Differences in Riding Styles

Have you ever wondered what the main differences are between English and Western riding. Well I have....so here are some answers that I know you have always wanted to know.

As far as riding goes, the main difference between English and Western riding is that in English riding, the rider takes a direct contact with the horse's mouth via the reins and uses the reins as part of the "aids" (along with the seat and the leg) for speed and direction. Most western riding horses are ridden on little or no contact and the rider uses his seat, his weight and neck-reining to give aids to the horse. In English style riding, you work more on using your legs; whereas, in Western, one become one with the seat.

The Western riding style comes from the "Wild West" where horses were used for work. This style originated with the Spanish ranches of the 1600’s and 1700’s in Northern Mexico and the Southwestern United States. Cowboys and Cowgirls spent hours and even days riding, sometimes never dismounting. For this reason the type of clothes worn and the structure of the saddle is very different from the English style. The clothes were meant to be comfortable and rugged to sustain the rigorous workload. The saddle was built with strong leather stitching so that it would not come apart while in the field. The Western saddle also has a horn on the front to assist the rider when lassoing cattle. It is said that Western riders need to be ready for any surprise that comes their way. At the same time, the horse needs to be alert and be able react to any situation. There is little time for communication between rider and horse while working in the field. The horse must know what to do without being told. This is one of the major differences between the Western and English riding styles.

English riding developed in England and was brought to America. It has always been thought of as the "proper" or "traditional" way of horseback riding. Communication between rider and horse is essential in English riding. The rider controls every move of the horse through use of the reins and the rider’s legs. The saddle is lightweight and made to fit close to the horse’s body to make it easier for the rider to control the horse. There is no horn on the front of the saddle and the stirrups and bridal are small and simple. The English style of dress is very different than the Western style. A lot of emphasis is placed on appearance in English riding. The clothes tend to be very old fashioned, and formality is key when riding in an English competition.