Finding a pair of riding leggings that actually fit properly can feel impossible. Some slide down the second you get in the saddle, some dig in around your waist, and others somehow become completely see-through the moment you bend over.
The truth is, a good pair of riding leggings shouldn't be something you're constantly adjusting. They should feel supportive, comfortable and flattering from the moment you put them on until you untack your horse.
If you're shopping for a new pair, here are a few things to look out for.
1. The waistband should stay put
Let's start with one of the biggest frustrations.
If you're forever pulling your leggings up while riding, they're either the wrong fit or the waistband simply isn't doing its job.
A good waistband should sit comfortably on your waist without rolling down or digging in. It should feel secure enough that you forget it's even there.
2. They should feel supportive, not restrictive
Compression can be a good thing, but there's a difference between feeling supported and feeling like you can't breathe.
Your leggings should move with you whether you're rising trot, mucking out or walking the course. If they feel stiff or uncomfortable before you've even got on your horse, they're probably not the right pair.
3. Watch out for bulky seams
One thing people don't often think about is where the seams sit.
The more seams and panels a pair of leggings has, the more chance there is for rubbing and discomfort, especially during longer rides or in warmer weather.
That's one of the reasons we designed our Seamless Define Riding Leggings with a seamless construction. They have a second-skin feel, with fewer seams to cause rubbing, while still providing support where it's needed.
4. They shouldn't be see-through
This might sound obvious, but it's worth checking.
The easiest way to test a pair of leggings is to squat down or bend over in natural light. If you're worried about them becoming transparent, chances are you won't feel confident wearing them.
Confidence is just as important as comfort.
5. Pockets should actually be useful
If your phone feels like it's about to fall out every time you trot, the pocket probably isn't doing much.
Well-designed riding leggings should keep your essentials secure without bouncing around or getting in the way while you're riding. That's why we added in an internal strip of silicone in our pocket, for extra hold.
6. They should make you feel good
This might be the most important point of all.
Your riding clothes should make you feel confident.
When you feel comfortable in what you're wearing, you're not thinking about adjusting your waistband or tugging at your leggings. You're focused on your horse, your ride and enjoying being at the yard.
That's exactly how riding clothing should feel.
Common mistakes riders make when buying leggings
-
Choosing a size that's too small because they want more compression.
-
Assuming thicker fabric automatically means better quality.
-
Ignoring the waistband.
-
Buying based on trends instead of comfort.
So, what should a good pair of riding leggings feel like?
They should stay in place without constant adjusting.
They should feel supportive without restricting your movement.
They should flatter your shape without sacrificing comfort.
And most importantly, they should be the pair you instinctively reach for every time you're heading to the yard.
At Gal-Up, that's exactly what we set out to create with our bestselling Seamless Define Riding Leggings. Designed with a seamless construction, a supportive waistband that stays put and a flattering fit, they're made for everything from schooling sessions to coffee stops on the way home.
Because when your leggings fit properly, they're one less thing to think about, and that's exactly how it should be.