Full Seat vs Knee Patch Riding Tights: Which Should You Choose?
Riding tights have silicone grip to help you stay in the saddle. The difference between full seat, half seat and knee patch tights is where that grip is. This guide explains each type and how to choose your size.
Full seat riding tights
The grip covers the seat, the inside of the thigh and the knee. This gives you the most grip in the saddle.
- Good for: flatwork, dressage and hacking
- Choose these if: you want to feel more secure in the saddle
Our full seat tights: High Waist Full Seat Riding Tights, Full Seat Matt Grip Riding Leggings and Highline Full Seat Riding Tights.
Knee patch riding tights
The grip is only on the inside of the knee. Your seat can move more freely.
- Good for: jumping and cross-country
- Choose these if: full seat tights feel too grippy for you
Our knee patch tights: Matt Silicone Knee Patch Riding Tights and Knee Patch Riding Tights with Zip Pockets.
Half seat riding tights
The grip covers the inside of the thigh and the knee, but not the seat. You get more grip than knee patch tights, but less than full seat.
- Good for: riders who do some flatwork and some jumping
Our half seat tights: Half Seat Silicone Riding Tights.
Side by side
| Full seat | Half seat | Knee patch | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Where the grip is | Seat, thigh and knee | Thigh and knee | Knee only |
| Amount of grip | Most | Medium | Least |
| Best for | Flatwork and dressage | A bit of everything | Jumping |
How to choose your size
Most of our riding tights come in UK sizes 6 to 18. The Matt Grip full seat leggings and the Matt Silicone knee patch tights also come in size 20.
- Waist: measure around the narrowest part of your waist.
- Hips: measure around the widest part of your hips.
- Between sizes: riding tights should fit close to the leg, because loose fabric can crease and rub when you ride. Choose the smaller size for a close fit, or the bigger size if you want more room at the waist.
Check the size chart on each product before you order, because sizes vary a little between styles.
Washing your riding tights
- Wash inside out at 30°C.
- Do not use fabric softener. It covers the silicone and makes the grip weaker.
- Do not tumble dry or iron. Hang them up to dry.
See all our riding tights.
