Riding Breeches & Leggings

Women's riding breeches: how to choose the right pair

Riding breeches are arguably the most technical piece in the equestrian wardrobe. In constant contact with the saddle, they must combine comfort, support, breathability and flat seams to prevent any chafing. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, competing or riding at your local club, the right breeches make all the difference in the saddle. At OHLALA Sellerie, we offer a comprehensive selection suited to every discipline, every body shape and every season.

Types of women's riding breeches

Riding breeches are a classic favourite, loved for their comfort and support. Typically featuring suede patches or a full-seat, they offer excellent grip in the saddle and suit all disciplines. Stretch or cotton-blend styles allow optimal freedom of movement while keeping a polished, elegant look.

Riding leggings have become an essential alternative in recent years. Their compressive, ultra-stretch fabric moulds perfectly to the body with no raised seams that could cause irritation in the saddle. Available with knee grip or full-seat, they tuck straight into the boot and transition effortlessly from the stable to everyday life. Lightweight, machine-washable and quick-drying, they have become the go-to choice for active riders.

Jodhpurs and technical breeches are designed for the most demanding riders. Made from breathable, stretch fabrics, they provide support and protection during competitions or long rides. Winter styles often feature a fleece-lined softshell with reinforced knee finishes built to withstand heavy wear.

Knee grip or full-seat: choosing by discipline

The type of grip is a key consideration. Knee grip — a silicone or technical fabric reinforcement at the knees — is the preferred choice for show jumpers and regular club riders. It provides good adhesion in the saddle without weighing down the legs. Full-seat — a reinforcement covering the entire seat and thighs — is favoured by dressage and eventing riders, as it delivers a deeper seat and greater contact with the saddle. Some styles also feature a lower leg grip for riders who wear short boots.

Fabrics and technologies to know

The choice of fabric directly affects comfort in the saddle. Breathable stretch fabrics wick moisture, reduce heat build-up and are ideal for competition or daily training. For winter or outdoor riding, fleece-lined softshell styles offer thermal insulation and protection against wind and moisture, while remaining lightweight. Silicone panels, suede patches and full-seat reinforcements ensure optimal grip, reduce slipping and improve stability in the saddle without compromising flexibility.

Fit, comfort and body shape

Fit is everything when it comes to comfort and posture. High-waisted breeches support the core and improve your seat, while sculpting styles hug the silhouette for an elegant look in the arena. Mid-rise options offer the ideal balance between support and freedom of movement. Whatever the style, make sure the breeches allow full range of motion without restriction, with flat seams to prevent chafing in sensitive areas.

Top women's equestrian breeches brands

At OHLALA Sellerie, we have curated the finest names in equestrian wear: Pikeur for its technical and elegant breeches with premium finishes, Ariat for its breathable and stretch fabric technologies, Cavalleria Toscana, Kingsland, Harcour, Samshield and GEM Equitation for their beautifully crafted cuts that flatter the silhouette while delivering outstanding performance. Equithème rounds out the selection with an accessible range suited to all budgets and riding styles.

Men's riding breeches: technical precision and understated style

Men's riding breeches share many of the same qualities as women's — technical fabrics, quality reinforcements, and saddle comfort — with cuts tailored to the male silhouette. Male riders tend to favour neutral tones — beige, white, grey, black, navy — that pair easily with most competition jackets and club attire. Knee grip remains the standard for everyday riding, while full-seat is preferred by dressage competitors. The quality of inner seams is especially important: during long sessions in the saddle, even the smallest imperfection can cause discomfort. Our selection includes styles from Kingsland, Ariat, Mountain Horse and Horse Pilot, combining durability and refined tailoring for intensive riding.

Care & durability

A quality pair of riding breeches is an investment worth caring for. Wash at 30°C on a delicate cycle, inside out to protect the reinforcements and preserve the colours. Avoid the tumble dryer, which damages elastic fibres and silicone grips. Store flat or hanging rather than bundled up to keep the shape. Between uses, brush off any dust and store away from direct light. Regular care will significantly extend the life of your breeches.

To complete your look, explore our adult textile collection (jackets, polos, competition coats) and our rider accessories for a perfectly coordinated look.