When you are purchasing a sport horse you may encounter two words, rideability and temperament. They’re 2 different characteristics, but are related more than you may think. Actually to understand the relationship between the two, simply look at your hand. The thumb and index fingers have their own roles, but together they help comprise the hand.

Rideability

Rideability gives prospective riders and breeders insight into how well the horse can perform its tasks. It doesn’t immediately correlate into how simple a horse is to ride, even though it can factor into the score as the horse’s psychological and attributes influence rideability. The rideability score includes the horse’s eagerness, athletic ability, cooperation and intelligence. Keep in mind though the test riders are very proficient and horses they give a good rideability scores to may sustain massively different scores if a beginner was riding the same horse.

Temperament

While rideability scores are given while the horse is under saddle, the temperament characteristic is primarily judged utilizing the horse’s ground manners (although under saddle behavior is factored into the judging). The judges talk to the horse’s handlers to learn if the horse is straightforward to please or if it pins its ears at the tiniest provocation. A horse with a good temperament has a tendency to be a ‘people pleaser ‘ and straightforward to gel with.

Which is Better

Since judging is subjective, how do you know which characteristic is more crucial? Sadly , you do not. Amateur riders tend to prefer temperament over rideability because they desire more forgiving horses. Professional riders tend to prefer rideability over temperament because they are able to handle tougher horses that possess a surplus of talent.

Hence where do you fit in? When picking a horse, make a list of what you need and then be practical. Truthfully evaluate your riding abilities and goals and know what faults you can live with in your potential prospect because a fair assessment will help you avoid buyer’s remorse. If you have started riding again after a few years off, choosing the gifted, green horse may not be the best decision for you. Similarly if you’re a pro preparing to move up the ranks, you may not wish to purchase the steady horse and instead select one with lavish gaits with a fiery temperament to match. Remember, there is no such thing as a perfect horse and these traits only give a glance into a horse’s talent.

Ashley Kantter is an established freelance writer and journalist specialising in subjects linked with horses and equestrian matters.

Harthill Stud is a horse stud based in the UK. Concentrating on breeding sport horses it offers a selection of showjumping stallions at stud in up-to-the-minute facilities.