Do horses prefer male or female riders?

There have always been theories that horses prefer male riders over female riders. However, research shows that men and women evoke no significant difference in a horse’s responses

- Dr Mac

In some parts of the world, women are not allowed to ride astride horses. Perhaps this is based on the strong conviction during the Victorian era that women should only ride side-saddle.

Yet 14th-century poet and author Geoffrey Chaucer mentions in his magnus opus The Canterbury Tales that women went on long journeys riding astride at the walk, trot and canter. In the 15th century, Joan of Arc wore men’s clothing and went into battle in a suit of armour, carrying a sword and spear, and riding astride. And 19th century photographs show women wearing split skirts and riding astride.

MODERN-DAY PREJUDICE