The Difference Between Breeches and Jodhpurs

The Difference Between Breeches and Jodhpurs

Breeches are a type of pant that reach from the hips to just below the knee or even as high as the ankle. They are most commonly used by people who spend time riding horses. Some of the modern versions are designed with stretchy fabrics that will move and bend with your body when you ride. The fabric also helps to wick away sweat and keep you dry and comfortable in the saddle. Some of the more traditional breeches are made from leather or cotton and can be fastened with buttons, ties or buckles. They were worn as part of gentleman's attire until the late 19th century when trousers began to replace them for day wear when boots were worn. Young boys wore special forms of dresses until they were "breeched" and given adult male clothing at around the age of 6.

In the 18th century, a style of breeches called vraka was popular in Greece. These were very roomy and could be tucked in to tall boots. They were a good choice for men who wanted to facilitate movement while on fishing boats and sailing ships, where the clothing had to be loose enough to allow for quick movements in and out of the boat.

At the time of the French Revolution, breeches were a symbol of the upper classes. Lower-class revolutionaries were known as sans-culottes and wore pants or pantaloons instead of breeches. After the French Revolution, breeches fell out of fashion and were replaced by trousers in many parts of the world. In the US, they became referred to as knee breeches and later riding pants. They are still a staple item of equestrian apparel in the UK and Europe.

Aside from varying in materials, the primary difference between jodhpurs and breeches is that jodhpurs are shaped to fit tightly to be worn with short jodhpur boots while breeches are designed to fit snugly over long riding boots. Some breeches are constructed with either a knee patch (like jodhpurs) or full seat (leather going up to cover the leg area from the stirrup leathers to prevent chafing).

Both jodhpurs and breeches are available in a wide range of colours, styles and fabrics. Generally speaking, jodhpurs are more expensive than breeches because they are crafted from a better quality of fabric. Breeches made from softshell fabric, for example, are water resistant and are much more comfortable than jodhpurs that are made from cotton or other cotton blends. The best way to care for your breeches is to wash them regularly after every use. Be sure to turn them inside out and shake or brush them off before washing them to remove any dirt, horse hair or dust that might get caught in the fibers. It's also important to dry your breeches thoroughly after each use so they don't shrink or stretch out of shape. Breeches with a leather seat or knee patches may require special leather laundry detergent, but most can be washed on the standard 30-40°C washing machine cycle.