A New Side of Me
If you asked me what type of riding I do I would say with passion that I am a Western trail rider through and through. I would say give me the freedom and adventure of hitting the trails and see what the day brings us! I find true peace and happiness out on those trails, and I love the moments when I can be one with my horse as we rely on each other for a safe and happy ride.
Along with my riding friends, I would always hit the trails in a comfy pair of jeans and some heeled boots. My closet was full of jeans to pick from, and I had a different pair for every day of the week—well to be honest, I have enough for 22 days straight, but who’s counting? Since this casual style of riding suits my personality, I never thought I would even consider wearing a pair of breeches.
But I was intrigued when SmartPak started offering denim breeches. I hesitated to purchase a pair, because I worried what my trail buddies would say and how I would see myself. It may have been a silly thought, but nevertheless it held me back from making that first purchase. I found myself staring daily at these breeches on SmartPak’s website and slowly working myself up to the fact that I was going to purchase my first pair and give them a go to see how I liked them. After all, I knew I could return any sized item for free, so there wasn’t any risk for me.
The first pair I broke down and purchased were the Goode Rider Equestrian Jean Full Seat Breech. I was pleasantly surprised with the comfort, flexibility, looks, and grip that these breeches offered me. I really liked them and could see myself getting used to these breeches. Knowing the collection of jeans that I have, you probably guessed that I couldn’t stop at just one pair.
My second pair of breeches were the Horze Tara High Waist Silicone Full Seat Breeches, which were not denim. I justified buying these because my saddle is black and the breeches are black, and they can look like black jeans, so why not try a pair? I loved them, too! First and foremost, I really liked the way these breeches fit. I have a long torso, so most shirts aren’t long enough for me when I wear mid- or low-rise jeans or breeches. But the high waist on these really helps keep my shirt tucked in, and I also love the back pockets.
My third pair were the Goode Rider Vogue Denim Full Seat Breech. I went back to denim breeches for good reason, as that’s what I’m most comfortable wearing. This pair didn’t disappoint either; they’re stylish and fun, while also being completely functional.
My fourth pair was the Horze Grand Prix Thermo Silicone Full Seat Breeches; again, they weren’t denim, but because they were black, they were acceptable in my mind. These were great because I needed something to keep me warm in the winter. I didn’t think these would make much difference in the department of keeping me warmer, but I was pleasantly surprised. I was able to use these all winter long.
I now have a collection of full seat breeches, which include the LeMieux Denim Full Seat Breeches and the Romfh Claudia Denim Full Seat Breeches. Although I have far fewer pairs of breeches compared to my jeans’ collection, I’m happy with the progress I’ve made. All those years I spent resisting experimenting with new items, I only missed out. But not anymore!
It’s funny how things work out. Working at SmartPak and seeing their offerings opened my eyes, mind, and purse to wearing breeches. I now like to think of myself as a crossover rider who appreciates the fun, casual comfort of denim, the stretch of breeches, and the added grip of a silicon full seat.
I guess you could call me “westish”—I have a heart for Western with a flare of English. I know that’s a completely made-up word, but I think it suits me. Now when I think of myself, I see a new side of me. I appreciate that mixing styles is OK, especially if it benefits me, and I look and feel good doing it!