Basic Judging Criteria in Equitation Classes (according to A.H.S.A rule book)

Position in Motion:

            At the walk, sitting trot, and canter, the body should be a couple of degrees in front of the vertical. At the posting trot the body should be inclined forward, as well as at the gallop and while jumping.

(Note: This description clearly specifies that in equitation classes on the flat, the rider should be in three-point position at the canter, not leaning forward and raised out of the saddle in two-point position.)

Hands:

            Hands should be over (that is, above) and in front of the horse’s withers, knuckles thirty degrees inside the vertical, hands slightly apart and making a straight line from horse’s mouth to rider’s elbow. Bight of reins may fall on either side.

Basic Position:

            The eyes should be up and the shoulders back. Toes should be at an angle best suited to the rider’s conformation, ie. ankles flexed in, heels down, calf of leg in contact with horse and slightly behind the girth. The iron should be on the ball of the foot.

General:

            The rider should have a workmanlike appearance with seat and hands light and supple, conveying the impression of complete control should any emergency arise.

Criteria for the “ideal hunter” horse:

“The ideal hunter will have a long low stride covering great distances with little effort. In other words, you will see little knee action, but rather a graceful long reaching step. The hindquarters, carried well under the animal, must be used well, exhibiting strength and thrust. The top hunter will carry himself in a relaxed, rounded frame wearing a pleasant expression, ears pricked well forward.”