Horse riding is relaxing for some people. Just you along with your horse and nature. There are certain types of horses that are best for casual riding though.
Practically any horse can be used solely for riding. It simply requires the proper training and mindset. They may have a little more “horsepower” than you’re looking for.
Types of Riding Horses
Many of the best riding horses are common breeds. However, there are plenty of great mares and stallions that aren’t as common and still make great riding companions.
What should you look for in horses for riding? Ideally, any horse you plan to ride should be calm and trainable. These will provide you with the smoothest rides.
You can find plenty of great riding horses up for adoption as well. They may already be trained and are simply looking for a new riding partner.
With that said, here are some of the best types of horses for riding. These breeds are great for beginners and experienced riders alike.
American Quarter Horse
The first breed on our list is the well-known American quarter horse. This breed is the most popular in United States for quite some time.
The popular breed is great as a first horse. They are reliable, dexterous, and adaptable.
American quarters have powerful hindquarters that compliment their muscular bodies. Because of this, horse saddles fit nicely on their bodies.
Their calm, steady temperament makes them ideal for casual riding. Well, maybe not immediately. They can sometimes be quite energetic before you properly train them.
Appaloosa Horse
The Appaloosa is another great breed for riding. They’re mostly known for their spotted coats. In fact, it’s actually quite easy to recognize them.
In addition to their distinct spotted pattern, Appaloosas also have striped hooves. It almost looks like they’re wearing white eyeliner around their eyes.
Appaloosas are gentle and intelligent horses. They are very obedient, making them easy to train.
Their bodies are strong and sturdy, and they are very trusting of their owners. Needless to say, they make for great companions on the trail.
Arabian Horse
The Arabian horse breed is very enduring. They have a reputation for having quick tempers. Arabians were initially bred to be warhorses.
You can ride them for miles with the amount of stamina they have. Likewise, they are very strong and very fast. If you want long, fast rides, the Arabian can handle it.
Arabians are typically quiet and trusting horses. They enjoy receiving a nice grooming after a long riding session.
The breed overall are great types of riding horses. However, neutered males are the best for newbies as they are the calmest.
Morgan Horse
Morgan horses are a versatile breed. If you’re in the market for a family riding horse, Morgans are a great choice.
The breed is naturally attentive. Morgans like to socialize, and they also strive to please their owners. Similarly to Appaloosas, they’re gentle horses.
Whether you’re a beginner rider, or you have experience under your belt, Morgans are great for both. They are forgiving, but also quick to learn and follow commands.
Morgans are a healthy breed so health issues aren’t a big concern. However, if an issue does arise, caring for them is easy.
Tennessee Walking Horse
Lastly on our list of the best types of horses for riding is the Tennessee walking horse. This breed originated from plantation workers to cover as much ground as possible each day.
Unlike some other breeds, Tennessee walking horses don’t bounce you all over the place. In addition to their four-beat, fast-paced walk, these horses are a dream to ride.
Tennessee walkers are a rather tall breed. Shorter riders may have trouble mounting and getting off. You could always keep a step stool nearby though.
These horses are quite quick, so they’ll get you to where you need to be in a timely manner.
More Types of Horses
There are many more horses than we have listed that are great for riding.
If you’ve never rode before, consider looking for places that offer horse riding lessons near you.
Not all horse can carry you comfortably. Combination Horsemanship helps you calculate the right horse for you. Their calculator is quite informative.
As with all pets, horses should be treated with care. Don’t push them beyond their abilities.
You don’t have to know all of the details and facts about horses to be a good owner.
