When it comes to a child’s first time showing, there can be a lot of questions about the necessary attire… and one topic that continues to come up is related to breeches, jodhpurs, and garter straps. What's the difference between breeches and jodhpurs and which ones do you buy? Garter straps - what are they and how do you put them on correctly?
What are Jodhpurs and Garter Straps?
Jodhpurs or “jods” as they are often called, are riding pants mainly worn by children. Unlike breeches, they are slightly longer and go down over a paddock boot as opposed to inside a tall boot.
Breeches and Jods are NOT the same.
Breeches are designed to fit snugly and not rub when horse riding. Another unique characteristic of riding breeches is that they are designed to fit inside tall riding boots. You’ll often find breeches available in pull–on, fly–front, or side–zip styles. Pull–on breeches have a drawstring or elastic waistband and don’t make use of belt loops.
Notice the slim leg and fitted design.
Breeches need to fit inside tall boots.
Jodhpurs also called “jods”, are very similar to breeches in that they have a grippy knee patch for stability in the saddle and are used for English disciplines. Similar to breeches, there are a few distinct differences and different appropriate times to wear jods.
Jodhpurs generally have an elastic strap at the bottom of both ankles that acts as an anchor, so the fabric does not ride up the leg and cause discomfort for the rider. These elastic pieces are worn outside of the boot and can be found sewn in or removable with a small button on the inside of the fabric.
Jodhpurs are not worn with tall boots as they would not fit comfortably inside the boot. Along with a folded bottom, jodhpurs are always fitted all the way to the bottom of the ankle bone for full concealment because they are worn on the outside of paddock boots.
Worn with paddock boots, these are for children entering the show ring with garters.
Kids Jodhpurs.
Jodhpurs with garters.
When wearing jods, a pair of garter straps are also necessary. These are two straps of leather that go just under the knee and help keep the pants from riding up. Garter straps come in both black and brown and it is important to match them to the color of your paddock boots.
TIP: Not sure what color? Read my post "Black, Blue, Brown - What do the kids wear for the show?" for guidance.
Good to know - The straps that button to your jods at the bottom of the leg (they are black and made out of elastic with button holes - see inside cuff for button) and slip under the paddock boots go missing! And sometimes are not there if you buy second-hand. You can buy them seperately online! Google "Jodhpur underpasses."
Also good to know - There really is no difference in the show ring, from a judge's perspective, when it comes to the buckle garters or the Velcro! We asked. *wink*
Just put them on correctly...
This is our favorite video for putting on garters. See below. If you are using the velcro version, just make note of the fit and placement.
And don't feel badly about cutting them! Just don't cut them too short, and always make sure they look clean if you are using the Velcro version - No fuzz and horse hair gumming up the works.
TIP: It's not a bad idea to buy more than one pair of these. They go missing, one gets misplaced, or they get damaged. "MOM! I put them right here and now I can only find ONE!" Sound familiar?
Looking for jods, breeches, tall boots, garters, and anything else? Read our post: A Plug for Second-Hand and Facebook Groups This sport is expensive and kids grow so fast! Consider posting your grown-out-of items for the next young equestrian to use.
What are YOU wearing this show season? Do you use the Velcro version or traditional? Share your thoughts!
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