Both English and Western riding styles have rich histories that have resulted in two distinct but highly popular riding disciplines for horse lovers around the world.
English style is considered to be more traditional and formal, both in its methods and riders usually wear a smart fitting t-shirt or polo, riding breeches and boots or half chaps.
Western rider attire is less formal than English riders and usually consists of denim jeans, a long-sleeved shirt, boots, and a hat to protect from the sun.
The consensus tends to be that western riding is easier for beginners. One of the main reasons is the wider saddle used in Western riding, which provides a more secure, stable seat for a beginner.
English riding is more popular in Europe, while Western riding is more popular in North America. This may impact the type of horseback riding classes available where you live.