HORSE V. PONIES THE FIGHTING HORSE

In the Medieval era, horses and ponies differed greatly in size, strength, and role in various aspects of society. Horses were generally larger and taller than ponies. They were deliberately bred for size, strength, and speed to help carry armored knights into battle. The horses were often breeds such as destroyers and racehorses that were larger and stronger and could carry the weight of a knight in full armor. Trained for battle, these warhorses were essential in cavalry charges and cavalry battles.

Ponies, on the other hand, were smaller than horses. They were often hardy, hardy, sure-footed, and adapted to harsh terrain and harsh climates. Ponies were used for a variety of tasks, including herding livestock, pulling carts and plows, and transporting goods over short distances. They were well suited to tackle difficult landscapes and were appreciated for their durability and versatility.

Archaeological finds allow us to say with certainty that medieval war horses were usually no taller than about 150 cm / 15 hands, and in any case were much taller than 120 cm / 12 hands. 37 Based on the literature cited above, the most important battles were horses from Late Antiquity to at least the High Middle Ages, probably 14 to up to 15 hands (142 to 153 cm). Large, medium-sized, about 400 kg, short, with well-sloping shoulders and square build.

A horse’s carrying capacity is generally determined by heredity, but an individual’s actual performance depends on their ability and training to build strong structures during adolescence.

These horses are specially trained and bred for combat, with an emphasis on strength, agility, and the ability to take a fully armored knight into battle.