Male Rider

If I had two horses standing side by side, identical and ideal in price, temperament, conformational suitability, and history, one a mare and one a gelding, I think I would pick the gelding. I've ridden a lot of mares, and they all just seem a bit quirkier than the geldings. Into the bargain, you never have to worry about an accidental breeding or other catastrophy. Geldings, for the most part, are just more uncomplicated in my experience. One of my good (guy) friends owns all mares (not through any voiced preference, just the way things worked out) and gets along extremely well with them, but I have definitely witnessed occasional "mare" days. My geldings have off days as well. They're like people that way, I guess. For sure visit all purchase prospects in person, twice if possible to cut the chances if just seeing a "good" or "bad" day. I like horse shopping in the spring, too. You see the worst case scenario/spring fever side of the horse right away, lol.

I'm also a male rider and have a mare and a gelding. The mare can have her 'mare moments' , but I wouldn't trade her for anything. She's great, carries me well and is more even tempered than many geldings I've seen. I wouldn't be discouraged from purchasing a mare whatsoever.

The biggest thing I would recommend is getting a horse that meets your current skill level, and has the potential to grow with you as your skill increases. Focus on training both horse and rider once you get your equine companion.

i dont think it matters if you get a mare or gelding but i suggest something gaited so you dont hurt down where the sun dont shine.

From the opening post, I would say go for a mare. Generally, I would say gender doesnt really matter (though I prefer geldings) but it sounded like you think of horses like people (IE you get "tough" with a gelding because he is a "man").

When we are riding, we need to make sure that when we discipline our horses it is not because of emotions. If the horse is doing something wrong, 90% of the time, it is the riders error.