Why Do We Mount Horses on the Left? The Historical Reason Explained

Ever noticed how riders almost always swing onto their horses from the left side? It’s such a deeply ingrained habit that few pause to question it—until a curious bystander asks, "Why not the right?" The answer is a fascinating journey through history, warfare, and the subtle legacy of tradition. Picture this: a medieval knight, armored and burdened with a heavy sword, hoisting himself onto his steed in the heat of battle. His sword hangs on his left hip, and mounting from the right would be not just awkward but downright dangerous. And so, a centuries-old practice was born.

Why Do We Mount Horses on the Left? The Historical Roots

Mounting from the left traces back to the practicalities of medieval warfare. Most soldiers were right-handed, meaning their swords hung on the left hip for quick drawing across the body. Attempting to mount from the right would risk the weapon snagging on the saddle or even injuring the horse. Additionally, mounting from the left allowed the rider’s dominant leg to bear their weight as they swung onto the horse’s back. Over time, this practicality seeped into civilian horsemanship—even after swords gave way to carriages and leisure riding.

But let’s be honest: not every rider today carries a sword. So why does the tradition persist? Horses, much like humans, are creatures of habit. Over generations, they’ve been trained to expect riders approaching from the left. Sudden changes can startle them, especially if they’re accustomed to routine. Even in disciplines where riders occasionally mount from the right (like polo, where mallets are held in the right hand), the left remains the default. After all, muscle memory isn’t just for humans—it’s woven into the very nature of horsemanship.

The Evolution of Mounting Traditions

From Battlefields to Barnyards

As societies shifted from warfare to agriculture and transportation, left-side mounting remained convenient. Carriage drivers, for example, often sat on the left side to keep their whip hand (typically the right) free. This placement naturally extended to how horses were harnessed and mounted, reinforcing the left-side tradition. Even today, horse trailers and barn designs often accommodate left-side handling, proving how deeply this custom runs.

Exceptions to the Rule

While left-side mounting is nearly universal, there are exceptions. Polo players sometimes mount from the right to keep their mallet clear, and certain military units train horses for ambidextrous mounting. Yet these cases are rare. For most riders, adhering to the left is less about strict necessity and more about respecting the horse’s expectations. A relaxed, predictable approach minimizes stress—something any good horseperson prioritizes.

The Science Behind the Habit

Recent studies suggest horses have a left-side bias in their perception. Research shows they often prefer humans interacting with them from the left, possibly due to how their brains process information. This neurological quirk might explain why mounting from the left feels more natural—not just for riders, but for the horses themselves.

Training Considerations

Modern trainers often emphasize bilateral desensitization—teaching horses to accept handling and mounting from both sides. However, even in progressive training programs, the left remains the starting point. It’s a nod to tradition, yes, but also a practical foundation for building trust and consistency.

A Tradition That Transcends Time

The next time you step into the stirrup, take a moment to appreciate the history beneath your boot. That simple act of swinging onto your horse carries echoes of knights, soldiers, and generations of riders who came before. Whether for battle, work, or pleasure, this small ritual binds us to a legacy far richer than convenience alone.

And perhaps that’s the true magic of horsemanship—the way tradition and practicality intertwine, creating a language both horse and rider understand without words. So go ahead, pat your horse’s neck and mount up. You’re not just following a habit; you’re riding through history.