That depends soooo much on the horse and what you're using it for! A wide 15 horse with a big barrel is going to fit completely different then a slab sided narrow 16.2 horse. At 5"6 I wouldn't go any smaller then 15, at least not for any english events. I've noticed a lot of tall cowboys riding on almost ponies so I think it's different for western riders. If you're riding English you're going to want something that fills your leg so you have a proper leg position. It's hard to do that on something too small for you. Generally you shouldn't be able to see the opposing leg hanging off the other side of the horse. So if I'm on your right side I shouldn't be able to see your left foot hanging below your horse's belly if that makes sense. If you're horse shopping and you aren't sure I'd take a friend to watch and help you evaluate.
Hi
I love helping people horse shop! All the fun & none of the pressure :P I'm 5'7" and 68kg (~149lb) and I don't feel comfortable on anything less than a TRUE 16.2hh. Lots of sellers/horse owners don't actually measure their horses and just estimate the size, thinking that they know well enough or that is what someone has told them. I have found lots of people say/think their horse is bigger than what it is, which makes it hard when you are looking at pictures. I'm sure you know and like the above post has said it really does depend on the horse. I would prefer something 17hh But I ride english and like big horses. There is no good us telling you you need a 16.2hh horse if you are going to be intimidated by it on the ground.
A friend of mine just got a new horse and he is 15.2 but he is sooo muscley and walks around with his head in the air all the time, so it feels like your leading a 17hh horse. Another friend of mine has a 16.3 boy and he's such a sweety that it feels like your dealing with a 14.3hh hand horse
Good luck with your search, let us know how you progress so I can be excited for you
I'm 5'5.5 and I weigh 125 and I ride a horse who is 15.3 hands and he suits me veryyyy well. Now the mare I am training is around 13.1-13.2 hh and she also can support me very well. It all depends what you want to show, how you ride, what your comfortable with, and your preferences in horse breeds.
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