Choosing Your Riding Breeches: Suede, Grip, and Comfort
In short — The choice of riding breeches mainly depends on the seat: silicone grip (full seat or knee grip) for modern, versatile grip, now the standard up to top level; leather patches for a classic look sought by demanding riders; or no reinforced seat for beginners, everyday use, and budget. Add to that the rise height, a stretchy and breathable fabric, comfortable finishes (flat seams, leg bottoms that slide into the boot), and proper care (never tumble dry or use fabric softener on the grip). The rest is a matter of cut and comfort.
At Sellerie Bucéphale, breeches are one of the items we get asked about the most. It’s normal: it’s the garment that works the hardest. It absorbs every stride, every transition, every hour in the saddle. Good breeches go unnoticed; bad ones remind you after twenty minutes. In this guide, we review what really matters to choose well, without unnecessary jargon, so you find the model suited to your practice, body shape, and budget.
Leather patches, silicone grip, or no reinforcement: the real choice criteria
The “seat” refers to the reinforcement placed at the crotch and inside the thighs, where contact with the saddle occurs. It determines the grip and largely the price. Two terms are everywhere: “full seat” (full reinforcement covering the seat and inner thigh) and “knee grip” / “knee patch” (reinforcement limited to the knees). This reinforcement, full or knee, comes in silicone or leather. Three main types coexist.
The silicone grip is now the most widespread, from club level to top level. The printed silicone pattern — in full seat or knee grip on the knees — firmly grips the saddle and suits all disciplines: jumping, dressage, outdoor, lessons. Modern dressage itself is mostly ridden in full seat silicone. It is the ultimate versatile choice. It also maintains good grip in damp conditions. Its only requirement: careful maintenance, as silicone dislikes heat and fabric softener.
The leather patches (also called "leather seat") offer natural grip, a pleasant feel, and a classic look still appreciated by some demanding riders. The leather ages, molds to the saddle, and lasts a long time if cared for. In return, it requires some maintenance and is less "sticky" than dry silicone: it is rather reserved for the experienced rider seeking this particular feel, not for beginners.
Finally, breeches without reinforced seat (simple fabric seat) are the logical choice for beginners, as well as for grooming, easy rides, or a tight budget. Less grip, but excellent value for money and great freedom of use. For a first grip without breaking the bank, many then move on to an entry-level silicone knee grip model.
| Type of seat | Grip | Preferred use | To know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silicone grip (full seat / knee grip) | Very strong, good hold in wet weather | Versatile, all disciplines, current standard (including dressage) | No tumble drying or fabric softener |
| Leather patches (leather seat) | Good, natural | Demanding riders seeking a classic look | Ages with use, requires leather care; not well suited for beginners |
| Without reinforced seat | Limited | Beginner, leisure, everyday | The most accessible, very versatile |
Cut & size: rising, normal, and the right fit
Breeches should fit snugly without squeezing. Too loose, they wrinkle under the saddle and cause chafing; too tight, they restrict your seat. The rule of thumb: they should stay in place when you mount without needing to be pulled up.
The waist height is a matter of comfort and preference. The high waist (rising) stays well in place, covers the lower back once mounted, and prevents the "waist slipping down" effect; many riders appreciate it. The normal waist (mid-waist) suits those who find it more discreet under a jacket or closer to classic trousers. Neither is "better" absolutely: it depends on body shape and habit.
Two finishing details change daily comfort: flat seams (anti-chafing) at the crotch and inside thigh, which prevent irritation during long sessions, and a narrow lower leg that slides without wrinkling inside the boot, with no extra bulk or roll under the calf.
Sizes vary significantly from one brand to another (and sometimes from one model to another within the same brand). We therefore do not provide universal equivalents: rely on the manufacturer's size guide, and feel free to ask us for advice, in-store or by message, to find the right fit before buying.
Materials & comfort: stretch, breathability, seasons
A modern breech almost always combines a stretch fiber (elastane) with a technical fabric. Stretch ensures freedom of movement: on horseback, you bend, sit, and stand up constantly; the fabric must follow without ever restricting. Stretch fabric also better tolerates a close fit, so no need to oversize.
Breathability is as important as grip. A fabric that wicks moisture limits discomfort and irritation during long sessions. For summer, choose lightweight and airy models; for winter, opt for softshell or lined versions, which are warmer. Some brands add ventilation zones or technical inserts: these are real comfort advantages, to choose according to your practice and the season.
Our riding breeches and pants
Here is a representative selection from our range, from basic cotton models to competition breeches with grip or full seats. Find the full range in the Riding Breeches collection.
Selection provided for information only; prices and availability may change. Women, men, and children are represented in our range.
Care: making your breeches last (especially the grip)
A well-maintained riding breech retains its grip and fit for seasons. A few simple habits are enough.
- No tumble dryer. Heat softens and peels off the silicone grip seat, and weakens the elastane. Air dry flat or on a hanger.
- No fabric softener. It clogs technical fibers and reduces grip. A mild detergent is enough.
- Wash at low temperature (usually 30 °C, follow the label), inside out to protect the seat, ideally in a laundry bag.
- Leather seat (patches): care for it like contact leather, gentle cleaning then occasional conditioning by touch, without excess grease that would make the seat slippery.
If in doubt, the manufacturer’s label is the reference: it always takes precedence over a general rule.
Unsure about size or model?
We help you choose the breeches suited to your practice and body shape.
Make an appointment See all breechesFrequently Asked Questions
Do you necessarily need grip breeches to start?
No. To start, breeches without reinforced seat — or an entry-level knee grip silicone model — work very well: comfortable, economical, and sufficient for learning. Full seat silicone becomes interesting when you want maximum grip, in competition or intense training. Leather patches are more for experienced riders, not beginners.
Leather patches or silicone grip: which grips better?
Silicone grip offers the strongest hold and maintains good grip in damp conditions, making it the most versatile choice — it’s now the standard, including in dressage, mostly ridden in full seat silicone. Leather patches also grip well, with a more natural feel and a classic look appreciated by discerning riders. The “best” depends mainly on your discipline and preferences.
High waist or regular waist?
High waist stays better in place and covers the lower back when riding; regular waist is more discreet under a jacket. Both are valid: it depends on your body shape and personal comfort.
How to choose the right size?
Sizes vary from one brand to another. Refer to the size guide of the manufacturer for the specific model, and contact us if you’re unsure: we’ll help you find the right reference before purchase.
Can you put grip breeches in the dryer?
No. Heat peels off the silicone and damages the fibers. Wash at a low temperature, without fabric softener, and let air dry.
