What is the difference between Half Chaps and Gaiters ?
Here we look at what the difference is between half chaps and gaiters. Just Chaps are the equestrian specialist, providing more riders with riding chaps and gaiters. Here 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. This article tells you more about the benefits of riding chaps.
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. Full Chaps cover the full length of the legs from the top down to the ankle.
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 out 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 for competition
- Half Chaps can be worn with chunky riding boots, making them an excellent choice for riding holidays, endurance riding and long hours in the saddle.
All Purpose Half Chaps with side zip
Saltos Gaiters with the Spanish top-line and back zip.
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 :
- we position the zip at the back
- the zip works from the bottom to the top
- our back zip design gives a neater size view and replicates the look of a long boot
- to replicate the look of a long boot, we make our gaiters from leather
- 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.
Read more about our Saltos Leather Gaiters here.
The New Generation – Saltos Leather Half Chaps
Our Development team pondered – something needed to change. After months in development, we are thrilled to offer riders Saltos Leather Half Chaps. With a revolutionary stretch leather panel and better shaping, Just Chaps launched the next generation of riding leg wear.
Saltos Half Chaps have an elegant Spanish top line and a revolutionary disguised elasticated leather side panel to give the more formal look of gaiters. The side zip remains as it gives riders an easier option.
Read more about this revolutionary product here.
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 01403 820887 or email us at info@justchaps.com.