Last updated: October 9, 2022
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No one can deny the allure of riding tights and leggings. They are a wardrobe staple among equestrian women, who wear them for practicality and style points. The modern iteration is designed with unique fabrics perfect for those who want to look good and be comfortable in the saddle – which means you’ll never regret adding a pair or two to your wardrobe.
Women’s riding tights and leggings are perfect for those who love horses. They provide comfort for riders and protect against chafing while also giving support in all the right places. Riding tights come in a variety of colors and styles to fit your fashion.
Standard leggings, breeches, and riding tights all look similar, but they’re not the same. Clothing designed for equestrians has valuable features for riding horses, such as a high waist, padding, and strategically placed pockets.
I compiled a list of the 10 best women’s riding tights and leggings to help you find a pair that meets all your needs. I also cover the following:
- The main difference between breeches and riding tights
- Best riding tights with pockets (phone pocket), knee patches, belt loops, high waist, etc.
- And more…
#1. Winner – FitsT4 Women’s Full-Seat Equestrian Tights
My teenage daughter loves the FitsT4 full-seat tights; she was introduced to these tights by her riding instructor. She recommended them because they are made with a stretchy material that makes them nonrestrictive and keeps riders very comfortable; plus, they fit superbly and are smooth and sleek.
And it was an added benefit that she could use them for shows, which was one of her must-have criteria for equestrian tights. Lastly, she loved having the pockets on the sides because they allowed her to keep her cell phone with her while riding and watching the other competitors.
- 83% Polyester 17% Spandex, superior four-way stretch for maximum freedom of movement.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Here are some other great features of the FitsT4 riding tights with pockets:
Features
- Made with 4-way stretchy 83% Spandex and 17% polyester
- Elastic waistband with belt loops
- Full-seat silicone grip
- Available in 4 sizes
Benefits
- It did not shrink after washing; the silicone did not peel after several uses.
- The large pocket is very useful
- Fabric is not see-through
- Great grip in the saddle
- Good for warm-weather riding
Drawbacks
- They attract a lot of hay.
#2. Best Full-Seat Mid-Rise Women’s Riding Tights: HORZE Women’s Leah Tights
Many of my daughter’s friends love to ride wearing HORZE Leah tights, especially when the weather is warm. Sometimes, it gets awful hot in an arena or trail ride, and some riding clothes can make matters worse and contribute to sweating.
Not these, though, because they are moisture-wicking with quick-drying features that help keep your legs cool while protecting them from harmful UV rays. These HORZE tights fabric has UPF 50+ protection.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Features
- The silicone seat offers a superior grip in the saddle.
- The crystal sparkly detailing is very attractive.
- UPF 50+
- Handy mobile side pocket
- Available in 5 attractive colors and 7 sizes
Benefits
- Attractive
- The mid-rise waist allows you to wear it with any top
- Cute detailing around the pockets
- Functional
- Great grip in the saddle
- Flat, wide nifty waistband
Drawbacks
- Expensive.
#3. Best Women’s Tights for Summer Riding: Kerrits Ice Fil Full Seat Tech Tights
Kerrits Ice Fil Tights are very popular among summer riders. You will notice that you aren’t as hot in them as you may be in the other tights, breeches, or leggings.
The difference lies in Kerrit’s Ice Fil technology – it keeps the fabric very thin, light, and breathable. Ice Fil also converts sweat into cooling energy. Moreover, this fabric features UPF 50+ protection to safeguard against UV rays and sunburn. All in all, this is another excellent choice in riding tights for warm-weather riding.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Features
- Anti-slip, Ice Fil fabric
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- It has a side pocket
- Natural waist – not high or low
- Stretchy
- Available in 13 colors and 7 sizes
Benefits
- Ideal for summer riding – can keep you 5 degrees cooler
- Good grip due to the ‘carrots’ on the seat area
- Comfortable and soft
Drawbacks
- Some pilling occurs in the seat area
- Expensive
#4. Best Winter Riding Tights for Women: Yogipace Water Resistant Fleece Lined Thermal Tights
Sometimes, we ride our horses in the winter in temperatures between 30 and 50 F. And even though these Yogipace tights aren’t specifically designed for horseback riding, my daughter prefers riding in them because the fleece lining provides exceptional protection for her legs against the frigid wind.
- PETITE-25 inseam fits women -51 or 54; REGULAR-28 inseam fits women 55-58; TALL-31 inseam fits women 59 - 511; EXTRA TALL-34/36 inseam fits women 6 and above
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Yogipace fleece-lined thermal tights are super comfortable and extremely warm. Despite their fleece lining, they are not too heavy and won’t weigh you down. Their water-resistant material also keeps you dry in light rain and snow. Moreover, they are high-waisted, so they stay tucked in when sitting in the saddle.
Features
- Available in several sizes for petite/medium/tall ladies from small to XL
- Made with polyester-spandex material for a 4-way stretch
- Elastic waistband with cord
- Zippered back pocket plus a hidden waistband pocket
Pros
- It can be machine washed
- Comfortable and attractive
- It can be layered with other pants
- Ideal for multiple sports, running, riding, hiking, etc.
- Keep you warm without overheating.
- True to size; suitable for tall, long-legged women.
- Responsive seller
Cons
- No belly compression
- The back pocket isn’t convenient for horse riding – it gets in the way.
Check out this article for more reviews of winter riding tights.
#5. Best Women’s Riding Tights with Superior Grip: HR Farm Women’s Silicone Tights for Horse Riding with Gel Grip
HR Farm riding tights are an excellent option for women looking for summer equestrian leggings under $50. They also feature large pockets that easily fit those larger phones, and their grip in the saddle is superior, thanks to the gel and knee patches.
- 87% Nylon 13% Elastane, Quick dry functional and light weight fabric
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Here are some other top features of HR Farm tights:
Features
- Available in 11 great colors and 4 sizes
- 4-way stretchy-made with 13% elastane and 87% nylon
- Knee patches and silicone grip
- UPF 50+
Benefits
- High-waist with belly compression.
- Full seat silicone grip – great for western riding
- It keeps you cool and dry on long rides
- Attractive price
Drawbacks
- The material is very thin and could show your panty lines.
#6. Best Women’s Riding Tights with Pockets – Turnhier Training Breeches
If you spend a lot of time in your riding clothes, you want comfortable tights that can hold your cell phone, keys, and other essentials. Turnhier breeches have not one but two huge side pockets – so they easily hold phones, keys, credit cards, and treats when riding.
- Anti-slip silicone: Anti-slip particles cover the legs and buttocks of riding pants to enhance your sense of connection on the saddle
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Features
- Belt loops for practicality and decoration
- Large side pockets
- Made with 4-way stretchy fabric
- Anti-slip silicone
- Available in 5 colors and 4 sizes.
Benefits
- Functional
- Stylish
- Affordable price
Drawbacks
- Thin material.
#7. Best Women’s Summer Riding Equestrian Tights with Technical Fabric: TuffRider Ladies Minerva EquiCool Full Seat Tights
TuffRider is a popular brand of equestrian products – I am sure you have used some of them. This pair of tights from this trusted brand is made with EquiCool technology that enhances the fabric’s moisture-wicking properties while providing UV protection.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
For us in Louisiana and equestrians in other southern states, we love riding in TuffRider Minerva tights – they are super comfy and perfect to wear on humid days. They help to keep you cool and comfortable even on long rides.
Check out some other salient features of TuffRider Minerva riding tights:
Features
- 100% polyester with EquiCool technology
- Pockets
- Full-seat
- Contrast seams
- Available in 5 attractive colors and 5 sizes.
Benefits
- Excellent for hot weather
- Attractive price
- Flattering fit
Drawbacks
- The sizing is inconsistent.
- They also wear out and loosen after a few uses.
#8. Best Riding Tights for Women with Belt Loops – BALEAF Women’s Horse Riding Pants Equestrian Tights
This pair of equestrian tights has it all: pockets, knee patches, and belt loops. The belt loop feature is convenient when you have a mid-rise legging that tends to slip down when you’re riding. You can choose to wear a belt to prevent that from happening.
- Stretchy & Wicking: Non-transparent and 4-way stretch fabric wicks moisture to keep your skin dry even in hot summer weather
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Features
- Available in 8 colors and 7 sizes
- The fabric consists of 75% nylon and 25% elastane for a stretchy and comfortable fit
- Non-slip silicone grip
- Knee patches
- Deep side pockets
Benefits
- Stylish
- Ultra-comfortable
- Belt loops allow better coverage despite the mid-rise waist
- Side pockets fit 6.5-inch phones.
Drawbacks
- The inner seam could cause chafing.
#9. Best Budget Buy: Okay Sports Women’s Breathable Horse Riding Tights
These highly-rated schooling leggings from Okay Sports cost less than $30 without compromising on quality.
- ✔ TOP NYLON FABRIC. 76% Nylon, 24% Elastane. Okay Sports riding tights are made of top quality fabric, which is Durable, Super Soft & Cool, 4-way stretch, Moisture wicking & Light weight.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Features
- Made with stretchy nylon and elastane non-see-through fabric
- Feature large pockets with covers and enhanced seam stitches for extra durability
- Available in 5 sizes and 3 colors
- High-waist
- Durable eco-suede knee patches
Benefits
- Breathable and light, great for summer
- Affordable
Drawbacks
- The material is slightly thin
- Some users did not find them ‘high-rise.’
#10. Best Overall: Willit Women’s Riding Tights
For women who want all of the top features of the best equestrian tights: knee patches, zippered pockets, UPF protection, and a wide waistband for pull-up comfort, these riding tights from Willit are perfect.
- Stretchy & Breathable Fabric: Stretchy, breathable fabric wicks sweat to keep your ride comfortable from beginning to end. A new composition of specially twisted yarns for incredible stretch and recovery
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Features
- Moisture-wicking material – 80% nylon, 20% Spandex for 4-way stretch
- Secure zippered pockets
- Anti-slip leg grips
- Buckskin silicone knee patches
- Available in 6 colors and 6 sizes
Benefits
- Very comfortable and stylish
- Offer sun protection
- Breathable, moisture-wicking, and great for summer riding
Drawbacks
- Some users found them slick and slippery.
Why do you need to wear horse riding pants?
Horse riding clothes are designed with the equestrian in mind, and this is especially true when it comes to riding tights and breeches. Equestrian pants typically stretch when needed, for example, so you can lift your leg to reach your saddle stirrup.
They also provide padding in areas that rub to prevent chafing, most have a high waist to keep your lower back covered when sitting in a saddle, and some have a grip seat that prevents slipping on smooth leather saddles. There are also jeans designed specifically for horseback riding.
What’s the difference between breeches and riding tights?
Riding leggings, tights, or breeches are the primary choices in equestrian apparel for women. The main difference between them is their use and their fabrics.
Breeches are formal and often compulsory in shows, dressage, clinics, and events. Many of these traditional events do not allow leggings or tights. The material or fabrics used in breeches is thicker.
Leggings and riding tights are casual, and you can wear them for pleasure riding, trails, or informal schooling. Their fabric is thinner and stretchier. Riding tights keep you cool and comfortable all day.
Can you wear leggings for horse riding?
You can wear leggings for horseback riding because they are stretchy and comfortable. They are also loose enough in the seat to follow the horse’s movements.
These days, equestrian leggings and tights are made with special silicone material in the seat and knee area that helps them ‘stick’ to the saddle and keeps the rider moving with the horse. This enhances the security and safety of riders and also makes them more confident while riding.
In addition, riding leggings are made from various fabrics for equestrians so that you can find something perfect. From breathable materials that allow air circulation to 4-way stretch capabilities, there is never an excuse not to use this gear when riding your horse.
Leggings also protect your lower legs from chafing by the stirrup leather. The best horse riding breeches come in various styles, but all have the basic features you need for a comfortable riding experience.
How to select women’s riding tights and leggings?
Here are some factors to consider when selecting your riding tights or leggings:
Fabric
You can choose your riding tights fabrics based on the weather.
Select a pair of tights made of advanced fabrics like EquiCool fabric and other patented technological fabrics for the summer months. These are moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and also convert sweat into cooling energy.
For winters, select thermal leggings or fleece-lined tights, which will keep your legs warm and comfortable in freezing conditions.
Size
Most brands of leggings and equestrian tights either run small or large. Some also tend to open up after use or after the first wash. Many brands will tell you whether their tights are true to size or whether you should order a size up or down.
Typically, women wearing sizes 6 to 8 in their pants can choose size 28 breeches or tights. Here is a size guide for most brands for your reference:
| XS | Waist: 24.5″ Hip: 31″ Length:34.6″ |
| S | Waist: 26″ Hip: 32.2″ Length:35.2″ |
| M | Waist: 27.5″ Hip: 33.5″ Length:35.8″ |
| L | Waist: 29″ Hip: 35″ Length:36.4″ |
| XL | Waist: 30.5″ Hip: 36.3″ Length:37″ |
Styles and features
Riding tights come in different styles, colors, and features. Some have a full-seat design, some have deep side pockets, and still, others have knee patches. Some tights and leggings come with a pull-on design, while others have a drawstring or an elastic waistband.
If you’re selecting breeches or tights for competitions, then go for conservative colors. For non-competition riding, you can select any color you like. Darker colors may be better as they are non-see-through, and you won’t have to worry about what you wear underneath them.
Final Recommendations
Today, women’s horse riding tights and leggings offer a wide range of options. Many popular brands carry excellent tights having amazing features to make your riding experience more comfortable.
Top brands like HORZE, TuffRider, Kerrits, and FitsT4 are top-rated among women equestrians. Many of these leggings feature practical and convenient covered pockets, silicone seat grips, sturdy knee patches, and UPF/sun protection. I strongly recommend the FitsT4 Sports equestrian leggings for women because they come with all these features and more.
Below is a YouTube video showing some of the features you should consider when buying winter riding tights.