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 horsemanship refined over centuries. Its objective: to achieve a harmonious unity between horse and rider that executes exercises with elegance, precision, and apparent ease.

History and Origin

Dressage has its origins in military horsemanship and that of European nobility. The Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, the Spanish Riding School of Vienna, and the Cadre Noir of Saumur (France) are living references to this tradition. "High" maneuvers such as piaffe, passage, levade, and capriole are equestrian cultural heritage.

RFHE Levels in Spain

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

Rider's Equipment

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

Horse's Equipment

Dressage saddle (deep seat, long straight flaps, padded panel), double bridle (snaffle + curb bit with curb chain at advanced levels), white rectangular saddle pad, clear bandages or boots for training (NOT in 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, elegant Charles Owen or KEP.

Related Products at Rincón del Valle

• Dressage Breeches
• Dressage Saddles
• Anatomic Bridles
• White Competition Breeches

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 advise you without obligation.

Additional Resources

• Complete Buying Guides
• Detailed Comparisons
• Brands We Recommend

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Extended Information

Basic Maintenance

Any equipment benefits from a minimum routine: cleaning after use, visual inspection of stitching and hardware, storage in a dry place protected from direct sunlight. Small weekly maintenance prevents major breakdowns. Annual professional review (saddle, bit, hardware) covers what escapes the untrained eye.

When to Invest More

Investing in high-end equipment is justified when its use repays the cost: riders who ride daily, competition horses, sector professionals. For recreational or beginner use, the mid-range of reputable brands offers the best value. Cheap often turns out to be expensive in the medium term.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I care for equestrian equipment?

By cleaning after each use, weekly visual inspection, and storage in a dry and protected place.

When is it advisable to buy high-end?

When the use is intensive and the difference is amortized. For recreational use, mid-range is sufficient.

Where can I ask for advice if I have questions?

At a specialized store, with your trainer, or with an experienced professional in the sector.