The Great Debate: English vs Western Horse Riding
This is my opinion on debating equine riding tack of English versus Western. The same horse can be used for both disciplines, as long as they have been adequately trained and practiced. Many horse people have access to only one animal they can invest time and money in so versatility is key. English riding tack for the animal consists of a contoured pad that goes on the horses back and under the saddle. English saddles have one girth that is adjusted and tightened by buckles and straps. The stirrups are called irons and are made of metal with a rubber base for under the rider’s boot. The bridle used for English riding has a brow-band, throat-latch, noseband, bit, chain chinstrap and continuous rein all made of leather. Tacking up a horse for English riding can be a simple process, however, the purpose of the saddle is to keep your balance while on top of the animal, not to keep you “in the saddle”. Leg strength and coordinated balance are essential when riding in English tack. It can be...
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