Essential Dri-Rider Waterproofs – everything you need to know.
Here is your ultimate guide to essential Dri-Rider waterproofs, a complete range of waterproof trousers and full chaps designed for riders by Just Chaps.
Just Chaps have successfully developed a complete range of technical waterproofs for riders. Here’s more about each product, development of the Dri-Rider brand and why we feel sure you will love them.
Are waterproofs for riders really essential ?
In a word – yes ! You may remember Just Chaps’ original waterproof over trousers – they were simple in design, basically two rectangles with an elasticated waist, brought together by two full-length zips. In their day, they were brilliant – you could whip them off in the saddle (!), required little or no maintenance and kept you pretty much dry and clean. However, they didn’t fit very well and they could make you a bit warm.
The original waterproof riding trousers, simple yet very effective.
Product Development
Textiles
Just Chaps began to research how waterproofs for riding could be improved both in terms of fabric and product design. The team visualised riding trousers that were comfortable and easy to wear and reliably waterproof.
The revolutionary microporous membrane was now available (think Goretex). This clever, wispy thin membrane worked by having tiny holes – or pores – which were too small to allow water in – but still large enough to allow water vapour (ie sweat) out. No more plasticated fabric. The membrane would sit under the tough nylon outer layer and do the wonderful job of allowing moisture vapour to escape but not let rain droplets through.
To finish off the trousers, the team added a lightweight inner lining to provide protection for the microporous membrane. The lining wicks away any moisture that gathered inside the trouser, either due to warm, humid weather or the rider working hard and generating a lot of body heat.
The all-important micro-porous membrane.
Shape
The development team also changed the cut and fit of the trousers, adding several new features.
- Well cut and fitting – so they fit like a proper pair of trousers
- Slim in the leg – but just wide enough to take a pair of country boots (with boot access zips up to the calf)
- With a non-slip seat
- Nice and high in the waist to keep out drafts
- With stirrup straps to avoid ride up (which of course are adjustable and removable).
Sizes for all riders
With the shape and textiles agreed, the next challenge was the range of sizes. Wanting to fit the vast majority of riders Adult sizes ranged from XS – which is approximately a size 8 to XXL – approximately a size 18. All adult sizes are made in 3 leg lengths. Child sizes are made from Age 6 to Age 12. Toddler are also made for Age 2 and Age 4.
Multi Award-winning
In 2018 Horse and Hound awarded the new trousers “Best in Test”. Just Chaps won their first professional accolade at the London Olympia Horse Show and never looked back. We followed our first industry award by formally branding the range “Dri-Rider”. The Dri-Rider range is now formally registered as a Trademark. Dri-Rider Waterproof Systems is recognised for uncompromising, all-weather performance for riders. Following an upgrade (more about that in the paragraph below) the trousers won their second industry award in 2023.
Time for an Upgrade
It was time to look at the next generation of waterproof fabrics. After extensive research and testing, we found a supplier in the north of England. Why did we pick this new fabric..?
- It has wonderful drape. Sounds a bit flouncy – but this makes the trousers even nicer to wear.
- It’s a little lighter in weight which has its advantages – you can always add thermals if you need more warmth……
- It’s made in the UK which not only makes us feel good, but is also easier to control and check
- Most importantly, this marked the end of the 3-layer construction.
- The new 2-layer technology is made up of a highly breathable microporous membrane attached to a tough lightweight shell. We still use the lightweight mesh lining and the result is better performance and less weight.
- All seams are taped. This is another piece of the waterproof jigsaw and without which, the work of the fabric is undone.
- Zips – another area given great consideration. We constantly research and trial product improvements and are proud to be using the latest technology in waterproof zips.
- The fabric is independently tested and meets EN343 3.3 which in technical terms means a very high level of waterproofness and breathability.
Washing instructions for Waterproofs.
We advise gentle washing (to keep the membrane clean and breathable). Wash on 40 degrees with a non-bio detergent. No fabric conditioner please. There is no longer any need to reproof the external layer. There’s more technical information on this fabric, and how to care for it here.
Waterproof Full Chaps
We have been focussing on the success of our range of waterproof trousers, however, we must not forget the ever-popular Full Chaps. Let’s look at both options:
Full Chaps with lightweight lining
Probably the lightest-weight waterproofs, with a mesh lining to protect the microporous membrane and wick away any moisture, these breathable full chaps are a year-round essential. You can read more about them here. And buy yours here.
Full Chaps with Fleece lining
If you feel the cold, suffer from chillblains or just like something a little more snug, this is the answer. With a micro-fleece lining that adds warmth but no bulk, our fleece-lined full chaps are your winter favourite. Read more about these here.
Waterproofs for Children
Our range of essential Dri-Rider waterproofs are perfect for children. With easy pull-on trousers for toddlers, and a complete range of full chaps and trousers for children of all ages, we’re got everyone covered. Because – there’s nothing worse than a cold and wet child in the yard…..Read more about the children’s Dri-Rider range here.
Help with Sizing?
How do you find your perfect fit? Each product page will have the information you need, alternatively, take a look at our extensive Sizing Guide. If you’ve like to speak to one of the team, please don’t hesitate to call us with any questions relating to our products. Tel: 01403 820887 or email info@justchaps.com. We are here to help !
We very much hope you enjoyed reading about our products. You can find out more about the exciting, high-performance brand here.