What is the difference between English and Western riding?

One difference between these two riding styles is the origin of them. Western riding is born from the Spanish. They were introduced to this style from Native Americans. Another difference between them is in regard to the type of tack that the horse will wear. Compared to the tacks of the English, the tacks of the Western riders will be larger and heavier. The reason for this is that the tack is supposed to sustain the longer distances that the Western riders go. The style of riding is also different. English style is more aggressive than the Western riding style.

Western riding style was born out of the Spanish equestrian tradition, which they introduced to the Native Americans. It was also the particular ranching style that ushered into the country. In Western riding, a rider uses his weight along with the neck reign to control the horse and its movements.

It is not only the style of riding but also the specific equipment that is used, which intimately honors the depiction of cowboys that filled the Wild West. English riding is the most popular form of riding, except in America, English riding is known for the rider utilizing both hands to control the reigns of the horse.

This kind of riding style evolved in aggressive riding and is evident through the use of the traditions and equipment which is used by the riders. The saddle used in English riding is both light and small in comparison to the saddle used in Western riding.