High-waisted riding pants: comfort, support, and performance

Choisir pantalon équitation taille haute|Savoir-faire technique|Horse Pilot

What is a high-waisted riding breeches?

The difference in waist height of riding breeches is determined by the height of the closure. A low-rise waist is approximately 10 cm. The standard waist, also called natural, varies from 18 to 20 cm to reach the hip bone. And the height of a high-waisted garment is equal to or greater than 22 cm.

Fashionable riding breeches

The 1980s and 1990s were the heyday of high-waisted riding trousers for women. The early 2000s saw low-waisted styles come to the fore. As a result, high-waisted trousers fell out of fashion and became considered old-fashioned for a few years. But it didn't take long for these garments to return to the catwalks and everywhere else, offering a variety of styles. So there's no need to risk the plumber's smile to be fashionable, even on horseback, with high-waisted riding breeches.

Is high-waisted riding breeches for women or men?

This height is suitable for both men's and women's riding breeches as well as for children with adapted girls' riding breeches. The advantages that this cut brings to a woman are also valid for a man. Comfortable and elegant on foot as well as on horseback, the result is optimal, whether the rider is short or tall, slim or curvy.

What are the different types of high-waisted riding breeches?

Riders favor two cut choices: classic riding breeches and jodhpurs.

The classic cut hugs the body. Some models feature more or less gathered volume at the waist to vary styles. Riders wear this versatile cut, both for leisure and in dressage or jumping. White color is used for competition riding breeches.

The jodhpur riding breeches model is looser with a flared bottom. It is appreciated for horseback riding or in typical activities such as Western.

The riding legging style breeches are developing for women and children. Form-fitting like sports leggings, they are made of stretchy material and held with an elastic waist.

High-waisted riding breeches models are often offered with knee patches or full seat. These reinforcements serve to protect the fabric from friction, particularly at the knees, and ensure additional stability for the rider on horseback. Knee patches are located at the knees, while the full seat starts from the bottom of the breeches or the knees to go up to the buttocks.

The advantages of high-waisted riding breeches

Many riders prefer high-waisted riding breeches for the comfort they provide and their other advantages.

High-waisted riding breeches support and maintain the back

A fitted riding breeches cut with a high waist at the back allows it to follow the curve of the spine in the lower back. This provides good support and backing for the back. The rider nevertheless retains their freedom of movement, even on horseback.

High-waisted riding breeches are effective in winter

In winter, it's difficult to train outdoors when the cold rushes into the lower back at the slightest movement on your horse. Even when well protected with a warm sweatshirt or suitable riding jacket. With a high waist, winter riding breeches stay well positioned in all postures. No risk of having your lower back exposed when picking out your mount's hooves or in jumping position. Thus, the rider thinks about what they're doing and not about covering their back. Warmth is preserved while maintaining ease of movement.

High-waisted riding breeches slim the silhouette

Ideal for all body types, this riding breeches cut is the best for curvy figures or small bellies. It smooths love handles on hips and stomach and slims the silhouette. On a petite woman, it lengthens the silhouette by giving the impression of having long legs. On a tall, slim woman, it highlights long, slender curves.

High-waisted riding breeches at Horse Pilot

Which high-waisted riding breeches to choose?

To choose their riding breeches, riders develop technical requirements according to their equestrian activity. That's why you need to ask the right questions about the use of your breeches before buying them: is it for leisure or competition? What quality to choose? Should it protect from the cold or not? What discipline will be practiced: Western, dressage, show jumping...?

In high-level competition, the regulation attire is white riding breeches. Some shows accept beige or off-white. Apart from the color, competition breeches are the same for training.

The classic cut hugs the body like a second skin. While the jodhpur cut, looser, offers a flared leg bottom. Stretch material adapts better to body type. Thus, movements are easier, even for a stocky rider. Knee patches provide ideal freedom of movement in show jumping. A full seat inside the leg offers more stability and comfort in the saddle for dressage, Western or trail riding. In the past it was leather. Today, it is fabric, with or without padding, sometimes equipped with silicone grip. It can make you sweat slightly in summer, but provides additional protection in cold weather.

How to wear high-waisted riding breeches?

High-waisted riding breeches are a trendy and comfortable choice for riding enthusiasts. But did you know that you can also wear these breeches outside the stables to create elegant and modern looks? In this article, we'll present practical tips on how to wear high-waisted riding breeches with style. Discover how to integrate this equestrian fashion staple into your everyday wardrobe.

Choose the right high-waisted riding breeches

The first step to wearing high-waisted riding breeches well is to choose the right model. Opt for breeches that offer a flattering cut and highlight your figure. Look for breeches made from quality fabrics, such as cotton or elastane, which offer both comfort and support. Also make sure the breeches have a sufficiently high waist to create that desired high-waisted effect.

Create casual and elegant outfits

High-waisted riding breeches can be versatile and adapt to different styles. For a casual outfit, pair them with a basic t-shirt and sneakers or ankle boots. For a more sophisticated look, opt for a flowing blouse or fitted shirt that you tuck into the breeches. Add accessories such as an elegant belt to emphasize your waist or a structured jacket to bring a chic touch to your outfit.

Play with colors and patterns

Don't limit yourself to traditional colors for your high-waisted riding breeches. Dare bright colors like red, blue or green to bring a touch of dynamism to your outfit. You can also opt for original patterns such as stripes, polka dots or floral prints for a bolder look. Don't be afraid to experiment and create unique combinations that reflect your personality.

Accessorize tastefully

Accessories can make all the difference when it comes to wearing high-waisted riding breeches with style. Add a wide leather belt to emphasize your waist and bring a touch of elegance. Opt for delicate jewelry such as thin bracelets or discreet earrings to complete your outfit. Don't forget to choose a pair of shoes that harmonizes with your look, whether it's ballet flats, sandals or of course your most beautiful pair of riding boots.

How to transform low-rise riding breeches into high-waisted breeches?

Before starting, make sure you have the necessary materials. You'll need a sturdy belt, a pair of scissors, a needle and thread matching the color of your breeches. If you want to add additional belt loops, also get matching fabric. Be sure to select quality materials that harmonize with your breeches to achieve a professional result.

Detach the original waistband

The first step is to detach the original waistband from your low-rise riding breeches. Use scissors to carefully cut the stitches fixing the waistband to the back of the breeches. Make sure not to damage the fabric of the breeches during this operation.

Add a new belt

Now that the original waistband is detached, it's time to add a new belt to transform your breeches into a high-waisted model. Thread the chosen belt through the loops of the breeches and adjust it to the desired height. You can opt for a wide belt that will emphasize your waist or choose a thinner model for a more discreet look.

Customize with additional belt loops

If you want to add additional belt loops for an even more fitted outfit, now is the time to do it. Use the matching fabric you prepared and cut strips about 5 cm wide. Fix these strips along the waistline of your breeches by sewing them securely. Make sure to space them evenly for balanced distribution.

By following these simple steps, you can easily transform your low-rise riding breeches into high-waisted breeches that match your style. You can now enjoy breeches that will highlight your figure. Give your breeches a second life and show your sharp eye and sense of style with this clever transformation!

Why choose high-waisted riding breeches?