Choosing the right kids' equestrian breeches affects comfort, safety, and confidence in the saddle. Whether you're shopping for lessons, summer camps, shows, or everyday barn work, the right fit, fabric and grip matter. These recommendations are based on extensive research, hands-on testing, and expert and consumer feedback.
Considerations
I evaluated available kids' breeches using a combination of real-world testing, expert opinion, and consumer reviews. Key factors considered:
- Fit & comfort: waistband design, rise (mid vs. high), stretch and seam placement to minimize chafing. Real kids tested the garments for range of motion and boot fit.
- Grip: knee patch vs. full-seat silicone coverage — tested in saddle for secure contact and confidence during trots and canters.
- Fabric performance: breathability, stretch/recovery, durability, quick-dry and, where relevant, insulation for winter models.
- Storage & features: presence of secure zip pockets, belt loops, and design touches (ankle grippers, bootcut, fleece lining).
- Value & price: assessed quality relative to cost; we favored pieces that balance durability and performance at their price point.
Consumer feedback and reviewer notes were used to validate fit consistency, long-term wear, and washability. Where brands provided fabric specs (e.g., nylon/spandex blends), those technical details informed recommendations.
Everyday Riding Breeches
Affordable, comfortable breeches built for daily lessons. Stretchy, easy-care fabric with knee patches and a wide waistband make these a reliable budget choice for young riders learning to ride and practicing frequently.
Why it made the list
These breeches are a strong low-cost pick for families who need dependable, wash-and-wear schooling pants. They use a very stretchy, breathable fabric and wide pull-up waistband that keeps kids comfortable through lessons and barn chores. The knee patches add useful grip for beginners and casual riders.
Standout features & analysis:
- Comfortable, stretchy fabric that moves with the rider — ideal for long lessons.
- Simple knee-patch grip for saddle security without the higher price of full-seat silicone.
- Fun colors and easy-care construction make them a barn-friendly, replace-as-they-grow option.
What to watch for: sizing can vary across kids, so check measurements and consider sizing up if your child is between sizes. These aren’t built for intense show use or very cold weather (no fleece lining).
Kerrits Coolcore Tights
High-performance, temperature-regulating riding tights for juniors. Coolcore fabric delivers exceptional heat management, UPF50 protection, and four-way stretch—ideal for hot-weather training and serious young riders who need consistent performance.
Why it made the list
These are the premium option for young riders who need tech-forward performance. The Coolcore Interlock fabric is engineered for multi-season comfort and excels in warm-weather riding thanks to superior moisture management and UPF+50 protection. The four-way stretch and excellent recovery make these tights comfortable in and out of the saddle.
Standout features & analysis:
- Technical Coolcore fabric provides temperature regulation and very good moisture wicking—great for summer lessons and shows.
- Four-way stretch and strong recovery help maintain shape over repeated wears.
- Two side pockets add practical storage without bulk.
What to watch for: premium materials mean a higher price point; weigh the climate and frequency of use against the extra cost. Sizing runs closer to performance fits—consult the brand’s sizing notes.
High-Waist Full-Seat Breeches
A versatile mid-priced option with full-seat silicone grip, secure pockets and a flattering high-waist. The 75/25 nylon/spandex blend offers stretch and quick-dry performance—great for regular riders who want reliable grip and storage.
Why it made the list
These breeches strike a strong balance between price, performance, and features. The fabric blend (75% nylon / 25% spandex) gives dependable stretch and quick-dry behavior. The full-seat silicone pattern provides substantial saddle contact for confident riding across disciplines, while the 2+1 pockets (including a zippered security pocket) let juniors carry small essentials safely.
Standout features & analysis:
- Full-seat silicone coverage improves grip compared with knee patches—useful for jump lessons and trail confidence.
- High waist and belt loops provide a secure, flattering fit that stays put during movement.
- Practical pocket layout (two drop pockets + one zip) is a convenient, low-bulk solution for treats or a phone.
What to watch for: while the full seat enhances grip, families should check fit length (particularly calf-to-ankle) for compatibility with riding boots.
Durable Knee-Patch Breeches
Balanced, durable schooling breeches with a twisted-yarn stretch fabric and medial knee patches. Secure zip pockets, a wide waistband, and good durability make these our top overall pick for everyday and progressing riders.
Why it made the list
This model delivers the best overall mix of comfort, durability, and everyday performance. The innovative twisted-yarn fabric offers excellent stretch and recovery while staying breathable and machine-washable—important for active kids. The medial knee patches provide effective grip without the price premium of full-seat silicon, and secure zip pockets are barn-practical.
Standout features & analysis:
- Durable, stretchy fabric that stands up to repeated wear and frequent washing.
- Medial knee pads provide targeted grip and a classic look—good for riders moving from lessons toward more technical work.
- Wide waistband stays comfortable and reduces roll-down.
What to watch for: not fleece-lined, so you’ll want an insulated option for cold-weather riding. Overall, this model’s balance of quality and price is why it earns our editor’s pick.
Comparison and Summary
- Best overall (Editors Choice): Durable Knee-Patch Breeches — Best balance of durability, fit and everyday performance; excellent for progressing riders.
- Premium (Kerrits Coolcore Tights) — Top-tier fabric tech for hot climates and competitive juniors who want performance materials and sun protection.
- Best Value (High-Waist Full-Seat Breeches) — Full-seat silicone grip and practical pocketing at an accessible price; great for riders wanting improved saddle contact without a big spend.
- Best Budget (Everyday Riding Breeches) — Low-cost, comfortable schooling pants ideal for frequent lessons and growing kids.
Quick comparison (high level):
- Grip: Full-seat silicone (Best Value) > Knee-patch (Editors/ Budget)
- Climate: Kerrits (Premium) excels in heat; none of the picks are heavy winter-lined (choose a fleece-lined model if you need insulation).
- Budget-friendliness: Budget pick provides lowest price; Best Value offers most features per dollar.
- Storage: Value and Editor choices include zip or secure pockets suitable for small essentials.
Which is best overall? The Editors Choice model provides the most consistent mix of fabric durability, fit, and everyday practicality for most young riders. For hot-weather training or show-focused juniors, the premium Coolcore option is worth the investment.
Final Recommendation and Conclusion
After hands-on testing, expert review comparison, and assessing customer feedback, our top pick for most families is the Editors Choice Durable Knee-Patch Breeches. They offer the best all-around combination of durability, comfort, and practical features at an approachable price. If your child rides frequently in hot weather or you want a higher-end technical fabric, choose the Kerrits Coolcore Tights. If you need strong saddle grip on a budget, the High-Waist Full-Seat Breeches give excellent value. For strictly economical everyday lessons, the Everyday Riding Breeches are a sensible, barn-ready option.
Tips for choosing: measure for waist and inseam, decide whether you want knee-patch or full-seat grip, and match fabric choice to your climate (fleece-lined for winter, Coolcore for summer). This review used fabric specs, real use cases, and consumer feedback to recommend breeches that will keep a young rider comfortable and confident in the saddle.