Category: Premium Leather Half Chaps & Gaiters

The Ultimate Guide to Leather Riding Half Chaps & Gaiters.

Date posted: 06/05/2024

lady jockey sat on a stool wearing leather riding gaiters

As the UK’s leading equestrian specialist in Half Chaps & Gaiters, here is the ultimate guide to finding your perfect-fitting leather riding gaiters and half chaps. Here we answer several frequently asked questions which will help you buy the right product and fit for you.

Why Choose Just Chaps?

Just Chaps has been designing and manufacturing Half Chaps & Gaiters for more than 20 years. During that time we have developed a full range of products which not only fit riders really well but look great too. In a nutshell, we have great products that do a great job. We also care. Call us – we are human and we aim to help.

Why do I need Half Chaps or Gaiters?

Most riders will understand the need to protect the inner calf when riding. The stirruThe million dollar question but easy to answer. Gaiters have the zip down the back of the leg. Half Chaps have the zip down the outside of the leg. Gaiters give the rider the look of a long boot and are the smartest option. Half Chaps, possibly not so formal, though our Saltos are super smart, are a more all-rounder.

Why Leather is Best.

We only use the best aniline leather for our Saltos range of Half Chaps & Gaiters. Aniline leather is cut from only the best hides, typically full-grain, which is the top leather. The main difference with aniline is the dyeing process. Aniline leather is dyed using only soluable dyes without any surface coating. This allows the natural characteristics and texture of the leather to be shown.

Which size do I need?

We are here to help you find the perfect fit. And if, for some reason, we don’t get it right first time, we’ll fix it. First things first, you will need a tape measure. Then visit our Sizing Calculator – you’ll find this on each product page and it looks like this:

Simple follow the guide. Firstly make sure you’re in the correct product – Saltos Gaiters (with the back zip) or Saltos Half Chaps (with the zip down the side). Measure your calf and input the number into the box. The Calculator will offer you length options (when products allow). Measure the length of the back of your lower leg – from the crease behind the knee (where you would like the chaps to sit) down to the floor. Pick the length that will work best for you. The calculator then suggests sizes for you. You may have a tighter or looser option. It’s personal preference.

Just Chaps Sizing Calculator for Saltos leather riding gaiters and half chaps.

Are they comfortable?

In a word, yes! And here’s why:

Saltos Gaiters are designed to our very own shape. This means that the actual shape of the human lower leg has been given much thought. This clever pattern is shaped to give you an elegant, elongated look. The ankle is as close fitting as possible. The elastic panels that run down either side of the zip are strong yet flexible. They allow ease of movement and mean that you can wear a super snug fit.

Saltos Half Chaps – with the side zip – have a unique stretch leather panel on the calf. Yes – stretch leather. We thinly splice the leather and stick it down over stretched elastic. Once set, we release it to produce a wonderfully useful super stretchy panel which accommodates all shapes and sizes of calf.

If you’re still not sure, here’s what a panel of professional riders at Horse & Hound thought of our Saltos Half Chaps. Proud as a peacock , here’s how Horse & Rider magazine felt about our wonderfully fitting Saltos Half Chaps.

How do I care for my leather riding gaiters?

This is quick and easy. Simply take a damp sponge with a little soap. Use this to wash off mud and dander. Please don’t over wet the leather. Then feed the leather with your favourite oil or food. Simple!

Will the Half Chaps or Gaiters go out of shape?

In a word – no. And this is why:

Saltos Gaiters are lined with a breathable faux suede. This ensures that they do not sag or wrinkle. Bear this in mind when picking your size, the leather riding gaiters will soften and mold to your leg but will not give.

Saltos Leather Half Chaps have a unique stretch leather panel. This allows a super snug fit and accommodates legs of all shapes and sizes. The main body of the chaps will give a little as the leather here is unlined, however the stretch panel maintains great shape and a snug fit.

horse rider in the saddle wearing Saltos leather half chaps.
male jockey sat in the yard wearing Saltos Leather Half Chaps
Saltos Leather Half Chaps
horse rider sat wearing Just Chaps leather riding gaiteres
Saltos Leather Riding Gaiters

Call us today

We hope our guide pointed you to your perfect fit of gaiters or half chaps. To order, visit www.justchaps.com or call us on 01403 820887. We hope to hear from you soon.

Finding the Perfect Fit Half Chaps & Gaiters.

Date posted: 12/07/2022

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

Leather Half Chaps recommended by Horse & Hound.

Date posted: 14/06/2022

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.

Leather Riding Chaps or Gaiters ? Trust Just Chaps.

Date posted: 05/11/2021

lady jockey sat on a stool wearing leather riding gaiters

Decisions, decisions…

No more agonising over which leather riding chaps are best for you. Here at Just Chaps we have developed an extensive range of leather riding chaps and gaiters so that every rider can find their perfect fit and style. What we are so often asked is which would be best for me ? Let’s look at the differences between the two styles to help you make this decision.

Saltos Leather Riding Chaps

Saltos is the name of our premium brand of leather half chaps & gaiters. We use only the best aniline leather with an elasticated-leather panel down the side of the zip. This leather panel is cleverly made by stretching very fine leather over stretched elastic. This produces a neat panel with a surprising amount of stretch. The zip is positioned down the side of the leg – which some people find easier than a zip at the back – and secured with a strong popper at the top and the bottom. For style, the top has an elegant Spanish top line. The design produces great looking and great fitting riding chaps. These chaps can be worn over chunky riding boots – ideal for riding holidays or endurance riding. All sizes are available from Child Small with wide-fits a speciality.

Read why Horse & Hound recommend these here.

Saltos leather riding chaps in all sizes by Just Chaps

Leather Riding Chaps in all adult sizes.

Saltos Leather Riding Gaiters

Our Gaiters are also made from this high quality leather and they are cross-lined to prevent them going out of shape. The result is a structured yet comfortable smart riding option. The main difference between riding chaps and gaiters is the zip – gaiters are zipped down the back, whereas riding chaps are zipped down the side of the leg. An elastic panels are added down each side of the zip which allows for a comfortable fit with good amount of give. The sturdy zip is secured at the top with a sturdy popper. Recently crowned “Best Value” by Horse & Rider magazine, you can confident of a great product at a great price. Saltos Gaiters come in a wide range of sizes with wide-fits a speciality.

We hope that this has explained the main differences between leather riding chaps & gaiters. To find the best size for you simply grab your tape measure and follow our Find Your Perfect Fit guide. Should you have any further product queries simply call our expert team on 01730 812000 or email info@justchaps.com.

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

Date posted: 22/07/2019

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 

Which Riding Chaps will fit over Chunky Boots?

Date posted: 12/03/2019

lady horse rider wearing Just Chaps Cool Half Chaps with chunky riding boots

Why Just Chaps ?

As the UK’s leading equestrian specialist in riding half chaps and gaiters, we have more options and more sizes to fit more riders. Here’s how we help riders to find riding chaps to fit over their chunky boots.

Find the perfect riding chaps to fit over your chunky boots

Riders regularly ask which riding chaps will fit over a chunky riding boots. Just Chaps can offer several options that work with this popular footwear, giving riders lots of choice with colour, style and size. Here’s what we offer:

Half Chaps are designed to fit over larger boots

The design of our Half Chaps is given a lot of careful consideration.  Both the overall shape and functionality of each section, especially the area around the ankle, is designed with particular care. We want the area around the ankle to accommodate various styles of boot, including the more chunky options, and we introduced a “concertina panel” behind the zip and at the “toe” of the chaps to allow room for such boots as the Ariat Telluride or Kentucky. The combination of concertina panels, and use of neoprene (in the All Purpose Half Chaps) allows a great flexibility of fit so that they can be worn easily over a traditional jodhpur boot or stretched over a chunky boot, such as the Ariat Telluride.

Just Chaps options to wear with chunky riding boots

All Purpose – all-time best selling Half Chaps that fit well and look great. Made from stretchy comfortable neoprene and available in black and brown and in all sizes from Age 2 to Adult Extra Wide.

Saltos Half Chaps  – another award-winning product, scoring 9/10 in Horse & Hound. Made from full-grain, soft leather with a unique stretch-leather panel which allows these chaps to be worn with chunkier boots. Perfect for posh days out, yet durable enough for every day wear. All sizes.

Classic Suede – traditional half chaps made from soft yet hard wearing suede. Adult sizes.

Cool – made from perforated faux suede. The little perforations let your legs breathe. Perfect for warmer weather, warmer people. Or just many hours in the saddle. Worn and love by Endurance riders in the Mongol Derby year after year. 

In a nutshell, all of our half chaps, as described above, will fit over Chunky Boots. Our only product that will not fit over a heavier boot is the Saltos Gaiters, which are designed to be worn over a traditional jodphur boot. But that’s another story. 

We hope that this helps when you’re looking for your next pair of riding chaps. If you have any questions, please call our expert, friendly team on 01403 820887, or email info@justchaps.com. We look forward to meeting you!