Read About How to Choose a Saddle

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How to choose a saddle depends on how you plan to use the saddle. Decisions about Western saddles are very different than decisions about English saddles. Your level of skill as well as how you plan to ride will be major factors in how to choose a saddle.

Choosing a saddle is sometimes compared to choosing shoes. You can buy a pair of loafers that you can wear in a variety of settings, performing a variety of tasks. An all-purpose saddle is similar. An all-purpose saddle is fine for going over small jumps, cantering through a field, or going on a trail ride. You wouldn’t wear a pair of loafers to a formal affair, though. Neither would you use an all-purpose saddle to play polo, perform dressage, or compete in advanced jumping. There are specific saddle types designed for each of these needs, just like there are special shoes for playing baseball and playing tennis.

Your saddle should always fit you and your body. While some types of saddles work better for some types of horses, you should first consider your body shape when learning how to choose a saddle. If your saddle is too small, you may find it awkward trying to “fit” on it, or find that it pinches your backside. A saddle that is too large will make it difficult to keep Imageyour seat. Saddles are measured in seat sizes, which denote the distance from the tip of the pommel at the front of the saddle to the cantle in the rear. This is measured in inches; most adults tend to fall in the 16 - 18 inch range (or sizes 16 – 18). A saddle fits properly when there is a distance equivalent to about 3 finger widths between your rear end and the back of the saddle.

Horses with very high withers, such as Thoroughbreds often have, may not be comfortable with a standard saddle. For these horses, a saddle with a “cut-away” is often a better bet. If you are deciding how to choose a saddle and do not own your own horse, consider the horses you are most likely to ride. If most of these horses do not have high withers, a standard saddle will likely be appropriate. If most of your mounts will be Thoroughbreds or others with high withers, consider a “cut-away” model. The first consideration when thinking about how to choose a saddle is to first focus on your body, then the body of the horse.