Chaps and gaiters

With such a multitude of equestrian products available to riders today, it can often be quite confusing as to what certain commonly seen riding clothing is used for. A common question we are asked is what the difference is between chaps and gaiters is.

Chaps are the most commonly seen form of riding leg wear other than jodhpurs, and come in two types; full chaps and half chaps. Full chaps are usually either made from suede or a waterproof material, and similar to riding trousers cover the whole leg. Full chaps have zips extending down the outside of both legs to enable the rider to get them on and off easily, and stop at the top of the leg at the back leaving the posterior free for added ‘feel’ in the saddle. The waist is adjustable usually at the front and back to provide an ideal fit. Half chaps are the far more popular option of the two, and only covers the portion of the leg below the knee to the ankle. The zip fastening on half chaps is again on the outside of the calf, and there is usually an elasticated panel just behind the zip to allow the half chap to conform to the riders leg and give a close fit (which is essential to the success of the chaps- a loose chap will spin or slip down resulting in a rubbed or sore leg). Half chaps are usually made from suede, faux suede or neoprene which all provide protection and a comfortable fit but do not look as smart as smooth leather which is why half chaps are used for general everyday. Gaiters are similar in design to the half chaps, but are made from smooth leather and have the zip fastening down the back of the leg which allows a much neater fit.

Gaiters are primarily used for competition to give the impression of a long leather riding boot (when used with an appropriate short jodhpur boot) but can be used for everyday riding if desired. Gaiters generally cost more to buy and look worn more quickly due to the materials they are made from (and the position of the zip makes them slightly more tricky to get on and off too!) so we usually recommend half chaps for everyday riding and gaiters kept for competition use. One good pair of jodhpur boots is often enough for everyday and best use, as the gaiters cover most of them and as long as the toe is not scuffed the overall appearance will be neat.