Category: Half Chaps

Half Chaps – The Perfect Fit

lady helping rider find the perfect fit riding chaps

Your Half Chaps need to be the perfect fit. This makes designing and manufacturing Half Chaps no mean feat. The size and shape of rider’s lower leg varies dramatically from lean, long and sinewy to short and round. And that was the challenge. To be able to fit half chaps around riders legs of all shapes and sizes.

Fast forward nearly 20 years and we believe we’ve cracked it. We were hell bent on being able to fit all riders with comfortable, great-fitting half chaps. And we believe that we have done just that – almost every rider leaves us with a pair of snug, great-looking half chaps.

Why Do I Need Half Chaps ?

Riders need Half Chaps to protect the lower leg from pinching. When you’re riding the stirrup strap will pinch and bruise the lower leg – wearing Half Chaps prevents this. But it doesn’t end there. Your half chaps need to be the perfect fit.

How Do I Know when my half chaps are the perfect fit?

Wearing the right size in Half Chaps is very important. Riders do not want their Half Chaps twisting or moving around when they’re riding. So how do you know your size…? firstly, you will need a tape measure and then either:

  1. use our Sizing Calculator on each product page
  2. take a look on-line, and follow our Find Your Perfect Fit guide
  3. take a look at our Find Your Perfect Fit video
  4. visit the Just Chaps stand at one of the largest equestrian events, where we will fit you

Which Half Chaps Should I Buy ?

As the Specialists, Just Chaps has more Half Chaps options than anyone else. Picking the right pair for you is quite straightforward:

  1. there are 2 leather options:

a. Saltos Half Chaps – voted 9/10 in Horse & Hound. Expertly cut from beautifully soft leather, perfect for competition or smart everyday use. The zip is down the side.

b. Saltos Gaiters – voted Best Value Gaiters by Horse & Rider. A wonderful shape with Spanish top-line, lined for a little more structure. Made from only the best full-grain leather. The zip is down the back.

2. Classic Suede, traditional suede Half Chaps,

3. Cool : lightweight, breathable and washable. Perfect for warmer weather, long hours in the saddle or warmer people.

4. All Purpose : stretch comfort and washable. Perfect for everyday. Worn by riders the world over.

We are here to help. Call our expert, friendly team on 01730 812000 or email us on info@justchaps.com

Finding the Perfect Fit Half Chaps & Gaiters.

lady helping rider find the perfect fit riding chaps

Finding the Perfect Fit for Half Chaps & Gaiters.

Just Chaps are the specialists when it comes to Half Chaps and Gaiters. With over 20 years of experience, we fully appreciate the importance of finding the perfect fit for half chaps and gaiters. Until you have ridden without a pair of Half Chaps or with a pair that either pinch or twist, you will not know the importance of a pair of well-fitting, snug Half Chaps. They need to be close-fitting enough to prevent twisting or dropping but also comfortable to ride in. We are fully aware that riders come in all shapes and sizes and have developed the widest range of sizes to suit. Finding the correct size from such a wide selection may seem daunting but don’t worry – we are always here to help.

How to measure for Half Chaps or Gaiters

Here are our simple instructions to help you find your perfect fit.

Wearing your normal riding kit, grab a tape-measure, take a seat and follow these simple steps:

  • measure the circumference of the calf at its widest point (see image)
  • measure the length from the knee bend to floor, barefoot and seated
  • once you have these two measurements, then select the correct size from the Sizing Chart on the product page and use this size from the drop-down box as you place your order
image showing where to measure to find your size for half chaps & gaiters
Where to measure to find your perfect fit in Half Chaps & Gaiters.

Video guide: How to measure for Half Chaps & Gaiters

No Quibbles Exchange or Return.

Do not worry if your chaps or gaiters do not fit quite right. We have a simple “no quibbles” exchange or return policy – provided the items have not been worn. Simply pop them back in the post using the Returns card to confirm which size for the exchange or to ask for a refund.

Please note that because our chaps have elasticated panels, we give a range of calf-widths ie 35cm-40cm  to show the width with no stretch (the lower number) and then the width when fully stretched (the higher number). The chaps will function well if your calf measurement falls into this range – but we would advise you to choose the size where your calf-width is in the middle of the range. In this way the elastic is working to give a snug fit but there is still some give for extra comfort and flexibility

Top Tips from the Experts:

  • Choose a snug fit We always recommend a snug fit to prevent twisting and dropping. This usually means that the zip feels quite tight when starting to close.
  • All Purpose Neoprene Half Chaps  are made from very soft and stretchy neoprene and have a generous stretch panel
  • Cool Summer Half Chaps will not give as much but have a generous stretch panel
  • Super Cool Air Mesh Half Chaps are made from very stretchy air mesh and have a generous stretch panel
  • Classic Suede Half Chaps will give a little and have a generous stretch panel
  • Will the half chaps fit over chunkier boots ? All of our half chaps also have a elasticated panel over the front of the ankle to fit over chunkier riding boots as well as traditional jodhpur boots.

Finding the Perfect Fit : Saltos Leather Half Chaps

Saltos Premium Leather Half Chaps – to find the perfect fitting Leather Half Chaps wear your normal riding kit, grab a tape-measure, take a seat and follow these simple steps:

  • measure the circumference of the calf at its widest point (see image above)
  • measure the length from the knee bend to floor, barefoot and seated 

once you have these two measurements, then select the correct size from the Sizing Chart on the product page and use this size from the drop-down box as you place your order

Please note that because our chaps have elasticated panels, we give a range of calf-widths ie 35cm-40cm  to show the width with no stretch (the lower number) and then the width when fully stretched (the higher number). The chaps will function well if your calf measurement falls into this range – but we would advise you to choose the size where your calf-width is in the middle of the range. In this way the elastic is working to give a snug fit but there is still some give for extra comfort and flexibility

Top Tips from the Experts:

  • Choose a snug fit We always recommend a snug fit to prevent twisting and dropping. This usually means that the zip feels quite tight when starting to close.
  • Saltos Premium Leather Half Chaps will give a little and have a generous stretch panel.
  • Will they fit over chunkier boots ? All of our half chaps also have an elasticated panel over the front of the ankle to fit over chunkier riding boots as well as traditional jodhpur boots.
  • Did you know…. these leather Half Chaps were recently review in Horse & Hound, with a 9/10 score. Find out more here.

Finding the Perfect Fit : Saltos Premium Gaiters

Saltos Premium Leather Gaiters

To find your perfect fitting Leather Gaiters please wear your normal riding kit, grab a tape-measure, take a seat and follow these simple steps:

  • measure the circumference of the calf at its widest point (see image above)
  • measure the length from the knee bend to floor, barefoot and seated

once you have these two measurements, then select the correct size from the Sizing Chart below or on the product page and use this size from the drop-down box as you place your order

Top Tips from the Experts:

  • Choose a snug fit We always recommend a snug fit to prevent twisting and dropping. This usually means that the zip feels quite tight when starting to close.
  • Saltos Premium Leather Gaiters  are cross-lined and have a smaller stretch panel than half chaps – they will give less than all other options.

More advice – the Just Chaps team are always here to help you find that perfect fit. Call us on 01730 812000 or email info@justchaps.com

Kids’ Riding Chaps in all sizes.

child wearing leather half chaps standing with pony

Just Chaps provide riders of all ages and all riding disciplines with the widest selection of Half Chaps, Gaiters and riding waterproofs. Here we look at the various options of kids’ riding chaps and help you decide which is best for your pony-mad jockey.

Do kids need half chaps ?

The first question from most parents is “do kids need half chaps?”. The answer is a simple yes ! If you have not had your inner calf pinched between the saddle and the stirrup straps then we forgive you for asking. It hurts a lot and discourages the rider from putting their leg on. The solution is a pair of well-fitting half chaps.

Which half chaps are best for my child?

The next question is which kids’ half chaps are most suited to your young jockey? Just Chaps has two main options:

Saltos Premium Leather: our premium leather half chaps & gaiters are perfect for kids who are looking for a smarter look. Made from beautifully soft aniline leather they are well cut to hug the leg and easy to keep clean. The Saltos range are sturdy enough for everyday use, yet smart enough for posh days out. Available in Black and Brown from size Child Small to Child Tall. Don’t miss our new size Child Medium 1, which allows a bit more room for calf.

leather riding half chaps for kids
Saltos Premium Leather Half Chaps

All Purpose Neoprene: our best-selling half chaps – these kids’ riding chaps are made from stretchy neoprene for comfort and fit. Designed by our in-house team, they have great shape and are great looking. These half chaps look smart and are perfect for all pony riding activities. These half chaps do not dig in and so are ideal for little legs. They are washable too; simply fasten the zip and velcro and pop in the washer on a gentle 30 degrees cycle. Hang to dry. Available in Black, Brown and Hot Pink, the All Purpose range are available from toddler Age 2 (Dinky Dinky) through to Child Tall.

All Purpose Neoprene Kids’ Half Chaps

Which size Half Chaps?

Do not worry; we are here to help. Take a look here at our Sizing Guide, this will help you find the Perfect Fit. You will need a tape measure – then simply measure the calf at its widest and length of leg from crease of the knee (where you would like the chaps to sit, down to the floor – while you are seated and wearing no shoes). You will use those two measurements on the Sizing Chart to find the best size half chaps for your child.

Where to measure for Half Chaps

Why Half Chaps ?

Half Chaps are a smart yet inexpensive solution for young riders. Children grow quickly; the Half Chaps solutions allows parents to only buy jockey boots or Half Chaps, whichever the child needs. The Just Chaps range of kids’ riding chaps also fits over a more chunkier riding boot.

Should you have any product or sizing queries, please call us on 01730 812000 or email on info@justchaps.com. We are here to help.

Leather Half Chaps recommended by Horse & Hound.

leather half chaps in black by just chaps

Saltos Leather Half Chaps score 9/10.

In 2022 Saltos Leather Half Chaps were tested by Horse & Hound News Editor, Eleanor Jones. Eleanor put the chaps through a thorough test for style, fit and value. The Just Chaps Saltos brand scored an impressive 9/10.

“These Just Chaps Saltos half chaps are beautiful and made of lovely supple leather – they are the best leather half chaps I’ve tried. They’re smart enough to compete in and fit beautifully”

Saltos is the Just Chaps range of leather half chaps and gaiters. The Half Chaps combine the good looks and structure of more formal gaiters with the comfort and practicality of half chaps. This makes them perfect for both competition and everyday riding. The soft, supple leather is finished with an elegant Spanish top line.

Eleanor also commented on the sturdy, easy to reach zip with popper studs at top and bottom for added security. The stretch panels on the calf were another positive for a smart look and add a great flexibility. The stretch area at the front “toe” allows the chaps to be worn with chunkier riding boots.

Winning range of sizes

Our wide range of sizes is another winning attribute. With a calf width of 35cm and length (knee to floor) of 42cm , Eleanor found the Small to be a perfect fit. Fit score: 9/10

The final test is for value for money where Saltos compared very favourably with other brands. Value score: 8/10.

Read the whole review here.

We are constantly assessing our range of sizes and earlier in 2022 brought out what we think is a missing size, Child Medium 1. This addtional size is the same length as Child Medium but with a little more room for Calf. Here it is.

Saltos Premium Leather Half Chaps are available to buy direct from Just Chaps here or at our shops in the retail villages at most major events

Eleanor Jones

News editor

Eleanor joined Horse & Hound as news editor in March 2016. She now has two warmblood mares who she competes at British Showjumping events. She has made some exploratory forays into dressage but since her mark sheets have contained phrases such as “unexpected manoeuvre between C and M” and “well sat”, tends to stick to the jumping.

Half Chaps for Children

Here at Just Chaps, the Half Chaps specialist, we pride ourselves on supplying all riders with a great selection of riding leg wear. And half chaps for children is no exception. Let’s look at all options:

All Purpose Half Chaps for Toddlers

All Purpose are the original Half Chaps and still a best seller today. We use neoprene because it’s stretchy and comfy and does not dig in to little legs. It is also washable. All of the Just Chaps Half Chaps are cut to our own design so as to hug the leg, offer support and be comfortable. Here are a few options of half chaps. All Purpose are available in Black, Brown and Hot Pink. There are also a few fun options.

Half Chaps with Tractor motif.  Tractor chaps for tractor-mad chaps. Cute and comfy.

Half  Chaps with Unicorn. Cute pink or black chaps with a unicorn motif.

Half Chaps with National Flag.  Wear your flag of choice. Available in all Child sizes.

If you have any questions regarding our products, please call our expert, friendly team on 01730 812000 or email info@justchaps.com – we’re here to help !

The Half Chaps Specialists.

Just Chaps Saltos Premium Leather Half Chaps Blk 6

The Half Chaps Specialists.

For over 20 years, the team at Just Chaps have been concentrating on improving the riding experience of their customers. Continual experimentation with new leathers and fabrics, more sophisticated cuts and the latest technology in zips and fasteners has produced a range of half chaps to suit riders of all ages and size, to function in all weather conditions and to perform in all equestrian disciplines.

We understand that riders’ legs come in all shapes and sizes and have designed shaped cuts and stretch panels to allow a snug but comfortable fit. We have developed the widest range of lengths and calf widths – from our Dinky sizes for toddlers from 2 years old to our popular Medium Extra Wide and Small Extra Wide for larger calfs. We have also recently released a new “Find the Perfect Fit” guide with simple instructions to make it easier for you to find the right size.

As well as differing shapes and sizes, we understand that different disciplines and weather conditions present different challenges and requirements and have developed a solution for every occasion:

  • For competition and more formal situations, our new Saltos leather half chaps offer the elegant look and feel of a classic gaiter combined with the comfort and ease of more simple side-zip half chaps.
  • For everyday hacking and schooling our original All Purpose neoprene half chaps are comfortable, hard wearing and washable.
  • For riding in the heat or longer distances, our Summer Cool faux suede are perforated to allow your legs to breath, easy to wash and quick to dry.

At Just Chaps we are committed to continuous improvement and welcome feedback to enable us to provide the perfect look and fit for all riders and every occasion.

What is the difference between Half Chaps and Gaiters ?

What is the difference between Half Chaps and Gaiters ?

Here we look at what is the difference between half chaps and gaiters. Being the specialists in the field, we talk you through the similarities and differences and help you to decide which option is best for you.

Why do Riders need Half Chaps or Gaiters ?

Before we look at the differences between the two, it is important to understand why this piece of riding kit is so important. Both Half Chaps & Gaiters protect the inside of the lower leg from pinching between the saddle and the stirrup strap. Any rider who has ridden without this protection will tell you just how uncomfortable – and scarring ! this can be.

Half Chaps

Half chaps are just that. They are not full chaps. The original full chaps – full-length leg covering worn by the cowboys of Mexico (The Chapparal), to protect their legs from gorze and scrubland.

History lesson aside, here are key features of Half Chaps:

  • They protect the lower leg from rubbing and pinching of the stirrup strap
  • Can offer support of the lower leg for the rider
  • Protects the lower leg from knocks and scrapes when our hacking
  • Half chaps have the zip down the side of the leg and zip downwards from the knee
  • Half chaps usually have elasticated panels at the side and/or ankle to allow for greater flexibility and comfort
  • Half chaps tend to have a slight shaping at the top
  • Half Chaps can be made from a variety of textiles: leather, suede, neoprene, faux suede
  • Half Chaps tend to be cheaper than gaiters
  • Half Chaps tend to be used more for everyday riding, rather than forcompetition

Half Chaps made from neoprene in brown adult size from Just Chaps

All Purpose Half Chaps with side zip

Leather Gaiters in brown adult sizes by Just Chaps

Saltos Gaiters with the Spanish top-line and back zip.

Leather Half Chaps in black adult sizes by Just Chaps

New Generation Saltos Half Chaps with Spanish top-line and size zip.

Gaiters

Gaiters are similar to Half Chaps in that they protect the lower leg.  Key differences Gaiters are that :

  • the zip is at the back
  • the zip generally zips from the bottom to the top
  • the back zip design allows for a neater size view and is intended to replicate the look of a long boot
  •  they are generally made from leather to replicate the look of a long boot
  • they offer a less expensive option than long boots
  • they offer many more sizing options than long boots

We are thrilled that our design recently won Best Value Gaiters in Horse & Rider Magazine. Take a look here at what the Horse & Rider team say about this great product.

But the team at Just Chaps just couldn’t leave it there – and have designed the next generation of riding leg wear that combines the functionality of half chaps with the elegance of gaiters.

Saltos New Generation half chaps have an elegant Spanish top line and a revolutionary disguised elasticated leather side panel to give the more formal look of gaiters, but at the same time have a side zip and added flexibility for greater comfort and ease of putting on.

For help with sizing take a look at our guide “Find the Perfect Fit”.  If you’d prefer to chat, call our expert friendly team on 01730 812000 or email us at info@justchaps.com.

Which Half Chaps are best for Summer ?

photo showing black cool half chaps

Summer Cool Half Chaps & Riding Gloves

Getting hot and bothered in the saddle? Just Chaps have the solution with  Summer Cool Half Chaps and Summer Riding gloves. Just Chaps developed their range of Summer lightweight chaps several years ago following requests from endurance riders who found the original neoprene chaps too warm during the summer months. Demand for Summer Cool Chaps quickly took off.

As we all know, riding in the warmer months can get uncomfortable. The Just Chaps range of kit, designed especially for summer riding – and long hours in the saddle – is a great help. Let’s have a look at the options:

Summer Cool Half Chaps 

Summer Cool Half Chaps are made from perforated faux-suede to let your legs breathe.  They are both comfortable and lightweight. Comfortable – they are cut to our very own design to hug the leg and offer a great fit. The lightweight, perforated fabric makes summer riding easier. They are washable too; simply fasten the velcro and zip and wash on a gentle 30 degree cycle. Hang to dry. Horse & Rider magazine recommend them here

Summer Riding Gloves

The Summer-weight Riding Gloves are the latest addition to the Just Chaps range. Making gloves is tricky and more often than not, unsuccessful. To make gloves that fit, are comfortable and suited to the job requires a dedicated team. As soon as you try on our Summer-weight gloves, you will know that our team has got it spot on.  We use a high-quality faux leather on the palm and fingers which is both durable and lightweight; it also allows for great grip and feel. The top of the gloves is a stretch mesh, super lightweight and appropriate for the warmer months. The smart navy colour and bit of bling on the strap complete a smart look.

Summer Combo

We have put together our two main Summer products – the Summer Cool Half Chaps and the Summer-weight riding gloves. Take a look on-line or call our expert, friendly team on 01730 812000 for more help.

 

What Are the Different Types of Leather We Use?

Types of leather for chaps

At Just Chaps we use three different types of leather in the manufacture of our half-chaps, gaiters and full chaps to deliver different properties and performance to each.

Types of leather

Full Grain Leather

Full Grain Leather is the hardest-wearing leather that includes the very top layer of the hide that evolved to protect the animal from the elements and injury. We use this in all our leather half-chaps.

Aniline Leather

The very best full-grain leather can be further strengthened into Aniline Leather through secondary treatment with tanning agents that still preserve the beautiful natural grain of the leather and which we use in our premium Saltos Gaiters.

Suede Leather

Our Suede Leather full chaps use the softer and more flexible internal layer of the hide to give maximum comfort and flexibility.

Caring for Leather

To care for and clean Full Grain and Analine leather we recommend that you dry the items first and then brush off loose mud with a soft brush before wiping with a damp cloth and saddle soap and allowing to dry again. Then apply quality leather conditioning oil.

With Suede, you can use a stiffer brush – even copper wire – to remove dry mud and to restore the natural nap.

Looking for perfect-fitting leather half chaps? We have the answer.

Saltos leather half chaps by just chaps in all sizes

Saltos Half Chaps, the next generation by Just Chaps.

Looking for great-looking and perfect-fitting Leather Half Chaps? Saltos are the answer. The team at Just Chaps have developed the ideal leather half chaps that bridge the gap between gaiters (which can be tricky to fasten) and Half Chaps (with a size zip).

Saltos Half Chaps are the result of much trial and effort to perfect design and fit. Designed by our in-house team, Saltos brings riders close-fitting chaps that contour the leg, whilst at the same time offer comfort and movement. The cut is elegant with a shaped Spanish top-line. The shaping around the ankle allows riders to wear virtually any riding boot, from a traditional Jodphur boot to a more chunky option, yet is at the same time shapely and neat to the ankle. 

The zip is strong but not bulky. Behind the zip is the leather elastic panel. This is critical. Cleverly made by thinly splicing leather which is then adhered to elastic. The result is an “elasticated leather” panel which not only looks elegant but has a surprising stretch and allows for a comfortable, leg-hugging design. 

Saltos Leather Half Chaps represent a new generation of stylish and comfy leg wear for the rider looking for a comfortable smart option. Where traditional gaiters, with a back zip, can be problematic to some riders, Saltos Half Chaps are the perfect solution with easy-to-fasten side zip.  With Saltos quickly becoming another best-seller, our perfect-fitting leather half chaps are another winner. 

Available in an extended range of sizes – from Child Small to fit the average 8 year old to Child Tall, for the tall and willowy. In adult sizes we have 6 calf widths and the specialism doesn’t end there – with a Medium Tall and Extra Large, we feel confident that almost every rider that visits our shop can walk away with very smart, perfect-fitting leather half chaps.  Take a look at our new guide Finding The Perfect Fit for the ideal fit for you.

You no longer have to choose between looks and comfort –  Saltos Half Chaps really do bridge the gap between gaiters and half chaps. 

But don’t just take our word for it, Horse & Hound reporter Eleanor Jones recently voted our Saltos half chaps as “the best half chaps I’ve tried“. Here’s what Eleanor had to say

For more information, call the specialists on 01730 812000 or contact us at info@justchaps.com