How To Choose A Saddle

By Author: Josephine Lombard
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A saddle is essential for the comfort and safety of both the horse and rider while horseback riding. As saddles come in a wide variety of styles, sizes, and prices, choosing the right one can take time.

You must invest time to research on the front end. It will help you to choose the perfect saddle that will last for years to come.

After choosing a saddle padding, materials, and shape, it is essential to choose an optimal saddle width. A saddle that is too wide can cause irritation and thigh chafing, while a too-narrow saddle can cause discomfort in the pubic area.

Therefore, a properly fitting saddle can be a tremendous help to your horse's performance and comfort, as well as your own.

Types of saddles

In the first phase of fitting the saddle, you should be careful about the basic differentiation of the saddles based on the target user. So, we have the following types:

Jumping saddle:

It is designed for show jumping. The jumping saddle structure provides the rider for a proper leg position. As a result, it is suitable for dynamic raises during ...
... jumps.

The seat is half-shallow or less deep, which allows the rider to sit lightly or half-seat in the saddle. It is suitable for the rider to follow the natural movement of the horse, and the most important thing is- unload the horse's back in all phases of the jump. A jumping saddle should be lightweight and has big or small knee blocks, depending on the horse rider's advancement level.

Dressage saddle:

The best dressage saddle has a big knee, deeper tree, and thigh blocks of various lengths, shapes, and widths. The dressage rider's position might be represented as the opposite side to the jumping rider's one. It provides a rider to the straight position in the saddle. Construction of this saddle must provide a safe balance of the center of gravity so that the horse rider can comfortably settle into the right position in the saddle. This saddle is moved to the back on the horse's back due to its characteristic fabrication. It also allows for a free shoulder.

All-purpose saddle:

It is a combination of dressage and jumping saddle. These saddles provide lots of comfort during riding. They do not force a specific position with the shapes. You can perform dressage elements and show the jump in the versatile saddles.

Trekking saddle:

Trekking saddle is suitable for a light seat and standing in the stirrups for a long period of time. They are light in weight and usually constructed in a minimalistic way. They provide the highest comfort for both the horse and the rider.

Pony saddle:

Pony saddles are designed for teenagers and children. The most vital aspect of these saddles is their construction, which takes into consideration the proper development of young skeletons. Junior saddles have soft and deep seats, as well as woolen panels, which allows maximal fit. Kids' saddles usually have the knee blocks attached with Velcro’s, that provides them to properly place their legs. Such a type of solution makes children feel safer.

How to Choose a Saddle
Finding a Saddle to Purchase
First, set your budget. Make sure how much money you can comfortably spend on the saddle. Some saddles are quite expensive, but others can be found in a more reasonable price range. Affordable, quality of saddles can be purchased for $500 to $1000. Higher quality saddles are in the $1000 to $2000 range and up.

You should purchase from a reputable retailer. There are several vital indicators that you are dealing with a trustworthy retailer. A reputable saddle shop will also have an exchange policy or a reasonable return if your saddle does not work out.
Selecting the Right Type of Saddle
Western and English are the two basic kinds of the saddle, but actually, there are countless variations of the two saddles. English saddles are lighter, smaller, and provide you to be closer to the horse. Western saddles are larger in size, and they require padding between the saddle and horse. The most remarkable difference between the two is the horn on the Western saddle.

Choose leather or synthetic.

Saddles are made from metal or wood that has been carefully shaped and then is covered with a synthetic material or leather. When buying a saddle, make sure to ask about how they impact the lifespan of the saddle and the quality of the materials. Buying a saddle made from synthetic materials is a viable way to save your money.
Fitting Your Saddle to Horse and Rider
You should check for tightness on the English saddle. Stand at the back of the horse, and then look at the saddle without a rider seated. You should be able to identify the light with the horse's head down. When you can't see the light, the saddle is too tight. This light check lets you know the horse's saddle is snug but not tight.

You should buy a saddle that fits your horse's build. Saddles are selected with a particular horse in mind. If your horse is relatively young or small, you will want to look for a smaller, lighter saddle. By contrast, larger horses can handle the heavier saddles with greater ease. If you plan to use a saddle on a number of horses, you can choose a saddle which accommodates your largest horse and use additional padding when necessary.

Observe the horse's response:

Carefully observe your horse's response to the saddle. For the few rides after purchasing a new saddle, you will need to closely watch the way the horse behaves. If you notice that any change in their behavior, posture, or ability to jump or run, your saddle may not be a perfect fit for the horse. For this reason, most reputable saddle retailers have a return policy that provides for a trial period.

Conclusion:

At the time of choosing a saddle, you may want to consider upgrading your existing equipment. While horse reins and bridles can last for years, replacing them on a regular basis that ensures greater safety while riding.