Skilled horse-archers like the Mongols were able to strike with terrifying speed and melt away before an effective defense could be mounted. Riding tough long-haired ponies, the Mongols were able to cover hilly ground quickly and blaze across the plains of Asia with relentless speed. Using short stirrups for leverage, and armed with composite bows, lances, and sabres, the Mongols could engage and defeat even the toughest enemies, including the Teutonic Knights of Germany. 