Leather Chaps and Its Uses

When you hear the term cowboy, first thing that strike your mind is their leather chaps. These leather chaps give wearer a “Wild West look” but people hardly know why they are being used. Now a days we see lots of motorcyclist also donning leather chaps but what is its use is a big question to everyone.

Here we’ll try to figure out what are leather chaps and why it is used.

What are chaps?
Chaps are basically protective clothing meant for legs. As these chaps are made up of sturdy leather they are used by motorcyclist to protect their legs while driving a motorcycle. The lower body parts those are vulnerable to scrapes, abrasions, scratches and chafing are also protected by chaps. Chaps shields ankle and shin from all sort of hurdles. Chaps provide higher degree of protection to rider if leather being used to make the chap is thicker. 

How to use them?
Usually, motorcyclist attaches the chap on the trousers with the help of accessory belt which comes along with it.

What are different types of chaps?
For men the most common one are shotgun and batwing. The batwing chaps are the one which are flat at the bottom and comprise of two fasteners used to protect the thighs of motorcycle rider. These kinds of chaps allow easy movement and hence are most apt for riding motorcycle or during motorcycle races.
On the other hand, shotgun chaps are narrower which wraps the legs completely. These types of chaps are mainly used to protect lower body of rider from heat – cold and hence used apt for horse riding.  Now-a-days with the increasing number of women bikers, special ladies chaps are also available.  A Ladies chap comes with various styles, shapes and designs. Some brands like Harley-Davidson manufacture Unisex Premium Classic Chap which can be used by both male as well as female.

What are main advantages of using chaps?
The main advantage of using chaps is protection. Motorcycle riders can protect themselves by using chaps. 

Who all can uses chaps?
Along with bikers, hunters can use chaps to protect themselves from insects and small animal bites. Mountaineers can use it while climbing as chaps gives support to lower body. Cowboys use chaps to protect their legs from horses and cattle.