What are the Differences Between English and Western Riding Styles?
By Katherine Blocksdorf, About.com Western riding developed according to the needs of ‘cowboys’. The Western saddle is made to distribute weight more evenly over the horse’s back so horse and rider can counterbalance the weight of a roped cow. The seat is comfortable for long hours over rough terrain. The horn anchors a lariat when roping cattle. English riding takes many of its traditions and equipment from European mounted military styles. Type of Horse: Western horses tend to be compact and traditionally capable of steady travel all day with small bursts of speed to chase stray cattle. English style horses tend to be taller. But some individuals have surprising talents and a stocky Quarter Horse may surprise you in the dressage ring, while a Thoroughbred might have unexpected ‘cow sense’. Chances are your horse and you can find some success—and certainly fun, at any discipline or riding style no matter his type or breeding. Gaits: * Walk very similar for both English and Western. *
