CHOOSING A SADDLE: CRITERIA, TYPES, AND ADJUSTMENTS
Pencil illustration of a traditional riding saddle, perfect to illustrate saddle selection and fitting criteria.
The saddle is one of the most essential pieces of equipment for both rider and horse. When chosen correctly, it ensures comfort, balance, and performance, while protecting the horse’s back. This article details the main criteria to consider, the different types of saddles, and the necessary adjustments.
Essential Criteria for Choosing a Saddle
The Horse’s Morphology
- Withers: some horses have prominent withers, others flatter ones. The shape of the tree must adapt accordingly.
- Back: short, long, straight, or hollow, every back requires a specific type of saddle to avoid pressure points.
- Shoulders: wide shoulders need the right clearance to avoid restricting movement.
The Rider’s Morphology
- Height and leg length: a tall, slim rider will have different needs from a stockier rider.
- Riding position: the saddle must allow a stable and comfortable seat depending on the discipline.
Intended Use
- Leisure: comfort is the priority for long hours outdoors.
- Competition: precision and technicality for sports disciplines (dressage, jumping, endurance).
The Main Types of Saddles
Classical Saddles
- General-purpose saddle: versatile, suitable for leisure, flatwork, and small jumps.
- Dressage saddle: long, straight flaps and deep seat, encouraging leg extension and precision.
- Jumping saddle: forward-cut flaps, flatter seat, designed for freedom of movement over fences.
Outdoor and Trail Saddles
- Trail saddle: designed for both horse and rider comfort over long distances, usually wider with rings for equipment.
- Western saddle: widely used in America, heavy, stable, and suited for cattle work as well as leisure.
Specialized Saddles
- Endurance saddle: lightweight, prevents rubbing, ensures good weight distribution.
- Iberian saddle (Spanish or Portuguese): deep seat and ornate design, suited for collected movements and traditional work.
Indispensable Adjustments
Checking Fit for the Horse
- Back contact: the saddle must follow the horse’s back without bridging or creating pressure points.
- Wither clearance: at least 2–3 fingers should fit between the withers and the saddle tree.
- Weight distribution: the rider’s weight must be evenly spread.
Adjustments for the Rider
- Seat size: measured in inches (e.g., 16.5 – 17 – 17.5), it must suit the rider’s build.
- Flap position: should allow proper leg extension without forcing posture.
- Overall balance: the rider should feel centered and stable, without tipping forward or backward.
Adjustment Accessories
- Pads: can slightly compensate for a poorly fitting saddle, but never replace a proper one.
- Girths: their placement affects saddle stability.
- Specialized saddle pads: anatomical models help protect the horse’s back.
Practical Tips Before Buying
- Always try the saddle on your horse and ride with it before purchasing.
- Consult a saddle fitter (saddle fitting expert) for personalized advice.
- Choose quality and durability over low price: a good saddle is a long-term investment.
- Regularly check the condition of the saddle (leather, stitching, panels) for safety and comfort.
Choosing a saddle is not just about aesthetics or budget. It is about balancing the horse’s well-being, the rider’s morphology, and the chosen discipline. A properly fitted saddle guarantees comfort, performance, and longevity.
