Why??

I know it's vague but that is what I kept asking myself yesterday while I was riding.

Why in Western riding do we have to use 7ft split reins?? That is just so much leather to keep organized! Am I the only one that finds them awkward to work with??

The only benefit I see is that I can use the end as a whip if need be...

I want to convert. I think he'd look pretty spiffy in a English saddle, don't you think?

SO MUCH leather!