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93-584: The United States Hunter/Jumper Association , or USHJA , is the governing body for hunt seat and show jumping in the United States. The mission statement of the USHJA is "to unify and represent the hunter and jumper disciplines of equestrian sport through education, recognition and sport programs". The organization is an affiliate of the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF). The USHJA

186-399: A curb chain and require two sets of reins are also legal and are particularly popular in equitation . Bit converters are illegal. Almost all shows prohibit martingales in "flat" or "under saddle" (not to jump) classes. Martingales are only permitted in over-fence classes, and only the standing martingale is legal in hunter classes. A running martingale is legal for jumpers, but it

279-481: A "work-off" is included in which the top riders return for further testing that might consist of another round of jumping, flatwork, no stirrup work, or switching horses, for example. Hunter courses are generally judged in one round, but classics often include two rounds for the top competitors. In most horse shows, four over-fence rounds (one often containing a 25% conformation component) and one flat class make up each hunter section. The judge decides which combination has

372-411: A balanced saddle seat with long stirrups in a "classical" position (legs balanced under the rider, not sitting too far back on the horse's loins), are able to properly ride their horses, encouraging the animals to step under themselves and collect, raising their backs, elevating their necks, and working off their hindquarters. Poorly made saddles of this style can be unbalanced and an improper seat leads to

465-425: A bit more speed. Some are far more temperamental, though excellent jumpers must be manageable as well as athletic. Horses may be of any breed, though again, Thoroughbreds and Warmbloods dominate the field. It is rare for a horse to perform both as a hunter and as a jumper as temperament and style of movement are markedly different. Hunt seat equitation classes judge the rider only, including his or her position on

558-519: A discipline that focuses on flat work does not incorporate jumping in competition. These activities are all differentiated from saddle seat -style English riding, which is an American-based discipline confined to the flat, developed for high-action show horses that are not intended to be shown over fences. Horses used in hunter over fences and hunter under saddle (or "flat", non-jumping) classes are called show hunters , and are judged on their movement, way of going, manners, and jumping form. Conformation

651-448: A false tail added. False tails are not allowed in Morgan or Arabian competition. When used, false tails attempt to not appear obviously fake; they are matched to the horse's natural hair color and flow into the natural tail. Tail setting is a controversial subject. This is primarily because a common way of creating the set look is a tail "nicking" operation, in which the retractor muscles on

744-446: A fast gallop. Hunt seat competitions are generally divided into three horse show categories, hunters, equitation, and jumpers. Show hunters as a group are judged on manners, way of going, and conformation. Turnout, the presentation of horse and rider, are often taken into account as well. Jumpers are judged by how quickly a horse can complete a course of jumps with the fewest errors, called faults. Equitation riders are judged on

837-406: A few months. Because it could be dangerous to turn a horse out in a tail set, horses in active competition are generally stalled while wearing their tail sets. Many horses only wear their sets at shows and for a day or two prior, while others wear their sets for the entire competition season. Between shows, in the off season, and of course after retirement, a horse does not wear its tail set and even

930-411: A flatter English show saddle was developed from the tradition of riders who would often show off their flashiest, highest-stepping horses by riding them in city parks on Sundays. Hence, the term "park horse" is still used today to describe competitions in which the action of the horse is of paramount importance. In the northern United States, showing high-stepping horses in a flat park-style saddle at fairs

1023-445: A hollow-backed horse who does not have properly engaged hindquarters, with a superficially correct front-end position that is achieved by improperly forcing the horse's head and neck up and in, usually by means of leveraged training aids. The saddle seat horse traditionally wears a double bridle (full bridle), with both a curb bit and a bradoon . A pelham bit is also legal for pleasure classes, though not common. The double bridle

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1116-405: A manner that causes the horse physical pain. Devices used include stretchies (elastic rubber tubing attached to the front legs by fleece-covered leather half-hobbles, used to provide resistance training), weighted rattles (large beads) or chains placed around the fetlock, and "shackles" or a "running-W", devices composed of pulleys and ropes that help increase the horses' range of motion. Depending on

1209-467: A much lesser extent, it is ridden with American horse breeds in Europe and Australia. The goal of the saddle seat riding style is to show off the horse's extravagant gaits, particularly the trot. It is not to be confused with the various hunt seat disciplines. Saddle seat riding began as a distinct style within the broader group of English riding disciplines developed in the United States. The first source

1302-462: A nicked tail will drop to some degree; many returning to a completely normal appearance and even regaining their ability to clamp down. If the horse is shown again at a later time, many horses with nicked tails need only wear the tail set for a few days before a show to re-stretch the tail muscles into the correct position. The horse's legs are trimmed, and the chestnut cut close to the skin. The only exception to this tradition of closely trimmed legs

1395-434: A rider may opt to wear protective headgear in any class without penalty. In small, unrated, "academy" or "schooling" shows, classes for people new to saddle seat may relax the dress requirements and allow exhibitors to show without a costly show jacket, and simply wear Kentucky jodhpurs, boots, a long sleeve button down shirt, sometimes a vest, and an equestrian helmet instead of a derby. Show ring grooming and "turnout" of

1488-414: A rider to wear formal attire , which is based on formal menswear fashion and usually consists of a black or dark navy blue long coat with matching satin lapels, top hat, vest or cummerbund, bow tie, white gloves and matching jodhpurs with matching satin strip on the outside of the pant leg. No formal attire can be worn in pleasure or pleasure equitation classes, (except for Morgan horse ) competition, but it

1581-431: A stock tie, the final look usually resembling that of a turtleneck . The traditional, classic shirt is white. However, in some places and at some types of less formal competition, particularly for children, pastel-colored shirts are popular, coordinated with the colors in the hunt coat. Traditionally shirts were long-sleeved, but today are more often short-sleeved or sleeveless, though sleeveless shirts cannot be worn when

1674-454: A white shirt, and a dark coat. Some riders are allowed to wear scarlet coats based on achievements in the sport. Saddle seat Saddle seat is a style of horse riding within the category of English riding that is designed to show off the high action of certain horse breeds . The style developed into its modern form in the United States, and is also seen in Canada and South Africa. To

1767-437: Is a harness -like device with straps that loop from the chest of the horse to the back of the tail to support a spoon crupper that actually holds the tail itself. A tail set holds the tail up and stretches the muscles and ligaments of the tail, preventing it from gradually sinking down. Once healed, the tail will still retain most of its movement and function, such as swatting flies, but can no longer be clamped down hard against

1860-502: Is a popular form of riding in the United States, recognized by the USHJA (United States Hunter/Jumper Association) and the United States Equestrian Federation , and in Canada . While hunt seat showing per se is not an Olympic discipline, many show jumping competitors began by riding in hunter and equitation classes before moving into the jumper divisions. The Hunt seat is also sometimes called

1953-852: Is also governed by breed: some breeds and divisions either prohibit pads altogether or only allow minimal pads. Other breeds, such as the American Saddlebred allow a 1-inch wedge pad, while at the extreme, 4-inch "stacks" are seen on certain Tennessee Walking Horses . In Country Pleasure competition for Saddlebreds and flat shod divisions for Tennessee Walkers, built-up shoes and pads are not allowed, all action must be produced from natural ability. In saddle seat breed competition for Morgans and Arabians, pads and slightly weighted shoes are allowed, but with strictly enforced limits on overall toe length and shoe weight. The exact combination of elevation (knee height) and extension (how far out in front

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2046-456: Is an international competition held biannually. It is the highest level of competition for saddle seat equitation riders and is competed in by the national saddle seat equitation teams from many countries around the world. The Saddle Seat Invitationals, held on the off years, are competed in by the Young Rider teams from various countries. Other national saddle seat equitation competitions include

2139-438: Is asked to perform the "big lick", exaggerated action of the front legs, especially in the running walk, where the horse both lifts its feet very high and reaches them out in front as far as possible. Many saddle seat horses also wear certain devices to increase their action while in training. Use of these devices is controversial, though when used correctly, they are said to help develop necessary muscles and should not be used in

2232-435: Is becoming acceptable in some regions and with some organizations for competitors to wear any collared shirt, such as a polo shirt, during very hot weather, rather than the traditional wool hunt coat and long-sleeved ratcatcher. For upper level competitions, such as classics and grand prixs, formal dress is usually required. This usually includes light-colored (usually shades of beige or a pale "canary" yellow) or white breeches,

2325-428: Is commonly seen in evening equitation championships, and in "park" style riding and Driving classes for American Saddlebreds and Arabians . In a few breed disciplines, though never in equitation, wearing flashy, brocaded coats in a formal class in lieu of a matching suit is occasionally fashionable, usually depending on parallel styles in the world of men's fashions. Under United States Equestrian Federation rules,

2418-506: Is for breeds such as the Friesian where feathers on the fetlocks is a desired, breed specific, trait. The head is also trimmed closely, paying special attention to the jaw, muzzle, ears (including the inside), and eyes. In the saddle seat world, the entire face often is clipped so the hairs are short, especially on a horse with a winter coat, and sometimes the entire horse is bodyclipped for an even finer appearance. The Saddle Seat World Cup

2511-455: Is generally considered to be the most prized gait. The 2020 United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) rule book defines movement for American Saddlebred and Half-American Saddlebred horses to be "clean, rhythmic and fluid action which is straight and true". Saddle seat horses should appear to be energetic and pleasant, while responsive to the exhibitor. In the United States, the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) creates and maintains

2604-646: Is judged to some extent as well. Thus, smooth, quiet-moving, well-built horses with good temperament are desired. A related flat class seen in many breed-specific competitions similar to Hunter Under Saddle is English Pleasure -Hunter Type, simply called "English Pleasure" within some regions and breeds. Although a somewhat different style of horse than the classic hunter may be shown, the goals of good manners, performance, quality, and conformation are still emphasized. Horses shown hunt seat may be of any breed, although those of Thoroughbred and Warmblood type are most common, except in pony classes. Regardless of breed,

2697-473: Is less often seen in Hunter classes.) Some years, patterns that appear solid at a distance, such as pinstripes, faint plaids or herringbone, are popular. In some competitions, the show management may choose to waive the jacket requirement if the heat and humidity is very high. The show shirt, called a "ratcatcher," is a buttoned shirt with a stand-up mandarin-style collar covered by a separate, matching choker or

2790-475: Is not as strong, different colors of jackets and shirts are seen: riders sometimes wear tan, teal, light grey, or even dark violet coats with shirts in more vivid shades like green, orange, pink, lavender, and blue. Non-traditional attire is frowned upon and sometimes penalized in open competition. The rider is usually required to wear an ASTM / SEI -approved equestrian helmet with safety harness fastened. Although black, velvet-covered hunt caps were once popular,

2883-882: Is not for hunters. According to the 2007 USEF Rule Book for the Hunter division, "Martingales of any type are prohibited in Under Saddle, hack and tie-breaking classes. Standing martingales are allowed for all over fence classes. All other martingales may be considered unconventional." In some breed-specific shows, other types of bits, such as the Kimberwicke , are sometimes legal, but are not considered "classic" hunt seat bits, and riders moving from breed-specific to open competition are sometimes penalized severely if they use non-traditional equipment in open competition. The horse must be very neat and well-presented. Hunter and equitation horses are to have braided manes and tails while showing, particularly at rated competition. If braiding

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2976-482: Is not possible, the mane is to at least be pulled neatly and lie flat on one side of the horse's neck. The dock of the tail is braided into a "French" style braid, which runs the length of the tailbone, with the remainder of the tail allowed to flow freely. In the United States, the hunt seat horse's tail is not "banged" (cut straight across to an even length), though banged tails are seen in Europe. Horses usually have any long body hair trimmed short, particularly around

3069-436: Is not trimmed or pulled. Tennessee Walking Horses , five-gaited American Saddlebreds , three-gaited pleasure, and park Saddlebreds, and other gaited breeds that adhere closely to their traditions, are usually shown with a full mane and forelock, though the forelock and the first lock of the mane may be braided with satin ribbon, which is color-coordinated with the browband of the bridle and the rider's outfit. (In recent years,

3162-440: Is often done the night before or morning of the show, but can be completed earlier if precautions are taken to avoid having the horse rub out the braids. The hunt seat rider is dressed conservatively. Classic attire for hunter classes consists of beige, tan or gray breeches, a white or light pastel shirt, and a black, navy, gray, "hunter" green or dark brown hunt coat. (Black is considered a dressage style, however, and though legal,

3255-624: Is preferred (and mandatory in most equitation classes) because it allows more fine-tuning of the horse's head and neck position, though a pelham can be used in a few specialized classes such as Saddlebred Pleasure Equitation. A single curb bit is used for gaited horses such as the Tennessee Walker and Missouri Fox Trotter. The shanks of the curb bit are often longer than those found on the Weymouth style double bridle used in dressage , often 7 inches in overall length (some breeds have length limits in

3348-416: Is seen in show hunter courses and in equitation courses. In show jumping, the rider may be penalized for going over the time. Therefore, a faster but steady gallop is used in jumper classes. Jump-offs also often display greater pace as time is of the essence. Classes of hunt seat riding are often divided by the horse and rider's ability, the rider's age, the height of the horse or pony, and the requirements of

3441-496: Is still a problem for the industry. Correct saddle seat attire differs from that of western or hunt seat disciplines. For both men and women, it is closely modeled on men's business suits and/or the tuxedo , with variations in styling designed to improve the rider's appearance on horseback. Fashion in saddle seat disciplines changes with changes in menswear fashions, reflected in collar styles, shirt and tie designs, and sometimes in length of coat and color of linings . According to

3534-410: Is tightened over time to raise the tail. This method is uncommon since it is more time consuming and yields a "tighter" tail that is physically more difficult to brace. If an upright tail position is desired, a humane brace can be used in the show ring to avoid physically altering the tail. This is a wire attachment that sits on top of the tail to give the appearance of a brace. False hair is used to cover

3627-410: Is worn with a stock tie and pin and with taddersall points on the bottom. This coat is not seen in most hunter classes or at smaller shows, and is almost never required. This trend has been adopted from dressage competition where the shadbelly is worn in the upper levels. However, traditional hunt riders still wear the shorter hunt coat. In some places, particularly breed-specific shows where tradition

3720-529: The United States Equestrian Federation , conservative solid colors must be worn, such as black, navy blue, brown, dark green or gray. Pinstriped fabrics and other fabric textures that appear solid at a distance are also acceptable. However, in some classes, it is also legal to wear a "day coat", which is a coat that is of a contrasting color from the rider's trousers. In all classes, riders wear Kentucky jodhpurs (sometime nicknamed "jods"), which are close-fitting pants with knee patches and bell-bottoms that go over

3813-485: The fox hunting tradition and the cadence needed for riding in large fields. Jumper fences can be quite high, up to 5 ft 3 in (1.60 m) in Grand Prix show jumping, and well in excess of 7 ft (2.13 m) in puissance (progressive high-jump) classes, with a much greater width. Show hunters, on the other hand, are shown over fences no greater than 4 ft 6 in (1.37 m) in height (as displaced in

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3906-472: The "forward seat" and it was first developed by Captain Federico Caprilli in the early 20th century. Ideally, a hunt seat rider has a very secure position. This includes proper leg position, weight in heels, soft hands, good posture, balanced seat, eyes up and, when working over fences, looking ahead towards the next fence. Riders usually employ a "two-point" position while jumping fences, depending on

3999-477: The "high action" classes, including park, three-gaited, five-gaited, and fine harness competition. Set tails are not allowed in Saddlebred or Tennessee Walking horse pleasure classes or in most flat shod classes, though a horse which has previously been shown with a set tail may be allowed in some classes if its tail has been taken down and allowed to return to its natural position. Other saddle seat breeds, such as

4092-450: The Arabian, Racking Horse and Morgan, prohibit tail-setting altogether. It is important to note that all American Saddlebred horses can compete with a natural, unset, and/or unbraced tail regardless of the division without penalty. The upright set tail shortens the length of the rest of the tail by several inches. Therefore, horses with set tails, particularly if thin or slow-growing, may have

4185-879: The NHS Good Hands Finals and the USEF (US Equestrian Federation) Finals held at the American Royal Horse Show in November. The NHS Good Hands Finals, UPHA Challenge Cup Finals, and USEF Medal Finals are considered the jewels in the Saddle Seat Equitation Triple Crown. This is frequently called the Saddlebred Equitation Triple Crown, which is incorrect as it is open to all breeds. However, usually only Morgan and Saddlebred riders are seen competing. Individual breed associations, such as

4278-402: The USHJA leadership. Members of the committees are appointed by peers via election or by presidential appointment. This article about equestrian sports or equestrianism is a stub . You can help Misplaced Pages by expanding it . This article about a sports-related organization based in the United States is a stub . You can help Misplaced Pages by expanding it . Hunt seat Hunt seat

4371-495: The United States have a short bridle path (a bridle path less than six inches long or equal in length to the height of the horse's ear is a common rule of thumb ), saddle seat horses often have a bridle path 8 to 12 inches long, depending on current fashion. There are variations in bridle path lengths: Arabian horse exhibitors are particularly prone to shaving extremely long bridle paths, while exhibitors of American Saddlebreds less so, and Morgan horse exhibitors typically fall in

4464-415: The ankle (similar to "paddock boots" sometimes worn in other disciplines), a hat (usually a derby for women and a fedora for men), a vest, tie, and dark gloves. In some breeds, riders have coat linings made in a contrasting color to add extra flash, though colored linings go in and out of style. In equitation classes, in which the rider is judged, the coat and jods must match. In performance classes, in which

4557-402: The boots, usually with a strap that goes under the boot to keep them from riding up. A long, fitted coat is also required. For men, the coat length usually stops just above the knee. For women, depending on height, the coat may be below the knee, though exact length varies from year to year as show ring fashions change. The outfit is complete with the addition of jodhpur boots that come just over

4650-478: The breed, some devices may be used in the warm-up area but not the show ring, while other breeds ban them from the show grounds entirely. The most controversial practice used on some saddle seat horses, primarily the Tennessee Walking Horse , is soring: the placing of a caustic ointment on the coronary band and pastern of the horse, to cause pain so that the horse picks up its feet as quickly as they touch

4743-408: The buttocks. In the show ring, the tailsetting harness is removed, but the tail is often tied or put into a tail brace to hold it in place. It is possible to achieve the same look without the horse having to go through the nicking procedure. It is possibly to stretch the tail muscles by hand on a regular basis by pulling the tail up over the back. In conjunction with this, a tail set is also used that

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4836-888: The classic velveteen covered look. Newer designs are characterized by a broader visor, a contrasting ventilation strip down the center, and, for women, a hair-catching cloth at the back. The ventilation strip has given this style of helmet the tongue-in-cheek nickname "skunk helmet". Helmets with vivid colors and designs are often worn by children, but usually covered with a black velvet cloth cover for show. Riders 13 years or older generally wear tall, black field boots with breeches. Younger riders who still have rapidly growing feet may wear either brown or black jodhpur boots (sometimes called "paddock boots") and "jod straps" (strips of leather worn buckled under each knee for grip) with jodhpur pants . Dark gloves should be worn, but are not required. Attire for jumper classes resembles that of hunter riders, though may be less formal at lower levels. It

4929-476: The equitation horse is generally more collected than the show hunter, which allows the rider to better adjust the stride for tricky combinations. The most notable difference between hunters and jumpers is the technicality of the courses. Show jumping courses include combination fences, sharp turns and several changes of direction, all requiring adjustability and athleticism. Show hunter courses include smoother lines, fewer combinations, and wider turns, reflecting

5022-429: The fetlocks, jaw, and ears. In some breeds and in some places, it is common to trim muzzle whiskers as well. Many exhibitors also trim a small bridle path by shaving a few inches of mane right behind the ears. The horses are usually bathed the day before a show, blanketed overnight to stay clean, and thoroughly groomed the day of the competition prior to entering the ring. Braiding of the mane and, when applicable, tail,

5115-475: The flat and over fences and overall effectiveness while riding. Therefore, it is not imperative that the horse has perfect movement or jumping form, but it needs good manners and an attractive way of going that does not detract from the rider's performance. Although temperament is not judged, horses with a more tractable temperament are generally easier to ride, and can therefore help riders demonstrate their skills. The ideal equitation mount has less bascule than

5208-444: The following criteria: Saddle seat riders use a special saddle not seen in other English riding disciplines. These saddles have a cut-back pommel, which is set back several inches (usually four) to allow for the higher withers and neck set of the horse. The saddle has little padding, a very flat seat, and is placed further back on the horse to allow the extravagant front end movement of the horse. This saddle also deliberately places

5301-410: The gaits, extended gaits, and sometimes for any specialized gaits. Any of the breeds used for saddle seat competition may also be shown in driving classes in harness , usually called " fine harness " or " pleasure driving ", usually requiring a walk and two speeds of trot. Rules for horse grooming and handler attire parallel saddle seat rules. In any competition, classes may be broken down by any of

5394-632: The ground. Because of the pain it causes to animals, soring has been banned by federal law, enforced by the United States Department of Agriculture as part of the Horse Protection Act of 1970 . However, enforcement is spotty amongst show-sanctioning organizations, and funds are not sufficient for the USDA to inspect all horse shows. Therefore, even though the practice is widely condemned and illegal, with possible criminal penalties possible, it

5487-620: The highest competitive level. The fences used in show hunter courses are designed to be very natural in appearance, to simulate a natural cross-country hunting course. The poles and standards of the fences are usually natural wood or painted a conservative color, such as white or brown. Decorative elements might include brush or flowers. Water obstacles are not included. Obstacles used in jumper competition are often brightly coloured and sometimes even deliberately designed to look "scary." These courses usually include an open water or "liverpool" obstacle , and may also have varied terrain with fences on

5580-471: The hoof, shoes on high-action breeds are often held in place with a metal band, as well as with clinches, because of their weight. Longer toes and heavier shoes encourage a saddle seat horse to lift its feet and knees higher, or reach them out farther, with more "snap" and flash. Toe length and shoe weight therefore is an often controversial issue among saddle seat competitors. Toe length and, at times, shoe weight, are often measured at sanctioned shows. Pad height

5673-1028: The horse in that class. Pony hunter divisions may also be specified as Green Pony Hunter divisions. Green Pony Hunter divisions are for those ponies who are in their first year of rated showing. In Green Pony Hunter classes, small ponies jump 2 ft 3 in (0.69 m), medium ponies jump 2 ft 6 in (0.76 m), and large ponies jump 2 ft 9 in (0.84 m). First and Second Year Green Hunters are shown under USEF rules. According to these rules, First Year Green Hunters are in their first year of showing fences at 3 ft 6 in (1.07 m). Therefore, fences in their classes are set at 3 ft 6 in (1.07 m). Second Year Green Hunters are in their second year of showing fences at 3 ft 6 in (1.07 m). Fences in their classes are set at 3 ft 9 in (1.14 m). First and Second Year Green Hunters may also show in Green Conformation Hunter divisions. These divisions are

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5766-412: The horse is judged, a matching equitation-style suit is appropriate, or riders, particularly women, may wear a day coat. Riders usually carry a longish whip, usually black, that is similar to that used by dressage riders. English-style spurs are optional. Technically a white-handled whip is only carried after 6:00 pm, but that particular tradition is widely ignored. After 6:00 p.m., some classes allow

5859-547: The horse reaches with its feet) is determined to some extent by breed and fashion. However, for the health of the horse, specialized shoeing should not change the hoof angle to any significant degree, as more than a 3 degree alteration may lead to lameness. The balance of the shoe can alter action: The three-gaited American Saddlebred and the Hackney Horse have the highest knee action, while the Tennessee Walking Horse

5952-544: The horse should have a long stride with very little knee action, good jumping form with correct bascule , and should be well-mannered. For top level competition, movement and jumping form become increasingly more important. The show jumper is generally a horse that has more power and energy than a show hunter. Because only jumping ability is scored, conformation, manners, and way of going are critical only as far as they affect soundness and ability to jump. Jumpers are often taller and more powerfully built than hunters, often with

6045-459: The horse to have a great deal of freedom of movement because the rider's weight is lifted off its back. Position in two-point varies according to the task. Hunter riders generally have a very upright two-point, as they usually show on very level footing and at slower speed. Eventers may have a more crouched position, usually with the heel slightly more forward while riding cross-country, to provide more security as they ride over varying terrain at

6138-792: The horse. Horse breeds usually shown saddle seat style typically have upright necks and free-moving, animated gaits. Several breeds do well in this discipline, with the most well-known being the American Saddlebred . Other breeds commonly exhibited in saddle seat style include Arabians , Morgans , Tennessee Walking Horses , and assorted partbred or crossbreds derived from these breeds, such as Spotted Saddle Horses , National Show Horses , and Racking Horse . In addition, Hackneys , Dutch Harness Horses , Paso Finos , Missouri Foxtrotters , and Rocky Mountain Horses are sometimes shown in this discipline. Less often, Friesians and Andalusians are exhibited. The trot or gait for applicable breeds and divisions

6231-409: The hunter is easy to ride and attentive and responsive to its rider. The saddle is usually a type of forward seat ( jumping saddle ), generally the style called "close contact," though "eventing" and "all-purpose" designs are seen in some areas, particularly at lower levels. Saddles are usually of brown leather, with a plain girth, usually of leather. The saddle pad should be white, and shaped to fit

6324-425: The hunters, show jumping horses are more objectively penalized by accumulating "faults" if they knock down or refuse obstacles (four faults), or if they exceed the optimum time limit. Some jumper classes also require a second round for those who jumped clean (received no penalties) in the first round. These "jump-offs" are judged on accuracy and time. Competitors are placed first in the order of fewest faults and then in

6417-467: The jacket rule is waived. Stock pins are sometimes worn on the stock tie or choker, although the most recent fashion has been to embroider the rider's initials on the choker. A recent trend in Hunter Classics and stakes classes is for Hunter riders wear a different styled coat called a shadbelly. This is a black coat cut short on the front midsection but worn long with tails in the back. The shadbelly

6510-413: The lines of the neck and head. For all other breeds, only part of the mane is trimmed. This area, called the bridle path (the area of the mane just behind the horse's ears, where the bridle lies across the top of the horse's head), is often trimmed farther down the neck than in other disciplines in order to show off the clean throatlatch, length, and elegance of the horse's neck. While most show horses in

6603-597: The middle. The tail is left long, and often the bottom of it is kept wrapped up at the stable so that it grows long enough to skim or even drag on the ground as the horse moves, and only taken down for show. Formerly, the upper portion of a three-gaited horse's tail was shaved to balance the look of the roached mane and remains legal for show, but in recent decades the trend has been to keep a normal tail. Classes for three-gaited horses with full manes and tails are also offered. The American Saddlebred and Tennessee Walking Horse are shown with an artificially positioned tail in

6696-459: The old style caps provided virtually no actual protection to the head and are now prohibited for junior riders at any time while mounted, and are not allowed on riders of any age in classes to jump. Caps are still sometimes seen on adult riders in flat classes, and remain somewhat popular at breed shows. However, many adult hunt seat riders who do not jump are also leaving behind the hunt cap in favor of ASTM/SEI-approved headgear. Some helmets retain

6789-437: The order of fastest time (not just time allowed). Because style is never taken into account, the horse may jump in unorthodox form, take off from a poor spot, or rub a rail without any penalty. This objective scoring makes show jumping easy to follow though sometimes both horses and riders may exhibit unorthodox and even unsafe form without penalty. Speed is not favored in hunter or equitation classes. A steady but forward canter

6882-453: The position of the rider reflects the desired position of the horse. The rider must make the riding look effortless, and stay still and well-formed on the horse, sitting upright, with shoulders back and posting that is graceful and quiet. In saddle seat, high-stepping gaits are required of the horses shown, and the rider's position, behind the center of balance of the animal, allows the riding aids to be used to encourage front leg action in

6975-512: The relatively new "Performance Working Hunter" classes), even at the highest levels, but are expected to display a cadence and elegance that is not necessary in show jumping. Equitation over fences courses test a rider's skill and form. They look like a hunter course, but contain more technical elements, such as intermediate difficulty combinations, tight turns, and difficult distances between fences, which are often seen in show jumping. These courses reach 3 ft 9 in (1.14 m) in height at

7068-405: The rider slightly "behind the motion", which makes it easier to influence both the headset of the horse and the animal's gaits. Due to the cutback pommel, these saddles are usually a few inches longer than other English saddles. Even a properly balanced saddle seat saddle is quite flat and places the rider farther back on the horse in a position that feels less secure. However, good riders that ride

7161-520: The rules for most breeds shown in saddle seat competition. Classes under saddle may include: Class terminology varies between breeds. For example, Saddlebreds may be shown in "English Show Pleasure" or "English Country Pleasure". Morgans have Park, English Pleasure , and "Classic" Pleasure classes. Arabians have Park, English Pleasure , and "Country" Pleasure classes. Tennessee Walkers exhibit in three categories: Flat shod, Plantation Pleasure, and Performance. Each class may ask for different variations of

7254-492: The rules). The browband is commonly brightly colored leather or vinyl, red being the most common color. The cavesson is sometimes plain leather, and sometimes colored to match the browband, depending on breed and fashion trends in tack. Junior classes, limited to horses under four or five years old, may allow horses to wear a snaffle bit . The use of martingales with snaffle bits in the show ring varies by breed, but setups for junior horses and other horses in training may include

7347-416: The saddle seat horse is intended to emphasise elegance and grace. There are noticeable variations in grooming style between breeds, and sometimes within different disciplines of the same breed. Therefore, it is often quite easy even for newcomers to tell which breed is being shown by the observing the way the horses are groomed. Horses shown saddle seat generally are left with a very long, flowing mane that

7440-433: The saddle. Ideally, no more than one inch of pad should appear under the saddle. The bridle is simple, with a plain cavesson (any type of noseband other than a plain cavesson is prohibited) and a simple, unadorned browband. Bits are also simple, with riders usually using a classic snaffle bit , either a dee-ring, eggbutt, or full cheek design. Milder bits are preferred in hunter classes. Pelham bits which include

7533-652: The same as the previous divisions with one important difference. In conformation hunter classes, horses are judged 60% on their movement and performance and 40% on their conformation. Regular Hunters may also show in Regular Conformation Hunter divisions. These divisions are the same as the previous division with one important difference. In conformation hunter classes, horses are judged 60% on their movement and performance and 40% on their conformation. Hunter classes (both under-saddle and over fences) have requirements for classic, plain tack that demonstrates that

7626-437: The show hunter, because it is easier for a rider to maintain the correct jumping position on a "flatter" horse that does not throw the rider out of the saddle when it jumps. However, a show jumper is not ideal either, as the horse may be less smooth in its way of going and too excitable in temper for the rider to maintain steady and correct form over a course. The horse must jump safely and not carelessly rub rails. The movement of

7719-400: The smoothest round and displayed a ride most closely to the ideal. Certain mistakes like refusals will lead to drastic penalties, while minor errors like a soft rub on a rail are slightly penalized, at the judge's discretion. This can make judging difficult to follow for those new to showing until the subtle factors considered by the judge are better understood. Unlike the subjective scoring of

7812-449: The top or bottom of a bank, or with a ditch under an obstacle. Equitation obstacles, though more complex in layout than a hunter course, are usually more conservative in design than jumper obstacles, more closely following those of the hunter courses. Equitation and show hunters are judged subjectively based on ability and form (of the rider) and elegance, cadence and style (of the horse). Equitation may be judged in one round, though often

7905-409: The trend amongst Saddlebred exhibitors is to clip off the forelock.) On the other hand, Arabian and Morgan horses show with a full mane and tail with no additions; exhibitors are specifically prohibited from braiding or adding ribbons to their horses. American Saddlebreds shown specifically in three-gaited competition are shown with a roached (entirely clipped off) mane and forelock, to accentuate

7998-419: The type of course and height of fences. The position is so named because the rider has "two points" (both legs) in contact with the saddle . The rider supports his or her body using leg and stirrup , keeping the heels down, closing the hip angle, and lifting the buttocks out of the saddle while keeping the head and shoulders up. On the flat, or when used on course between jumps, the two-point position allows

8091-482: The underside of the dock are partially cut (the tail is not broken, as some people believe). The USEF permits, in American Saddlebred and Half American Saddlebred horses "surgical release of only the ventral sacrocaudal muscle is allowable if performed by a licensed veterinarian ". The tail is then placed into a tail set so that when the muscles and ligaments heal they are longer than they were initially. A tail set

8184-408: The use of a running martingale , a German martingale, or draw reins . These tools are commonly used in training. High action is prized in the saddle seat horse. Therefore, many horses used in saddle seat are allowed to grow longer feet than in other disciplines and are shod with pads and special shoes. While ordinary horseshoes are usually held on with horseshoe nails clinched on the outside wall of

8277-428: The way they look and form of the rider, and the smoothness and overall appearance of the horse and rider as a team. Related disciplines within the broad category of "hunt seat" English riding include eventing and dressage , though the forward seat style of hunt seat equitation riders over fences contrasts with that of eventing riders in cross-country competition, or the deep, more upright position of dressage riders,

8370-401: The wire attachment. Humane braces are uncommon since they are difficult to stabilize on the tail, especially in riding horses. Set tails require much effort on the part of the groom. If the tail set shifts off center, the tail can become permanently crooked or skin damage can occur. If the set tail is not taken care of appropriately, even a nicked tail will drop down to a more normal position in

8463-575: Was formed in 2004 by Bill Moroney. In 2010, they opened their new offices at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky. Major roles include representing all levels of riding in the hunter and jumper disciplines in the United States, and setting rules for the welfare of the horses in the discipline. The USHJA has 12 zones for different regions of the country, each represented by a zone committee. Zone committees can bring issues brought to them to

8556-431: Was one way breeders would promote their horses. Saddle seat is a style of English riding that differs considerably from other styles such as hunt seat and dressage . To the casual observer the rider sits well back in the saddle, carrying his or her hands higher than in other disciplines. Riders in equitation classes are penalized for leaning forward to any significant degree. However, like any other riding discipline,

8649-508: Was the Plantation tradition of the American South , where smooth-moving, high-stepping horses were used by plantation owners and overseers to travel across the fields. The horses had to be smooth riding and comfortable enough for hours of riding while overseeing the plantation, but the owners also preferred an impressive, high-stepping horse for riding in town. A second influence was European:

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