Western riding is a more relaxed style of riding associated with the Wild West and widely used in the U.S.A. and further afield, especially on ranches and farms where riders use their horses all day. Western riding is the style adapted for use in endurance riding. It is also the style used for rodeos and horse riding showmanship. Unsurprisingly some Western riding afficionados become caught up in the style of dress, cowboy-style activities and entertainment value.
Western Versus English Riding
Although these two styles of horse riding appear very different, to be good at either requires experience and skill. The English riding style is more formal and has distinct variations within it such as hunt riding and dressage. The Western style is more suited to doing things quickly and without tiring horse or rider. Consequently everything associated with Western riding is focused on this objective.
The main differences between Western and English riding are:
- English riding uses both hands on the reins, while Western riders hold the reins in one hand leaving the other free for other tasks, usually associated with working while on horseback.
- Western riding tends to rely on control through seat and weight rather than as much of the hand and leg used for English riding.
- In Western and English exhibition riding, each places emphasis on different aspects of horse riding. Even to a casual observer, distinct differences can be seen in the horse's movement between the two styles.
- English riding stirrups are shorter than the Western equivalent, and Western riding does not usually use a bit in the horse's mouth.
- Horse tack and horse equipment are different, despite the varieties of each, to suit different purposes.
Horse Equipment and Horse Riding Clothing
Western tack is quite different to standard types, because of the different control techniques required. The Western saddle is built much more for rider comfort and practicality than standard saddles, though ornate additions are often added. There are many variants of all saddle types built to suit the riding purpose. Western riding boots have a higher heel than normal. Western riders tend to make more use of full-length chaps though other than for show, these are more functional in some environments. Western stirrups are usually more ornate than standard, being made out of wood or leather rather than the more usual metal, commonly steel, used elsewhere.
Western Riding Horse
The horse used for Western riding has to be capable of speed and have the stamina, responsiveness and calm nature required for the sometimes arduous working environment. Whilst almost any horse can in theory be used, the American breeds have the tradition for the pure Western riding style and purpose, the most popular being the American Quarter Horse, whose temperament is well-suited to Western riding.
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