Wednesday, December 18, 2013

Choosing Jodhpurs Wisely Will Increase Riding Pleasure

By Cornelia White


Wearing proper fitting clothes for riding is a key requisite of good deportment. Approved riding association rules set guidelines. But, mistakes can still be made in purchasing appropriate attire. Choosing your jodhpurs wisely will increase your riding pleasure.

Regular attire causes discomfort, so specially designed clothing was made suitable for riders for this purpose. How pants are structured matters as they cove a preeminent region where the horse and its rider physically connect. During activities, regular wear caused painful chafing. So more close fitting fashion was developed to discourage discomfort caused by typical trousers.

Riders wear these specially designed trousers for cross country training, show jumping, dressage and every day activities alike. Whatever the activity, this attire has a design which favors the well being and protection of riders. The seat layout is intended for a surer grip of the saddle. Knee padding guards the knees and seams are positioned so that rubbing is inhibited during the activity.

Beginning riders are often puzzled by how jodhpurs differ from breeches. The basic difference is that the former piece of clothing is form fitting trousers and extends to the ankle. Typically, stretch fabrics used in this style for comfort and a close fit. Various fabric types may be utilized in their creation. Breathable fabric discourages overheating during equestrian exercises and the flexible nature of this fabric brings enhanced comfort. Riders can wear them with long boots or with jodhpur boots and chaps.

For competitions, leg positioning is more clearly seen by judges when riders wear jodhpurs. For this reason, trainers also recommend them for their student trainees. Closer observation is possible and students get better training, when they wear the right form of clothing.

Breeches are generally worn with knee size boots. These are shorter pants that end at mid calf length. There is more control at the ankle with this length. Seat patches give greater control to dressage riders and support their safety. Breeches with grips at the knees and padding are favored for show jumping.

Casual observers may not realize how confusing fabric choices can be. There is a trade off, depending on what is selected. For instance, for reasonable pricing and durability, polyester has an advantage. But it can be slippery, does not stretch or is absorbent. A polyester blend may cost more, but it improves absorbency. But, a blend will still not improve the ability to be flexible. Denim which is stretch blend is a cheap alternative that possesses the beneficial features of cotton. But it can only be used for informal riding. It is unacceptable for competitions. For cool areas, flexible corduroy can also be worn for casual activities.

For greater ease and comfort Cotton lycra fabric is highly suitable. It stretches, it is absorbent and durable. Once the decision is made about which fabric is selected, underpass and knee patches need to be considered. These long pants need underpasses make legs more close fitting to boots and improve the silhouette. The silhouette of this riding apparel suffers when straps do not function as intended. Suede and man made ultra suede patches are both able to provide a good grip. But, the more economical synthetic material will be much easier to take care of. Thoughtful consideration needs to be put into the jodhpurs selection process.




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