Chaps are the easiest way to add leather protection and warmth to your legs without giving up your favorite jeans. But chaps that fit wrong flap in the wind, ride up on the bike or bunch at your boots. Here's how to get the fit right the first time.
In this guide: How to measure · How chaps should fit · How to cut chaps to length · Questions
How to measure for chaps
Most of our chaps are sized by thigh measurement, not pants size. The thigh is what decides whether chaps sit snug or flap at speed. Waist size matters less, because most styles have an adjustable belt in front and a laced panel in back.
- Thigh: wear the jeans you'll ride in. Measure around the fullest part of your thigh, just below the crotch, with the tape snug but not tight.
- Waist: measure where the chaps' belt will sit. That's usually a little lower than your pants waist, around your hips.
- Inseam: measure from the crotch to the floor while wearing your riding boots. You'll use this when cutting to length.
Compare your thigh measurement with the size chart on the product page. If you're between sizes, check the product description for stretch panels or extra adjustment, or call us at (770) 483-1060 and we'll help you pick.
How tight should chaps be?
Chaps should be snug over your jeans at the thigh, close enough that they don't balloon or flap at highway speed, but loose enough to bend your knees and swing a leg over the bike. A good test is to slide a flat hand between the leather and your jeans. It should go in with a little resistance.
| Area | Good fit | Too loose | Too tight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thigh | Snug over jeans, a flat hand fits | Flaps and balloons at speed | Hard to zip, pinches when seated |
| Waist | Belt sits on the hips, laces adjusted | Chaps slide down while walking | Belt digs in when you lean forward |
| Length (seated) | Covers the top of your boot on the pegs | Drags on the ground when standing | Shows sock or boot shaft on the bike |
Leather relaxes a little as you wear it, so a new pair that feels firm at the thigh will usually loosen to a comfortable fit. Don't count on it stretching a full size.
How to cut chaps to length
Many chaps are made long on purpose so they can be trimmed for each rider. Once chaps are cut, they can't be returned, so try them on and make sure the size is right before you cut. Here's the method riders have used for decades:
- Gear up. Put on the jeans and boots you'll ride in, then the chaps, adjusting the belt and laces.
- Sit in riding position. On your bike or on a chair at about the same height, with your feet where they'd be on the pegs or floorboards. Chaps ride up when your knees bend, which is why measuring while standing leaves them too short on the bike.
- Mark the length. Have a friend mark the leather with chalk where it covers the top of your boot. Then stand up and check that the chaps sit just above the floor. Most riders prefer a little extra length.
- Cut once, carefully. Lay the chaps flat, line up a straightedge on your mark and cut with a sharp utility knife or heavy shears. Cut a little long; you can always take more off.
- Repeat on the other leg, measuring from the first leg so both match.
Leather doesn't fray, so a clean cut edge doesn't need hemming. If you'd rather not cut them yourself, a local tailor or leather shop can shorten them.
Featured chaps from Buffalo Leather Gear
- Classic Black Leather Chaps (HL12800SPT): our everyday mid-weight chap in sizes from 3XS all the way to 11XL.
- Tall Leather Chaps (HL12800TALL): 4 inches of extra length for tall riders, in heavy buffalo leather.
- Thermal-Lined Leather Chaps (HL12840NKD): a snap-out thermal liner and stretch inner-thigh panels for cold-weather and long-distance rides.
- Jean-Pocket Leather Chaps (HL12836): classic jean-pocket styling in 1.2–1.3 mm cowhide.
- Fringe Leather Chaps (HL12800FRINGE): buffalo leather with tassel fringe down each leg, for men and women.
- Women's Low-Rise Studded Chaps (HL12801STUD): a hip-hugging cut in soft cowhide with a mesh lining.
Leather or textile chaps?
Leather chaps are the classic choice: they block wind, add warmth and resist abrasion far better than denim. Our leather chaps are made from buffalo or cowhide, mostly 1.1–1.3 mm thick, and the product page lists the leather for each pair. Textile chaps are lighter and easier to clean, and some are machine washable. If you're choosing between hides, read Buffalo vs. Cowhide: Which Leather Is Better for Riding Gear?
Common questions
Do chaps go over jeans?
Yes. Chaps are designed to be worn over jeans or riding pants, so always measure and try them on over the pants you'll ride in.
Can women wear unisex chaps?
Yes. Unisex chaps are sized by thigh measurement, so they fit women too. We also carry women's leather chaps cut for a curvier fit.
How do I take care of leather chaps?
Wipe them down after riding, condition them a few times a year, and let them air-dry if they get soaked. Never put them near a heater. Read the full leather care guide.
What if my chaps arrive in the wrong size?
Uncut, unworn chaps with tags attached can be returned within 30 days. See our return policy and FAQ.
Ready to ride? Shop men's chaps and women's leather chaps. Have a sizing question? Call (770) 483-1060.