The Cob should be well mannered and are ideal for nervous or elderly riders. 

The Cob should also have clean, strong hocks and all the attributes of a good hunter: low movement and a comfortable ride.

To compete in RIHS/HOYS qualifiers, Cobs must be registered with the British Show Horse Association as lightweight a minimum of 8.5″ of bone, heavyweight a minimum of 9″ of bone. The Maxi Cob classes are for horses exceeding 155cms.

Cobs are to be judged on type, ride, manners, and conformation. Cobs should be well-schooled and particular attention should be paid to manners.

Lightweight Cob – mare or gelding, 4 years old and over, exceeding 148cms but not exceeding 155cms, capable of carrying up to 14 stone.

Heavyweight Cob – mare or gelding, 4 years old and over, exceeding 148cms but not exceeding 155cms, capable of carrying more than 14 stone.

Maxi Cob – exceeding 155cms. To be judged as cobs. Judges must pay particular attention to type i.e. short-legged animals of cob type. Preferably to be shown hogged.

Cobs should have hogged manes, pulled tails, and trimmed with all hair removed from their legs. Their tails should be cut to a few inches below the hock and are not expected to wear a lot of horse makeup, perhaps a small amount of highlighter over the muzzle and eyes, and some white chalk on the legs.

 It is normal to use a 3/4″ bridle for a cob as they can have large and plain faces. A flat 1 1/2″ – 2″ wide noseband will flatter the shape of a cob’s head. The bit for open classes is often a double but there are many other bits that are used that are perfectly acceptable. In novice classes, cobs may use any type of bit.

The saddle should be straight cut, the Ray fits the cobs the best and a discreet numnah can be used. Girths are either leather or white.