Are you a breeches person or a tights person?
For the longest time, I hated riding in tights. I just couldn’t find a pair that I felt fit me well, even if the sporty, stretchy and breathable tights fabric was much more comfortable in and out of the saddle.
And while I love breeches – the classic, professional look and the support they offer in the saddle – sometimes they can be hot, stuffy, and also leave much to be desired when it comes to fit.
Then along came this “crossover” idea, where some brands began to combine the best of both the breech and tight worlds into one superior riding pant. The latest brand to harness this ingenuity is SmartPak.
The Piper Fusion Breech is designed for those who want the comfort of a good pair of tights (me) but prefers the look of a performance breech (also me). The fabric is soft, light, and ultra breathable – perfect for a tough ride any day here in hot and humid Florida. But these breeches have belt loops, faux front buttons and a fly front for a professional look. Spoiler alert: they also have mesh pockets on both thighs, perfect for keeping your phone secure during your ride.
When I first tried them on, I couldn’t get over just how comfortable they were. They fit better than my most expensive name-brand yoga pants, and I really appreciated the 2.5-inch waistband, both for comfort and a flattering look, which also has a silicone lining inside to help keep your shirt securely tucked (< seriously, this is genius).
The Piper Fusion Breech offer a crosshatch diamond plate pattern, made of silicone, to keep you secure in the saddle. The breeches come in both full seat and knee patch options. Both variations offer a rear pleated panel right below the waistband that really looks quite sharp, and I’m not going to lie, is quite flattering on my backside.
They come in gorgeous colors too – I opted for the dreamy dark olive.
The look is professional enough that I would feel confident wearing these breeches with a belt and tucked-in sunshirt to a riding clinic or a day of schooling off property.
After I rode in these breeches for the first time, I found myself still wearing them hours later at home. I even went for a run and did a yoga sesh in them – they are just that comfortable and supportive.
I think I found my favorite new summer riding pant – which might turn out to be just my favorite pair in general.