What to Look for When Buying Girls' Riding Tights

Whether you are kitting your young rider out for their new riding lessons or they are already spending every weekend at the stables, a good pair of girls' riding tights becomes an essential item in the junior equestrian wardrobe. Designed specifically for horse riding and yard wear they are packed with features to help children stay comfortable in the saddle. However there are so many styles and options available! In this blog we thought we would put together a guide on the top features and qualities to look out for when buying a pair of riding tights for a young equestrian.

1. Choose a Style They'll Love - Let's face it we all feel better if we are putting on something we feel good in and kids are the same too. Girls' riding tights comes in a wide range of colour combinations and styles so you are sure to find a design that appeals. Choose from vibrant colour ways, patterned panels or even embroidered detailing.
2. A Comfortable Fit - We truly believe that this should come first with any piece of clothing. Riding tights should fit snuggly without feeling restrictive. We wouldn't recommend over sizing as the extra material can cause all sorts of rubs. You don't want any of the material to start bunching or slipping. Generally riding tights are made from stretchable material which allows for unrestricted movement. A secure but comfortable waistband and ankle cuffs that sit smoothly inside riding boots also help ensure a riders comfort.
3. Silicone Grip - Many girls' riding tights feature silicone grip solely at the knees or across the full seat as shown in the Children's Elevate Allure Riding Tights design. This helps improve stability in the saddle without restricting movement. As time goes most riders tend to have a preference as to which they prefer however I am quite happy riding in both styles!
4. A Secure Waistband - There is nothing more annoying than a pair of riding tights that keep slipping down on the waist. I always liken it to an ill fitting pair of leggings. A wide, elastic waistband such as that on the Lucky Pony Children's Riding Tights will help a pair of riding tights stay comfortably in place throughout the day. High waisted designs are often a good choice too.
5. Durable Materials and Construction - Let's face it a pair of girls' riding tights are going to have to put up with more than just half an hour in the saddle each week. There's so much fun to be had at the stables - climbing fences, doing yard jobs, playing with your mates. Choose legwear made from durable materials with quality stitching and well finished seams to make sure the clothing is up to the test!
6. Seasonal Comfort - You can never rely on the British Weather so you can only do your best to try and get a young rider suitably dressed for the occasion. Riding tights are available in a choice of lightweight, breathable fabrics as well as slightly thicker materials and then thermal lined options for the winter months. As time goes it we are pretty sure it will be necessary 
7. Practical Features - The small details make all the difference so look out for flatlock seams to reduce rubbing, easy care fabrics, reinforced stitching and a handy pocket on the leg.

Whilst children's jodhpurs and breeches are still great options for time the saddle its kids riding tights that have become more popular in recent years. They are packed with technical features and their huge variety of designs and colour ways makes them especially popular with our younger riders. We hope our guide goes some way to help you choosing the perfect pair that will stand up to the demands of stable life.