Performance Levels
In dressage and show jumping, the different performance levels are marked with the letters E, A, L, M, and S. We have put together an overview here to give you a good understanding of the performance levels and their requirements.
Show Jumping
In show jumping, besides the normal jumping competition where the pair with the best time and fewest faults wins, there are several other types of competitions. In style jumping, for example, the overall performance is rated with a score. The focus here is mainly on a harmonious picture between horse and rider. In speed jumping, as the name suggests, it’s all about the best time. In the points jumping competition, the one with the most points wins. The first jump gives 1 point, the second gives 2 points, and so on. The last jump is the joker and doubles the points.
The obstacle course consists, depending on the difficulty level, of vertical jumps, crosses, oxers, triple bars, gates, walls, and a water jump. These jumps can also follow each other in various combinations. The vertical jump consists of an obstacle with two or more poles or planks stacked directly on top of each other. The cross is a good practice jump but is rather rare in competitions. The oxer consists of two obstacles set up directly behind each other. This makes the jump a bit wider. The poles can be the same height or higher at the back. The triple bar is like a rising oxer but with three pairs of standards. Gates, walls, and water jumps are exactly what their names suggest.
There are also different dress codes to follow in show jumping. Be sure to check in advance what is required at your specific competition. Additionally, brushing boots and bell boots can be useful for protection, as well as a breastplate to help keep the saddle in the right position.
Dressage
The lead rein competition is perfect for the younger riders among us. Here, the rider is even led. This competition mainly serves to get a feel for the competition process and to experience the atmosphere of a tournament for the first time.
Additionally, you can distinguish between a dressage test and a dressage riding test. The latter focuses mainly on the rider.
In a normal dressage test, you ride a dressage exercise, usually taken from the FN’s task booklet. You can therefore practice and memorize it beforehand. In the different performance levels E, A, L, M, and S, further gradations are marked with a *. For example, there are A* and A** tests where the tasks become a bit more difficult. This is meant to ease the transition to a higher performance level.
What you should always keep in mind during any dressage test is that great importance is placed on the overall impression. Proper clothing and a harmonious appearance are essential. Well-fitting white Breeches, a jacket, and a Competition Shirt are part of the basic equipment for the competition. Riding Boots or ankle boots with Chaps are also mandatory.
There are also some rules for your horse’s outfit. A white competition saddle pad is indispensable here. In addition, you should definitely have some leather cleaner and Leather Care on hand beforehand – so you both can simply shine in the arena.
Feel free to check out this kavalio story "Start to the Competition Season – Are You Ready?" where we have summarized everything about the perfect competition outfit for you.
Eventing
Eventing is often called the ultimate discipline. It includes various tasks from dressage, show jumping, and cross-country riding and demands a lot of harmony and trust between horse and rider. Not only is good communication essential, but also high physical endurance and a lot of sensitivity are required. Here, too, the classes range from E to S. Internationally, the classes are also listed as CCI (Concours Complet International) and divided into different difficulty levels by the number of stars.
In eventing, in addition to appropriate competition clothing, a safety vest is also recommended.
Western Riding
Western riding competitions differ greatly from the disciplines mentioned above. The main disciplines tested are trail, Western horsemanship, Western pleasure, and reining. In trail, obstacles such as gates, poles, and bridges must be overcome. This requires a lot of skill. In Western horsemanship and Western pleasure, the focus is mainly on a harmonious collaboration between horse and rider in all three gaits. The trot is called jog here, and the canter is called lope. In reining, spins, stops, and circles are tested. Quick maneuvers and precision in execution are especially important here.
Besides the disciplines, the appearance is also quite different. The clothing includes a cowboy hat, cowboy boots, jeans, and a shirt or blouse. The horse is equipped with a Western saddle and a Western bridle.
Now you should have a good overview of the different types of competitions! Feel free to browse through our shop and our stories, maybe you’ll find something interesting for you!
