This is a collaborative post: Saddles are one of the most important pieces of equipment required for horse riding. Not only does it provide comfort and security but it also allows riders to maintain a balanced position on the horse. Therefore, choosing the right saddle is vital.
Horse saddles come in all shapes and sizes and as a beginner choosing the perfect saddle can be daunting.
So, to make things easier for you, here’s our guide to the main types of English horse-riding saddles.
GP Saddle
A GP saddle is better known as the general-purpose saddle because of its versatility. It’s one of the most popular saddles and is used for riding lessons including both flatwork and jumping.
GP saddles usually have a deep seat with a slightly rounded saddle flap with no knee pad.
These saddles are preferred by many riders because they can easily change from a dressage position to a jumping position just by changing the length of the stirrup leathers.
General purpose saddles are only recommended for beginners and intermediate level riders. Those competing at higher levels will want to continue reading.
Dressage Saddle
Advanced riders that are considering competing in dressage competitions will need to purchase a specific dressage saddle.
These saddles are exclusively for flatwork and have a deep seat with a very straight cut flap, which accommodates the longer leg position of a dressage rider. It also allows the horse more freedom of the shoulder to produce excessive gaits.
They are usually combined with a white dressage saddle pad and are designed to be practical and elegant.
Jump Saddle
Jumping saddles aim to give the rider more balance and security when jumping with a deeper seat and larger more supportive knee rolls. The big, forward cut saddle flaps allow the rider a bent knee and shorter stirrup. A lot of jumping saddles come with higher knee blocks on the front to offer the show jumping rider additional support and make it easier to maintain a half seat position and a secure lower leg.
The cantle and pommel are placed low so that they don’t disrupt the jumping position in any way.
How to choose the right saddle?
So, now you know which style of saddle you need, here are our top tips to choosing the perfect saddle for you. You can also get special saddle pads for horses with sore backs.
Size matters
Saddle sizes can vary and which size you choose depends on your height, weight and the purpose of your saddle. Sizes vary between 15” and 19” with most riders requiring a 17” or 18” saddle. However, when it comes to saddle sizes you can’t guess, it’s always advised you get an experienced saddle fitter to assist you.
Talk to your trainer
As well as requesting the assistance of a registered saddle fitter, it’s also recommended that you speak to your instructor as they will know your combination and requirements best.
Ask yourself these questions
- Are your seat bones sitting comfortably?
- Can you maintain a 90-degree angle in your knee joint when riding at jumping length?
- Do your knees come over the front of the knee rolls when you jump?
- Can you feel your knee and thigh blocks all the time?
If you use this guide and ask yourself all of the questions above, you’ll be sure to find your ideal saddle.