From tack to technique, here’s how to tell these two popular riding styles apart
If you’re new to the horse world or looking to try riding for the first time, one of the first decisions you’ll encounter is whether to learn Western or English riding. At first glance, horseback riding might seem like a universal skill — you get on the horse and go, right? But in reality, Western and English riding are two distinct disciplines with different equipment, techniques, attire, and traditions.
With all that in mind, what really makes Western and English riding styles so different? In this guide, we’ll break it all down — and help you decide which style might be the best fit for your goals.
A Brief Overview of Both Riding Styles
- Western riding has its roots in the working traditions of cowboys and ranchers in the United States. It evolved to handle long days in the saddle, cattle work, and rugged terrain.
- English riding originates from Europe and is based on classical horsemanship. It’s the foundation for Olympic disciplines like dressage, jumping, and eventing.
Both styles are respected worldwide, and neither is “better” than the other — it all comes down to what type of riding experience you’re looking for.
The Tack: Saddle and Equipment Differences
One of the easiest ways to tell Western and English riding apart is by looking at the tack (the equipment used on the horse).
Western Saddle:
- A horn at the front of a larger and heavier saddle
- Designed for comfort and stability during long hours of riding
- Distributes the rider’s weight across a wider area on the horse’s back
- Features deep seats and high cantles for a more secure feel
English Saddle:
- Lighter, smaller, and more minimalist
- No horn; designed for closer contact and freedom of movement
- Used for sports like jumping and dressage that require precise leg cues
- Offers a more “open” seat, which demands better balance from the rider
Other tack differences include:
- Reins: Western reins are longer, either split (they aren’t connected) or are looped and held in one hand. English riders have one single connected rein that they hold both evenly with both hands to communicate with the horse.
- Bits: Western horses may use curb bits with longer shanks, while English riders often use snaffle bits for more direct communication.
- Stirrups and girths are also designed differently to suit each style.
Riding Position and Cues
Your posture, hand placement, and how you cue the horse vary greatly between the two styles.
English Riding:
- Riders maintain a more upright, centered position
- Hands are held evenly
- Emphasis is placed on direct rein contact, with the rider steering and stopping primarily through the reins
- More precise leg aids are used for lateral movements and dressage maneuvers
Western Riding:
- Riders often sit a bit deeper in the saddle with a more relaxed posture
- Hands are held higher, and reins are used with lighter contact
- Horses are trained to respond to neck reining (reins touch the side of the horse’s neck to indicate direction)
- Greater reliance on seat and body weight shifts to communicate with the horse
Common Disciplines and Activities
Each riding style supports a unique set of sports and activities.
Popular Western Disciplines:
- Reining – the Western version of dressage, showcasing spins, stops, and lead changes
- Barrel Racing – fast-paced timed races around barrels
- Trail Riding – both competitive and recreational
- Cutting and Roping – cattle-handling sports originating from ranch work
- Western Pleasure – judged events focused on a smooth, calm ride
Popular English Disciplines:
- Dressage – a precise, choreographed test of movement and partnership
- Show Jumping – fast-paced jumping courses
- Eventing – a triathlon of dressage, cross-country, and stadium jumping
- Hunter Classes – judged on form and style over fences
- Polo and Fox Hunting – traditional, team-based English pursuits
Attire: What Riders Wear
The riding style you choose will also influence your wardrobe.
Western Riding Clothing:
- Cowboy boots with heels
- Western hats or certified riding helmets
- Long-sleeved button-down shirts, jeans, and often chaps
- Functional and protective clothing, often with a rugged outdoor aesthetic
English Riding Clothing:
- Tall field or dress boots
- Breeches or jodhpurs
- Riding jackets, gloves, and collared shirts for formal competitions
- ASTM-certified riding helmets (mandatory in most shows)
Horse Training Styles
Western horses are generally trained to be more independent and calm at lower speeds, often working with lighter rein contact. This makes them ideal for trail riding and cattle work where the rider may need one hand free.
English horses are typically trained to be more responsive to rein and leg pressure, requiring more constant communication. This makes sense for activities like jumping and dressage, where precision is key.
Which Riding Style Is Easier for Beginners?
There’s no definitive answer here — it depends on your goals and personality. However:
- Western riding is often considered more beginner-friendly because of the larger, more secure saddle and the laid-back pace of many Western disciplines.
- English riding demands a bit more balance and fine motor control early on but offers a solid foundation for advanced sports and competition.
If your dream is to trot through the countryside, canter over jumps, or compete in dressage, English might be your path. If you’re drawn to trail riding, ranch life, or simply enjoy a more relaxed experience in the saddle, Western could be a great fit.
Regardless of which saddle or style you choose, every rider needs to be balanced in the saddle with both their seat and legs, and soft with their aids whether with legs or hands.
Regional Differences and Global Popularity
- Western riding is most popular in North and South America but has fans worldwide.
- English riding is more common in Europe, the UK, and in Olympic-level equestrian sports globally.
That said, both styles are practiced on nearly every continent, and many stables offer lessons in both disciplines.
Final Thoughts: Western or English — Which One Should You Choose?
The best way to find your fit is to try both styles! Many equestrians end up blending elements of each or switching between them depending on the horse, the activity, or the setting.
Both English and Western riding offer rich traditions, rewarding challenges, and deep connections between horse and rider. Whichever saddle you choose, you’re guaranteed to learn, grow, and fall in love with the ride.
