forward going or bit of a plod

[swampdonkey]

which do you think gives you more confidance, a horse that is forward going and actually has ears pricked and taking you into the jump or out for that hack, or a plod that is slow off the leg, a little sticky. I have always thought a more kick to go type, but have been thinking that maybe the more forward thinking horses might give more confidence, (as long as brakes are working).
My last two horses have been ones that were lazy and a bit stubborn and always thought I needed a plod but maybe I will try some more forward horses.
Any experiences with both type? Which fills you with more confidence?

 

[Mithras]

For a bigger course, a forward going horse definately. You never see riders at 1.30m level or above going around pushing and sqeezing and persuading a horse to go forward. You need to be able to shorten and lengthen the horse's stride when jumping, and its much easier if they are going forwards and taking a proper 12 feet stride round the course in the first place.

 

[Hippona]

I personally can't be doing with kick-along types. Much prefer a bouncy forward going one.

 

[Tickles]

I gained more confidence with a forward (and spooky, but basically nice) horse than any other. Currently teaching the OH to ride on a totally unsuitable strong TBx... and they are lovely together. I hate having to kick... even when at RS I chose the ones with horses who enjoyed their work. The feeling of being a team is hard to foster with kicking and smacking!