Riding Breeches Size Guide: How to Measure and Choose Correctly

Riding breeches (also called jodhpurs, breeches, or riding pants) are perhaps the most difficult garment to get right in terms of sizing. A good selection ensures comfort, grip, and freedom of movement in the saddle.

Types of Pants and Their Sizing Features

Jodhpurs (For Children and Adults)

Long pants with a flared silhouette below the knee. They are worn with ankle boots and chaps. Size is measured by the waist and hips.

Breeches (Standard Riding Pants)

Fitted pants reaching to the knee or mid-calf. They are worn with tall boots. These are the most common pants for adult riding.

Competition Breeches

A more elegant version of breeches, usually in light colors (white, beige). They tend to have a tighter fit.

How to Take Your Measurements

  1. Waist — The narrowest part of the torso, about 3 cm above the navel
  2. Hips — The widest part of the hips and buttocks
  3. Inseam — From the crotch to the floor (with regular shoes)

Women's Riding Breeches Size Chart

EU Size ES Waist (cm) Hips (cm)
XS 34 60-64 86-90
S 36 65-68 90-94
M 38 69-72 94-98
L 40 73-76 98-102
XL 42 77-82 102-108
XXL 44 83-88 108-114

Men's Riding Breeches Size Chart

EU Size Waist (cm) Hips (cm) Inseam (cm)
S 76-80 88-92 80
M 82-86 94-98 82
L 88-92 100-104 84
XL 94-98 106-110 86
XXL 100-106 112-118 88

Junior / Children's Size Chart

Size Approx. Age Height (cm) Waist (cm)
92 2-3 years 92 52-54
104 3-4 years 104 54-56
116 5-6 years 116 56-58
128 7-8 years 128 58-60
140 9-10 years 140 60-64
152 11-12 years 152 64-68
164 13-14 years 164 68-72

Knee-patch vs Fullgrip vs Silicon-grip

Grip Type Grip Area Recommended Use
Knee-patch Knee only Jumping, general use, polo
Fullgrip Knee + inner thigh + seat Dressage
Silicon-grip Strategic silicone dots Versatile, good grip
No grip None Casual riding, beginners

Buying Tips

  • Riding breeches generally run tighter than regular clothing
  • If you are between sizes, choose the larger one — they should be comfortable when riding (seated position)
  • Test while sitting: you should be able to bend your knees without excessive tension
  • White or beige competition breeches are usually less stretchy — they require a precise fit

Explore our full collection of riding breeches, including options for women, men, and competition.

About this content

Written and reviewed by the technical team at Rincón del Valle, a physical and online equestrian store specializing in equipment for horse and rider. Our criteria combine store experience, selection of equestrian brands, and daily attention to riders.

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