Chap splits are another choice.  This leather is about twice as heavy as the cowhide but is very strong and durable.  If you are going to use your chaps for trail riding or real ranch work, this is the type of leather you may want. Also, some people choose this leather for horse showing, because they or the person they're purchasing the chaps for is hard on clothers.  While there are several colors to chose from, they are not as varied as the cowhide and are harder to match to specific fabric.

This is an example of smooth cowhide chaps.

Last but not least is the very popular ultra suede. This is a man made fabric that is purchased by the yard instead of by the hide.  Ultra suede can be used for not only chaps but vests, jackets, and trim on all types of fabrics.  There are many, many colors available, and some of my customers won't consider anything else for chaps.  It is light weight, easily matched and can be dry cleaned or washed.

Beth Treptow with suede side cowhide leather Pig skin is also an option.  I don't recommend pig skin because it is fragile, and if you have chaps made from it, you must treat it with a lot of TLC.  The advantage of pig skin is that there are many colors available in this leather. Garment weight splits are an option I often recommend for children and small adults.  It's much lighter weight that the chap splits, comes in many colors, and is affordable.  If you know the chaps are going to be outgrown in one or two show seasons, it's a really good choice.  The disadvantage is that the hides are small and can't be used to make chaps for many adults or tall or heavy children.

Calf suede is fast becoming a popular choice of leather for show chaps.  It's very light weight yet stronger than pig skin.  It also has a very luxurious nap.  Colors are limited to a few basics, but people are really liking it.

This is an example of ultra suede chaps