|
|
What is the difference between Western and British style horse riding?
Question
#40825. Asked by Hamlet.. (Nov 06 03 4:51 PM)
|
griffinj
|
The saddle is the first point that springs to mind, but I'm sure there are more.
|
sp33
|
the cowboys always seem to be leaning back in the saddle which i am sure is not good for the horse, where as the Brits appear to sit up rather straight and place less strain on horses back.
|
Gnomon
|
The British saddle is designed so most of the weight of the rider goes onto the stirrups, allowing rising trot, canter and gallop. The American Western saddle a much bigger affair and is designed for much longer hours on horseback and does not really rely on the stirrups. Much more of the rider's weight is taken by sitting on the saddle and it is designed so that you can more or less do whatever you like without discomforting the horse.
|
lothruin
|
I would think that the rider's posture in the saddle would have more to do with THEIR back than with the horses. Saddles are made to redistribute weight. I think the primary differences between the two are the intended uses.
English dressage saddles are formed so the rider sits up straight, allowing for a more polished appearance and easier subtle direction to the horse. Other english saddles are made to allow an easy transition to the jumping posture.
Western saddles, while a great deal bulkier and heavier than english saddles, also distribute the weight over a greater portion of the horse's back, and are designed to do so evenly. This allows greater comfort for both rider and horse on a long term basis.
It is important to remember that all saddles must be at least in part designed to be easy on the horse. Horses are and have always been important and expensive animals. Even a cowboy leaning back in his saddle for a rest wants his horse to last as long as he does.
|
JaneofGaunt
|
Use of the reins is also different, Western working one handed with a lot of info going to the horse through contact of the reins on its neck; British working two handed with much more use of the bit.
|
Find something useful here? Please help us spread the word about FunTrivia. Recommend this page below!
|
Sign up to see all responses!
