I think the idea is that "show horses" (and ponies) should be as near
perfection as possible, so that if they need to wear a martingale,
boots, etc., then there is some fault, either in their conformation
or temperament (or both!) that makes them less than perfect.

Horses that go hunting are judged more on how they go across country,
their ability to 'keep in touch with hounds', that they have the
stamina to keep up and keep going when there is a good run, etc. -
"handsome is as handsome does" - therefore they can get away
with "flaws" that would spoil a quiet hack or make the child's pony
unsafe for teh child to ride out, etc.
On teh other hand, good conformation is gfenerally a prerequisite for
teh above and a good temperament makes teh ride more enjoyable.

I would suggest you would be expected not to use a martingale in the
ring in a Ridden Cob class - though smaller/Riding Club shows may
allow some leeway (I am not sure about this). If you were allowed in
the ring, you would almost certainly be 'marked down' in the judge's
mind!

M.


--- In livemodelhorseshow@..., "Claire ashworth"
<c.ashworth@...> wrote:
>
> > At real shows martingales are not allowed in the show classes you
> > mentioned.
> > I think WH/WHP clases are okay.