How to fit half chaps
Allie HarbuckIf you’re looking for an alternative to a tall boot for leg protection, half chaps may be your answer. They provide the support and protection benefits of tall boots, but they’re worn with paddock boots. If you’re new to half chaps, we’ve created a guide to teach your the basics and provide information on how to apply them.
What are half chaps?
Half chaps are worn on a rider’s lower leg for support and protection instead of tall boots. They prevent chafing and rubbing caused by stirrup leathers and help keep the rider’s breeches from riding up or twisting. They protect the lower leg while providing a better grip on the saddle. They are available in a range of colors and materials, including leather, suede, and synthetic leather. Let’s dive deeper into what half chaps are used for and how to fit them.
Who can wear half chaps?
Half chaps are required wear for young riders and pony riders, but unlike Trix, they’re not just for kids. Half chaps are popular among riders of all ages because they’re a low-cost alternative to a new pair of tall boots. Together with paddock boots, half chaps help you achieve the proper grip in the seat (aka saddle). Whether tall boots or paddock boots and half chaps, the right footwear is important.
Can you wear half chaps while competing?
Half chaps are not universally accepted for all levels of competition. For jumpers, hunters, and dressage, be sure to check the rules for your local shows.
Rules for hunter riders: In the Hunter ring you should always wear tall black dress or field boots. Field boots are more flexible than dressage boots, allowing for a heels-down position and making them ideal for hunters, jumpers, and trail riders.
Rules for jumpers: In the jumper ring you can wear tall boots, field boots or half chaps and paddock boots. Keep in mind your half chaps and paddock boots must match in color.
Rules for dressage riders: In dressage, you must wear tall, stiff leather boots or paddock boots with half chaps if they are leather or made of a leather-like material.
If you want to keep your tall boots in shape for longer, you can wear your half chaps on schooling rides to keep your tall boots pristine for shows. On the other hand, wearing your tall boots is the only way to make them more comfortable to wear. Tall boots are fitted with room to “drop” as you wear them in. After the drop, they’re more comfortable to wear.
How to Measure for Half Chaps
As with most riding gear, you’ll want to make sure half chaps fit correctly. To start, make sure you are wearing the pants you plan to wear with your half chaps, whether that be riding tights, breeches, or even jeans. Then take your measurements following the steps below.
- Measure your lower leg from the floor to the tendon located at the back of your knee.
- Last, compare your measurements to the size chart for the brand you are interested in and select your half chaps.
- Try the half chaps on with your paddock boots to ensure a proper fit and to make sure they are tall enough to accommodate your boots.
- When you put the half chaps on, slide the elastic stirrup at the bottom over the toe of your boot, and place it in front of the heel of your boot. Then fasten the enclosures at the back or along the outside of the boot.
- The half chaps should feel very snug when you first try them on. The leather will mold to your leg shape, so they will loosen a bit after a few days of wear. You don’t want them to be too loose when you are first trying them on, or they will become baggy with wear.
Differences in half chap fit among brands
As with most equestrian, gear, there are some variations in how the half chaps will fit. Here’s a basic look at some of our most popular brands.
Ariat is a well-known brand that makes quality leather half chaps for women, men, and children. Ariat half chaps are lined for comfort and safety and available in a range of colors. These half chaps are breathable, have full-length side panels for added flexibility, and have an adjustable top strap behind the knee for a custom fit.
- Ariat Unisex Breeze Half Chap — Soft, premium suede unisex chaps; offer the comfort of half chaps with the protection of a tall boot.
Tredstep Half Chaps
Tredstep is known for innovation and quality, and this holds true when it comes to their half chaps. Tredstep’s exclusive stretch leather offers maximum comfort while providing a premium look.
- Tredstep Deluxe Half Chap — Suitable for everyday use, Tredstep’s Deluxe Half Chaps feature their exclusive stretch leather for an incredible fit. We also love the design of this half chap and the full-grain pebbled leather.
Perri’s Leather Half Chaps
Perri’s Leather provides top-quality leather products made in the USA. They offer half chaps in adult and child sizes that are made with an eco-friendly process. Perri’s Leather chaps are known for their comfort and quality.
- Perri’s Pro Half Chaps — Soft, premium calfskin chaps that are so comfortable, you’ll forget to take them off. These chaps are crafted for performance and provide a nearly custom fit.
- Perri’s Child Professional Half Chaps — Your child will love these comfortable premium leather chaps. They zip easily and have snaps to keep them secure while riding.
Whether you’re trying half chaps for the first time or they’re an old favorite, we hope this guide about their uses and application will be helpful to you. In addition to our YouTube video, we would love to provide you with more fitting information at one of our stores! Our staff are experts in helping you get a perfect fit.
You may also like: