Types of Horses and Breeds for Horse Riding — Complete Guide
Updated: May 2026 · Rincón del Valle Technical Team
Each horse breed has specific aptitudes for different disciplines. Here we explain the most used breeds in sports and pleasure riding, their characteristics, and what they are best suited for.
Pura Raza Española (PRE)
Emblematic Spanish horse. Nobility, sculptural presence, great reactivity and elegant movements. Ideal for dressage, Doma Vaquera and as a trail horse. Not ideal for high-level show jumping.
KWPN (Dutch Warmblood)
Versatile sport horse. Excellent in high-level show jumping and dressage. Athletic body, hardworking mind. Many Olympic top jumpers are KWPN.
Hanoverian
German sport horse. Very popular in competitive dressage. Balanced mind and expansive movements.
Anglo-Arab
Cross between English Thoroughbred and Arabian. Fast, resilient, very good for eventing and endurance riding. Athletic body but lighter than a pure Thoroughbred.
Lusitano
Cousin of the PRE but Portuguese. Similar elegance and reactivity. Very good in dressage and Doma Vaquera.
Thoroughbred (PSI)
The racehorse. Extreme speed and reactivity. Can be excellent for eventing; for dressage or novice riders, it can be too much.
Spanish Crossbred (Cruzado Español)
Cross between PRE and other breeds. Very versatile for recreational use. Excellent for clubs, low jumping, trail riding.
Friesian
Black horse from Holland. Beautiful in dressage and exhibitions. Not ideal for advanced jumping due to its bulk.
Quarter Horse
American horse famous for its speed over 400m. Exceptional for Western riding, working equitation, and reining.
Pony Breeds
Welsh, Connemara, Shetland... For children and small adults. Don't underestimate the pony — many jump over 1m20.
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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
Rincón del Valle Technical Team — equestrian equipment specialists. Physical store in A Coruña (CC Marineda City, sports area, 1st floor · Estrada Baños de Arteixo 43) and online service throughout Spain.
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 an untrained eye might miss.
When to Invest More
High-end investment is justified when use amortizes it: riders who ride daily, competition horses, professionals in the sector. 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 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.
