The morning call. [volume] (San Francisco [Calif.]) 1878-1895, 1891-03-15
LADIES ON HORSEBACK.
Some Ideas About the Fair Ones Riding AStTide
as The Men Do.
Written for THE SUNDAY CALL.

What short time ago was but a speek in
the future has gradually assumed definite
shape, and in few years the side-sadde
will be thing of the past Slowly but
surely people are becoming accustomed to
the idea of ladies riding astride, ald the
riders themselves, that is, genuine lovers of
the sport, are unanimous in declaring it the
only way to ride. Many are experts in the
practice already, some taking advantage of
their trips to the country, others riding on
their own ground, still others may be
seen on fine nights enjoying it to the ut
most; while the most of them are waiting,
not wishing to be among the irst to set the
fashion, few more Independent ones take
their daily exercise in the public streets
seated on the cross-saddle Why should
they not? Some will say it is immodest.
unwomanly. Let it become the custom
and how soon their objections would dis
appear, as in the case of other customs,
especially that of sea bathing. which for i'm
nodesty has no equal, yet il is tolerated and
INDUCED in in all civilized countries, because
it is both fascinating and healthy. To ride
is also considered beneficial, but greater
mistake was never made than to suppose
person could receive any benefit from being
seated sideways On horse for an hour or
TWO with twisted spine, compressed chest
II,
comfortable position in which only few
ladies appear well, and they only after much
effort, while when sitting astride of horse
one assumes fine position without trying.
more hideous or inconvenient dress
was never conceived than the fashionable
habit OF to-day. If necessity should compel
the wearer to walk few blocks what a guy
she would appear; 1t is doubtful if any Que
could be persuaded to try it. A double
breasted ulster, the skirt inyisibly buttoned
in the back, and OF the ordinary length,
worn over rather narrow-divided skirt,
and hat to suit the weaTer, so it is not
tall silk one, completes the costume needed
for the cT0SS-Saddle; a small cape is pleas
ing addition, but is not necessity. 4 pair
OF strong leggings will protect the skin
from the friction of the stirrup feathers.
Before mounting the feet are thrust through
a loop of elastic about eight inches long,
sewed fiat to the inside of the ulster, lit
tie forward OF the ankles when standing
This keeps 1t in position while mounting
also prevents it being displayed by the
wind and keep the feet covered. Slip the
feet from the elastic, button the ulster down
back and front, and lady could promenade
the most crowded thoroushfare without at
tracing attention.
A gentle horse, saddle, English style.
with thick piece Of felt strapped on it, and
covered stirrups are the best to lean on.
Much resolution is necessary at the start;
the new beginner will fud herself top
heavy, and her feet of no account PERHAPS
the third trial will still leave her in doubt,
but at the fourth she is sure to realize the
advantages OF the practice. One thing she
may be sure Of, she will come in from her
first ride free from pain, not joint will
ache, and she will carry no bruises on her
flesh. This she will note with surprise, re-
membering the suffering she has undergone
upon riding in the side-saddle for the first
time, or after period of rest
With the love for the sport comes her love
for the gentle. obedient animal doing the
work, and to the enjoyment is added the
knowledge that we are dealing fairly with
him by giving him chance to do his best,
and he will do it. too. very willingly. ID