are more affordable than traditional breeches or jodhpurs, making them a cost-effective option for riders looking to update their riding wardrobe without breaking the bank.

Popular Brands for Riding Tights

Several equestrian brands are known for producing high-quality riding tights, combining performance, comfort, and style:

• Ariat: Known for its high-performance riding gear, Ariat offers riding tights with excellent moisture-wicking and grip features.
• Toggi: A popular brand offering comfortable, stylish riding tights with a focus on durability and fit.
• Dublin: Known for their affordable and functional riding tights, Dublin offers various options for schooling and casual riding.
• LeMieux: Famous for its stylish designs and quality materials, LeMieux offers riding tights that provide excellent fit and performance.
• HKM: Known for their trendy designs and a wide variety of colors, HKM riding tights are fashionable and functional.

Conclusion

Riding tights have become a favorite among modern equestrians for their combination of comfort, flexibility, and style. They are ideal for everyday riding, schooling, and even competition in certain disciplines. With a wide variety of designs, colors, and grip options, riders can find a pair that suits their needs, whether they are looking for something lightweight and breathable for summer or warm and cozy for winter riding. Riding tights offer a sleek, athletic look that moves with the rider, providing a comfortable, no-fuss alternative to traditional breeches.