Cowboys wear chaps to protect their legs from getting scratched up by brush and thorns. They also provide added warmth in the winter and an extra layer of protection from cow horns and other dangers associated with the cowboy lifestyle.
What are chaps?
Chaps are leg coverings that are typically made of oiled leather and worn over a rider’s jeans. They don’t cover your crotch area or rear end and attach with either a tie at your back or a small buckle in the front.
You’ll notice that the leather strap used to secure chaps is broad across the rear and very narrow in the front. The chaps belt is designed this way to break so you don’t get hung up on a saddle horn or anything else.
Authentic western chaps are commonly made from cowhide leather, but some can be found that are made in sheepskin, bear, buffalo, or even goatskin. Chaps can be also found in show competitions that are solely designed for aesthetics. These decorative chaps can be made with other synthetic materials such as vinyl or suede.
Why are chaps used?
Chaps is an Americanized version of the Spanish word Chaparreras which loosely translates into, “for the brush.” If you’ve ever seen a cowboy in an old Western movie, chances are you noticed the chaps he was wearing.
Chaps are a type of protective clothing that covers the legs from the waist down. They’re typically made from leather or heavy fabric, and they fasten around the waist with a belt.
Protection
Chaps are an essential part of cowboy gear, and the name is derived from the Spanish word “chaparreras,” which loosely translates to “for the brush.” Chaps protect the cowboy’s legs from thorns, branches, and other hazards while riding through rough terrain.
In addition, they protect cowboys from the different elements or situations they may find themselves in while working on a ranch, such as burns while branding or injuries from a when lassoing cattle.
Comfort
Chaps protect the rider’s legs from the elements and from chafing caused by the saddle. They also help to grip the saddle, improving control while riding. The leggings are usually made of oiled or treated leather that is durable, and resistant to water and wear.
Keeping your pants clean
When working on a ranch, you may not have the time to deep clean your clothes every night. If you are working in harsh conditions, you may need something to protect your pants while you work.
Chaps not only protect your legs, but they also protect your pants by taking on the majority of the debris that a cowboy’s legs may face every day.
Warmth
There is no doubt that cowboys living in rough winter conditions struggle to stay warm through tough freezes. Chaps provide an extra layer of warmth if you live in a place that has rough winters.
