Why Don’t the Amish Ride Horses? [Explained]

The Amish use horse-drawn buggies, not horses for riding. Let’s explore why they’re not big fans of horseback riding.

Why Do the Amish Avoid Horseback Riding?

The Amish don’t ride horses because it’s seen as approaching a worldly form of sport or leisure riding, as noted by Donald Kraybill. Another reason they avoid horseback riding is because they see it as too prideful.

It’s part of their commitment to a simpler life.

With big families and group travel, riding horses isn’t very practical for them either.

You might spot a child on a pony or a young man riding, but you won’t see any adult Amish riding their horses to church service.

People have observed young Amish women riding horses, sometimes bareback, but it’s not common.

The only times the Amish ride horses are for work-related activities or horse training.

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