Things You'll Need:
- Chaps
- Sharp Scissors
- Ruler
- Measuring tape
- Chalk
- Flat Surface
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Step 1
Summertime is optimal motorcycle riding time and it's not the time of year most riders think about buying chaps. But it is a great time for sales, so you should check with your local retailer and see if they have any discounts going on!
Chaps offer riders a bunch of different benefits including protecting their skin from road rash, bugs, rocks, and burns. They can also insulate the legs when riding in inclement weather. And last but not least, chaps complete the whole "biker" look.
The first thing you need to know about buying chaps is what type of leather to choose from. The next thing you need to know is whether the chaps are painted or dyed and lastly you need to know is how to fit your chaps properly.
There are three basic types: buffalo hide, heavy naked cow hide and split cowhide chaps. -
Step 2
There are three basic types: buffalo hide, heavy naked cow hide and split cowhide chaps.
Buffalo hide can be distinguished by it's sheen and somewhat coarse yet slick grain. Buffalo hide is a great leather to choose because it is not as heavy as heavy naked cow hide, nor is it as expensive. Buffalo hide does not need to be treated as much as normal cow hide does since it is a tougher leather. One drawback to buffalo hide is that it is slippery and some riders do not like that.
Next we have heavy naked cow hide. Heavy naked cow hide is usually 1.2 to 1.4 millimeters in thickness. The hide itself is very soft and supple because of the dyeing process it goes through. It is very thick and great for protecting your hide in the event that you drop your bike or otherwise become separated from it. Most people say that heavy naked cow hide feels like "butter". This leather will keep you warmer in winter and will protect you from the elements, but because of it's thickness, it can make you sweat during the summer. It will also need to be treated with a leather conditioner and protectant. Price wise, heavy naked cow hide will be a little more expensive than any of the other leathers.
The last type of leather is split cow hide and it is generally the cheapest leather you can find. Sometimes it is pieced together or the hide itself is very stiff. There is nothing wrong with this, but you have to be aware that you will need to break this leather in. With chaps that have been completely pieced together from scraps, you need to be aware that there is a possibility they could fall apart. Basically if you go for these "introduction chaps" know that you get what you pay for. -
Step 3
Now that you know the different types of leather to look for, next you need to look for size.
All chaps are fitted by thigh size and not waist size. Extra holes can always be put in a belt to get a more secure fit and chap extenders can be added to the back of the waist to open the chaps up more, but there is nothing worse than having your chaps flap around you thighs. It allows the cold and rain to come inside and makes them look really awkward when you are walking around.
Measure your thigh size and if you are buying chaps online, check out the sizing chart. Most web sites have fairly accurate sizing charts and you will be able to gauge your size from there.
When you get your chaps at home don't be surprised if they are too long. Most of them will be. It's best to put the chaps on first and then roll or flip the leather at the bottom up to get the right length. Then get a piece of chalk and mark where you have rolled the leather up. This is usually between the first, second or third snap. From there, lay your chaps out on a flat surface and with a ruler make a straight line. It is always best to cut too long, then to cut too short and regret it later.
And there you have it. How to choose and buy the right chaps!
