Development and First International Reference

Mittens, as a piece of equestrian equipment, originated in Spain, where they were known as "gaiters" or "riding boots". The first documented reference to their use dates back to the 16th century, when they were used by Spanish soldiers and knights. Their adoption and adaptation in Mexico came with the Conquest and colonization, where they became a distinctive element of the Mexican charros and horsemen.

Use in European Armies

In Europe, mittens were widely used by various armies. In particular, Spanish army and cavalry troops employed mittens as part of their standard equipment. Mittens offered flexible and less rigid protection compared to full riding boots. These pieces were developed mainly in Spain, but were also seen in other European countries where cavalry played a crucial role in war conflicts.

Types of Horsemen and Historical Use

Primarily, mitazas were worn by riders engaged in cattle ranching and those who participated in charrería, Mexico's national equestrian sport. However, their use was extended to prominent historical figures, such as revolutionaries. A clear example of this is the famous caudillo Francisco Villa, whose image with mules has become an iconic image of the Mexican Revolution.

Preference for Mittens over Riding Boots

Mittens were chosen over full riding boots for several reasons:

1. Flexibility and Comfort: Mittens allowed greater flexibility in the lower leg, resulting in greater comfort for the rider during long days of riding.
2. Ventilation: In hot climates, such as those of Spain and later Mexico, mittens offered better ventilation than full boots, reducing the risk of skin problems caused by heat and sweat.
3. Adaptability: Mittens could be combined with different types of footwear, allowing riders to adjust their clothing according to the specific needs of the terrain and tactical situation.
4. Economy and Ease of Repair: They were cheaper to produce and easier to repair compared to full boots, which was an important factor during prolonged military campaigns.

Decline in the Use of Mittens

Over time, mittens began to fall into disuse, particularly after the Mexican Revolution. The modernization of equestrian clothing and equipment, as well as changes in riding techniques and the decline of armed conflicts in the region, led to a decrease in the need for this garment. By the mid-twentieth century, mitazas had become more ceremonial than practical, used mainly in charrería events and as part of traditional costumes.

Bibliographic References

To learn more about the history and use of the mitered gourds, we recommend consulting the following sources:

1. González, Arturo. "La Charrería: Cultura, Tradición e Identidad" (Charrería: Culture, Tradition and Identity), Fondo de Cultura Económica, 1998. This book offers a complete vision of the charrería and its elements, including traditional dress.

2. Pérez, José Luis. "Revolution and Equestrian: The Image of Francisco Villa". Editorial Porrúa, 2005. Focused on the revolutionary iconography and the use of equestrian clothing in the Mexican Revolution.

3. Ramirez, Manuel. "El Charro y su Mundo: Historia y Evolución". National Autonomous University of Mexico, 2002. A detailed study on the evolution of charro clothing throughout history.

4. Castells, Ricardo. "El Ejército y su Vestimenta en el Siglo de Oro". Editorial Alianza, 2003. This book offers a detailed analysis of military dress in the Spain of the Golden Age, including the use of the mitazas.

5. Smith, Robert. "European Cavalry: 1500-1800." Oxford University Press, 1995. A comprehensive study of the evolution of European cavalry, with references to mithais and their role in various armies.