What are riding chaps used for? Riding chaps (also known as half chaps or gaiters) are worn with short riding – or jodphur boots to protect the lower leg and give support when in the saddle. They help prevent rubbing from the stirrup strap, can offer extra grip and support, and keep your legs protected from the elements when riding or working around horses.

They’re a popular choice for everyday riding because they combine flexibility, comfort, and protection without the bulk and extra expense of full-length boots.

What are riding chaps?

Riding chaps are protective leg coverings worn over jodhpurs or breeches to improve comfort, grip, and protection while riding.  They come in two main variants: full chaps, which offer complete leg coverage, and half chaps, which cover from the ankle to below the knee and are usually worn with short riding boots. Consequently, Half Chaps provide a practical, flexible alternative to traditional long riding boots for everyday riding.

What are the Benefits of Riding Chaps?

• Full Chaps are an essential piece of riding kit. They keep the rider clean; warm and dry.
• Half Chaps are worn to protect the lower leg from pinching of the stirrup strap.

All Just Chaps products are designed by riders for riders. Indeed, design and development has been ongoing  since 2003 and the brand – now reputedly known as the UK specialist – are proud to have more sizes and styles to fit more riders.  Here we look in more detail at Full Chaps and Half Chaps.

Benefits of Full Chaps for everyday riding

• Full Chaps protect the legs from the weather – espcially during colder months or colder climates riders favour Dri Rider Fleece-lined waterproof full chaps
• Full Chaps protect the legs from the weather – generally for warm, wet weather Dri-Rider Lightweight Full Chaps are perfect
• protect the legs from knocks and scrapes when out riding
• keep the rider clean in preparation for competition

Benefits of Half Chaps for everyday riding

• easier to fit and wear than prohibitively expensive long boots
• easy to wear with any short jodphur boots
• protect the lower leg from pinching of the stirrup strap
• variety of styles allows for specific Half Chaps for warmer weather or smart leather for competition
• variety of sizes allows riders of all sizes to find a comfortalbe fit Tall, Short, Wide Calf or Narrow.
• comfortable for every day riding or long hours in the saddle

Half Chaps or Full Chaps ?

• Half Chaps protect the lower half of the leg and are required for every day riding
• Full Chaps protect the full length of the leg and keep the rider warm, clean and dry

Do you need Riding Chaps?

If you ride, riding chaps are one of the most practical upgrades you can make. They improve comfort, protect the legs and can help with a secure feeling in the saddle.

Can Beginners Wear Half Chaps?

Half Chaps will certainly make a big difference to beginners and are often better and much more cost effective than long boots.

To learn more, call on 01403 820887 or visit www.justchaps.com

Decision time.

Which Half Chaps are best for the Mongol Derby? Kelsey Elliot’s training is in full swing. As the weeks tick by, her kit needs to be chosen. Here we look at the importance of reliable kit, as athletes for the Mongol Derby prepare for their big adventure. Just Chaps is confident that their products are deisgned and manufactured to such great quality to supply riders for this world-renowned race.

Reliable kit.

For any endurance race, your choice of Half Chaps is critical.  Half Chaps provide protection, comfort, warmth and grip. They offer protection from bruising, scratches and pinching. Competitors in the Mongol Derby spend long hours on horseback each day and rely on Half Chaps to provide an extra layer of protection from chafing and rubbing. A perfect fit is essential. Half chaps that fit snug and secure reduce the likelihood of blisters. At Just Chaps we have several options which will be ideal for the job. 

Hours in the Saddle

One of the most important things in preparing for the world’s longest horse race is hours is the saddle. “There’s no way to prepare for 1,000 km before I get there, so long days will just have to do! As the days tick down closer and closer to the Mongol Derby, I am riding as much as possible, reports Kelsey.

My big milestone in prepping is an upcoming trip to the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina. I will be spending a week in the area, riding all day every day, starting with a 25 mile endurance ride on the first day. This solid week of riding will be a great way for me to gauge how far along I am in my training and how far I still need to go.

Getting the horses in shape for the ride at Biltmore is a challenge, especially this early in the season—the weather is less than cooperative. Long, slow hill work and lots of trotting is the start of getting fit, and then adding either distance or speed each ride, but never both at the same time.

It goes without saying that my All Purpose chaps from Just Chaps are one thing I don’t need to worry about – they do the job perfectly. Read more about this fantastic product here.

If you’re competing in the Mongol Derby, contact us today on 01403 820887 or info@justchaps.com to discuss finding your perfect fit.

You can read more about why Just Chaps are specialists in their field here.

Interested in wearing our award-winning Saltos leather range in the Mongol Derby? – you can read all about them here.

Sheila Bruce Talks About Her Passion for Endurance

What Is SERC?

For many years, Just Chaps has supported Scottish Endurance. We are lucky to have connections with The Scottish Endurance Riding Club (SERC) which comprises nine branches spread across Scotland. These branches stretch from the west, east, and south, reaching as far north as Orkney. Scottish Endurance provides an excellent opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals while exploring the stunning Scottish countryside. This discipline allows members to travel and participate in rides with their favourite four-legged companions. Ride distances vary, starting from 8 km and extending up to 160 km in a single day, with some events spanning two or three days.

One of the highlights of the year is the Scottish Festival of Endurance, held at a different venue annually. This exciting event guarantees riders an adventure, featuring breathtaking tracks and challenging hills that showcase Scotland’s natural beauty.

Just Chaps Connects with Endurance Riding

The connection between Just Chaps and endurance riding runs deep. The founder of Just Chaps was an endurance rider who passionately supported this equestrian discipline. Over the years, the bond has grown stronger. As the current owner of Just Chaps explains, “Not only did we have a true connection with this sport, but we also dedicated years of product development to perfecting Half Chaps for endurance riders.”

Half Chaps: Perfect for Endurance

The goal was clear—developing a range of Half Chaps tailored specifically for endurance riders. Above all, these Half Chaps needed to prioritize comfort and durability. After months of meticulous product development, the team finally achieved the ideal shape and pattern for their “All Purpose Half Chaps“.

Comfort

Sheila Bruce, a devoted SERC competitor, enthusiastically shares her appreciation for Just Chaps’ continued sponsorship of the Scottish Endurance Championships. Many SERC competitors favour the breathable Summer Cool Chaps, which are particularly suited for endurance riding. Comfort is paramount in this sport, and the Cool Chaps offer an exceptionally comfortable experience. Made from lightweight faux suede, they are soft, flexible, and mould easily to the rider’s leg. It’s no wonder they are a go-to choice for many riders.

For further insights into these popular lightweight Half Chaps, check out our blog, “Which Half Chaps Are Best for Summer.”

Durability

Durability is non-negotiable for endurance riders also. Their kit must endure hours of rigorous use without failing. At Just Chaps, we are unwavering in our commitment to providing riding chaps you can rely on. Through stringent quality control checks and constant innovation, we ensure our products meet the highest standards. We stay updated on advancements in zips, poppers, technical fabrics, and other relevant textiles to maintain our high standards.

As the Half Chaps specialists, we offer various designs and sizes to suit every rider. If you’re unsure which Half Chaps are best for you, explore our article for top tips before purchasing. Need help with sizing? Take a look here. We’re here to assist!

A Legacy of Support

With over 20 years of history and a strong affinity for endurance riding, Just Chaps is proud to support Scottish Endurance and this discipline as a whole. Our commitment to providing high-quality Half Chaps ensures that riders can focus on their performance and enjoy their time in the saddle.

We’re always happy to chat! If you’d like to discuss our products, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 01403 820887.

Find the perfect children’s Half Chaps.

Half Chaps for Young Riders: Comfort, Style & Durability

At Just Chaps, we understand the importance of finding riding kit that works for young riders. Whether you’re looking for something comfortable for daily rides or a stylish choice for competitions, we offer a wide variety of half chaps and gaiters for children of all sizes. From age 2 up to Child Tall, our half chaps are designed to fit every shape and size, ensuring that your young rider is both comfortable and confident in the saddle.

Why do young riders need Half Chaps?

Children need half chaps to provide comfort, support, and protection while riding. They help prevent chafing from the stirrup straps, offer a degree of stability thereby making it easier for young riders to remain comfortable. Half chaps also protect the lower legs from scratches and bumps, while offering flexibility and breathability for all-day wear. Designed to fit growing riders, they’re an essential piece of equestrian gear that enhances both safety and performance.

Here are the various options of children’s Half Chaps: 

All Purpose Half Chaps

The All Purpose Half Chaps are our best-seller simply because young riders love them !

Key features of All Purpose Half Chaps include: 

• Made from stretchy, comfortable neoprene

• Machine washable for easy care

• Available in Black and Brown and all sizes

• Comfortable and perfect for everyday use or competitions

Just Fun Half Chaps

We have Just Fun options that younger riders will love. Just Fun are made from neoprene like the All Purpose above but with the addition of a fun motif. 

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 with pride. Available in all Child sizes.

Saltos Leather Half Chaps

Saltos leather Half Chaps are a comfortable and smart option for children. Key features include:

• made from soft leather for comfort and flexibility
• the unique stretch leather panel offers a great fit 
• smart enough for competition yet durable for every day
• available in all sizes from Child Small to Child Tall to fit all children

Horse & Hound’s test riders scored Saltos leather 9/10. Read their comments here. 

Saltos Gaiters

Another winning product – voted “Best Value” in Horse & Rider. Beautifully made from a great design to fit all young riders – these gaiters will be their firm favourite. Take a look at them here. 

If you’d like to learn more about our Saltos range of Leather Half Chaps and Gaiters, there’s more detail in this article here. 

What Size Half Chaps for my Child?

At a glance, our child sizes are available as follows:

Dinky Dinky   DD   Approx Age 2

Child Super Small CSS     Approx Age 4

Extra Small    CXS    Approx Age 5-6

Small             CS      Approx Age 7-8

Medium         CM    Approx Age 8-10

Large              CL     Approx Age 10-12

Tall                  CT     Age 10+ tall and slim

For more detailed information relating to sizing, we recommend you measure the calf at its widest and length of leg from back of knee to floor (with the rider sat and without shoes)….. then head over to the product page of choice.  For a detailed read on sizing, take a look at a blog here. If you’d like to chat it through with us, call the team on 01403 820887. 

Waterproofs for Children

Children feel the cold much more than adults and can understandably stuggle out in yard in bad weather. Just Chaps have developed a complete range of waterproofs for young riders to keep them warm and dry. Our range is perfect for in the yard, in the saddle and at shows. You can read about our range of waterproofs here. Caring for waterproofs is easier than you might think, we talk you throught it here. 

If you have any questions regarding our products – in particular our half chaps for children, please call us on 01403 820887, or email info@justchaps.com – we’re here to help !

Looking after leather Half Chaps.

Looking after leather half chaps and gaiters is an important but simple task. Here are our top tips on keeping your leather riding chaps in great condition.

Like all natural products, leather needs regular care and cleaning to keep it supple and stop it cracking or splitting.

The Saltos range is made from the best “aniline” leather. Aniline leather is the most natural looking – you can see the grain in our products – and can be made from only the best quality hides. This gives a luxurious finish with a natural look. If you’d like more information on leather, take a read here.

Here are our top tips on how to clean and care for your leather gaiters and half chaps. This helps to keep them looking great and prolong their life.

• For gaiters and half chaps that are just dusty and a bit scuffed, brush with a soft dry brush and apply a leather conditioner.
• For dirtier items, start by removing excess mud and dander with a soft brush. Then with a warm, soapy cloth, remove the residue of mud and dander (but go easy – do not soak the leather)
• You can use saddle soap – but avoid detergents
• You may need to dip the elastic heel strap in the water to remove stubborn mud
• Wipe off excess water and the last of the mud with a cloth and leave to dry gently at room temperature
• When almost dry, apply a leather conditioner

If you’re unsure which of our Saltos range are best for you, take a look at our blog that tells you all about Saltos Leather Half Chaps and Saltos Gaiters. 

Learn more about our Saltos Half Chaps here. Saltos Gaiters are here.

Both of our Saltos Leather products are award-winners; winning accolades in Horse and Rider and Horse and Hound.  

Read about how Just Chaps has become the Half Chaps specialist here. 

For more info about our range visit justchaps.com or call us on 01403 820887.