Horseback riding has been a popular sport for centuries, and different riding styles have developed over time. Two of the most popular styles of riding are English and Western riding. Each style has its own unique equipment, type of horse, saddle, gaits, terminology, and events. In this article, we will explore the differences between English and Western riding, and help beginners choose the best riding style for them.

Equipment

One of the main differences between English and Western riding is the equipment used. In English riding, riders use a lightweight saddle, which is designed to provide close contact with the horse, allowing the rider to feel the horse’s movements. The saddle has a flat seat, straight flaps, and stirrups that are shorter than those used in Western riding. English riders also use a bridle with a snaffle bit.

In Western riding, riders use a heavier saddle, which is designed to provide more support and stability. The saddle has a deep seat, high cantle, and long, curved fenders. The stirrups are longer than those used in English riding, and the rider’s feet are positioned further forward. Western riders also use a bridle with a curb bit, which applies pressure to the horse’s mouth and chin.

Attire

Another important difference between English and Western riding is the attire worn by riders. While there is no strict dress code for riding, there are some general guidelines that riders should follow to ensure their safety and comfort.

Western Attire

In Western riding, riders typically wear a long-sleeved shirt, jeans, and cowboy boots. The shirt should be tucked into the jeans, and a belt is usually worn. Riders also wear a hat or helmets to protect their head from the sun or fall. A Western-style hat, such as a cowboy hat, is common, but a helmet is recommended for safety. Riders may also wear chaps, which are leather leggings worn over jeans to protect the rider’s legs from brush, thorns, or other hazards.

English Attire

In English riding, riders typically wear a fitted riding jacket, riding pants, and tall boots or paddock boots with half chaps. The jacket can be black, navy, or dark green, and should fit snugly but comfortably. Riding pants, also called breeches, are made of a stretchy, comfortable material and are designed to prevent chafing and provide support for the rider’s legs. Tall boots are made of leather and reach up to the knee, while paddock boots are shorter and are worn with half chaps, which are leather leggings that cover the lower leg and provide support and protection.

Helmets

Regardless of the style of riding, wearing a helmet is essential for safety. Helmets should be well-fitted and meet safety standards set by organizations such as the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). It is also recommended that riders replace their helmet every five years or after any significant impact.

Gaits and Terminology

The gaits and terminology used in English and Western riding are also different. In English riding, there are three main gaits: walk, trot, and canter. The canter is a three-beat gait, where the horse moves its legs in a specific order: outside hind, inside hind and outside fore, inside fore. English riders also use terms like “contact” and “collection” to describe the way the horse is moving and responding to the rider’s cues.

In Western riding, there are four main gaits: walk, jog, lope, and gallop. The lope is a three-beat gait, similar to the canter, but with a slower rhythm. Western riders also use terms like “neck reining” and “direct reining” to describe how the horse is guided and controlled.

English vs Western Riding Disciplines

In addition to the equipment, type of horse, saddle, gaits, and terminology, another key difference between English and Western riding is the type of events or competitions each style is associated with. Here are some of the most popular events in each style:

Western Riding Disciplines

Team Penning – In this event, a team of three riders on horseback has to work together to separate three specific cattle from a herd and move them into a pen.

Cutting – In this event, a horse and rider have to separate a single cow from a herd and keep it away from the herd for a set amount of time.

Reining – This event involves a series of maneuvers, such as circles, spins, and sliding stops, which are judged on the horse’s speed, control, and precision.

Speed Games – These events include barrel racing, pole bending, and other timed races that test the horse’s speed and agility.

Trail Classes – In these classes, riders and horses are judged on their ability to navigate a course that simulates natural obstacles and challenges found on a trail.

Pleasure and Equitation Classes – These classes judge the horse and rider’s overall appearance, movement, and behavior. Horses are judged on their conformation, movement, and temperament, while riders are judged on their posture, balance, and effectiveness of their aids.

Roping – This event involves a rider on horseback who has to use a rope to catch a calf or steer and then tie it up.

Trail riding – This is a leisurely activity that involves riding a horse through natural terrains, such as forests or mountains.

English Riding Disciplines

Dressage – This event involves a series of maneuvers that test the horse’s obedience, suppleness, and athleticism. Horses and riders are judged on their precision, balance, and overall appearance.

English or English Country Pleasure – In these classes, horses are judged on their appearance, movement, and behavior. Horses are expected to show a relaxed, comfortable gait, and riders are judged on their posture, balance, and effectiveness of their aids.

Jumping – This event involves a horse and rider jumping over a series of obstacles, such as fences, walls, and water jumps. Horses and riders are judged on their speed, accuracy, and overall performance.

Hunting – This event involves a group of riders who follow a pack of hounds as they hunt foxes or other game. Horses and riders are judged on their stamina, courage, and ability to navigate varied terrain.

Mounted Games – These events involve a series of timed races that test the horse and rider’s speed, agility, and coordination. Games can include bending races, relay races, and pole bending.

Polo – This event involves two teams of riders who try to hit a small ball with a long-handled mallet and score points by hitting the ball into the opposing team’s goal.

Hunter Pace – In this event, riders navigate a course that simulates the terrain and obstacles of a fox hunt. Horses and riders are judged on their speed, accuracy, and overall performance.

What’s the Best Riding Style for Beginners?

Choosing the best riding style for beginners depends on their goals and preferences. If someone wants to learn to jump or perform dressage, then English riding is the best option. If someone wants to learn to ride for ranch work or trail riding, then Western riding is the best option.

It’s also important to consider the rider’s physical ability and comfort level. English riding requires more balance and core strength, while Western riding requires more upper-body strength. Beginners should try both styles of riding and choose the one that feels most comfortable and enjoyable for them.

Conclusion

While English and Western riding shares many similarities, they also have significant differences in terms of equipment, type of horse, saddle, gaits, terminology, and events. Regardless of the style of riding, the most important thing is to develop a strong bond with the horse, communicate effectively, and enjoy the ride.