Riding discipline
From the range

Western Riding, Ranch and Rodeo Traditions in the Saddle

Ranch heritage
Western riding
Ranch heritage
Rodeo sport
FEI-recognized
Heritage
Ranch and rodeo heritage
Key equipment
Flat seat saddle, high-crowned hat, jeans, boots
Typical maneuvers
Sliding stops, spins, trail obstacles
Common breeds
Quarter Horse, American Paint Horse, Appaloosa
Sub-disciplines
Western Dressage, Reining, Cutting, Barrel Racing, Trail
Scoring focus
Precision, cattle work, or speed
European introduction
1964 by Jean-Claude Dysli

What is Western Riding?

Western riding is the umbrella for every equestrian sport born of ranching and rodeo work. Riders use flat-seat saddles, high-crowned hats, jeans, and boots suited to long days in the saddle. Signature maneuvers include sliding stops, spins, and navigating trail obstacles. Scoring rewards precision, cattle handling, or outright speed, depending on the class.

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Which riding disciplines belong to Western Riding?

Photo to follow

Cow Work

Western riding
Multi-phase competition
Photo to follow

Rodeo Timed Events

Timed competition
Rodeo sport
Photo to follow

Rodeo Roughstock

PRCA discipline
Photo to follow

Reining

Western riding
Photo to follow

Western Dressage

Beginner-friendly
Photo to follow

Cowboy Dressage

Western riding
Classical dressage tradition

Riding stables & barns for Western Riding

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