What is Dressage? — Discipline, Levels, Equipment

Updated: May 2026 · Rincón del Valle Technical Team

Dressage is the oldest equestrian discipline, based on the art of classical riding refined over centuries. Its goal: for horse and rider to form a harmonious unit that executes exercises with elegance, precision, and apparent ease.

History and origin

Dressage has its origins in the military and noble riding of Europe. The Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, the Spanish Riding School of Vienna, and the Cadre Noir of Saumur (France) are living benchmarks of this tradition. The "high school" movements such as the piaffe, passage, levade, and capriole are equestrian cultural heritage.

RFHE levels in Spain

The Royal Spanish Equestrian Federation structures competitions into categories: Promotion, Children (Alevines), Children (Infantil), Cadet, Junior, Young Rider, and Senior. Tests range from Preliminary Dressage (beginner level) to Grand Prix Special Dressage. Exercises include: collected canter, lateral work, flying changes, pirouettes, and the advanced movements already mentioned.

Rider equipment

Mandatory VG1 helmet, dressage tailcoat (black or dark blue), white shirt with stock tie, white or beige breeches, tall leather boots, white gloves, dressage whip (maximum regulation length), spurs (not mandatory except at advanced levels).

Horse equipment

Dressage saddle (deep seat, long straight flaps, padded panel), double bridle (snaffle + curb bit with curb chain at advanced levels), rectangular white saddle pad, light-colored bandages or boots for training (NOT for competition).

Brand recommendations

For saddles, Stübben and Pikeur are German benchmarks. For boots, De Niro (Italy) or Stübben. For breeches, Pikeur, Equiline, Maximilian Equestrian. For helmets, stylish Charles Owen or KEP.

Want to know more?

If you have specific questions about this discipline or the equipment you need, write to us at info@rincondv.com or WhatsApp 620 17 64 18. Our team will guide you with no obligation.

Additional resources

Rincón del Valle technical team — specialists in equestrian equipment. Physical store in A Coruña (Marineda City Shopping Center, sports area, 1st floor · Estrada Baños de Arteixo 43) and online service throughout Spain.