Tag: riding holidays

Which Half Chaps Are Best for Summer? A Guide to Cool Riding Half Chaps

Date posted: 17/12/2025

Rider wearing brown Cool Riding Half Chaps with chunky riding boots

Warm weather can make riding kit feel heavy and uncomfortable. Lightweight, breathable half chaps are a practical option for summer riding, especially if you prefer short riding boots to long boots.

We developed Cool Riding Half Chaps following requests from endurance riders for a lighter, breathable style. Made from perforated faux suede, they suit everyday riding, longer rides and riding holidays.

Why Choose Cool Riding Half Chaps for Summer?

Our Cool Riding Half Chaps combine lightweight fabric with a practical, washable design. The perforations allow air to circulate, helping your legs stay comfortable in warmer weather.

Their main features include:

  • Lightweight, breathable perforated faux suede.
  • A stretch panel for flexibility in fit.
  • A side zip that fastens from top to bottom.
  • A flexible design for wearing with jodhpur boots or chunky riding boots.
  • Machine-washable fabric for easy care.

Although they are a useful summer option, you can wear them throughout the year if you prefer lighter half chaps.

Everyday Riding, Endurance and Riding Holidays

Cool Riding Half Chaps suit lessons, hacking and schooling. Their lightweight fabric also makes them a useful choice for riders spending longer periods on horseback.

Endurance riders have worn this style on long-distance rides and in events such as the Mongol Derby. However, whichever ride you are preparing for, try your half chaps with your boots before setting off. Comfort and a suitable fit matter more than choosing kit solely because another rider uses it.

For holiday preparation, read our guide to what to pack for a riding safari holiday.

Wearing Cool Riding Half Chaps with Your Boots

You can wear Cool Riding Half Chaps with both jodhpur boots and chunky riding boots. This gives you flexibility to use the boots that suit your riding.

When trying them on, wear your usual riding trousers and boots. Check that the half chaps sit comfortably and that you can fasten the zip without forcing it.

If you wear a chunkier style, our guide to half chaps that fit with chunky riding boots explains what to consider.

Choosing Your Size

Use your height and calf measurement to choose your size. Measure around the widest part of your calf while wearing your usual riding trousers, keeping the tape measure level.

Then follow our sizing guide and select Cool Riding Half Chaps. Check the height and calf-width options for this range, as different styles can use different sizing systems.

Aim for a snug, comfortable fit. If you are between sizes or unsure which height to choose, we can help you compare the options.

Need Additional Calf Room?

Our Riding Half Chaps Zip Extension Panel works with Cool Riding Half Chaps when you need additional calf room.

The panel zips between the two sides of the existing zip. Choose the panel height that matches your half chaps and check the compatibility information on the product page before ordering.

This extension panel also works with All Purpose Riding Half Chaps and Classic Suede Riding Half Chaps.

How to Care for Cool Riding Half Chaps

Washable fabric makes it easy to freshen up your half chaps after dusty rides or a riding holiday.

Follow the care label and these simple steps:

  • Fasten the zips and any Velcro before washing.
  • Machine wash at 30°C.
  • Hang them to dry away from direct heat.
  • Keep the zips clear of mud and grit.

Allow them to dry fully before putting them away.

Need Help Choosing?

If you would like advice on sizing or extension panels, contact Just Chaps. Tell us your height, calf measurement and the boots you plan to wear.

For an overview of materials, styles and fit, read our Complete Guide to Riding Half Chaps.

What to Pack for a Riding Safari Holiday

Date posted: 21/08/2025

Horse riders alongside giraffes on a riding safari

A riding safari can involve several hours of riding each day, so comfortable, familiar kit is worth packing. Breathable clothing, suitable riding boots and well-fitting half chaps can help you prepare for long rides in warm conditions.

Start with your holiday organiser’s packing list. Clothing requirements, luggage limits and laundry facilities vary between trips. The suggestions below will help you plan your riding kit.

Choosing Half Chaps for a Riding Safari

Half chaps worn with short riding boots are a practical option for a riding holiday. They help protect your lower legs from rubbing against the stirrup leathers and are convenient to pack.

Choose a pair that fits comfortably with the boots and riding trousers you will take. Try the combination on several rides before travelling, especially if any of your kit is new.

For an overview of materials and styles, read our Complete Guide to Riding Half Chaps.

Cool Riding Half Chaps for Warm Weather

Our Cool Riding Half Chaps are made from lightweight, perforated faux suede. The small perforations allow ventilation, making them a useful choice for warm weather and riding holidays.

They are washable and work well with both jodhpur boots and chunkier riding boots. Their lightweight fabric also makes them convenient to pack when luggage space is limited.

Follow the care instructions when washing them, and allow them to dry fully before packing.

Leather and Suede Alternatives

If you prefer the feel of leather, our Saltos Leather Riding Half Chaps offer soft, unlined leather with a side zip and a stretch panel. Wear them before your holiday so the leather has time to soften and you can check the fit.

Our Classic Suede Riding Half Chaps offer a traditional suede finish with a stretch panel. Suede is naturally breathable, and this style works well with chunkier riding boots.

The best choice depends on the conditions you expect and the material you find comfortable.

Riding Boots and Socks

Pack suitable riding boots that you have already worn and find comfortable. Check your organiser’s footwear requirements, particularly if your trip includes walking as well as riding.

Try your boots with your chosen half chaps and socks before travelling. Pack enough riding socks for the trip, taking account of any laundry facilities.

For advice on boot compatibility, read our guide to which half chaps fit with chunky riding boots.

Clothing and Other Riding Essentials

Use your organiser’s advice to decide what you need, including any recommended clothing colours. Your riding kit may include:

  • Comfortable riding trousers or jodhpurs that you have already ridden in.
  • Lightweight, breathable tops, including long sleeves.
  • A warmer layer for cool mornings and evenings.
  • A lightweight waterproof layer if rain is possible.
  • Riding gloves that provide a comfortable grip on the reins.
  • A correctly fitted riding helmet that meets your organiser’s requirements.
  • Sun cream, insect repellent and a hat for time spent off the horse.

Check what the organiser supplies and what you need to bring yourself. This will help you avoid packing unnecessary items.

Check Your Half Chaps Fit Before Travelling

Measure your calf at its widest point while wearing your riding trousers. Then use your height and calf measurement to select an adult size in our Sizing Guide.

If you need additional calf room, our Riding Half Chaps Zip Extension Panel works with compatible All Purpose Riding Half Chaps, Cool Riding Half Chaps and Classic Suede Riding Half Chaps. Choose the panel that matches your half chaps’ height.

Allow time before departure to try your half chaps with your boots and check that the fit is comfortable for riding.

Need Help Choosing?

If you are unsure which half chaps or size to take, contact the Just Chaps team. Tell us your calf measurement, height and the boots you plan to wear, and we will help you choose a suitable option.