Western Dressage vs Cowboy Dressage, a few years in

[FjordBCRF]

Awesome, thanks! I have been back and forth on grabbing a wintec western saddle since I’ve had him, and may just go that route to start. Sounds like it fits the bill and they are pretty basic as well as quite affordable. My wintec AP saddle has worked out really well so far and I like that they can double as a good trail saddle. And working eq.

A couple other questions from someone who did ride western in high school, but knew very little about details.

Im guessing a Fjord would need a full QH bar? I think that is considered their “wide”.

Saddle pads…you have a nice base one and then add a thinner color one on top? Any recommendations for a nice base that will last a while?

I looked online about seat sizing and it said an average adult typically fits into a 15"? I’m 5’6 and 132 lbs.

[NoSuchPerson]

I ride in a 17.5" hunt seat saddle and a 16" western saddle. However, the “feels like” size of a western saddle is affected by how upright the cantle is and the shape of the swell (aka fork).

I used to have a Wintec western saddle with FQHB and it fit almost every horse (and mule) I ever put it on. I sold it to a barn mate a couple of years ago and, of course, I regret it now. So, yes, I think starting with a Wintec with FQHB is a good idea.

As far as fitting your horse goes, read the recent “Educate me on saddles” thread right below this one. It has lots of good info for you.

[FjordBCRF]

Perfect thanks!!

[Rusty15]

I have competed in western dressage. To my knowledge you can ride in a snaffle at any level and if you choose to ride in a curb you may use 1 or 2 hands.
As for the jog, I’m glad it’s not a western pleasure jog. It is more comparable to the ranch movement. A forward gait that’s going to actually get you somewhere! And you can choose whether or not to post. I have found western dressage to be very fun and easy to get into. I love dressage but prefer to ride in a western saddle and have stock horses so it is the perfect fit for me. Cowboy dressage looks fun too! We just don’t have that where I live.

[ParadoxFarm]

@Willesdon

Rising trot in a western saddle?

I spent some time at a working dude ranch, and I can tell you those cowboys rose to the trot all the time.

[ParadoxFarm]

@Alterration

They have a few. Kind of like 3 day eventing, but without terror.

That’s too funny.