Ladies Jodhpurs: Buying Guide 2019
Buying a decent pair of jodhpurs is important. Whether you are serious about your riding, or you just go for a hack in your local area whenever you get a chance, jodhpurs serve a valuable purpose and will only enhance your riding life.
So, make sure you take your time to consider your options, talk to friends who ride, talk to experts at your local or favourite online equestrian clothing store, and make an informed decision before buying. Also, it makes sense to have an idea of your budget before you start your search.
Jodhpurs are designed specifically for riders to enhance their riding experience. There are a number of both practical and stylistic features that can improve your ride, from high-wicking fabrics to silicone printed patches.
Why wear jodhpurs?
Certainly, you can wear jeans, leggings or any other everyday trousers whilst riding, however, jodhpurs (and breeches) are designed specifically for horse riding, with the primary purpose of maximising comfort.
Women come in all shapes and sizes, so it stands to reason that ladies’ jodhpurs are available to fit numerous body shapes, and they have a number of extra features in order to make sure you’re as comfortable as possible while riding.
Most jodhpurs are designed with a stretch element, meaning Lycra, Spandex, or some other elasticated fibre has been incorporated into construction of the fabric. This ensures that your jodhpurs will ‘hug’ your body and move with you as you ride, maximising comfort and whilst retaining a large range of movement.
I bought some jodhpurs but they’re not comfortable
If you are new to riding and are struggling to get comfortable in your first pair of jodhpurs, then you could well be simply wearing the wrong size, or perhaps the design you went for isn’t cut to suit your body type.
When it comes to shopping for jodhpurs, which are by their very nature tight-fitting, don’t be afraid to shop around and consider a number of products from a number of different brands. Because of their close-fitting style, there’s potential for them maximising discomfort as well as comfort if you don’t get the right shape and fit!
Consider your knees!
The addition of knee patches can be useful for those whose current jodhpurs get worn around the knees, or require extra stability in the saddle. The knee must be flexible and non-restrictive, so buying a pair of jodhpurs with knee pads sewn in is a good idea. Some knee pads will be made with the same fabric, while others will be made from a contrasting material such as suede, or even printed with silicone to enhance your grip while you’re in the saddle.
Style vs functionality
You can have your cake and eat it! When it comes to riding attire, adding extra comfort needn’t come at the expense of your own unique style. There’s no end to the number of aesthetic features that can make you stand out from the crowd, from two-tone designs to embroidered detailing. As far as we’re concerned, it’s a popular misconception that jodhpurs are unflattering, as now there’s such a huge range on offer that anyone can find a style to suit and flatter their figure.
FINAL NOTE: whilst It is true that dark jodhpurs and breeches are particularly good at hiding any stains that come along with owning horses, if you are competing then you will want to make sure that you wear the correct colour for your discipline.