Show Jumping Breeches – New Styles and Fabrics

The riding clothing market is undergoing a transformation. The introduction of technical fabrics to rider’s clothing has been a major contributor.

No More Velcro

A few years ago, all you saw is Velcro lined breeches for the ankle closure. Today, that trend has been largely replaced by flexible sock bottom made of technical fabric. Not only is this feature nicer and cleaner looking, it also has a number of other advantages. One of the biggest issues with the Velcro bottom is the fraying. Over time, the Velcro strap would become loose and cause irritation. No such issues with the sock bottom. The Velcro breeches also come in Regular and Long sizes. The addition of the sock bottom has eliminated that need, since the technical fabric is flexible and adapts better to the rider’s legs.

Equiline Boston Knee Patch Breeches
Equiline Boston Knee Patch Breeches

Most the top European brands, such as Equiline, Kingsland, EuroStar, Accademia Italiana and others have incorporated the sock bottom in their respective offerings. From in-person feedback gathered in the Wellington circuit, more women prefer the sock bottom to the Velcro strap.

Technical Fabrics

The European brands are once again at the forefront of using technical fabrics in the breeches. The advancements in fabric technology have made it possible for better wear of the breeches.  This allows lower cost of care, for maintenance. Also, the breeches have a much better fit and feel to them compared to the cotton ones. The technical fabrics, such as Schoeller provide enhanced ventilation and breathing which keeps the rider cool and dry. Add to that, the breeches themselves have a superior fitted look. It is a win-win. Some examples of the bestselling breeches are the Equiline Ash Knee Patch Breeches on the women’s side and Equiline Grafton Knee Patch Breeches on the Men’s side.

 

Equiline Ash Knee Patch Breeches with Silicone
Equiline Ash Knee Patch Breeches with Silicone

 

Equine Couture Brittini Knee Patch Breeches
Equine Couture Brittini Knee Patch Breeches
Accademia Italiana Knee Patch with Silicone Dots
Accademia Italiana Knee Patch with Silicone Dots

Some examples of technical fabrics include Polyamide and Elastane. The addition of Elastane lends a degree of flexibility to the fabric while still maintaining a good fit. The flexibility allows for comfort during the rider’s movement.

One example of a company doing very well on the use of technical fabrics is Accademia Italiana. These breeches are made in Italy by Accademia Italiana. These are unlike any other breeches. The brand distinguishes itself from the competition by using special flexible fabrics along with bolder colors. More like fashion breeches, but yielding very nice wear.

Knee Patch Revolution

In conjunction with the technical fabrics taking over the breech market, something very fascinating has occurred. The traditional leather, cloth or more recently clarino knee patch has undergone a complete transformation. Realizing the need for making breeches lighter in weight and easier to care, the breech manufacturers set along to discover a different fabric for the knee patch. The results: X-Grip from Equiline, silicone dotted knee patch from Accademia Italiana, along with Silicone self-patch from Tuff Rider. Others have taken a different approach of same-fabric knee patch, making the breeches ultra-light.

Almost all the riders have universally embraced this new change. Mostly because of the several advantages it offers. The silicone treated fabric ensures higher stability and better freedom of movement. Add to that, the weight of the breeches is significantly reduced. The maintenance and care of these breeches is simple as well.

Dazzling Color Selection

The number of colors that knee patch breeches are available is mind boggling. Once again, leading on that front is Accademia Italiana. This company produces the wildest designs, that our customers love. Accademia offers something new and exciting. With Italian styling and clever use of technical fabrics (used by athletic apparel manufacturers), Accademia has presented to the market a much needed freshness. Their efforts have paid off, as customers are now lining up for these exciting breeches.

Accademia Italiana Burgundy Knee Patch Breeches
Accademia Italiana Burgundy Knee Patch Breeches

Another upside is the matching outfits to go with these beautiful colored breeches. The show shirts in Pink and Blue are now gaining popularity.

We would like to know how you like your breeches. What works for you best? What doesn’t? What do you think of the new changes?

TACKNRIDER’s entire selection of breeches is available here:

https://www.tacknrider.com/product-category/breeches/

 

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