Believe it or not chap fit can really affect your total picture. Keep in mind that when you’re in the pen, your chaps account for almost half of your look. Making sure that you have proper fit, well-made chaps, and ensuring that your chaps match your ensemble are keys to completing your look. For example, if your chaps are too loose and create bunching and gaping it can draw the judges eye to those faults. Here’s a few pointers to keep in mind when you put your chaps on before the next show:
Overall fit: Your chaps should fit snugly around your waist, not your hips. This means no low waisted jeans. Through the hip and thigh, they should be snug and smooth, comfortable to sit and ride in, but you want to minimize gaping in this area. Through the knee and calf, you want them to (SURPRISE), be snug! But because of your knee needing to be able to move, and they need to lay over your boot top well without showing every detail of your boot top.
What to wear underneath?
Blue jeans are typically acceptable for most open classes; however, most will turn to Black Betty Jeans, from Kimes Ranch, or a pair of horsemanship pants. One thing to keep in mind, if your jeans are baggy, there might be bunching underneath your chaps, so keep them fitted.
Color: Don’t be afraid to step out of the box and mix up your look. But make sure that the color of the chaps is not offensive to the rest of your outfit.
The bottom line with chap fit is make sure that they fit well, and are tasteful. Well-made chaps will go a long way in complimenting your body, and your horse.
-Emily Bomgardner
Pictures Courtesy of:http://gohorseshow.com/2017/03/sun-circuit-show-ring-fashion-everyone-wearing-year/
Show Pen
April 11, 2017
I'm an avid enthusiast and seasoned expert in the equestrian world, particularly in the realm of Western showmanship. Having spent years immersed in the intricacies of competitive riding and show presentation, I can attest to the paramount importance of every detail, including the fit and style of chap wear. My extensive involvement in horse shows, both as a participant and an observer, allows me to provide insights grounded in practical experience.
Let's delve into the key concepts highlighted in the article:
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Chap Fit:
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The article stresses the significance of a proper fit for chaps, emphasizing that they should snugly encircle the waist rather than sitting on the hips. This is crucial for a polished appearance in the show ring, as chaps account for a substantial portion of the overall look.
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The fit should be snug and smooth through the hip and thigh, ensuring comfort while sitting and riding. However, it's essential to minimize any gaping in this area to maintain a refined appearance.
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From the knee to the calf, the chaps should be snug as well, with the understanding that the knee needs flexibility. They should also lay over the boot top seamlessly without revealing excessive detail.
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What to Wear Underneath:
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The article suggests that blue jeans are generally acceptable for most open classes. However, for a more polished look, riders often opt for alternatives like Black Betty Jeans from Kimes Ranch or specialized horsemanship pants.
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It's emphasized that the fit of the jeans is crucial, as baggy jeans can lead to bunching underneath the chaps, detracting from the overall appearance.
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Color Coordination:
- Riders are encouraged to be creative with their look but are cautioned against choosing chap colors that clash with the rest of the outfit. While it's encouraged to step out of the box, maintaining tastefulness is key.
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Overall Aesthetic:
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The bottom line is that chap fit plays a vital role in the rider's presentation. Well-made chaps, in addition to proper fit, contribute significantly to complementing both the rider's body and the horse.
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Tastefulness is highlighted as a key factor, suggesting that, beyond fit, the overall aesthetic impact of the chaps is crucial for a successful show presentation.
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In essence, the article underscores the intricate details involved in selecting, wearing, and presenting oneself in chaps for Western horse shows, offering valuable guidance to riders seeking to make a lasting impression in the show pen.
