The sport of horse racing has been around for centuries. Ancient Romans famously popularized chariot races that were widely enjoyed by large groups of spectators. In North America, the late 1800s marked the opening of many major racetracks and equestrianism fever took hold. Horse racing is indeed a sport and requires vigorous dressage, or training, for both horse and rider. Skilled riders can eventually enter prestigious competitions, in hopes of earning rewards for their accomplishments. Considerable time must also be spent selecting the correct equestrian equipment. Depending on the style of riding that the rider and horse will be engaging in, the equipment needed will vary.
The English riding style is the most commonly used, and perhaps most easily recognized, style in competition today. The English riding style requires the use of an English saddle, designed to allow more flexibility in the horse’s movement than its Western counterpart. One of the more popular English Saddle manufacturers, Germania, offers attractive saddles that are both flexible and comfortable. Another English saddle manufacturer, Henri de Rivel — sometimes shortened to HDR, offers several attractive saddle options for both adult and child alike. HDR’s saddles come in several different styles and colors for all riders, from novice to professional, to choose from.
The English riding style also features horses outfitted with English bridles. These bridles are the headgear that the horse wears, allowing the rider to control them. In the English style of riding, the bridle actually includes three pieces: a headstall, the reins, and the bit in the horse’s mouth that the reins are attached to. Bridles come in several styles, and different types of bridles are typically used for dressage vs. actual competition. Henri de Rivel is again a popular manufacturer for these pieces. HDR has a reputation for quality, and its equipment is designed with both the horse and rider in mind.
Additionally, the stirrups used for English riding can differ from the styles and types used for dressage, exercise, or Western riding. The stirrups used in English riding are typically made of iron, stainless steel, or another kind of metal. Ideal stirrups are designed to easily allow the rider to mount the horse, while providing as much safety as possible during dismount, through proper leg positioning. As a result, stirrup fitting, size, and selection must not be taken lightly. Improper sizing and placement of the foot could unfortunately lead to serious injury.
Nicole Rousseau owns and operates http://www.allaboutequestrians.com.