Service
Basket
Menu
5% off toys with code TOYS5 Read more
5% off toys with code TOYS5

Shop now and treat your pet

Which horse is suitable for recreational riding? These are popular breeds

Written by Bo | Content Specialist |

For recreational riding, such as hacking, light dressage or relaxed riding, choosing the right horse is important. Many riders opt for breeds known for their reliability, comfort and friendly nature. Below you will find an overview of horse breeds that are often used for recreational riding.

rider with horse

Which horse suits your experience?

Choosing a horse is closely linked to your experience as a rider. Beginners and more experienced riders have different needs, which influences which horse breed is the best fit. Below you will find an overview of horse breeds that are often chosen for recreational riding.

Icelandic horse

The Icelandic horse is a small but strong horse known for its additional gaits such as the tölt. This gait provides a high level of comfort, making the breed suitable for long hacks.

Haflinger

The Haflinger is compactly built and known for its calm and reliable nature. This makes the breed suitable for beginners and recreational riders.

Fjord

The Fjord is a Norwegian breed with a stable and calm temperament. It is often used for hacking and therapeutic riding.

KWPN

The KWPN is a versatile sport horse. Horses with a calm temperament within this breed are also suitable for recreational riding, although this often depends on their lineage and whether they have been specifically bred for sport.

Tinker

The Tinker is a strong and friendly horse with a calm temperament. The breed is widely used for recreational riding and driving.

Quarter Horse

The Quarter Horse originates from America and is known for its calm temperament and comfortable gaits.

Appaloosa

The Appaloosa is recognisable by its spotted coat. This breed is often seen as reliable and suitable for recreational use.

Arabian

The Arabian is energetic, but often friendly and intelligent. The breed is suitable for very long rides and for riders with sufficient

Welsh pony

The Welsh pony of the Cob type is solidly built and versatile. This makes the breed suitable for both children and adults.

Popular horse products

Character is more important than the breed

In recreational riding, the horse’s character plays an important role. A calm and well-trained horse can, regardless of its breed, be suitable for recreational use.

Choosing a suitable horse for recreational riding

Are you looking for a horse for recreational riding? Pay close attention to its character, training and your own level of experience. Although the breed has an influence, every horse remains an individual. By taking this into account, you will choose a horse that truly suits you.

Sign up for our newsletter

Read our other horse blogs

Cold-blooded horses in the meadow

Cold-blooded, hot-blooded and warmblood horses: what are the differences?

There are many different horse breeds. These breeds are often divided into three groups: cold-blooded, warmblood and hot-blooded horses. This classification says a lot about the horse’s temperament, build and use. The terms have nothing to do with body temperature, but refer to character and ancestry. Biologically, all horses are warm-blooded
horses

Colic in horses

Colic is a phenomenon that many horse owners fear. You can read all about it in our veterinary article here.
2 horses outside

Digestive problems in horses

A healthy digestive system is essential for your horse’s wellbeing. Unfortunately, digestive problems are common and can range from mild to life-threatening. Because horses have a sensitive digestive tract, it is important to recognise issues early and treat or support them in a targeted way. In this blog, we discuss three common conditions: gastric ulcers, colic and fecal water.
More tips