Courser (horse)


A courser is a swift and strong horse, frequently used during the Middle Ages as a warhorse. It was ridden by knights and men-at-arms.

Etymology

Coursers are commonly believed to be named for their running gait,. However, the word possibly derived from the Italian corsiero, meaning 'battle horse'.

Coursers in warfare

The courser was more common than the destrier, and preferred for hard battle as they were light, fast and strong. They were valuable horses, but less expensive than the highly prized destrier. Another horse commonly ridden during war was the rouncey, an all-purpose horse.

Other uses

Coursers were also used occasionally for hunting.