Most medieval women rode astride. While an early chair-like side saddle with handles and a footrest was available by the 13th century and allowed women of the nobility to ride while wearing long gowns, they were not universally adopted during the Middle Ages. This was largely due to the insecure seat they offered, which necessitated a smooth-gaited horse being led by a man. The side saddle did not become practical for everyday riding until the 16th century. Then the pommel horn was developed, which secured the seat and made it stabil enough for women to control their horses and ride all four gates.
It was not unknown for women to ride war horses, and take their part in warfare. Joan of Arc is probably the most famous female warrior of the medieval period, but there were many others, including the Empress Matilda who, armoured and mounted, led an army against her cousin Stephen of Blois in the 12th Century. The fifteenth-century writer Christine de Pizan advised aristocratic ladies that they must "know the laws of arms and all things pertaining to warfare, ever prepared to command her men if there is need of it”.
It was not uncommon for a girl to learn her father's trade, and for a woman to share her husband's trade; many guilds also accepted the membership of widows, allowing them to continue their husband's business. Under this system, some women trained in horse-related trades as e.g. farriers and saddle-makers.
Despite the difficulties of travel, it was customary for both men and women, to travel long distances. Upper-class wives frequently accompanied their husbands on crusades or to tournaments. When not on foot, women would usually travel on horseback. Women of the nobility also rode horses for sport, accompanying men in activities like hunting.
Source: Wikipedia
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