Why Deerskin?

Have you ever wondered why we use deerskin for our full seats and knee patches? The hours you spend in the saddle should be joyous and pain-free. At Tropical Rider we strive to make the best possible breeches to ensure your ultimate comfort. In our experience, deerskin is the best choice!

Deerskin is durable and will last season after season. It stretches and molds to your body, but also retains its shape providing years of wear. You will enjoy unparalleled grip in the saddle while the soft and supple leather moves with you. When you pair deerskin with Tropical Rider’s high performance fabrics and elegant styling you have the ultimate in breeches!

There are many different types of leathers that are used to make apparel, purses, wallets and boots. For riding apparel, deerskin is the best choice for a variety of reasons. In addition to its attractive and sophisticated look, deerskin is a stretchy, lighter leather with a lot of natural oils, so it stays soft and supple use after use. The natural oils also make it machine washable.

Other leathers are better suited to other items:

• Pigskin is the cheapest of the leathers and is readily available, but it is very porous. It frequently has distinctive dot-like markings. Pigskin is wonderful for purses, wallets and luggage, but is not typically used for apparel.
• Cowhide is also readily available, but is thicker and dryer and therefore does not stretch or move with a rider in the saddle. It is also not machine washable, but makes wonderful shoes and briefcases.
• Goatskin is cheaper, but also thinner and available in smaller hides. It also lacks in natural oils, making it dryer and not machine washable. Goatskin is often used for linings and uppers for shoes.

Deerskin offers comfort and will withstand years of use, perfect for the high quality breeches you have come to expect from Tropical Rider.

• Full Seat: We really mean full seat. Complete coverage of the saddle when you sit.
• Leg Patch: Deerskin from the top of the thigh (crotch) to the middle of the calf.
• Knee Patch: Deerskin patch is about 10 inches long over the knee area.