Tack & Attire

The goal of ranch versatility is to showcase a useful, willing ranch horse and an effective rider. Judges focus on how correctly the equipment is used rather than what specific style of equipment is chosen. Clean, well-fitting tack and sensible attire will always present a better overall picture than overly decorative or distracting equipment.

Any horse, regardless of age or training level, may be ridden in a snaffle bit or bosal.

When riding in a snaffle riders are required to use two hands on the reins. The only exception is the use of one hand momentarily for stability, such as holding the saddle horn.

Horses ridden in shank (curb) bits must be ridden with one hand at all times, reflecting traditional ranch use of finished horses.

Horses ridden in bosals may rider either one or two-handed but may not swap between them during the class. The Only exception is when riding two-handed, you may ride one-handed momentarily for stability, such as holding the saddle horn.

Western saddles are commonly used and fully appropriate for all ranch versatility classes. Split reins or romal reins are acceptable.

English saddles are also permitted, provided they are used in a manner appropriate for ranch work. Reins should allow for clear communication and control without excessive length or decoration.

Riders may compete in either western or english attire. In both cases, clothing should reflect practical ranch work rather than formal show presentation.

Western attire may include long-sleeve western shirts, jeans or ranch pants, belts, and boots. Hats or helmets are acceptable, with helmets encouraged for youth riders.

English attire is permitted as long as it is appropriate for ranch work. Shirts, breeches, and boots should be conservative, functional, and free from excessive bling or flash.

Riders may compete in either western or english attire. In both cases, clothing should reflect practical ranch work rather than formal show presentation.

Western attire may include long-sleeve western shirts, jeans or ranch pants, belts, and boots. Hats or helmets are acceptable, with helmets encouraged for youth riders.

English attire is permitted as long as it is appropriate for ranch work. Shirts, breeches, and boots should be conservative, functional, and free from excessive bling or flash.

Attire or equipment that is overly flashy, excessively decorative, or distracting is discouraged. These classes are not intended to simulate high-glamour show environments.

Unsafe, poorly fitting, or incorrectly used equipment may be penalized or prohibited at the judge’s discretion.