Let me start by saying, I am a breeches girl. Tights generally look sloppy and are unforgiving of any curves. That being said, I was intrigued by Botori’s tights. I went back and forth on whether or not I wanted to buy them or not – everything seems enticing on
social media, but I’m pretty good about thinking things over before purchasing. The biggest selling points on these for me is their euroseat look, and that they have knee patches. I don’t understand why some leggings are marketed to riders when they don’t have knee patches and are made in a slick slippery fabric. As a breech lover, I prefer tucking my shirt in and wearing belts. It pulls your outfit together and makes you look more finished and polished. These don’t have belt loops and are high rise, but I decided that’s fine during winter when sweaters, jackets, and vests cover my waist anyways.
So let’s get to the point – what are they like?
Here are the pros: These tights feel like you’re wearing your favorite sweatpants – they’re SO soft and comfortable. They have a brushed fleece inside that makes them super cozy. These tights are the winter edition so they’re made to keep you warm, but I’ve worn them in 70 degree temps and never felt overly hot in them. They’re breathable, moisture wicking, and super stretchy.
They’re also completely opaque, so you can feel comfortable going into your two-point without showing off your butt, and the fabric has enough weight to smooth out your figure.
The ribbed cuffs (which feel retro to me for some reason which I love) are a great addition, both stylistically and practically – they look great when the tall boots come off, but feel seamless when they’re on.
These tights also have the softest knee patch material I’ve ever felt – on the days I wear these, I catch myself touching the knee patches all day long. Don’t judge me until you’ve felt them.
They are equipped with power-mesh pockets on both sides that let you see your phone’s screen while riding. I hardly ever ride with my phone so this isn’t a feature I really use, but I love having the easy access pockets for when I’m done riding and going about my day.
The most impressive thing about these tights is their ability to stay clean and repel dirt and horse hair. It’s honestly like magic. We don’t have grooms at my barn so there hasn’t been a time where I haven’t left the barn covered in dirt, horse slobber, and horse hair. In these tights, I leave with only my upper half covered.
The one complaint that I have with them is the waistband, which is made from the same fabric as the cuffs. It’s not a very compressive fabric, and maybe I just need a smaller size, but I find myself having to pull them up a lot more than I’d like. They stay put in the saddle, but when I’m walking around the barn doing chores they really start to sag. I think these, as with all other leggings, would benefit from added belt loops. Because of the waistband style, I’ll probably only wear these during the colder months but I really do love them.
They’re a pretty damn impressive first product for a new brand, and I can’t wait to see what they release next!
Want to try them for yourself? Click here.
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All opinions are truthful and my own. I was not compensated for this review.