Saddles are basically divided into two categories - English and Western. Western saddles are easily identified by the horn on the pommel (front) of the saddle. The horn developed as an aid for cowboys, allowing them to tie a rope to the saddle horn on one end and a cow or calf to the other. Western saddles are used for western pleasure riding, roping and other Western disciplines. Australian stock saddles are closely related to Western saddles.
English saddles are much smaller and lighter than western saddles, and are used for jumping, dressage, racing and other English riding disciplines. Jumping saddles have forward-cut knee flaps and low pommels, allowing the rider to rise into "two-point" position over a jump. Dressage saddles have straight knee flaps and a deep seat, allowing the rider to have close contact with the horse for performing advanced maneuvers. Racing saddles are extremely light, providing just enough support for a jockey to perch on top of a galloping racehorse.
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| Bridles may also be categorized as English and Western, but the real difference is in the bit. Snaffle bits apply pressure on the corners of the horse's mouth, while curb bits apply pressure on the poll (between the horse's ears). English riders hold the reins with two hands and use a direct reining technique, while western riders use one hand and neck rein.
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| Riding breeches are specifically designed for equestrian activities. Traditionally, they were tight in the legs, with buckles or laces in the calf section, and had a pronounced flare through the thighs. However, with the advent of new materials such as spandex, modern breeches are skin-tight. The flared style is making a slow comeback, however, and is available to cavalry and other military reenactors. |
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| The most important piece of equestrian clothing is a Riding Hat. Riding hats consist of a hard shell lined with shock absorbing material and provide vital protection for the rider's head should they fall from a horse or be kicked by a horse. As well as wearing a riding hat at all times when riding, it is also wise to wear a riding hat whilst lunging, or handling any horse from the ground. |
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Whips are a training aid used by horsemen. There are many styles used for different purposes. These can range from Dressage whips, gaited whips and stock yard whips. All whips are used to assist a horsmen to cause a horse to move in a particular direction,or to gain impulsion. |
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| The boots may be most important purchase. Although there is no official testing or standards for boots we will want to find a pair with about a 1 to 1 ½ inch heel and low tread. The tread on many hiking and winter boots is too heavy and in case of a fall may jam in the stirrup. There are many different styles of boots so choose whatever is comfortable, affordable and suitable for the riding .
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