Pa'u riders (pronounced pah-oo riders),[1] (sometimes written as pa-u riders), are wahine (Hawaiian for 'women') horseback riders who wear long, colorful skirts (Hawaiian: pāʻū) and characteristically ride astride, rather than sidesaddle. This equestrian tradition's roots are from the early 19th century, when horses were introduced to Hawaii and aliʻi women dressed up to ride for formal occasions. It declined after the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii, but was revitalized in the early 20th century with the establishment of formal riding organizations called Pa'u Riders. Today, they participate in Kamehameha Day floral parades and other parades and festivals throughout the islands.
- ^ Marcie Carroll; Rick Carroll (4 May 2009). The Unofficial Guide to Maui. John Wiley & Sons. p. 45. ISBN 978-0-470-37998-1.