"Western" riding
From Wikipedia, the free Encyclopedia

Western riding evolved from the cattle-working and warfare traditions brought to the Americas by the Spanish Conquistadors , and both equipment and riding style evolved to meet the working needs of the cowboy in the American West .

Western equipment looks considerably different from that used in "English" disciplines. The most noticeable equipment difference is in the saddle, which has a heavy and substantial tree, better to accommodate one's posterior. The western saddle features a prominent pommel surmounted by a horn (a big knob for snubbing the lasso after roping an animal), a deep seat and a high cantle. Depending on the local geography, tapaderos ("taps") cover the front of the stirrups to prevent brush from catching in the stirrups. The cowboy's boots, which have pointed toes, higher heels than a traditional boot slightly sloped under the foot, are designed to prevent the rider's foot from slipping through the stirrup during a fall, preventing the rider being dragged.

To allow for communication with the horse, even with a loose rein, the bridle also evolved. The biggest difference between "English" and "Western" bridles is the bit. They are expected to eventually perform in a curb bit with a single pair of reins that has somewhat longer and looser shanks than the curb of an English Weymouth bridle or a pelham bit . Two styles of Western reins developed: The long split reins of the Texas tradition, which are completely separated, or the closed-end "Romal" reins of the California tradition, which have a long single attachment on the ends that can be used as a quirt .

Though the differences in equipment appear dramatic, fewer differences between "English" and Western riding exist than most people think. Both styles require riders to have a solid seat, with the hips and shoulders balanced over the feet, with hands independent of the seat so as to avoid disturbing the balance of the horse and interfering with its performance.

The clothing of the Western rider differs from that of the dressage or "English" rider. Practical Western attire consists of a long-sleeved work shirt, denim jeans, boots, and a wide-brimmed hat. Usually a rider wears protective leather leggings called "chaps" (pronounced with a soft "s" sound--from the Spanish chaparajos ) to help the rider stick to the saddle and to protect the legs when riding through brush. Clean, well-fitting work clothing is the usual outfit seen in rodeo , cutting and reining competitions, especially for men, though sometimes in brighter colors or finer fabrics.

Other events may use flashier equipment. Unlike the English traditions where clothing and tack is quiet and unobtrusive, Western show equipment is intended to draw attention, with the exception of cutting horse competitions. Saddles, bits and bridles are frequently ornamented with substantial amounts of silver. The rider's shirt is often replaced with a jacket, and women's clothing in particular may feature vivid colors and even, depending on current fads, rhinestones or sequins.