102 HOW WOMEN SHOULD RIDE 



venting the possibility of disarrange- 

 ment. Both of these skirts loop at the 

 back, and can be kept from appearing 

 unlike others if the wearer will imme- 

 diately fasten them on dismounting. 

 An ordinary skirt may be made safer 

 by having no hem. 



We hear a great deal now of the 



divided skirt, and the advisability of 



women riding astride. The 



Divided Skirt . " 



theory is good, as having a 

 leg each side of the animal gives much 

 greater control over his movements. 



For most women, however, it is im- 

 practicable, since they cannot sit down 

 in the saddle and grip with their knees 

 as they should, owing to the fact that 

 their thighs are rounded, instead of flat 

 like a man's. It might be possible for 

 a lean and muscular woman to acquire 

 a secure seat, but not for the average 

 one. Being short is another drawback 



