If you’ve been eyeing riding leggings but can’t justify spending $200+ on a single pair of pants, you’re not alone. The good news? Some of the best riding leggings on the market are actually under $100 — and they perform just as well as (sometimes better than) the fancy ones.
Here’s the thing: riding leggings have completely changed how I dress for the barn. They’re lighter than traditional breeches, more comfortable for long days, and you don’t feel like you’re suiting up for a formal occasion just to ride your own horse at home.
But not all riding leggings are created equal. Some pill after two washes. Some have grip patches that peel off. Some fit weirdly or ride up constantly. I’ve tried a lot of them, and these are the ones that actually hold up.
Quick Comparison
| Legging | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Free Ride Lux Hybrid | $95 | Best overall |
| Free Ride Define | $85 | Best value |
| Kerrits Coolcore Full Leg | $79 | Hot weather |
| Kerrits Free Style Knee Patch | $69 | Most affordable |
My Top Pick: Free Ride Lux Hybrid Pull-On ($95)
Shop Free Ride | Use code ELEVATED10 for 10% off
If I could only recommend one riding legging, it’s the Lux Hybrid from Free Ride. There’s a reason it has over 400 five-star reviews.
The fit is what sets these apart. They feel like your favorite high-waisted leggings but with actual equestrian features — full seat silicone grip, a phone pocket that doesn’t bulge, and fabric that doesn’t go see-through when you stretch. They’re lightweight enough for summer but substantial enough that they don’t feel flimsy.
What I love:
- Full seat grip that stays grippy wash after wash
- High-waisted without the muffin top effect
- Runs long (great for tall riders)
- Comes in basically every color imaginable
- Looks like athleisure so you can run errands after
The honest truth: These are the leggings I reach for every single day.
Best Value: Free Ride Define Leggings ($85)
Shop Free Ride | Use code ELEVATED10 for 10% off
If you want the Free Ride quality at the lowest possible price point, the Define leggings are it. More traditional fit, knee patch grip instead of full seat. Ideal for flatwork and everyday schooling.
Same great fabric, same thoughtful details — just a slightly different design that saves you $10.
Best for Hot Weather: Kerrits Coolcore Full Leg Grip ($79)
The Coolcore fabric is legitimately cooling — it’s designed to wick heat away from your body, not just moisture. If you ride in brutal summer heat, these are worth it.
Full leg silicone grip gives you security without the bulk. Not quite as polished-looking as Free Ride, but highly functional for hot climates. The 59 reviews averaging 4.3 stars tell the story.
Most Affordable: Kerrits Free Style Knee Patch ($69)
If $69 is your ceiling, these are the ones to get. Knee patch grip, decent stretch, functional pockets. They won’t last as long as the Free Ride options, but they’ll get the job done while you save up for the good stuff.
Currently 30% off on Amazon, which makes them an even better deal.
The Bottom Line
Best overall: Free Ride Lux Hybrid at $95
Best value: Free Ride Define at $85
Budget pick: Kerrits Free Style at $69
Both Free Ride options come with 10% off using code ELEVATED10 — which brings the Lux Hybrid down to $85.50 and the Define to $76.50.
That’s premium riding leggings for the price of a couple coffee runs. Worth it.
