When is a horse allowed to be reversed during a western pleasure class?

In a western pleasure class, a horse is allowed to be reversed only at the walk or jog to maintain the class's overall theme of smoothness and suitability for a pleasurable ride. This allows the horse's movements to be judged under conditions that emphasize control and style, as the walk and jog are slower, more relaxed gaits that enable the horse to exhibit good posture and fluidity without excessive speed.

Reversing at a higher speed, such as the lope, could potentially lead to a less controlled environment, diminishing the elegance and composure that is the hallmark of western pleasure riding. The requirement to reverse at slower gaits aligns with the judging criteria for showcasing a horse's temperament and rideability, which are key components of this specific event.

This is why the answer regarding reversing at the walk or jog is correct. The other situations, such as reversing at any gait or specifically at the lope, do not align with the established practices of the class’s structure and judging standards. The option concerning direction from the judge implies a specific authority role during the performance rather than a general guideline, which does not capture the standard practice of shaping the expected gaits during a reverse.