Western

Western Riding evolved from ranching and cowboys. These cowboys traveled long distances, and worked long hours. So, the Western saddle developed a deep seat. A saddle horn was also added, because riders sometimes held onto it to keep them in the saddle, or to keep the lasso on after roping an animal. The stirrups were covered, because it would protect the rider's foot to prevent brush from catching. Cowboys wanted communication with the horse easy, with only a light touch of the rein. This developed the Western bridle, which are simple and not as complicated as English bridles. Hackamores are sometimes used, too. Hackamores are bridles without bits (the metal piece of iron that goes into the horses' mouth). These should only be used by experienced riders. Western Riding also uses different clothing. A rider would wear a long sleeve shirt, denim jeans, and boots, and a cowboy hat. Most of the time, riders wear "chaps" over their jeans. Chaps help the protect the rider's legs when riding through brush.