Throughout history, people have taken immense interest in cowboys’ lifestyle and it is considered exciting and iconic. We have seen cowboys being glorified in television, books, and epic stories. Today, the role of an American cowboy has changed a bit and so does the attire.
Whenever we think of Cowboys, we imagine one riding a horse with a wide-brimmed hat, cowboy boots, blue jeans, and chaps. The Cowboy’s attire has always fascinated people, particularly, they want to know about the important accessory, chaps, or chaparreras. It is worn by cowboys and some farmers working on the ranch.
What most people fail to understand that whether this western garment is just for the show to impress the women of the 21st century or this piece of cowboy apparel serves a particular purpose.
It is better to explore the purpose of this cowboy accessory and why it is worn by the cowboys. Before you get to know the purpose, here’s a brief introduction to the chaps.
What is Chap?
Chap is derived from the Spanish word “chaparreras” which means to cover the leg. It is a leg covering made out of sturdy material held together by a belt and is worn over trousers.
Equestrian chaps are crafted from cowhide leather, however, a few of the historic styles are made of sheepskin, goatskin, bear, or buffalo. Some chaps are manufactured from lightweight materials like vinyl or Ultrasuede.
This cowboy clothing accessory comes in different styles, colors, and sizes. The style of chaps worn by the cowboys varies depending on the region where they are being used.
Why Do Cowboys Wear Chaps?
Contrary to most people’s belief, cowboys do not wear chaps just for the show. This western garment is worn by cowboys and outdoor workers to cover legs for more protection.
Even though chaps come in different sizes and styles but they serve the same purpose. Chaps do not have a seat or covering at the bottom or crotch area, so, cowboys and riders can sit comfortably on the horse while wearing a pair of chaps.
Chaps are usually resting below the belt loops of the pants and are fitted around the hips. Lack of seat and crotch area allows for easier movements.
Cowboys who work on the ranch or are into horseback riding would need this western garment to protect their legs.
When catching, holding down, and working with cattle, horses, or other livestock, chaps will offer protection against rope burns.
This protective shield also prevents cuts and grazes when riding through vegetation such as low scrub, bushes, cacti, thickets, or vicious thorns.
The tough leather serves as a substantial layer of protection while riding or wrestling energetic cattle on the ranch. Besides other reasons, it also protects cowboy jeans from excessive filth and debris.
On a cold or windy day, they add an extra layer of warmth.
The use of chaps began with a cowboy culture but it has started to penetrate in other fields as well like professional work with a chainsaw and riding motorcycles.
The style that you should wear whether chaps or half-chaps boils down to personal preferences.
History of Cowboy Chaps
Chap is not a modern accessory but it is being used for hundreds of years. However, the chaps we see today have gone through major changes over the years since the design was first originated.
In the early 1500s, a few Spaniards importing cattle from Cuba to Mexico needed an effective solution to protect their legs and pants to capture the escaped cattle.
The first design originated was called armas, it was a permanent large leather cloth linked to each side of the horse’s saddle pack. It was meant to protect the cowboy as well as the horse from cuts and grazes.
Around the same time another design originated, armitas, which means little armor. Armitas were made of two pieces of buckskin and were hung from the belt. They were tied around the legs with a leather strap.
Many modifications were made to the original design to fit the environmental conditions of the Spanish ranchers. However, the first true style of chaps was designed by the Texas Cowboys in 1800. It was the most popularly used style of chaps by 1870.
It was called shotgun and stovepipes because of the narrow and straight leggings. Each side was cut from a piece of leather and had a full-length zipper down the edge.
They fit so snugly, trapping body heat, keeping the wearer warm during cold weather. However, chaps are not comfortable to wear during hot and humid weather.
What Are Chaps Used For?
Despite their stylish appearance, ranch chaps are not just for the show. This protective layering is useful to the cowboys for several reasons. Chaps prove to be useful during several circumstances and weather conditions. Coming to the heart of the matter, there are many benefits to wearing chaps such as
Protection
The main purpose of the chaps is to protect riders’ legs from branches, brush (such as prickly pear), and thorns when riding through forests and dense areas.
It is worn by stagecoach drivers, postal workers, military personnel on horseback, cowboys, motorcycle riders, rodeo competitors, and livestock workers.
Comfort
It becomes uncomfortable to be seated in the saddle for long periods. Chaps come in handy when riding a horse with bony withers.
The leather or other chap materials are fairly stiff that helps cushion the leg against the hardpoints which come in contact with the horse’s back.
Warmth
Cowboys work all day long be it summer, spring, or winter. Weather conditions are not always favorable, so, an extra piece of clothing can be of great help on cold and windy days.
In winter, some days can be too cold for riding, so, leather chaps provide warmth by trapping heat. Some chaps are specifically made for the winter season, they are either padded with wool or made entirely of wool.
To Keep Clothes Clean
Working on ranches with several animals exposes cowboys to different types of filth and stains. It can be quite a challenge to remove the stains from pants.
According to research gate, Besides stains, thorny vegetation can cause damage to the clothing. Chaps protect cowboy attire from filth and damage.
Differ Styles Of Chaps
Even though cowboy chaps are worn for a particular purpose, thanks to different styles, it is also being used for decorative purposes today. This protective garment comes in different styles like
- Shotgun Chaps
- Woolies
- Chinks
- Ranch Batwing chap
- Half Chap
- Full Chap
An Essential Garment of Cowboy Attire
Even though this design was originated hundreds of years ago, it is still relevant today. It is an important part of modern-day cowboy attire. Be it for competitions or working outdoors, chaps have been used widely as a protective shield.
Nowadays, chaps can be flashy, decorative, and practical for showmanship and working environment. The style also varies depending on the region, weather, and working conditions.
To sum up, the ultimate purpose of the chaps is to offer protection to cowboys and ranchers while riding and working outdoor.
The job of a cowboy is tough, so, they need particular clothing items to put up with daily struggles. Chaps have evolved to fit the needs of modern-day cowboys.
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