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Saddleseat is the domain of gaited horses such as Morgans, American Saddlebreds, Paso Finos, Tennesee Walking horses, Hackneys, and National Show Horses.

Horses are easily recognizable by their exaggerated high stepping movement and high head and tail carriage. Horses often have extremely long tails, which can even be artificial in order to exaggerate even further. They are shown at special gaits that non-gaited horses can not do. Some of these gaits are the running walk, which is a fast but smooth four-beat gait, the rack, the pace, and some very specialized gaits that only a few types of horses can do. These gaits are natural in these breeds and should never be forced. These horses often can also do regular gaits in addition.

Saddleseat horses are shown in specialized tack and usually have double bridles with both a snaffle and a curb bit. Before and during their classes they are often exposed to potentially frightening sights such as lighters to promote an alert excited look.

High scores are given to horses with the highest, most exaggerated leg action at all gaits. Often weighted shoes are put on the horses to emphasize this leg action.

Riders usually wear long jackets and regular hats instead of hard hats. They ride with their legs out and extended instead of under them like many English riders. Turnout of both horse and rider is essential.

 

 

 

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