Sidesaddle
Riding sidesaddle is a type of horseback riding. Sidesaddle riding uses a special saddle. This saddle allows the rider to sit 'aside' rather than 'astride' a horse. Astride means the rider's legs are opened with one leg on each side of the horse. In sidesaddle, the rider's legs are basically closed and both legs are on the same side of the horse. Girls and women mostly ride sidesaddle. Riding sidesaddle allows them to use a modest posture while showing off their nicest riding habits. There are two categories for competition, Junior and Senior classes.
In history
Women sitting aside a horse to ride began in ancient history. It later became popular in European countries in the Middle Ages. This gave women wearing skirts a way to ride a horse in a modest[1] way while also wearing their fancy clothes. It is still popular [2] with some modern riders.
Sidesaddle Media
Mrs. Esther Stace riding sidesaddle and clearing 1.98 m (6 ft 6 in) at the Sydney Royal Easter Show, 1915, a feat made possible because of the leaping horn
An antique two pommel sidesaddle.
Off-side view of a two pommel sidesaddle with double rigging and an overgirth strap
Ideal position in the saddle, the rider's spine aligns with that of the horse
Correct leg position. Toe of right foot is up, heel down
Queen Elizabeth II, riding sidesaddle, Trooping the Colour, 1986
References
- ↑ "The Side Saddle Association". sidesaddleassociation.co.uk. Retrieved 2019-04-15.
- ↑ Morton, Ella (2016-03-09). "The Surprising Resurgence of Side Saddle". Atlas Obscura. Retrieved 2019-04-15.