Let’s face it – men’s competition breeches don’t offer as much variety as women’s. But there are still great options out there, and we’ve found the best at every budget.
Just like the best ladies’ competition breeches, the best men’s competition breeches are lightweight, breathable, and made from technical fabrics that wick moisture, offer stretch, and provide grip and support in the saddle. With fewer options on the market, any style that sticks around is probably doing something right.
Light colours will meet most traditional competition rules. However, riders now have far more choice. British Dressage, British Eventing and British Riding Clubs all allow darker breeches under their updated rulebooks.
Best men’s competition breeches: H&H’s quick guide
Best all-round: Equetech Kingham
Best premium: Pikeur Navaro
Best budget: Shires Saddlehugger
Best for daily wear: Mark Todd Auckland
Pikeur Navaro Men’s Competition Breeches
Colours: White, walnut, night blue, dark shadow
Sizes: EU 42–58
RRP: £169
Reasons to buy
- Lightweight, climate-adaptive fabric keeps you comfortable across seasons
- Antibacterial and odour-resistant – ideal for long show days
- Discreet knee grip and practical pockets, including a phone sleeve
Reason to avoid
- Premium price may be hard to justify if you don’t need advanced fabric tech
These breeches go beyond basic show gear. The fabric feels sleek but substantial, with built-in temperature regulation and moisture management that works well in both cool and warm weather.
The fit is clean and athletic, with enough stretch to ride comfortably without any sag or pinch. The silicone knee grip is subtle but effective, and thoughtful extras like a phone sleeve inside the pocket give them day-to-day practicality. If you ride and compete often, they’re a smart investment – just keep in mind you’re paying for performance as much as appearance.
Equetech Kingham Men’s Breeches
Colours: White, beige and more working colours
Sizes: 28–36in
RRP: £69.95
H&H Rating: 8/10
Reasons to buy
- Durable, smart and well-suited for both everyday use and competition
- Comfortable fit with practical features like press-button pockets and belt loops
- Tough enough for hunting or colder-weather riding
Reason to avoid
- Heavier fabric can feel too warm for summer wear
These hard-wearing, polyester-blend breeches are a great option for everyday wear as well as competition. They have a fabric seat and silicone knee grip, as well as press button pockets, belt loops and a Lycra panel at the cuff for comfort.
They were tested for H&H by staff of international event rider Jo Rimmer, who found them to be comfortable and well-fitting, deeming them a “good value, smart, tough pair of breeches that are suitable for hunting, rather than mid-summer wear”.
Read H&H’s full and independent Equetech Kingham breeches review.
Shires Saddlehugger Breeches
Colours: White, beige and black
Sizes: 28–42in
RRP: £31.99
Reasons to buy
- Soft, cotton-rich fabric with four-way stretch offers comfort and a generous fit
- Classic design with belt loops, flat front, fabric knee strappings and velcro-fastening ankle cuffs
- Great value – built to last without the premium price tag
Reason to avoid
- Depending on how your boots fit, the velcro fastenings can rub
The Shires Saddlehugger Breeches do exactly what you want from a basic pair – no frills, no gimmicks, just a solid fit and feel at a very fair price. The cotton fabric is soft and forgiving, with just enough stretch to stay comfortable in the saddle.
Also, the front is cut with a bit of extra room, which makes a difference if you don’t like anything too tight or restrictive. They’re finished with simple but effective features – fabric knee patches, velcro at the ankles – and while they won’t win awards for innovation, they’re dependable and practical, especially for everyday use or first-time buyers.
I’ve found the Velcro fastenings can rub a bit under tighter boots or against the horse’s side – and it’s worth keeping an eye on them in the wash, as they can easily pick up fluff or hair.
Mark Todd Auckland Breeches
Colours: White, beige, charcoal, coffee, navy, olive
Sizes: 28–38 in
RRP: £79.98
Reasons to buy
- Lightweight, breathable material with four-way stretch
- Seam-free inner leg
- Discreet knee patches which add grip without bulk
Reason to avoid
- The front pocket design is neat, but might feel small for those who carry essentials
These breeches are a great everyday pair that combines comfort with a traditional touch. The four-way stretch fabric makes them feel light and easy to move in, and the lack of an inner-leg seam means no rubbing, even after hours in the saddle.
The knee patches are subtle but do the job, giving just enough grip without getting in the way. I rotate a charcoal and a navy pair for everyday riding and honestly have few complaints – they’re comfy, not overly tight, and they hold up well wash after wash. They’d also work well for competition, but don’t have the sleek finish of the more premium brands.
However, the pockets are a bit snug, so if you carry treats, keys, or a phone, you might want to test them first.
Ariat Tri Factor Grip Knee Patch Breeches
Colours: White, tan, navy or black
Sizes: 28–40in, in regular or long leg
RRP: £125
Reasons to buy
- Light, breathable fabric that keeps you cool
- Comfortable stretch and flattering fit
- Good grip in the saddle without feeling bulky
Reasons to avoid
- Sizing isn’t the most generous
The Ariat Tri Factor Grip Knee Breeches are a great option if you want something that looks smart but also works hard in the ring. They’re cool and breathable, with enough stretch to move comfortably whether you’re schooling or competing.
The fit is close without being restrictive, and the grip gives you extra security in the saddle without overdoing it. However, the sizing isn’t the most generous – if you’re between sizes, it might be worth going up.
Shires Aubrion Walton Breeches
Colours: White, beige, navy, plus other everyday tones
Sizes: 28–42in
RRP: £59.99
Reasons to buy
- Affordable option that looks smart in the ring
- Comfortable fit with stretch where you need it
- Discreet silicone knee patches for extra grip
Reason to avoid
- Fabric isn’t as technical or breathable as pricier options
A solid budget-friendly choice, these breeches offer a clean, classic look without cutting corners on comfort. They’re stretchy enough for everyday riding and hold their shape well, with a contour seat and subtle silicone knee patches that add stability in the saddle.
While they don’t have the cooling tech of more expensive breeches, they do the job well for training and lower-key competition days, especially if you want something reliable that won’t break the bank.
Whitaker Miami Full-Seat Men’s Breeches
Colours: White, navy or black
Sizes: 28–38in
RRP: £82.50
Reasons to buy
- Four-way stretch fabric keeps you cool and mobile
- Full-seat silicone grip offers a secure hold in the saddle
- Clean design with rear pockets for practicality
Reason to avoid
- A firmer fit may not suit riders who prefer a looser cut
These breeches are a smart, performance-focused option with a close but comfortable fit. The fabric is breathable and flexible, allowing for freedom of movement while keeping you cool.
Also, the full-seat silicone grip adds security without excess stickiness, and the design is tidy and functional, with the Lycra ankle panels for comfort under boots and two discreet rear pockets.
LeMieux Monsieur Breeches
Colours: White, navy, black
Sizes: 28–36in
RRP: £109.95
Reasons to buy
- Soft, durable four-way stretch fabric gives you lots of freedom in the saddle
- Seamless, tapered leg design
- Four proper pockets, including a specific phone pocket
Reason to avoid
- Higher price point – may feel steep if you’re fine with simpler competition breeches
These breeches feel quite premium. The stretchy, seamless design follows your movements without tugging and the Lycra-fitted ankle sits neatly under boots.
With plenty of storage – four pockets including a discreet phone pocket – and solid knee grip, they’re designed for riders who want a polished, functional package. If you’re looking for value over frills, the price might make you pause, but for comfort and style in one go, these deliver.
Hy Harrogate Men’s Breeches
Colours: White, beige and more working colours
Sizes: 28–38in
RRP: £69.99
Reasons to buy
- Traditional design with pleated sides for better freedom of movement
- Practical features like side/back pockets with stud closures, sturdy zip and belt loops
- Durable silicone knee patches
Reason to avoid
- Nylon/Spandex blend isn’t as breathable as premium technical fabrics
These breeches blend classic styling with modern, practical detailing. The pleated sides ease restriction while riding, and the robust design – reinforced stitching, secure fastenings and stretch-leg hems – means they’re built to last.
Furthermore, the silicone knee patches provide a dependable enough grip but remain sleek under your saddle. A reliable all-rounder that’s smart enough for competitions and sturdy for daily work. However, they lack the moisture-wicking stretch of higher-end options.
HKM Men’s Basic Riding Breeches
Colours: White, beige, navy and grey
Sizes: 30–40in
RRP: £41.95
Reasons to buy
- Soft, breathable cotton blend with enough stretch for active riding
- Simple, unfussy design with useful front and rear pockets
- Affordable and holds up well for light to moderate use
Reason to avoid
- Velcro ankle fastenings
These breeches feel a bit more streamlined than some of the more traditional cuts. The bi-elastic fabric moves with you easily, and the lighter structure gives them a slightly more modern, fitted profile without feeling restrictive.
They’re breathable and comfortable enough for lessons or hacking out, with the added bonus of practical pockets. Just be aware of the velcro cuffs, and the zips don’t feel as robust as other options. However, they’re still a good-value, no-fuss option for riders who want something light, simple, and functional.
LeMieux Elite Classic Pleated Men’s Breeches
Colours: White, black, beige, navy, flint
Sizes: 28–36in
RRP: £119.95
Reasons to buy
- Four-way stretch fabric with classic front pleats offers unrestricted movement and a relaxed, flattering fit
- Seamless, tapered lower-leg design sits neatly under riding boots
- Full silicone knee grip adds secure contact in the saddle, and front/rear pockets provide practical storage
Reason to avoid
-
Premium price
These breeches strike a smart balance between traditional style and modern performance. You’ll appreciate the tailored fit with classic pleats that don’t restrict and allow a more relaxed silhouette. The four-way stretch fabric is soft yet robust, and it moves with you through every gait.
Silicone knee grip gives dependable stability without weighing the breeches down, and the pockets – both front and back – keep essentials close at hand. If you ride and compete often, the combination of style, comfort, and tech makes them a worthwhile investment – especially if you prefer that classic look.
Can I wear dark breeches for competition?
Yes, but it depends on where you’re riding. A growing number of governing bodies – like British Riding Clubs, which introduced dark breeches in 2022 – have relaxed their rules in recent years.
Navy and black breeches are now widely accepted, especially for lower levels and unaffiliated events. Even in British Dressage, where white used to be the gold standard, a recent rule now allows wearing dark solid colours and contrast seats, as long as the look remains tidy and understated.
Eventing Ireland (EI) and British Eventing (BE) also permit the wearing of dark and navy breeches in all three phases. But for anything else, it’s always worth double-checking the latest rulebook for your discipline before show day.
Full-seat or knee-patch – what’s actually better for men?
There’s no universal answer, but here’s a rule of thumb: full-seat breeches give you more grip and stability, which is great for dressage or if you like feeling anchored in the saddle. Knee patches give you more freedom to move, making them a better fit for jumping or mixed disciplines. If you’re new to competing, try both and see what feels right – some riders even switch depending on the phase or horse.
What features really matter in a good pair of men’s breeches?
Fit is top priority – comfort and confidence start with how they feel. Look for a waistband that doesn’t dig in or sag, and leg panels that don’t bunch under boots. Grip material is next: modern silicone often beats traditional suede for a lighter, more flexible hold. And don’t underestimate fabric – four-way stretch, breathable materials are game-changers when you’re riding multiple horses or out all day. Pockets are a personal thing, but once you’ve had a secure phone pocket, it’s hard to go back.
You might also like:
11 pairs of everyday men’s breeches
Comfy and VPL-free underwear designed specially for equestrians
15 of the best competition breeches to wear in the saddle this season
Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round
Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.
