Western Dressage Test and Rail Class Scoring

Western Dressage Test Scoring

Western Dressage is trained and shown in specific levels that build on each other and reflect the development of the skills and abilities of both the horse and rider. The tests ridden in shows are used as a measure of the correctness of the horse’s (and rider’s) schooling. The collective marks are based on:

  • Gaits: the freedom and regularity of the horse’s movement
  • Impulsion: the horse’s desire to move forward, elasticity of steps, roundness
  • Submission: the horse’s attention and confidence, harmony with rider, lightness of movements, and acceptance of the bit
  • Rider’s position and seat: correctness and effect of the aids
  • 10-Excellent
  • 9-Very good
  • 8-Good
  • 7-Fairly good
  • 6-Satisfactory
  • 5-Marginal
  • 4-Insufficient
  • 3-Fairly bad
  • 2-Bad
  • 1-Very bad
  • 0-Not performed

Western Dressage Rail Class Scoring