Cattle roping and other ranch chores required cowboys to have secure yet maneuverable seats. A stock-seat rider sits erect with legs extending almost straight down. Both reins are held in one hand above the high pommel, or saddle horn, of the heavy Western stock saddle. Breeds used include quarter horses, pintos, Appaloosas, and Arabians. Dressage saddles are similar to saddle-seat tack, although with slightly more padding.
Riders wear hunter-seat apparel or, at higher levels, tailcoats and top hats.
Heavily illustrated and rich with lore and information. This book presents the American cowboy lifestyle that encompasses western fashion, song, movies and more. Out West is about the remarkable frontier that still lives on in the hearts of millions of Americans. Beginning with a brief history, then explaining the building and care of hats, this book gives one the best overviews of the cowboy hat ever. You'll also find a treasury of photos featuring great hats and see how the creases, brims, shapes and trims are unique.