What does it mean if a horse is only good for "hacking"?

Question

what does "hacking" mean?

Answer 1

hacking usually refers to light riding with no competitive training in mind.  

If you saw this in an add, it is most likely a horse that is sound to go trail riding and even trot and canter a bit, but under hard work he/she will go lame.  This could be because of arthritis, previous injury, or a number of things, but if the owner is willing to put that in an add at least they care about being honest about their horse to get a good home for it!

Answer 2

Hacking means general everyday riding.  So a horse that is only good for hacking is suitable only to ride along bridle paths and roads.  In other words it is not one that you would consider doing eventing or dressage on.  However if you wanted to go to small local shows, and enter classes like family pony, or best turned out that it may well be suitable for that.