In competitive rodeos, what is typically assessed in the Western Pleasure class?

In the Western Pleasure class of competitive rodeos, the focus is primarily on style and movement. This event evaluates how well a horse can perform at a slow, collected gait while maintaining a pleasant appearance and a smooth ride. Judges look for the horse's ability to demonstrate correct movement, including a relaxed demeanor, proper head carriage, and the smoothness of its transitions between gaits. The overall presentation and elegance of both the horse and rider are critical, as the goal is to showcase the harmony between them, which epitomizes the essence of Western Pleasure.

While speed and agility may be essential in other equestrian disciplines, they are not the central focus in Western Pleasure. Similarly, strength and power, while important in different rodeo events, do not directly apply to the judging criteria of this class, nor are height and weight typically relevant criteria in assessing performance in Western Pleasure.