English Habit Blog: English saddle pads

Tuesday, September 6, 2016

English VS. Western Riding 101

The first question that can come up when discussing riding is the difference between riding English versus riding Western. Here are a few of the basics to understanding these differences.

· Saddle – Essentially, a Western saddle is wider, larger and heavier. It can hold more weight for longer periods of time as the weight of the rider is spread out over a larger portion of the horse’s back. The idea would be that the rider can stay on the horse for a full day’s work. The English saddle is smaller and much lighter and has English saddle pads underneath for comfort. It can be worn for shorter amounts of time and gives closer contact with the horse’s back.

· Riding – The riding styles can seem similar as both require a comfortable and relaxed position for the rider. However, there are a few key differences. First, the most noticeable difference would be that the English rider makes direct contact with the horse’s mouth, through the reins, to aid in movements and direction. In Western riding there is no direct contact to move the horse. It mainly focuses on weight and neck reining for control. Lastly, an English rider takes a rein in each hand, instead of two in one had as Western riders do. This slight change in position gives a very different appearance to the riders.

Are you looking for more information about English riding and the equipment? Check out EnglishHabit.com today!

Welcome to the English Habit Blog!

Getting ready to saddle up? Are you new to English riding or a seasoned veteran of the sport? Learn more about the basics of riding, the equipment and the riding fashion here at the English Habit Blog. Here’s a little about EnglishHabit.com and what we carry.

· Apparel and Rider Gear – Our apparel and rider gear includes boots, boys and girls apparel, English Riding shirts, show coats, helmets, luggage and totes as well as so much more. Our high quality brands include Ovation and EquiStar.

· Barn Supplies – Barn supplies include arena supplies, blanket racks, bridle hangers and saddle racks. Grooming tools include hoof picks, grooming stones and thinning shears.

· Horse Care – Our horse care section includes a variety of ear nets in an assortment of colors. We also offer health related products, as well as hoof oil and Himalayan Rock Salt. At English Habit, we carry a selection of leg protection for your horse. Options range from bandages to splint boots. Horse blankets are also popular for when the horse is loose in a stall or when traveling.

· Men’s Department – The men’s collection includes riding gloves, laces, boots as well as show shirts and riding breeches. Ovation and Mountain Horse brands are both available for the highest quality.

· Tack and Equipment – Finally, the tack and equipment offered includes bits, bridles, girths, irons, pony tack, saddles and English saddle pads. Our variety of products sets us in front of the competition as we know exactly what an English equestrian is looking for.