Style: First, we'll discuss which style of chaps or chinks suit the type of riding you do. If you show, there are some limitations based on the association like AQHA, NRHA, NRCHA, ARHA, etc. Do you do any roping, or ground work, are you in and out of the tack a lot, are you riding through brush, part of the country you're in, temperature, are we keeping these a secret from your spouse or significant other? 

Color: Next, you'll pick out color and either smooth-out or rough-out. We'll talk about the color of the horses you ride, show shirts and pads, and what we feel will best suit you.
 

Leather type: This is largely based on the type of riding you do. Beyond the colors and leather types that were pictured on the Chaps page, I have access to three other suppliers and will make the decision based on the color and function we decide upon. If you're at all worried about colors, I'll first make a video for you of the leather in both indoor and outdoor lighting. I can also send you color swatches in the mail. 

Yoke: So many options! Whether you want to go with a traditional look of a basket stamp, or fully tooled with a unique design, the possibilities are endless. We'll also decide on yoke shape, which is determined by the overall style. 

Buckstitching or Lacing: We'll determine color of the lacing that goes down the leg. 

Pocket: My cowboys and cowgirls usually like a pocket for snacks and such. My show folks are permitted to have a pocket, but that is association-dependent. 

Back Belt/ Front Belt: More of a stylistic choice. The style of back belt (either with conchos, laced in, or a buckle) will be largely dependent upon the type of riding you do. In the reining, you should lean towards a back belt that is fixed with two conchos. In the ranch riding, you have a little more flexibility, but most will choose a back belt with a buckle. This style make it easy to adjust to quickly adjust. I recommend that you verify with your local association's handbook or contact the association. 

For front belts: Did you know that your chaps' front belt should be able to break if you get in a wreck? Your front belt is most likely to get caught on the horn of your saddle in the event you end up in a bad spot. In order to protect you and prevent you from getting dragged, your front belt should break under pressure. For that reason, for my day workers, I recommend a tie string front belt. This style is a bit more typical in western part of US. For all others, I'll typically go with a cart buckle in front. 

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Pockets: For most show folks, I recommend you go with a left pocket. For all of my ropers, y'all are only getting a left pocket, last thing I need is for you to crush your cell phone in a right hand pocket when you dally (lol)!

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