Cowboys Wear Chaps
Why Do Cowboys Wear Chaps?
Thinking about “Why do cowboys wear chaps?” It is a common question that may pop up in your mind. After all, this is a stylish attire, especially worn by cowboys. No wonder you would think if these chaps are for style or if it comes with different benefits we were unaware of. Let’s reveal its secret below!
What are Chaps?
The pair of chaps always accompany the cool look of Cowboys to ensure their safety.
Chaps are protective garments generally worn by people who work around horses. They are worn over normal jeans or any other horse-riding attire.
It should be pronounced as “Shaps.”
The word “chaps” is generally derived from the Spanish word, Chaparreras, pronounced with a “sh” sound.
The Spanish named it “chaparral, “as it protected their legs from a thorny plant known as chaparral. But the name was later on adopted by the American West.
They are similar to breeches, but they are usually extended past the knee and sometimes cover most of the legs.
Chaps were traditionally made from high-quality leather pieces of cowhide or wool. Modern renditions usually integrate synthetic materials like nylon, faux leather, and other durable materials which are washing machine friendly.
Unlike other pants that are fully suppressed, chaps are open in the front area and the butt area. Therefore it is attached at the waist using an integrated belt.
Even though we discussed what exactly these are, it doesn’t give the whole idea on why do cowboys wear chaps. That’s why we will discuss it more on it. However, before that, let’s see some of the common types of chaps.
Commonly Used Chaps
There are many chap styles with varying leg shapes, making them suitable for different contexts. The most commonly used chaps are :
- Shotgun chaps- They are considered the warmest chaps and are of a full length that originated from the northern plains. Nevertheless, they are unsuitable for humid climates.
- Woollies- These are made from wool and are perfect for cold regions.
- Chinks- These are half-length chaps that are perfect for warm climates. They also make good shielding aprons. A more specific style of chinks is used as a horse-shoeing chap.
- Ranch Batwing chaps/ Rodeo chaps- These chaps are more flexible than shotgun chaps and are the best for air circulation. For riding in hot weather, they are perfect riding wear.
Why Do Cowboys Wear Chaps? Main Benefits
Now, the heart of the matter, why do cowboys wear chaps and what exactly is its purpose? Below are some advantages of wearing chaps.
Protection
The main purpose of ranch chaps was to protect the legs from branches, brushes, and thorns while riding through the dense areas of the forest with lots of shrubs. They also have been worn by stagecoach drivers, postal workers, military personnel on horseback, cowboys, cattle drivers, livestock workers, motorcycle drivers, and others.
For protection against thorns, the leather is generally rigid and made with either round or flat seams running down the inside of the leg.
Besides the protection from thorns, chaps also protect a cowboy’s legs from being hurt by livestock or from rope burns, which normal jeans can’t offer.
Comfort
Another reason on “why do cowboys wear chaps” is feeling uncomfortable when seated in a saddle for long periods, particularly on horses with bony withers.
The leather or any other material used in making the chaps is often stiff and helps protect the legs against the hard points where it comes in contact with the horse’s back.
Warmth
Sometimes cowboys work all day, and in some seasons, such as in winter, it might be too cold to spend all day on a horse.
Regular leather chaps give warmth by trapping air within the cowboy’s body. This air, in turn, protects, preventing heat loss. Others are padded with wool or made entirely with wool.
Keeps your clothes clean
Working with animals all day exposes you to different types of dirt and stains. These stains may be difficult to remove from the clothes. Though you get rid of stains, the thorny vegetation will still cause damage to clothing.
The chaps protect the clothes from filth and prevent them from damage.
What are chaps made of?
If you observe English riders, you might have noticed the fittings used over the tall riding boots. These are known as half-chaps and protect the boots from damage and prevent riders from sweating when it’s too hot.
That’s why they are common in trail riding, where you have to ride for long distances in hot temperatures.
Since some western riders also use them, hence they are not considered part of the cowboy culture.
Hence, chaps are made of soft leather, and some chaps are made of synthetic leather-like material.
Wearing chaps is not complicated, though. All you need to do is get an appropriate size chap and eat assured they will serve their purpose.
FAQs
Why do Bull Riders wear chaps?
Chaps, especially leather chaps, keep them comfortable and minimize sliding as they ride on the bull. They can incur fewer injuries in case the rider falls off. As bull riding is a dangerous sport, it helps in having an extra layer of protection.
Do I need Chaps for Horseback riding?
Yes, you do, if you often work with cattle or work in harsh conditions. They offer leg protection from the hazards you may encounter.
Why do Cowboys wear chaps?
Chaps make riding more comfortable and protect riders from thorns, shrubs, and many other hazards. They might get hurt while riding. They also provide warmth in cold regions and prevent sweating in hot climates.
What boots do cowboys wear with Half – Chaps?
Half chaps are normally worn over paddock boots, but they can’t work in cowboy boots. They are cheap and are flexible to tall boots. Thus, you can use them for daily activities and use tall boots for special occasions.
Conclusion
Now you have the basic idea on why do cowboys wear chaps. Chaps are something more than making a cowboy irresistible. They are protective leather garments that are used for protection against all the dangers they may face outdoors. There are different chaps suitable for many other activities, except riding.
