What is Doma Vaquera? — Spanish Equestrian Tradition

Updated: May 2026 · Rincón del Valle Technical Team

Doma vaquera is the genuinely Spanish equestrian discipline, linked to fieldwork, livestock farming, and traditional Andalusian horsemanship. The horse is ridden with one hand, leaving the other free for work (garrocha, lasso, etc.).

Origin

It was born from the work of Andalusian and Extremaduran cowboys with fighting bulls. It was systematized as an equestrian sport in the 20th century. It is a discipline recognized by the RFHE.

Characteristic Exercises

Cantering in the tracks, accelerations, flying changes, sliding stops, turns on the haunches, and pirouettes. All executed with one hand (vaquera reins), a vaquera saddle, and a Spanish breed (PRE) horse.

Rider Equipment

Traditional Andalusian "traje corto": high-waisted trousers, white shirt with cravat, short country jacket, Cordovan hat, and country boots. In competition: strict country/calañero attire.

Horse Equipment

Vaquera saddle (deep seat, high pommel and cantle, short flaps), vaquera bridle with serreta or vaquera bit, vaquera reins, embroidered vaquera saddle pad, and vaquera horseshoes.

The PRE Horse

The Pure Spanish Horse (Andalusian) is the iconic horse: noble, docile, highly responsive, with a beautiful presence. Other valid breeds: Hispano-Arab, Spanish Cross, Lusitano.

Related products at Rincón del Valle

• Vaquera equipment
• Vaquera bridles
• Vaquera saddles

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.

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