Reining is a western riding competition where horses perform a set pattern including spins, sliding stops, rollbacks, lead changes, and circles at varying speeds. Riders guide the horse with subtle cues, and judges score based on finesse, authority, and smoothness.

How is reining scored?

Reining starts with a base score of 70. Each maneuver is scored from -1.5 to +1.5 in half-point increments. Penalties are deducted for errors. A score above 70 indicates above-average performance.

What breeds compete in reining?

American Quarter Horses dominate reining, but Paints, Appaloosas, and other stock-type breeds also compete. The NRHA is the primary governing body for the discipline.

Reining Competitions

Reining showcases the athleticism and responsiveness of the western stock horse through a precise pattern of circles, spins, lead changes, rollbacks, and the iconic sliding stop.

About Reining

Reining showcases the athleticism and responsiveness of the western stock horse through a precise pattern of circles, spins, lead changes, rollbacks, and the iconic sliding stop. Often called 'western dressage,' reining was the first western discipline recognized by the FEI.

Reining patterns are numbered (1 through 13+) and each requires specific sequences of large fast circles, small slow circles, flying lead changes, 360-degree spins, rollbacks, and sliding stops. Divisions include Youth, Non-Pro, Intermediate, and Open, with the NRHA Futurity in Oklahoma City crowning champions among 3-year-old horses. Sliding plates on the hind hooves enable the spectacular 20-foot-plus sliding stops that define the discipline.

Governing bodies: NRHA, USEF, FEI

Related: western pleasure, barrel racing, cutting

FAQ: 3 common questions answered

Reining riders can find western saddles, split reins and reining tack on TurnoutHQ, or make use of club and association tools.

Reining News & Insights

Peer Mentorship: Why Teenagers are Reshaping the Future of Equestrian Sport

Teenage riders are emerging as vital mentors for young beginners, bridging the gap between grassroots riding and elite competition to create a more inclusive sport culture.

Welfare

Aug 25, 2026

Breaking Down the Bill: Where Your $15 USEF Drugs and Medications Fee Actually Goes

US Equestrian has released a financial breakdown of its $5.77 million Drugs and Medications program, revealing that laboratory costs and field collection teams account for the majority of the annual spend.

Community

Aug 22, 2026

Beyond the Arena: A Guide to Navigating Collegiate Equestrian Programs

The collegiate equestrian landscape offers diverse pathways through NCAA-level varsity teams, accessible club sports, and professional equine science degrees, requiring students to start recruitment and academic planning as early as their sophomore year of high school.

Industry

Aug 22, 2026

Navigating Collegiate Riding: A Comprehensive Guide to NCEA, IHSA, and Equine Degrees

Collegiate equestrian opportunities have expanded into a diverse ecosystem ranging from NCAA varsity sports to academic equine science degrees, offering students multiple pathways to professional industry careers.

Community

Aug 4, 2026

US Equestrian Launches "Horses Are Everything" Campaign to Grow Sport and Community Awareness

US Equestrian has launched a multi-year national campaign and digital platform to celebrate the horse-human bond and invite new audiences into the sport ahead of the 2028 LA Olympics.

Industry

Aug 2, 2026

US Equestrian Framework: A Guide to the 11 Breeds and 18 Disciplines Defining the Sport

US Equestrian officially recognizes a diverse landscape of 11 breeds and 18 disciplines, providing the regulatory structure for both Olympic-level international competition and traditional American national divisions.

Community

Jul 23, 2026

AQHA Appoints Permanent CFO, Launches New Trail Riding Partnerships

The AQHA has solidified its leadership by naming Cory Randall as permanent CFO while expanding member benefits through a new trail riding partnership and youth recognition programs.

Federation

Jul 2, 2026

FEI Task Force Moves Toward Harmonized 'Blood Rules' Across All Disciplines

The FEI Horse Condition Task Force has begun developing a unified framework for handling blood on horses and equipment-induced marks, aiming for more consistent welfare standards across all international equestrian sports.

Competition

Jun 2, 2026

NSBA Announces 2026 World Championship Show Dates/Schedule With $1.5M Purse

The 2026 NSBA World Championship Show returns to Tulsa with over $1.5 million in prizes; exhibitors must complete qualification by April 30, 2026.

Community

May 19, 2026

AQHA Outlines Comprehensive Growth Opportunities for Youth and Young Adult Members

The AQHA's youth division, AQHYA, is expanding beyond the show ring to offer leadership training, professional certifications, and significant scholarships to ensure the next generation of horsemen are prepared for both competition and industry careers.