[QUOTE=Aces N Eights;7465181]
There have been some good suggestions 
Like Pocket Pony I wear the Q-Baby jeans for riding. They have an elastic waist so no gaping and your shirt stays tucked in. They have a little stretch to them too which is handy. Aktill had mentioned the seam that runs down the inside of the leg, very true, something to think about when buying a different brand.
Boots are going to be a little of personal preference. For me, I like my tall boots they hit just below the knee but would fit much looser than what your English tall boots would. I wear them with a tall boot sock and I have no issues with rubbing. However they can be hot and sweaty in the summer. I do have some boots that hit mid-lower leg, again tall boot socks so they aren’t rubbing on your skin.
I like leather soles with single welt stitching. I suggest them for ease of getting your foot in and out of a stirrup. They can be slick to walk in and not meant for long periods of standing but I am scared of getting hung in a stirrup.
Heels are going to be a preference. I have heels ranging from short roper style to big 2.5" underslungs. Your stirrups maybe a determining factor. A spur counter on the heel is also handy for holding your spurs. Western riders where their spurs lower on the boot than English from what I have noticed. What is your price range?
Spurs, in short, your spur style will have to do with the length of your leg compared to your horse. There are other factors but that is a good place to start.
Quick example, if you are a long legged rider on a shallow girthed horse, a gooseneck may be appropriate. If you are short legged rider on a big barreled horse a drop shank, or a very short shanked spur maybe the best solution.
Been a couple of years since attending breed shows, but you may be eligible for AQHA amateur classes. I am confused by the “leveling” I have to read up on that still.
APHA has amateur and novice/amateur classes also broken down into age groups…I think.
Basically if you haven’t been paid to train, show, give lessons in the last 5 years you can eligible for those divisions. Your trainer would be able to give you a better answer than I can.
I agree that trying some schooling and open shows is a good way to start before dumping money into the breed shows.
By the way, welcome to the dark side ;)[/QUOTE]
Actually, I think I’m on the dark side with a Walker and wanting to do dressage! It’s all good though. I like hearing stories of people switching disciplines and it sure gives you an appreciation for the myriad of ways you can enjoy horses. I say have fun and get into it!
