What type of back is arched upward, resembling a roach?

A roach back is characterized by a curvature that creates an upward arch, resembling the shape of a roach fish. This type of back is defined by its prominent shape, where the spine rises in a gentle curve, often creating a "hump" in the middle of the back. This conformation can impact the horse's overall movement and may influence its performance, as it can result in less flexibility in the back and hinder proper movement mechanics during athletic activities.

In contrast, a sway back has a concave shape, indicating a downward dip in the middle, which can also have implications for the horse's movement and overall health. A short coupled back refers to horses whose back length is shorter in proportion to their body, and a flat back is characterized by a straight, level alignment of the spine without any noticeable curvature either upward or downward. Understanding these different back types is crucial for assessing a horse's conformation and its suitability for various disciplines or activities.