How to Buy Rodeo Chaps

Chaps are pants-like coverings that are worn over pants to protect a rider's legs from chafing and from being scratched by trail hazards. Rodeo chaps are worn to keep the legs safe from rubbing against the horse, bull or saddle during strenuous rodeo events. You should buy rodeo chaps that both provide protection and show off your style. Read on to learn how to buy rodeo chaps.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure (stiff metal type)
  • Measuring tape (soft type)
  • Pencil
  • Paper
  • Helper
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Instructions

  1. Choose the Appropriate Chaps Style

    • 1

      Look for "Batwing" chaps for bull-riding and bronco-riding events. Batwing chaps are flared at the bottom of each leg. The flare keeps you cool by allowing air to circulate, and also allows for less restricted leg movement.

    • 2

      Opt for "shotgun" chaps to reduce flapping around your legs for events such as barrel racing and show riding. Stovepipe chaps fit more snugly around the legs and generally feature fringed edges.

    • 3

      Jot down notes during the shopping experience.

    Get Measured for Rodeo Chaps

    • 4

      Ask a friend to measure you for chaps. Have him measure the distance around your hips, just below the belt loops on your pants. He should use the soft measuring tape and make sure there is no slack in it.

    • 5

      Put on the boots you will wear to the rodeo. Have your helper measure your outseam by using a stiff measuring tape to take the distance between just below your belt loops and the floor.

    • 6

      Repeat the last step, but measure from the crotch to the floor on the inside of the legs. This is the inseam.

    • 7

      Use the soft measuring tape to note down the distance from the crotch to the middle of your knee.

    • 8

      Ask your helper to take measurements of the circumference of your leg. Use the soft tape, and measure the thickness of the thigh at the crotch. Then take another measurement around the middle of the thigh.

    Buy Custom-Made Rodeo Chaps

    • 9

      Start by selecting the overall chaps style, batwing or stovepipe, that best suits your rodeo event.

    • 10

      Input each of your chaps measurements carefully in the spaces provided.

    • 11

      Add your personal rodeo flair by selecting to buy two-toned color chaps. Contrasting colors will make you easier to see when you are in the arena.

    • 12

      Keep your rodeo event in mind when you choose fringe length. Long fringe can be distracting to the judges in technical events such as barrel racing.

    • 13

      Provide the chaps maker with your measurements and your style choices.