Am I too small for a 17hh horse?

[Stella2]

17hh is a long drop if you fall off!

My mare is 16.3hh, so only one inch shorter than you are considering. People have often said things to me like "its a long way up if you come off"! Really that simply isn't an issue. I've come off her and I've come of a 15.3hh - both hurt. If anything there is more time to curl up before landing off a big one. My mare is a lovely girl and I felt safe on her as soon as I tried her. You will know when you try these horses if they are too big for you. You will either feel happy on them or you won't - go with your instincts when you try them

 

[carrimclaren]

I've talked with quite a few people and thanks for the tons of opinions on this thread! but I have decided against it. The main reason being its a long way to fall, and as falls for me are inevitable, I just can't see myself falling from a horse that high with as bad a neck injury as I have. So the main reason I have decided against it is for my neck. I just think after all my injuries it won't work.

Well done for making the decision and good luck with finding a horse that suits you.

 

[Ms Kitty]

However, on the plus side, with bigger horses, you generally have a bit more of a reaction time then what you would with a small horse.

I think somebody forgot to tell that to the 17hh horse I used to own..

And on the "hurting more when falling from higher".. Well, I have fallen off from ponies (all sizes) and I have fallen off from horses (biggest one 17.3hh), and maybe it is just me, but it hurt about as much every time..

Main thing is to get a horse that won't be making you fall off, regardless of size..

Nina x

 

[PinkGlamourGurl]

Right now WL, I would say it is a little large. Although admittedly after riding Silas on saturday I rode my friends 17.2, but he is a complete gem and at 5ft10 I am far from small on him

I just think 17hh + is a lot of power to sit to, believe me I learnt with a WB! However if you can find THE right one, You know, THE one we are both searching for, then go for it. But do be realistic, feeding, stabling and transporting must also be considered, its also difficult getting on

 

[*-crazy-chaz-*]

it doesn't matter how you look when it comes to being too small, it's hoow you feel.

 

[quests_grace]

i used to exercise an 18.2hh (im 5ft4) was ok as i was in the school, but i think if he started jerking about in the fields with me i'd feel a little different x