4 Tips for Perfect Chink Fit

If you compete in Cowboy Mounted Shooting and you want to wear jeans during competition, you must wear a pair of chinks or chaps.  Most people opt for chinks.  
Traditionally, chinks and armitas were developed by the vaqueros of California and the Southwest, who wanted greater versatility and air circulation while riding in hot weather. Eventually they were improved upon and became the popular standard amongst the working cowboys and buckaroos of the Great Basin Region. Chinks are still popular especially for cowboys and cowgirls that are looking to stay cool while protect their legs from the elements.
I recently sat down with Virgil Arellano of Virgil Arellano Saddlery and Rolano Sierra Custom Leather to discuss the proper fit of chinks for Cowboy Mounted Shooting.  Virgil has been doing leather work since he was in high school and  
has been operating his business since 1990. Here are his suggestions for getting the proper fit on your next pair of chinks.

Leg Wrap

The leg wrap should cover about 75-80% of your upper thigh.  You don't want to be sitting on straps and snaps/buckles when you ride. 

Solid Leather Length

The solid leather part of your chinks should end 3-4 inches below your knee when you are sitting.  There should be no fringe hanging over your knee.

Fringe Length

The fringe length can vary slightly.  It can range from the top of the foot to about 4 inches above your foot depending on your preference. 

Inner Thigh

The last thing you want is a large gap on the inner thigh. There should be as little inner thigh showing as possible while still maintaining comfort.