While the basics of horseback riding may be similar, western and English disciplines and equipment can be very different. It can be fun to try different styles, and many western riders have said experiencing English riding has helped develop their skills in western events. No matter which style a rider chooses, it will take dedication and time to hone perfect balance and light hands. Beginning with tack, the saddle is one obvious difference in western and English riding. An English saddle is built smaller and lighter, and there are many styles to pick from. Many of these styles date back to traditional European mounted military styles. The type of horse chosen for western and English events is different as well. English style horses can
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While many western riders neck rein horses, English riders use each hand to give signals to the horse. There is a wide variety of English sports including dressage, jumping and polo. Riders of all disciplines know it is important to always look presentable. English riders will usually wear a fitted jacket of some kind over a shirt, breeches and tall riding boots. Western riders usually sport the traditional cowboy and cowgirl attire with the western hat, although many are opting for the styling of the English helmet now. The helmet is seen as a form of protection, and no matter what style a rider chooses it is always important to keep the horse’s safety in mind as well. Both western and English event horses can be seen having leg wraps and or over reach boots for protection.
Protecting your horse is crucial, no matter if you’re hauling to a rodeo or English horse show. How a rider hauls and warms up a horse can affect the outcome at a show. When loading a horse, it is important to make sure the trailer is properly vented, so the horse can have enough air, especially if it is hot. If a rider chooses to put the windows down in front of the horse, make sure there is some sort of partition to keep the horse from reaching too far out of the
While many western riders neck rein horses, English riders use each hand to give signals to the horse. There is a wide variety of English sports including dressage, jumping and polo. Riders of all disciplines know it is important to always look presentable. English riders will usually wear a fitted jacket of some kind over a shirt, breeches and tall riding boots. Western riders usually sport the traditional cowboy and cowgirl attire with the western hat, although many are opting for the styling of the English helmet now. The helmet is seen as a form of protection, and no matter what style a rider chooses it is always important to keep the horse’s safety in mind as well. Both western and English event horses can be seen having leg wraps and or over reach boots for protection.
Protecting your horse is crucial, no matter if you’re hauling to a rodeo or English horse show. How a rider hauls and warms up a horse can affect the outcome at a show. When loading a horse, it is important to make sure the trailer is properly vented, so the horse can have enough air, especially if it is hot. If a rider chooses to put the windows down in front of the horse, make sure there is some sort of partition to keep the horse from reaching too far out of the