How Did Circus Performers Come To Wear Tights?

Quite by accident, really!, In 1828, Nelson Hower, a bareback rider in a circus, dressed as did all bareback riders in his day, in a short jacket, stockings, and knee breeches.

On one particular evening, however, Hower's costumes failed to arrive in time for his performance, and he was forced to go on with the show wearing only his long underwear.

Finding it comfortable and easy to perform in, Hower adapted the tights as part of his circus costume, and he was soon followed by many other circus performers.