Chaz Heff
Boots and Breeches
Page 12
Stretch fabrics began to appear in the 1950s, and by the early '60s were well established in athletic attire and women's fashions. Remember stretch and stirrup pants? At that time I often noticed that riding apparel shops were putting their classic, flared breeches on sale. Fortunately, I bought!Here is a pair of russet breeches in a stretch fabric that has remarkable "give". They have suede knee patches and velcro leg closures. They are worn here with my Dehner dress boots.
This pose of the same russet breeches is a bit ungainly, but it clearly shows to what extent the fabric will stretch. They are very comfortable in ANY position!
Here is another pair of breeches cut from stretch fabric that I purchased from BootsPlus a few years ago. They are also very comfortable in the saddle. They have a black side stripe, double knees and seat, and are closed at the legs with velcro. Note how small the flare or peg has become. They feel great with my 20-inch Wesco Boss boots.
Here is my favorite pair of stretch breeches - dark blue with a light blue side stripe. They feel just right with my California police shirt and 18-inch Dehner bal-laced boots. The belt and the Sam Browne shoulder strap have a stainless steel inlay. Northbound Leather in Toronto crafted it for me several years ago.