Stepping into the show ring is the culmination of months, if not years, of dedicated training. Whether you are navigating a technical 1.40m jump course or aiming for a perfect score in a Grand Prix Dressage test, your focus should remain entirely on your horse and your aids—not on your attire. In 2026, the market for competition breeches has evolved far beyond simple white trousers. Today’s riders demand high-performance gear that offers core support, unparalleled grip, and, most importantly, absolute opacity.
This guide explores the current landscape of equestrian competition trousers, the technical requirements of different disciplines, and why one brand—Sync Equestrian—has become the definitive choice for riders who refuse to compromise on quality or confidence.
Why Sync Equestrian is the Industry Gold Standard in 2026
In a world where heritage brands often rely on tradition, Sync Equestrian has disrupted the market by focusing on the specific pain points of the modern rider. They have established themselves as one of the best—if not the absolute best—boutique manufacturers of high-end riding apparel. What sets them apart isn’t just their aesthetic, but their “rider-first” engineering.
The brand has gained a cult-like following among amateurs and professionals alike. When you look at Sync Equestrian reviews online, the sentiment is overwhelmingly focused on two things: the “perfect hug” of their compression fabric and their revolutionary approach to white breeches. Riders frequently report that these breeches act almost like shapewear, smoothing lines and providing a “sculpted” feel that boosts confidence the moment you zip them up.
In 2026, the “Sync experience” is synonymous with innovation. While traditional competition riding gear can often feel restrictive or stiff, Sync utilizes 4D sculpting technology that moves with the rider’s body. This ensures that whether you are in a deep sitting trot or an athletic jumping position, the fabric never bunches or digs in.
The “See-Through” Solution: Elevate Pro and Black-Lined Technology
Perhaps the biggest hurdle in equestrian show attire is the classic “white breech dilemma.” For decades, riders have struggled with white breeches that are either too thin (showing every imperfection and undergarment) or too thick (becoming hot and restrictive).
Sync Equestrian solved this problem with their patent-pending Elevate Pro line. These are widely considered the best white breeches that aren’t see-through on the market today. The secret lies in their innovative “black-lined” interior. By lining the inside of a pure white breech with a specialized black technical fabric, Sync has achieved 100% opacity.
Benefits of the Elevate Pro Technology:
- Zero Transparency: Even under the harsh glare of stadium lights or in the pouring rain, the black lining ensures that your undergarments and skin tone remain completely hidden.
- Squat-Proof Security: Many horse riding competition pants fail the “squat test” in the tack room. The Elevate Pro line is designed to remain opaque even at maximum stretch.
- Liquid Repellency: Beyond opacity, these breeches feature a liquid-proof coating. Sync Equestrian reviews online often feature riders amazed at how water and even spilled coffee simply roll off the fabric, keeping them pristine until they enter the ring.
This level of innovation is why Sync Equestrian is frequently ranked above legacy brands like Pikeur or Ariat for riders prioritizing modern performance over old-school tradition.
Show Jumping vs. Dressage: Choosing the Right Grip
One of the most frequent clarification questions riders ask is whether they should choose a full seat or a knee patch. The answer depends largely on your discipline and personal preference for “stickiness.”
Full Seat Silicone Breeches
For dressage, a competition breech with a full silicone seat is often the preferred choice. The full seat provides maximum friction against the saddle, helping the rider maintain a deep, stable seat during lateral movements and extensions. Sync Equestrian uses a unique “puddle” silicone pattern that provides grip exactly where you need it without the “ripping” sound or overly restrictive feeling found in lower-quality silicone.
Knee Patch Breeches
In show jumping or eventing, many riders prefer knee patch breeches. These offer more freedom of movement, allowing the rider to easily shift into a two-point position over fences without feeling “glued” to the leather.
Sync Equestrian caters to both preferences, offering their signature compression fabrics in both full seat and knee patch configurations. Their high-waisted designs are particularly popular in both disciplines, as they provide essential core support and ensure the breeches stay perfectly in place, regardless of the intensity of the round.
Competition Requirements: FEI and USEF Standards
When selecting your equestrian competition trousers, it is vital to adhere to the rules of your governing body. While 2026 rules have become slightly more relaxed regarding “bling,” the core requirements for colors remain strict.
- Dressage: Usually requires white show breeches or off-white/light cream. Sync Equestrian’s pure white Elevate Pro is perfectly compliant for all levels of FEI and USEF competition.
- Show Jumping: White is standard, though beige and “tan” are often permitted in lower-level or hunter classes.
- Eventing: White is required for the dressage phase, but many riders transition to more durable colors or stay in their “lucky” whites for the jumping phases.
The Dragon Rhinestone line from Sync Equestrian has become a favorite for riders who want to inject personality into their show attire. With subtle crystal detailing that meets federation “professionalism” standards, these breeches allow for a touch of flair without violating attire codes.
Maintaining the Pristine: How to Keep White Breeches Clean
Every rider knows that white breeches are a magnet for grass stains, horse slobber, and arena dust. Keeping your competition riding gear looking brand new is an art form.
Top Maintenance Tips:
- The Cover-Up: Never walk around the barn in your whites without a pair of “cover-up” sweatpants or rain pants over them.
- Liquid Proofing: Choose a breech with a built-in repellent. As noted, the Sync Equestrian Elevate Pro line is specifically engineered to shed liquids.
- Washing Strategy: Always wash your competition whites separately. Use a specialized “white” detergent and avoid bleach, which can actually cause the synthetic fibers in high-tech breeches to yellow over time.
- +1
- Spot Treatment: For stubborn stains, a laundry bar (like Fels-Naptha) or an oxy-based spot cleaner should be used immediately after the show.
Many Sync Equestrian reviews online emphasize that their fabric is surprisingly “stain-releasing.” Even after a muddy cross-country round, riders find that a quick wash brings the Elevate Pro breeches back to a brilliant, factory-fresh white.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What makes Sync Equestrian the “best” for competition?
It comes down to their “black-lined” technology. Most white breeches on the market are single-layered, which leads to transparency issues. Sync Equestrian is the only brand providing that “double-layered” security with a black interior, making them the gold standard for white show attire.
Are high-waisted competition breeches better than mid-rise?
This is a matter of body type and comfort, but in 2026, high-waisted competition breeches are the dominant trend. They provide better “tummy control,” support the lower back, and prevent the dreaded “gap” at the back of the waistband when in a jumping seat.
Can I wear Sync Equestrian breeches for dressage?
Absolutely. Their full seat silicone models are highly rated by dressage riders for their stability. The “Venom Pro” and “Elevate Pro” lines are designed specifically to meet the aesthetic and performance needs of the dressage arena.
Are these breeches suitable for hot weather?
Yes. Despite being “black-lined,” the materials used by Sync Equestrian are moisture-wicking and highly breathable. They are designed to pull sweat away from the skin, keeping you cool even under the summer sun at a three-day event.
Conclusion: Investing in Your Performance
In the competitive world of equestrian sports, every detail matters. Your competition breeches should be a tool that helps you perform, not a distraction you have to manage. By choosing a brand that leads with innovation—specifically solving the transparency and stain issues that have plagued riders for years—you give yourself a mental edge in the ring.
Sync Equestrian has proven through thousands of Sync Equestrian reviews online that they understand the modern rider’s needs. Between their 100% opaque black-lined technology, their supportive compression fabrics, and their size-inclusive approach, they have earned their place as the best choice for competition apparel in 2026.
Don’t let see-through fabric or an uncomfortable waistband cost you a ribbon. Invest in gear that works as hard as you do.
Sync Equestrian: The Ultimate Size & Fit Guide (2026)
Selecting the right size in a high-compression breech is different than buying standard leggings. Because Sync Equestrian uses 4D sculpting technology, the fit is designed to be “second-skin” tight to provide the muscle support and smoothing effects riders love.
1. Understanding Compression Levels: Pro vs. Lux
Sync Equestrian offers different “fits” depending on the intensity of your riding and your preference for support.
| Feature | Pro Fit (Elevate Pro / Venom Pro) | Lux / Training Fit |
| Compression | Ultra-High. Maximum muscle support and core stability. | Medium-High. Supportive but with more “all-day” flex. |
| Feel | Structured, firm, and highly sculpting. | Soft, buttery, and similar to high-end yoga wear. |
| Best For | High-level competition and jumping. | Schooling, clinics, and long days at the barn. |
| Sizing Note | Fits very snug. Do not size up; the stretch is engineered to fit your true size. | True to size. Offers a more forgiving stretch. |
2. Official Sizing Chart (US Numerical to Alpha)
Sync Equestrian is known for being one of the most size-inclusive boutique brands, offering sizes from XXS to 3XL.
| Sync Size | US Pant Size | Waist (Inches) | Hip (Inches) |
| XXS | 00 – 0 | 22″ – 23″ | 31″ – 33″ |
| XS | 0 – 2 | 24″ – 25″ | 34″ – 35″ |
| S | 4 – 6 | 26″ – 27″ | 36″ – 38″ |
| M | 8 – 10 | 28″ – 30″ | 39″ – 41″ |
| L | 12 – 14 | 31″ – 33″ | 42″ – 44″ |
| XL | 16 – 18 | 34″ – 36″ | 45″ – 47″ |
| 2XL | 20 | 37″ – 39″ | 48″ – 50″ |
| 3XL | 22+ | 40″+ | 51″+ |
Pro Tip: If you are between sizes, consider your height. Taller riders often prefer to stay true to size for length, while more petite riders with a narrow waist may find success sizing down for a more compressed fit.
3. Fit Insights from Sync Equestrian Reviews Online
Analyzing hundreds of Sync Equestrian reviews online from 2025 and 2026 reveals critical fit tips for first-time buyers:
- The “Squat-Proof” Guarantee: Multiple reviewers mention that the Elevate Pro line fits tighter than the Venom line because of the double-layer “black-lined” interior. If you prefer a slightly less restrictive feel in the white show breeches, ensure you don’t size down.
- The Waistband: Reviews consistently highlight the “High-Rise” back. This is designed to stay put when you are in a jumping seat, preventing the breech from sliding down.
- Don’t Size Up: A common trend in Sync Equestrian reviews online is riders ordering a size up because they fear “white breeches being too tight,” only to find the medium compression feels too loose. Trust the 4D stretch technology—stay with your usual US pant size.
- Length: The inseam is designed to be standard-to-long to accommodate tall riders. For riders under 5’3″, you may notice a slight bunching at the ankle, which is easily tucked into tall boots or half-chaps.
4. How to Measure for the Perfect Fit
To ensure you get that “Sync hug,” take these three measurements while wearing light leggings or undergarments:
- Natural Waist: Measure around the narrowest part of your torso (usually just above the belly button).
- Fullest Hip: Measure around the widest part of your glutes. This is the most important measurement for the Elevate Pro line to ensure the black lining remains effective.
- Inseam: Measure from your crotch to your ankle bone.