When someone begins to learn about horseback riding, they will soon find out that the sport is divided into two main camps: English horse riding and Western horse riding.
Knowing the difference between the two riding styles is necessary when deciding which one you may be interested in. In part one of this series we delve into the distinctions, keeping in mind that it is entirely possible to do both! Click here for part 2!
Many people enjoy western and English horse riding, and may even train their horses for both.
Difference 1: Purpose & History
Most of the differences between western and English horse riding can be attributed to the history and function of these styles.
Western riding arose in – you guessed it! – the American West. Horses were essential to the settling of the Wild West. Cowboys and range riders used them to herd, lasso, and protect their massive herds of cattle. Horses were also the main form of transportation back in those days.
Because of this, western horses and their gear were meant to be strong, long-lasting, practical, and comfortable to ride. Modern western riding, from the saddles to the type of classes in western competitions, still reflects these old values.
English riding has historically been focused on recreation and sportsmanship. Horse racing, polo, and showjumping are all examples of English riding disciplines. Because of this, the focus of English horse riding is speed and elegance.
Difference 2: Gear for horse and rider.
One of the main differences between western and English horse riding is the tack for the horse and the rider’s uniform.
Western-style saddles are much bulkier than English saddles, with a raised cradle-like seat. The western saddle also has a raised part in the front called a swell, which also houses the horn, which is a short stub that was originally designed to hold the ropes and lassos of cowboys. The western saddle also has strap holders, long stirrups, and generally has more leather flaps than English saddles.
In contrast, the English saddle is sleek and compact. There is no swell or horn, the stirrups are very short, and there is only ever one strap to secure the saddle to the horse. This is because English saddles are built more for speed, and allow the rider to have a forward-facing position.
The other difference is the riders’ uniforms. English riders wear leggings, black dress shirts, black boots, and small black helmets.
Western outfits are much more variable from rider to rider. Longsleeved button-up shirts are worn with jeans and a cowboy hat or a helmet, depending on the rider’s preference. Many riders also choose to wear leather chaps. Westerns shirts can be beautifully embellished with rhinestones or even real crystals, or they can be as simple as a flannel shirt.
Difference 3: Riding Styles & Competition Classes
Both western and English horse riding have four main gaits: walk, trot, canter/lope, and gallop. That being said, both disciplines utilize those movements in very different ways through a variety of style choices and competition classes.
Western riding has several classes in its competitions, largely focused on the way the horse itself moves and responds to commands or how the horse performs in certain tasks. Horses and riders are judged on their ability to switch gaits in western pleasure classes, for example.
Reigning and Horsemanship competitions are based on a rider’s ability to memorize and guide their horse through a predetermined pattern. Cutting and roping classes allow horses to practice traditional cattle-wrangling skills, and trail classes let horses and riders get through obstacles. Many of these competitions can relate back to the core tenants of western riding: work, practicality, and stamina.
English horse riding has more speed-themed events. Dressage is similar to western pleasure or reigning classes but focuses more on judging the horse based on the fluidity of its movements. English horse riding is also famous for horse racing and polo, which features horses running at full speed.
Showjumping and hunt seat are English classes that involve horses jumping over obstacles. In general, English riding is often more fast-paced than western.
Conclusion
Western and English horse riding both have their own unique perks and charms. If you lean towards comfort and practical skills, you may enjoy western, but you may also feel more drawn to the adrenaline rush of English sports. The good news is that both disciplines are very popular and lessons can likely be found for either of them no matter where you live! Be sure to experiment if you’re unsure of what to choose, and remember that doing both is always an option!