What are breeks?
Breeks are a traditional type of trouser that end a few inches below the knee. They originated in Scotland and northern England. They are generally worn nowadays for country sports such as game shooting but also have a historic association with golfing outfits.
What is the history of breeks?
The history of breeks stretches back to medieval times when it was common to wear trousers that finished below the knee and had a loose upper. Over time they evolved to be closer fitting on the upper leg and associated with country sports, becoming a garment more recognisable as the breeks that are worn today. Their current popularity in the shooting field was embedded in the 20th century when they became and now remain an essential part of the look of a formal shooting day.
How to wear breeks?
Breeks are generally worn with a long pair of socks that finish just below the knee with enough length in the sock for a turnover at the top. They are then paired with garter ties to hold the socks up - most breeks have a fastening buckle or a velcro strip on the hem that tightens around the calf and tucks in below the top of the sock. Generally, the breeks are turned back over on themselves slightly at the calf with the theory behind this being that the water runs down and drips off the breek, rather than directly into your wellies!
Are breeks waterproof?
Some breeks are waterproof, which is generally achieved by including a waterproof membrane such as GORE-TEX. Whilst waterproof breeks are ideal if you are out on a wet day, they aren’t always the most suitable choice. For instance, on a warm, muggy day, waterproof breeks can be sweaty and uncomfortable. It is important that when choosing the style of breeks you consider the weather conditions.
What is the difference between plus fours, plus twos, and breeks?
Plus twos and plus fours are used to describe the length of the trouser, finishing either two inches or four inches below the knee, hence the name. Within the shooting field, the plus twos are the most common. Due to their wider cut, the plus fours remain more common on the golf course where the baggier look has been favoured – especially during the 20th century.