Breeches

Since breeches were necessary for members when riding, from the early years of the RCMP this part of the uniform played a key role. Yellow striping on pants had been in use since 1876 although a scarlet stripe had been briefly considered.

Originally, riding breeches were quite snug to the leg, but in 1900, a fuller leg was authorized. A new style of breeches was adopted in 1913, which styled a large peg. As time passed, members were becoming confused on the proper fit of this garment, and officials were noticing that many members’ breeches did not look proper. In response to this problem, the force developed a “fit chart” in 1933, and all ranks were instructed to conform to these guidelines.

In 1956, the Force provided all members with one pair of summer weight, and one pair of winter weight breeches, instead of two heavyweight pairs. By 1959, the lightweights were discontinued. A handcuff pocket was added in August 1960.

In 1965, changes to the Service Order No.1 phased out breeches into Service Order No.2. Due to the changing nature of policing, many argued that these pants were unserviceable. However, in 1970, they were restored to the Service Order No.1, only to be reinstated to Service Order No. 2 a few years later, where they have remained.