When is comes to choosing which leather riding chaps to buy, it helps to know what options are available. Here we will look initially at the benefits of leather and aditionally at the needs of the rider. Here at Just Chaps, the UK Half Chaps specialist, we have the perfect Leather riding chaps options for you.
Why Leather?
Traditionally, leather is the most used textile when making any type of riding chaps. For the most part, this is because leather withstands the rigors of riding and provides a comfortable fit that molds to the rider’s legs. It offers grip and a feeling of security in the saddle.
Here at Just Chaps we only use the best aniline leather. Aniline leather is treated with soluble dyes that preserve the hide’s natural surface. This results in a soft, supple texture. We choose aniline over other finishes for its rich finish, breathability and soft comfortable fit. Aniline leather copes with the demands of riding. With the correct care, it looks great and still does a fantastic job after many hours in the saddle.
We have two leather options. Let’s look at both in turn:
Saltos Leather Half Chaps
Our Saltos leather half chaps were born out of a need for leather riding chaps that were both easy-to-fit and elegant. Most riders are looking for an easy-to-wear option and a side zip opening is normally the solution. The zips that we use are the perfect weight and size; not too fiddly, with a smart look. For quality assurance, we only use YKK zips. Critically, Saltos leather half chaps are the perfect shape, cleverly engineered to accommodate all sizes. Not only teeny weeny toddler versions, but also adult extra extra wide.
Stretch Leather
This is the icing on the cake. Our Saltos leather chaps a stretch leather panel behind the zip. This means that practically the half chaps offer a very flexible fit, as they can stretch over all shapes of leg and work very well over chunky riding boots. Take a look at the video below.
With a perfect shape, top quality leather and a stretch leather panel, Saltos Leather Half Chaps were awarded 9/10 by Horse & Hound magazine. You can read the review here.
Saltos Leather Gaiters
Saltos Leather Gaiters are our smartest riding option. The main difference with Gaiters is that they have the zip down the back of the leg. The shaped top is designed so as to give the look of wearing a long boot. Demand for gaiters is ever-growing and we launched Saltos Gaiters in response to this demand. Designed with passion and know-how by a team of riders in the UK, Saltos Gaiters are elegant, great-fitting and great-looking.
To give a soft and durable finish, we make our gaiters from only the best full grain Aniline leather. We line the gaiters with a breathable wicking lining which not only ensures that the gaiters retain their shape but at the same time help give more structure. We added an elastic stretch panel either side of the back zip to allow a comfortable, flexible fit and only use YKK zips, which are world-renowned for quality and reliability. Our gaiters are available in 7 width fittings to accommodate up to a 50cm calf. View our Saltos Gaiters for adults and Saltos Gaiters for children.
Caring for Leather Riding Chaps
To keep your leather chaps and gaiters looking and feeling their best, please:
- do not wear when mucking out; the amonia may prematurely rot the thread
- clean all mud and dander from the leather using a warm soapy cloth or sponge. Do not over-wet
- once clean, feed the leather with your favourite leather balm or oil
- hang to air or dry
We hope you have enjoyed learning about our wonderful leather chaps and gaiters. It’s now time to locate your tape measure and follow the sizing guide to find your perfect fit. Should you wish to speak with one of our expert team members, please call us on 01403 820887.